Fitness Equipments Information

Home Gym Basics and 5 Rules You Must Follow!

2010-06-25T05:42:00.005-07:00

Choosing your home fitness gym is not so easy because there is a lot that you have to consider. How much space do you have to workout in? How much do you have to spend? How many people will be using the gym? These are all important considerations that you need to make before you finalize your home gym purchase. But the most important thing that you need to do after you finally get your new home gym set up is be prepared to use it properly. Here are 5 basic rules that you need to follow in order to use your home gym effectively and safely.

Don't overwork or under work yourself. Use a weight amount that is comfortable and will allow you to finish all of your sets and reps. In addition, understand that it is most beneficial to not take more than a 30 second rest in between sets. Make your weight stack selection with this in mind and you will keep your heart rate at an optimal rate which allows you to build muscle and trim the fat more effectively. Plus, you also get the additional cardiovascular benefits.

Proper form is important! Make certain that you maintain proper posture during your exercises in order to prevent injury and also so you will make the most of your workout. Bad form means you are not getting the maximum and desired benefit from your exercise program. The good home gyms such as the Body Solid EMX1500S come with a workout poster to assist you with this.

It is taboo in weight lifting to overwork your muscles. You must get adequate rest in between workouts. 1) You shouldn't work the same muscle group more then 3 days in the same week. 2) Also never work the same muscle group without at least 24 hours rest in between workouts. For example: if you did the chest press on Tuesday wait until at least Thursday of that same week before you exercise the same muscle group.

Get to know the home gym equipment that you will be using. The workout poster that comes with most home gyms will assist you with this. A home gym is no different that a new car or appliance. You have got to know how to use it properly to fully enjoy your new exercise program.

Last but not least, make sure you have a clean bill of health prior to getting started. If you are elderly or you have really let yourself go it may not be a great idea to really ramp it up from the outset. Take an personal inventory including your age, goals and your health. If you have had any health problems in the past or you are unsure if you are healthy enough to exercise then you must consult with your doctor prior to beginning a new fitness program.

Know yourself and your home gym and you will make the most of your new exercise program and enjoy health and fitness for the rest of your life!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M.

How Do You Prevent a Side Stitch While Running on a Treadmill?

2010-06-25T05:42:00.003-07:00

That insanely painful, annoying spasm felt at the lower edge of your ribcage is known as a side stitch, and you may experience one while running on a treadmill. Not only is it painful, it could also hinder you from finishing your workout. Before we go to a detailed explanation of how to prevent one however, it's also important to know how it is caused.

As mentioned, a side stitch is that twinge of pain you feel at the lower part of your ribcage, and technically speaking, it is actually a diaphragm muscle spasm. When you inhale air, your lungs fill and this action presses the diaphragm downwards. When you exhale, the diaphragm moves upwards. If air gets trapped below the diaphragm, it cramps and causes a side stitch. You may also feel this pain if you start your workout on the treadmill too quickly, or eat before your workout.

If you want to prevent a side stitch, check out these tips:

• Ensure a proper warm up before running on a treadmill.

• Don't take in any food for at least an hour before your workout.

• Breathe from your stomach and not your chest. If you do this, you will take in more air. Also, always breathe in and out through your mouth.

If you do end up getting a side stitch while working out on a treadmill, take a deep breath quickly to force the diaphragm downward. Then hold your breath for a few seconds. Lastly, force your breath out through pursed lips.

You can try changing your breathing/striding pattern as well. If you usually exhale when your right foot strikes the ground, change it up, and exhale when your left foot strikes the ground.

If worse comes to worst and you can't get rid of the nagging ache, decrease the treadmill speed, walk rapidly, and focus on deep breathing. You can resume your run once the pain is gone.

There's no doubt that a side stitch is not only painful, but it can also be frustrating. It can get in the way of your exercise goals, but with proper preparation and focused breathing you can prevent one. Stick to a routine warm up that you are comfortable with, and avoid eating prior to your treadmill workout for great results.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Travis_Van_Slooten

The Smith Machine and Your Home Gym - 3 Reasons Why You Must Have It!

2010-06-25T05:42:00.001-07:00

The engineering aspects of home gym equipment are fairly straight forward but that does not mean there have not been some important technological breakthroughs in the last half century. One of the most important equipment innovations has been the conversion of the power rack into the Smith Machine! The Smith Machine is a first class upgrade to the standard power rack and it is ideal for working out in your own home gyms and also at the local club. Here are 3 pertinent reasons why you should check it out:

It is always an important to consider what other professionals in the industry are saying about your potential home gym equipment purchase. The king of body building Arnold Schwarzenegger was a strong advocate of using the Smith Machine as part of his training program. He believed that the Smith Machine was ideal for performing squats because it allows you to place your feet farther forward without fear of losing your balance. The rails keep you in place and this allows you to achieve a maximum thigh burn without falling backwards. This exercise method is ideal for lower weight loads and higher repetitions. High reps is a core body building principle because it encourages muscle gain and definition. Compare this high repetition workout program to power lifting where lower reps and heavier weight loads are commonly recommended.

