We all would like to lose weight and get in shape with
a minimal effort. That's how the fitness informercial makes billions
per year, promising miraculous results without breaking a sweat.
If you are not fooled by their claims then you know
you have to work at getting in shape and losing unwanted pounds. So
where do you go for a challenging workout? If you are into walking
and running, during the temperate seasons you can get your cardio
exercise in the great outdoors.
But to get a total workout that is not limited to moderate
weather, you will need to either join a gym or equip your home with
fitness equipment. The major advantage of a home gym is convenience.
And it is convenience that can result in a more focused exercise regimen.
Home gyms are growing in popularity. In 2000 over $6.7 billion was
spent on home fitness equipment.
Granted health clubs have the advantage of working out
with other like-minded individuals. And if you are the type of person
that needs inspiration from others, the health club provides that
environment. Of course, for singles it is a great place to meet the
opposite sex.
The disadvantages are time wasted driving to the health
club, waiting in line to use equipment and costly membership fees.
I personally like to work out first thing in the morning. My time
is limited due to my work schedule. The extra time required to drive
to a health club would deter regular workouts. Exercise for me is
not a social activity. I want to burn as many calories and strengthen
as many muscles in as little time as possible. In my case exercising
at home is more practical.
Designing a Home Gym
If you decide that working out at home makes the most
sense, the first consideration will be the location. You may choose
the basement. But if it is dark and damp, this is not an inspiring
environment. Another consideration is an extra bedroom or part of
a family room or den. You want an inviting location that is well ventilated
and provides sufficient light. For those that like to keep up with
the latest news or the soaps, a room with a television would be appropriate.
If lack of space is a consideration, there is fitness
equipment like folding treadmill or compact home gyms that minimize
required space.
Selecting the Proper Equipment
In determining what fitness equipment to purchase, you
need to define your goals and consider the type of exercise machines
that can help you reach those goals. Numerous homes are littered with
unused exercise equipment that substitutes for clothes hangers. Too
often people buy informercials equipment that is that latest fad.
They discover that the exercise bores them, and that the equipment
is poorly built and does not deliver on the promises.
Another common mistake is buying cheap equipment that
provides an unsatisfactory workout and frequently requires repair.
This is particularly true when purchasing a treadmill. A cheap treadmill
is unstable, noisy and can be a shock to your joints.
There are tips on buying various types of fitness equipment:
Treadmills
For walkers and runners a treadmill is a logical choice.
And the good news is the recent models are built for endurance and
a pleasurable cardio experience. A Treadmill is the most efficient
equipment to burn calories and lose weight, that is why they are the
most popular.
You'll want a treadmill with a motor that is continuous
duty with a rating of at least 2.0 HP. Continuous duty motors give
you constant maximum power. Non continuous motors are unable to run
smoothly for an extended period of time.
Select a treadmill that accommodates your stride with
an adequate length and width. The deck should be at least 18" x 53".
If you are a runner and tall, you may want to consider a "stretch"
model. The deck should have a reasonable amount of cushion for minimal
impact on your feet, ankles and knees. Several manufacturers offer
extra thick cushioned treadmills as an option.
For variety you'll want a treadmill with incline control
and computerized programming. Incline control simulates an uphill
climb, while the electronics can be programmed to create a diversity
of running or walking experiences.
Home Gyms
Multi-station home gyms provide health club quality
strength training in the comfort of your home. Depending on the model
you can get over 50 exercises. A home gym offers a complete strength
building workout for the entire body. And as the name implies, multi-station
home gyms allow for more then one person to workout at once.
Look for equipment that has a natural resistance feel.
The quality of the cables and pulleys will make the difference and
will guarantee longevity. That smooth feel is usually lacking on so-called
home gyms that rely on bands or bows rather then actual weight racks.
In addition, you want a gym that has ergonomic features. The shape
and location of pad, pop pin and pivot point should feel natural.
Elliptical Trainers
Elliptical trainers offer a no-impact workout that exercises
numerous muscle groups. This is achieved through the dual cross-trainer
arms combined with the foot pedals. Elliptical trainers provide the
following advantages:
Time Efficiency - The dual action of arms and legs optimizes
energy expenditure. Requires less time to achieve more results.
Weight Bearing Exercise - Builds bone density and burns
calories more efficiently. Inhibits the onset of osteoporosis. No
Impact - Safe for joints. Ideal workout for people with back, knee,
hips and joint problems. Low Maintenance - Less impact means less
wear and tear. Small Footprint - Does not take up valuable floor space.
As with treadmills, elliptical trainers vary from K-mart specials
to health club quality. It is important to find a motorized machine
that has a natural stride and is built to last.
Stationary Bikes
There are two choices of bikes, upright and recumbent.
Recumbent bikes have pedals set horizontally in front of the seat.
Body alignment tends to be more comfortable and natural on a recumbent
bike. Either will give a good cardiovascular workout.
As with treadmills, quality bikes will offer computerized
programming. This can make your ride more challenging and enjoyable.
This is a just a short list of potential home fitness
equipment. It can be supplemented with free weight, steppers, aerobic
videos, rowing machine and countless other products.
Determine your goals (lose weight, build strength, etc.),
then narrow your search to the appropriate equipment. The selection
needs to be based on what will work for you, not what will be the
best for hanging laundry.
About
Fitness Equipment reviews home fitness equipment and offers tips
on what to look for when purchasing fitness equipment for home or
personal use.
