There are numerous kinds and types of fitness equipment available in the market today. It can vary according to what your personal fitness goal or program is. Here are some examples, along wit their uses and benefits to help you decide as to which one suits your needs.

Barbells: A barbell is a steel bar which has a varied diameter with engraved diamond-shaped impressions that provide easier grip. Disc weights or plates are slid into the outer portions to achieve the desired weight to be lifted. The weights are secured with collars to prevent sliding off during exercise which consequently results to injuries. Barbells are one of the basic fitness equipment used in weight training, weightlifting, and the more advanced powerlifting.

Bench: Choosing the right weight benches depends on what kind of lifting you plan to do. The proper bench should fit the type of fitness regimen you have, the fitness program, and how large of personal space at home you have to place your fitness equipment. It is advisable to choose a folding weight bench to accommodate various exercises you plan to do.

Dumbbells: Dumbbells are fitness equipment used in weight training and a type of free weight. Usually held in one hand and used in pairs, dumbbells are the type of fitness equipment used to increase strength and muscle size. It varies in weight but should be used with both equal weights on both sides. Two main types of dumbbells used today are the adjustable and the fixed-weight dumbbells.

Elliptical Exerciser: This fitness equipment allows your feet to move in circles, or an elliptical pattern which provides easy pedaling, weight-bearing, with movable arms to provide an upper body workout and less impact on the ground which allows safety of the lower body. The elliptical exerciser provides a total body workout with both arms and legs. The less amount of impact brought on the joints by this equipment makes it more advantageous to use compared with treadmills.

Stationary Fitness Bike: This is one of the most commonly used fitness equipment. A resemblance of the typical bike, the stationary fitness bike has no wheel, but involves the same concept of riding a real bike outdoors. The pedals in the stationary bike provide a good cardiovascular workout in the comfort of your own home. A typical feature of a stationary fitness bike includes a metal housing serving as the frame, and fly-wheel front. Some are designed to include the upper body by providing movable handles which can be pumped back and forth along with a coordinated motion in the pedaling.

Rowing Machine: Also called the rower, this kind of fitness equipment is low maintenance and easy to use. It is situated low in the ground, with seat, handles, and foot-boards. The rower grants total body workout, including focus on the lower and upper portions of the body. Take note that to be able to achieve efficient results using this fitness equipment, you must begin by pushing back with your legs before starting to pull the handles. Although it favors strengthening the upper body, almost 60 percent of the work must be done with your legs.

Stairclimber: The fitness stairclimber is another popular piece of fitness equipment most commonly used to provide a great cardio exercise, working also with your quads and glutes. You use this as if you are climbing an endless flight of stairs. It comes with an adjustable resistance level which enables you to select the speed you want to put on the pedals. Remember to stand on the pedals, not lean onto the rails, and keep the body centered and straight. As you go with the motion, keep the feet flat on the footplates. You can choose to do small steps, which improves the legs and calves, or bigger steps, which affects the butt muscles.

Treadmill: A typical fitness equipment which provides great cardiovascular workout is the treadmill. A treadmill consists of an endless floor belt which resembles jogging or walking on a pavement. Some treadmills include a 4-6 feet long and 16-22 inches wide of tread belt. The treadbelt continues in a loop, which allows the user to decide on his or her own pace and speed. A partway located on the sides provides support for the user with a grip rail below the console of the treadmill. You can also choose to walk or run while lifting your torso, arm swinging, and placing your head up and looking forward. It is important to walk or run in a full stride while moving your feet, heel hitting the treadbelt and taking off from the toe.

Some of these fitness equipment are expensive, thus needing proper knowledge of its efficiency and use with the personal fitness exercise program or plan you have. Each is designed to target different areas of the body and assist you in performing your fitness exercises.





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