The Smith Machine features rails which were designed to keep your form/posture correct when doing squats, military press, bench and other exercises. The rails act as guides that keep you in line and don't let you drift when you are maxing out with heavy sets or lots of reps. This element of the Smith Machine does have its critics however. Their main gripe is that when you are locked inside the rails for your sets the machine is doing the work that normally your stabilizer muscles would be doing instead. This can be seen as a negative because it may not be a complete workout. You may notice that weights seem a bit lighter inside the Smith Machine as compared to when you are using the traditional power rack. It is mainly a matter of preference.

When you are working out in your home gym you do not always have a spotter handy to keep an eye on things. Until now this made it difficult to workout with Olympic weights in your own home gym. The invention of the Smith Machine provided a much needed element of safety. This is also an important consideration when you are working out at the local Club. Not all potential spotters know what they are doing and this could result in an injury if your spotter reacts late or not at all. You must have a competent spotter when you are doing strenuous lifts. The Smith Machine features rails on the side walls of the rack in which the Olympic bar has been embedded. There are 2 hooks in the Olympic bar that sit inside the rails and by simply turning your wrists you can catch the bar on one of the 11 metal rungs inside the rail enclosure. Thus, you have a self spotting mechanism. This enables you to workout at the club or in your own home gym without jeopardizing your safety.

Whether you are a body builder or a power lifter the Smith Machine is an excellent addition to your home gym for the safety and technique aspect. This is a great reason to switch over or at least incorporate the Smith Machine into your workout routine. Smith machines are very affordable and come with strong warranty protection.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M.

Review of Flexcords Resistance Bands Set

2010-06-25T05:41:00.002-07:00

The Flexcords Resistance Bands Set comes with:

6 Resistance Bands (3 pounds - 55 pounds)
Handles
Door attachment for additional exercises
Handy Exercise Chart

The Flexcords Resistance Bands Set is a great option for people wanting to buy a set of fitness bands without a lot of extra frills. The only thing this set is missing is the ankle straps which limits the amount of leg exercises you can do. However you can easily fit your feet into the foam handles so all is not lost. Ankle straps can be purchased elsewhere or even made at home with a little velcro if you are a creative person.

The included exercise chart is really nothing to write home about, but if you have never used a fitness band before it can give you a good starting point. If you are not already on a specific exercise program like P90X, Pilates, or Yoga then you will want to get a book or DVD with more exercises. There are also tons of example videos on YouTube and other video sharing sites.

The exercise bands included in this set are of good quality. They were strong and we were able to punish them pretty harshly during a P90X session and there was no signs of scarring or tearing on the bands or the handles. There are 6 different bands where most sets of this price only include 3 or 4. With 6 bands it is possible that two people could work out at the same time using the same set.

Not having ankle straps is usually a bad sign for if you are looking to buy exercise band sets, but this set includes more bands that normal so we think that it kind of balances out. The included bands are also good quality, so we think that trading 2 50 cent ankle straps for 3 quality resistance bands is a good bargain.

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Review For the Human Touch HT-3300 Massage Chair

2010-06-25T05:41:00.001-07:00

This is a product review of the Human Touch HT-3300 massage chair. The Human Touch massage chair company is known for its modern swivel base line of recliners. They combine proprietary technology to deliver a subtle and soothing massage on demand.

The HT-3300 massage recliner comes in a sleek modern design. It has sloping oak accented armrests. The rest of the chair is done in a solid color with a black swivel base.

Although the design is very modern, it is somewhat mundane. It comes with a large head pillow and the back pad design is very plain. The attachment for the calf massager is much smaller than on other models which makes the chair more attractive than others in the Human Touch line.

This Human Touch massage chair makes it easy to customize the massage. It comes with a handheld wired remote control. The remote control is fairly simple to use and has LED lights to indicate if a certain operation is active.

You can select from the three automatic massage programs. This model of recliner comes with the following automatic programs: sore muscle relief, stress therapy and back wellness. Simply select the automatic massage of your choice and the program will run the entire chair for 15 minutes.

There are also a number of manual massage techniques. There are four professional massage techniques that allow you to target different trouble spots. These massage techniques include rolling, kneading, percussion and also compression.

This model of recliner also comes with a power recline for the chair back. Use the remote control to adjust the angle of the chair back. The chair will recline to a 170 angle. Keep in mind that 180 is completely flat or horizontal.

The leg rest of this recliner is manual. There is a lever which when activated will raise the leg rest upward. To lower the leg rest, one must push down with their legs.

One of the unique features of this recliner is the rotating leg rest. The leg rest contains a massager on one side and a flat surface on the other. You can get a massage from the leg rest from one side. Then after you can rotate it to the other side to hide the leg wells when not in use.

The leg rest can massage either the feet or the calves. You can position your legs inside of the leg wells to receive a treatment. Otherwise you must bend your knees to position your feet on top of the calf massager to receive a massage.

The HT 3300 is not a full body massage chair. The massage functions include a roller mechanism for the back and shoulders. It also has a calf massager for the feet and calves. The seat is simply a cushion and contains no therapies whatsoever.

The power of the massage therapy of the HT-3300 massage recliner is somewhat subtle. I do not find that the back massage was as penetrating as I would have preferred. The programs are interesting and are patterned off of massage therapists, but they are a bit too weak for my taste.

The HT 3300 massage chair has a nice contemporary design. It is not quite a full body massage recliner and the strength of the massage is somewhat weak. This massage chair has some nice features in design, but was a little light on the massage therapy which after all is the point of the chair.

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Punching Bags Are More Than Meets the Eye (Or Fist)

2010-02-08T06:49:00.003-08:00

Punching bags are a versatile piece of equipment that has seen a re-birth in the past decade. They come in so many different sizes, shapes, weights and styles that choosing one will entirely depend on what you are hoping to accomplish.

People looking to lose weight and/or improve hand speed and hand to eye coordination will love what the speed bag can do for them. Speed bags can hang from almost anywhere due to their light weight.
The results you see from a speed bag are quantifiable because for one it gets your heart rate to a point where you will start to lose weight. It will also make your hand to eye coordination grow by leaps and bounds. Starting young children out with a speed bag could do wonders for their ability to grow in other sports.

A power punching bag can add strength while helping you lose weight as well. Power bags should be used with caution. Always wrap your hands and wrist when using one, and never throw half-hearted punches at one. You could damage your wrist this way.

Inflatable punching bags are great for both kids and adults. Their main advantage is portability and storage. You do not have to affix an inflatable bag to a wall or ceiling, they can be set up anywhere you like. Then once you are done using it, the bag is at your whim to where it will be stored and kept, not the other way around.

Big time boxers and MMA athletes use punching bags to train, but today, everyone from NBA and NFL to personal trainers are using them as a way to sprinkle in new wrinkles into their workout routines. The main advantage to using punching bags is the ability to lose weight and gain strength at the same time.

So remember, speed bags are great for hand to eye coordination as well as losing weight. They can be hung from many different areas in a home, and are relatively cheap to buy. Power bags add strength and power to any workout, but must be done with the right motion. Inflatable bags have superior portability and storage features to their counterparts.

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Heart Rate Monitor Watch - 5 Must Know Ways to Benefit From Your Heart Monitor Watch

2010-02-08T06:49:00.001-08:00

Heart rate monitor watches have been around since 1984. Athletes add this tool to their training so they can compare the distance covered to the level of exertion they feel after running, swimming, cycling or walking. If you are considering adding a Polar, Suunto, or Timex heart monitor watch you need to keep top of mind how you want to use it so you can match features to function.

Here's 5 basic ways to use your Timex Ironman heart rate monitor(HRM).

#1) Once you have your HRM watch and chest belt strapped on it takes just a few moments for them to sync up. Now take a reading of your resting heart rate and then start your training routine. Glance at your HRM every 5 or 10 minutes.

You should not have to stop to see the display and if you're using the Timex Ironman you can easily read the large numbers in the display. No stopping or slowing to squint at tiny numbers on your heart rate monitor watch.

#2) The next step is to observe your average heart rate for the distance you have covered.

#3) Compare your average heart rate to your level of exertion. How hard did your body work. Was your pulse up for the number of miles your covered?

#4) Next compare your pulse to your speed or elapsed time.

#5) Lastly, check out your recovery time. This is a true indicator of your fitness. When you have finished your work out session check your heart rate monitor watch after 30 seconds and then after a minute. You will get a quick read on how quickly your heart responds your workout.

These are your basic uses of your heart monitor system When comparing the various brands and models make sure they will support these functions. Some HRMs are primarily designed for weight loss programs and others for aerobic fitness routines. The Timex Ironman series is designed with the triathlete in mind and you can easily follow the steps outlined above.

When comparing models, check out often overlooked features like measuring the number of calories burned, the ability to read the watch in low light, and size of the watch. Don't overlook the merchant's warranty and maintenance on the product.

Its been 25 years since the heart rate monitor watch was first strapped onto a runner's arm. The technology has made huge advances and you'll find that an HRM transforms your training and pushes you to be the best that you can be. Whether your just starting out or a professional athlete you'll benefit from understanding the relationship between workout and heart rate.

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Indoor Trampolines

2010-02-08T06:48:00.002-08:00

In the year 1999, the trampoline and its performers became an integral part of the Olympics. Since than the trampoline became a part of households throughout the world. The origins of the trampoline are not known but one theory is that it was based on an Eskimo game where people would throw a person in the air on a taut walrus skin. Another such theory is that the game originated in England when people would throw a person into the air on a taut blanket. Whatever the theory the truth is that the trampoline was invented in 1934 by two gymnasts who introduced people to their trampoline by opening a business they called Trampolines & Tumblers. Since then many have become rebounders jumping on their outdoor or indoor trampolines.

Indoor trampolines as well as their outdoor cousins come in different shapes such as round, square, rectangular and octagonal. The indoor version tends to be smaller and the square shapes appear to be preferable. One of the main uses for a trampoline indoors is that you can continue your exercise routines even in the dead of winter when it is too cold or too wet to do them outside. In fact, in some areas there are trampoline exercise courts. These courts have trampolines joined in squares and each person has a trampoline to do their aerobics on. This form of aerobic trampoline exercise is allegedly beneficial for cardiovascular health. Those people that have used such a court recommend them highly.

Whether you have an indoor trampoline or an outdoor trampoline the safety features should all be available for use. You need such accessories as handles, ladders, foam pads, mats, and an enclosure. Because this trampoline is indoors it may be smaller but it still needs the proper safety features to keep you and your family from suffering internal and bone injuries. Most probably, since the trampoline is indoors and smaller, a child may be using it. Therefore, the need for safety features and accessories is more than just a must-have it is a dire necessity for its safety.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_LaBrie

Ab Circle Pro - Not All As "Seen on TV" Stuff is Junk

2010-02-08T06:48:00.001-08:00

In the quest to get six pack abs people are prepared to try a number of different products and it seems the more exotic the better. However, the fact is that in order to get the best quality abs, one needs to do more than just abdominal exercises.

Abdominal exercises of any kind including the movements one performs on the Ab Circle Pro; which is a side to side motion exercising the oblique abdominal muscles while keeping the front or rectus abdominal muscles tense, can strengthen the targeted muscles all round. However, did you know that performing the barbell squat exercises the core muscles, the muscles around the stomach and lower back much more effectively as they prevent the spine from collapsing during this very intense movement?

Another aspect of the quest for six pack abs is that one also needs to burn up the actual body fat covering said abs. The best way to do this is to always start your workout with at least 15 to 30 minutes of intense cardiovascular training to warm up before you do any weight room or other resistance work. When you do your strength training including abdominal exercises, do them intensely and with as little rest in between sets as possible. This way you keep your heart rate up and your body will divide its energy sources between 50% fat and 50% sugars. Remember to avoid overtraining and do not train at this intensity for more than 90 minutes, cardiovascular training included. Off course, one needs to consider proper diet as well.

Thus, one can conclude that the Ab Circle Pro can be part of your arsenal of abdominal exercises in your quest for six pack abs and will have its uses. However, so would regular sit ups or leg raises and nothing can beat the core strengthening benefits of the barbell squat. This does add variety to your abs program and thus prevents boredom and if you think this is worth the $200 price tag for the Ab Circle Pro then by all means acquire it. However, do not think of it as the end all and be all in the acquisition of six pack abs, because you might be somewhat disappointed.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Powell

Jump Ropes Are Great For Sports

2010-02-08T06:46:00.000-08:00

No matter what sport you play, jump ropes will help you improve at least one aspect of that sport. If you can jump rope at least a few times a week you will start to see improvement in things like your speed, agility, leg strength, coordination, and jumping ability. Jumping rope is also an incredibly great way to lose weight. It does not matter what sport you play or whatever part of your body you want to improve, jump roping will help you do it.

Basketball players probably benefit the most from jump roping because you need things like speed, strength, and coordination in basketball. If you jump rope for football, you can be better at avoiding tackles on offense or achieving more tackles on defense. You will also have better coordination, which is great for quarterbacks. If you play tennis or baseball you will have better footwork and be able to reach a tennis ball or a baseball that would have otherwise flown past you. You will also improve your coordination so you can hit the ball with your tennis racket or baseball bat.

All you have to do to get started is get one or more of your own jump ropes. You can use your sister or daughter's rope to start, but as you get better that jump rope should be rotating too slowly for you. Once you have reached that point you want to get a speed rope. Speed jump rope handles are designed to help the rope move as fast as you can possibly rotate it. The rope is also designed to slice through the air fast enough to fit your rotation speed.

There are so many more sports that would benefit in so many different ways that it would take forever to explain all of them. Do not worry if you are not skilled with jumping rope when you first start. With a little time and practice you should be able to quickly improve and start making up jumping exercises of your own.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_D_Smythe

Finding a Good Portable Treadmill

2010-01-14T06:36:00.005-08:00

Find a good portable treadmill is not always easy, but it can be very rewarding once you find it. First and foremost you need to be sure to find the treadmill that is right for you and will do everything that you need it to - otherwise that piece of fitness equipment will become some thing in your garage to stuff boxes around and on.

The first thing you need to consider in purchasing portable small treadmills is the quality of the build. Many people look to purchase these because they are generally cheaper than other options. Sadly, when it comes to fitness gear, cheaper usually means lower build quality and no-quite-so-long-lasting equipment. Essentially, you can end up purchasing something that won't even last a year if you are a moderate runner (10+ miles per week), or if you are a little overweight.

If you are a little bigger than you would like to be just make sure that the treadmill is build for someone your size, and I'm not just meaning how much you weigh. You also need to be sure that the running mat dimensions are suitable for your height. Many times equipment that is build to be portable is also meant to be small. While not a bad thing for the general public, if you are over six feet tall then you will want to double check this quite thoroughly since nothing is worse than buying a treadmill that you can't even run on. If you are looking to purchase this online and you are tall, then it is worth your time to go to a store to find out what size of treadmill you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_C_Taylor

Why Use a Stability Ball

2010-01-14T06:36:00.003-08:00

I know sometimes it might feel a little strange to use a big inflatable ball in your exercising (especially in a gym with others watching) but it really is a great tool to help you get in better shape. They are very comfortable to use, give you good support while you do exercises and you don't need to worry about them giving out on you as they can handle 600-700 pounds. It is also quite cheap compared to some other exercise equipment and can be used by beginners and experts alike.

There are many great exercises you can do with the stability ball for developing your abdominal muscles as well as other areas. One of the great things about it is that it forces your body to stabilize itself while doing exercises as opposed to a machine which does it for you (hence the name, stability ball). You can do exercises that work out multiple muscles at a time, so you get the best results for the amount of time you spend. Almost any exercise you do on a bench, you could be doing on a stability ball and have the added benefit of your body balancing itself while doing your exercise.

If you do decide to purchase or use a stability ball, make sure that you get the right size for your body type. They can also vary how much air is inside to adjust firmness. There are many exercise you can perform with a stability ball, here are just a few:

- Ab Roll
- Hip Extension
- Ball Rotation
- Chest Fly
- Leg Curl
- Pike Crunch
- Ball Crunches

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Image Elliptical - A Good Buy For You?

2010-01-14T06:36:00.001-08:00

Thinking about an Image elliptical trainer? Wondering if it's a good buy for you? Here's a few things to know before you buy.

Image is a budget line of elliptical trainers from ICON Health and Fitness - one of the largest fitness equipment manufacturers in the world. They also manufacture brands like Weslo, Reebok, Epic, Freemotion and Proform.

Each brand has their own particular strengths. In the case of Image, the main strength is that they are affordable. Most of these ellipticals come in under $500 and are sold through a variety of different discount chain department stores.

This fact alone makes them very popular. But are they really a good value? Here's an overview of some of their main strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths:

#1) Affordable - Since most of these units come in under $500, in this economy, it makes these machines very popular. Plus while they're big, they're not monstrously huge. So many people just choose to transport them home themselves, saving on shipping costs.

#2) Ramp - There are a few Image units - like the Image 9.5 elliptical - that do offer manual ramp. This is similar to incline in that it changes the slope of your elliptical motion and helps you crosstrain different muscles.

Note however that most Image units do not come with Ramp. The ones that do use manual (not power) ramp. This means you have to get off the machine to adjust it - which can be a pain.

3) EKG Heart Rate Monitor - Most Image home ellipticals do offer some sort of heart rate monitor. This helps you stay in your target heart rate zone while exercising.

Weaknesses:

Unfortunately these ellipticals do have several strong weaknesses:

#1) Flimsy Construction - No one, not even ICON with all of their resources, can make a strong, stable elliptical for under $500. Most Image ellipticals have poor construction with cheaper parts that can often break easily.

The user weight capacities are also very low (which means they aren't built to take a lot of strain). You can probably expect some wobbling on these units if you pick up the pace.

#2) Short Warranties- You don't get much in the way of warranty with these ellipticals, Most give you around 90 days - which should tell you something. And if you do have to buy parts after the warranty runs out it can cost you. So many people elect to buy a whole new elliptical at that point.

#3) Bare Bones - You don't get much in the way of workout programs or fitness options with these machines, they're extremely bare bones. You do sometimes get a few heart rate workout programs - but that's about it. No iPod docks, fitness tracking tools or adjustable strides, that you can get with other elliptical brands.

Summary:

Image elliptical trainers are affordable and do offer some simple basics like heart rate monitors and a few workout programs. However overall, they aren't know for having strong construction.

User reviews have been poor with many people complaining about parts breaking soon after purchase. Warranties are short and options are limited. Considering all of this, it's really hard to recommend these machines.

If you have the time to buy one, take it home, assemble it, and then truck it back to the store for a refund if something should go wrong, then go for it. But you may just want to save yourself the hassle and spend a few hundred more to get a longer lasting, more stable elliptical.

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Understanding and Appreciating the E25 Elliptical Trainer and Its Capabilities

2010-01-14T06:23:00.000-08:00

Sole has given people this model with more than a few nice features, including the shaping of its foot pedals so that they slope. This can help take a great deal of strain off of knees or ankles, especially when it is used in a vigorous manner. This particular unit also is one step below the slightly more comprehensive e35 trainer made by the same company.

In terms of where this trainer fits in in the Sole lineup, it's the entry-level machine, with various other elliptical trainers running all the way up to the e95, which costs a relatively large amount of money (the e25 itself runs about $1100 before Internet discounts). For those who want a nice trainer in the home, the e25 seems a good choice.

One shouldn't be taken in by the so-called "entry-level" classification of this particular unit, though. Given its price, and the quality of its construction and materials, it is a very solid and well-performing machine. Most such entry-level units are those found in department stores or discount fitness stores, which this one most assuredly will not be found in.

For starters, it has a nice 20 inch stride length, whereas many so-called "entry level" machines come with, at most, 15 inches of stride length. That places it well above the entry-level competition right off the bat. Additionally, there are over 16 levels of resistance, which helps to ensure that even the most fit person will have nice resistance when and where needed.

There is also a well-working heart rate just strap that sends data to the digital display monitor included with the machine. Heart rate monitoring is one of the best biofeedback tools that a person can use to gauge the intensity and effectiveness of any given work out. It also helps a person to stay in the proper heart rate zone when exercising.

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Christmas Fitness Wish List

2009-12-13T02:19:00.001-08:00

With Christmas just around the corner I have compiled a list of affordable, portable, effective and versatile pieces of fitness equipment that I highly recommend for home use, at the office or on vacation. These are my personal favourite training tools which I use myself and with all of my clients.

1. Kettlebell: These affordable and portable weights will not only increase your strength and endurance but also help improve agility, balance, flexibility and mental toughness. Kettlebells are a durable cannonball shaped weight with a handle, that when put into motion allow for explosive full body movements, building strong, firm, toned bodies.

2. Medicine Ball: Whether carrying, lifting, tossing or catching, medicine balls are a creative and fun way to train alone or with a friend. Most often used during core and abdominal exercises, medicine balls are a safe and effective tool to add to anyone's workout routine.

3. Resistance Tubes: Less intimidating than free-weights and heavy duty machinery, resistance tubing is cheap in cost and can be taken with you anywhere. They fit perfectly in your gym bag, back-pack or suitcase and weigh absolutely nothing. Fit tubes come in plenty of different resistance levels and are differentiated by color.

4. Heart Rate Monitor: The easiest way to ensure that you are getting the most out of your workouts by effectively training in the correct target heart rate zone.

5. Punching Bag & Gloves: Cardiovascular exercise doesn't have to be boring and repetitive. Boxing is a fun way to relieve stress while working up a great sweat and burning off those excess calories.

6. TRX Suspension Trainer: Portable, versatile and durable, this innovative piece of fitness equipment allows you to use your own bodyweight to perform hundreds of exercises for every body part.

7. Aerobic Step: This traditional stepping platform comes with adjustable risers for increasing levels of difficulty. Stepping is a fun and effective way to burn calories and shed fat. Just add weights and shorten the amount of reps to turn this into a killer strength training workout for your legs.

8. Stability Ball: Just sitting on one of these large inflatable balls will activate core muscles for body stabilization. Great for balance and core strengthening, stability/exercise balls can replace your typical weight lifting bench to make all exercises more challenging.

9. Exercise/Yoga Mat: An absolute necessity for all exercisers. Whether you are taking yoga or Pilate's class, using the mat for abdominal exercises at home, looking for a better grip to stand on or help to protect your floor, the yoga mat is for you.

10. BOSU Balance Trainer: You get all the benefits of a stability ball while adding the additional challenges and fun of a balance board. This dual sided half ball, half board is a must have for any fitness enthusiast, regardless of experience or skill. BOSU training will enhance your performance whether it's for sport, recreation or daily tasks.

This holiday season give the gift that keeps on giving. A healthier and happier life is something everyone could use.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_J_Robson

Fitness Equipment For Home

2009-12-13T02:18:00.002-08:00

The market for exercise equipment is booming as more and more people become aware of the benefits of exercising and staying healthy.

There is no limit to man's imagination and the makers of the home fitness equipment cater to most every type of need from treadmills to exercise bikes, step machines, weight benches, ski machines, abdominal exercise machines, bars, rowing machines, dumbbells, weights, and so much more. There are special equipments for lower body, upper body, hands, legs and abdomen.

When choosing your fitness equipment, make sure that you have a clear personal program in mind and buy accordingly. You need to buy equipment to fit your budget as well as the space in your home. Take measurements at home and at the stores you visit, research each piece of equipment and its benefits. Some people may have a problem of weight around the abdomen, some the arms or legs; we have no control over the fat distribution in our body and personal fitness requirements vary from person to person. It is always a good idea to exercise using a combination of cardio and weights - the cardio gets the metabolism hopping and the weights tighten up and strengthen the muscles.

Exercise is not everyone's cup of tea and for some of us staying motivated is a huge task. Staying focused on enhancing your well being, improving confidence and self esteem, getting rid of stress and depression are all positive reinforcements. Another way to stay motivated and use your fitness equipment to the fullest advantage is to set realistic goals that you can attain and measure.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jackson_Djeison

Cheap Treadmills Are Easy to Find

2009-12-13T02:18:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had a hard time finding cheap treadmills on the internet? I'll bet you have. Treadmills are some of the more difficult types of fitness equipment to find easily on the web; most of the time you have to go to the store to find these due to the difficulty of shipping large containers of fragile equipment long distances. Most stores will want you to come to their store to pick it up, which if you're like me and have a small car, this is easier said than done. So, today we're going to talk about some of the best places you can get cheap treadmills online, including ones that will ship to you.

The first store you should look at is Amazon. Amazon is one of the top retailers of just about everything related to everything, fitness equipment and treadmills included. If you go on their website you can find a huge selection of some of the newest and hottest treadmills to hit the market. Most of these are going to be found for a significant discount to what you'd pay in the store; after all, online stores like Amazon only have to pay for one place to keep their inventory. Large stores like Wal-Mart have to pay rent on many many stores throughout the country, passing that cost along to you, the consumer.

American Fitness is also a popular choice for people looking for cheap treadmills. Most of their selection is dedicated toward the home user, not toward commercial gym equipment. That means that you'll spend a lot less than what you might expect for a treadmill from them.

At either store, there are solid shipping options to ensure that your treadmill arrives at your home quickly and safely. I hope that this article has helped you in your decision.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_H._Smith

Soccer Rebounders - Finding Quality That Will Last

2009-12-13T02:17:00.000-08:00

When it comes to soccer rebounders, you can never be too careful. If they aren't well made, they can fall over, seriously injuring those that are using it. Before going into how to find a quality soccer rebounder, let's go into what they are and what they are and are not for.

Most people use soccer rebounders to practice goal kicking or passing. I especially like them for practice goal shooting, because you can see exactly where you're hitting and how the ball is affected by spin. Lastly, if you're a goalie you can see which areas are most difficult for you to defend, and exercise those areas more.

Now, there are two main types of soccer rebounders: the T frame types than stand on long 'legs' to stay upright, and those that are staked into the ground. Personally, I prefer the T frames better. Why? They're much more portable, can be set on a hard surface (such as a parking lot or driveway), and don't tear huge holes in your yard. Also, I try to avoid sharp objects around my kids as much as possible. Also, if the ground is soft, after a few kicks the stake type rebounder will lean, which is very annoying. But, find whichever type works better for you.

If you decide on the T frame type, just make sure that the legs stick out far enough that the rebounder is almost impossible to knock over. Even more importantly, make sure that no one who is going to use the rebounder will climb on it. They are not intended for this, and it can be very dangerous if someone is on top of the rebounder and it falls over.

Regardless of which type you choose, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Make sure that the material will stand up to the elements, so it won't rust over time. While plastics and vinyl are great building materials for rebounders, make sure that the plastic is not brittle, and make sure that the frame is not so light that the wind can move it. If this is an issue, simply buy a few sandbags from a hardware store and put them on the legs. It is especially important that the plastic does not shatter if it breaks, because it will leave sharp edges that will damage a ball or harm the user.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Emma_Sharp

Use a Rowing Machine to Get Fit - Part 1

2009-11-24T07:42:00.001-08:00

If you're looking for a great workout machine, one which combines cardio benefits while also toning your upper and lower body muscle groups then give some serious consideration to rowing machines. Most fitness experts agree that few other pieces of cardio fitness equipment can deliver the same results as effectively.

Firstly if you've ever watched rowing in the Olympics for example you'll see that it's an extremely demanding sports activity. Professional rowers are quite superhuman in their levels of fitness. When you are really serious about burning calories and shifting the fat then hitting a rowing machine and pushing yourself on a regular basis is going to get you there fast. It will also add a lot of definition to your muscles.

The action involved in rowing is unidirectional, you are pushing and pulling which works all your leg muscles, shoulders and back. By reducing your body fat through eating well and working on a rowing machine for the cardio side of your workouts, you'll quickly achieve a better body especially to compliment any weight training you may be doing.

You may be thinking that rowing machines are for elite fitness professionals but nothing could be further from the truth. With a little practice you'll find yourself completely comfortable on the machine, rowing is a natural motion and anyone can learn to use these machines to great effect. It's also a form of low impact exercise meaning it does not put the same strain on your joints as say running on a treadmill. It's safe and less likely to cause you injury over time.

Rowing machines are not just for off-season rowers! Go along to your local fitness store to try one out today and you may be surprised at just how much enjoyment you can get from one.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Payo_W_Perry

Why a Medicine Ball is Your Health Care Public Option

2009-11-24T07:41:00.002-08:00

With all the talk these days about health care reform, why not take matters into your own hands? Create your own public option. Opt to work out and get healthy. The tools you need are simple and the plan is affordable. To help cut your health care costs, get (and stay) healthy and strong with daily exercise. With a trainer or without, at a health club or in your basement, a daily exercise routine is just the kind of health plan you need.

Strength training exercises have many advantages. They increase muscle and bone strength, decrease your waistline, and give you extra energy. If your exercise plan needs some new life, consider adding some new tools to your workouts. Maybe it's time to re-think the medicine ball. Gone are the days of musty, dusty gyms and in are sleek new designs and fresh new ideas for getting fit. This one tool not only gets you stronger, it can single handedly reshape your body.

A top selling product is a dual grip medicine ball. This looks like a medicine ball with ears. Two handles protrude from the sides of the ball making it easy to hold and grip with one or both hands. Varying in weight from 2 pounds to 20, there is a medicine ball for everyone.

The medicine ball enhances the exercises you do every day by adding weighted resistance to your moves. Working your core, squats, lunges, ab exercises and arms can be challenging with a medicine ball, but easy to incorporate and you'll love the results. With the extra work, you'll be sculpted and toned in no time at all.

An easy way to use a dual grip medicine ball is to hold it in both hands while doing a lunge and raise the ball in front of your body. This compound exercise works legs, butt, arms, core, shoulders and chest. Try sitting on a mat with both knees bent, feet on the floor and the ball in both hands and held in front of your chest. Lean back tightening your abdominal muscles and lower the ball to your right side. Return up and repeat on the left. This works core, obliques and arms.

Exercises with a weighted ball become more challenging simply because the added resistance requires the recruitment of more muscle groups. This is the secret to toning your body. Compound exercises are more time-efficient and in the end, they are more functional. Whatever you choose, use a dual grip medicine ball to make your workouts more effective and more efficient. Opt out of being out of shape and opt into affordable and usable tools to help you get fit and stay healthy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susannah_Marchese

Save Money - How to Find Cheap Fitness Equipment

2009-11-24T07:41:00.001-08:00

Finding cheap fitness equipment is easy to do because there is a lot of used equipment out there. Many people buy new equipment and put it in the bedroom and it never gets used. You can get almost new fitness gear for penny's on the dollar. Shopping around can save you a lot of money.

First you want to search on Craigslist because it is one of the best places to get used items that are in your local area. When you go there search under the sporting good category and type in the type of machine that you are looking for. In most cases you will find what you are looking for that is close to your house.

Next you need to look through your local Sunday paper because they usually have a lot of great prices on good used equipment. You may have to go and look at a few of the available items but it will be well worth your time and effort. Remember that you can also negotiate the price and getting a better deal than the asking price.

Finally do not buy the first item you see because when you take your time and search around you will find that there are many deals out there. You should be able to find a treadmill or bike for 50-90% off what it would cost you brand new. Most of the equipment is so close to brand new you will think it just came out of the box.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryan_Burbank

Here is the Way to Do Your Daily Workout Wherever You Are

2009-11-24T07:40:00.000-08:00

Whether you have been doing exercises for a long time or if you have only started recently one thing that may be a challenge for you is that all your equipment is at home and you are a bit lost when your work means that you have to go away for long periods or, of course when you are on holiday.

One thing that is essential when you start out on a program like this to get fit or lose weight or to just simply keep yourself in trim, is that it should be done regularly. It is no good to do it for a few days and stop for a week. When you start again you will find that you are right back where you started a couple of weeks before and you will lose heart and think that the plan does not work.

It is quite possible to do a lot of exercises whilst in a hotel room. You can easily do a good number of the stretching and loosening up type ones that do not need any equipment. You can simply lie on the floor or lean against a wall. I have always been a little concerned about running on the spot however as there may well be someone paying good money to stay in the room below.

One simple thing that you can do is to get a folding exercise bike which you can fold away in the boot of your car and take it out when you reach where you are going to. They are very easy to set up and it will take you hardly any time. You will be able to start your daily workout as soon as you want.

When you are looking for these you may find them referred to as a foldable exercise bike or a mini. Over recent years they have become very compact as technology has progressed. You can now buy them with most of the capabilities of the more robust traditional upright standing exercise bikes.

One of the popular types of bike now is a recumbent folding exercise bike. Recumbent means that you lie down whilst using it. This gives you total ergonomic back support, without causing strain on the neck, shoulders and arms. All of these are common effects of using an upright bicycle. If your bike is more comfortable and does not cause you pains, you are more likely to stick with the exercise routine.

Have a look around and get yourself something that is easy to carry around with you, yet lets you continue your exercises wherever you are.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerome_Thomas

An Upright Exercise Bike is a Great First Fitness Equipment Buy

2009-11-18T06:18:00.002-08:00

If you're ready to buy your first piece of home gym equipment, an upright exercise bike is a great choice. Upright bikes are ease to use, convenient, affordable and provide a good workout for beginner to moderate users.

These are is one of the most basic, easy to use types of bikes on the market. Working out on one of these machines is a lot like riding a regular road bicycle. They have a seat, handlebars and pedals just like a regular bike, and most people intuitively assume the right position and movement for workouts.

Those who are just starting out with home exercise equipment find that these bikes make workouts fun and convenient as well as easy to master. You can watch TV, listen to the radio, read or even play video games if you like on an upright exercise bike. It's also possible to work out your upper body if you choose a bike with movable handlebars. If your balance and strength allow it, you may also be able to use light weights or arm movements to work the upper body as you ride.

Even lower priced upright bikes tend to feature some sort of workout programming. You can use programming to monitor miles cycled, calories burned, or the length of time of your workouts. Most upright bikes also come with adjustable resistance levels so you can vary your workout as you gain strength or just to keep things interesting.

One big advantage of these is affordability. Although it's possible to spend a small fortune on an exercise bike, it's not necessary. You can find very affordable upright bikes that will stand up well to moderate use. Even lower end models tend to operate smoothly and quietly, as the design of these bikes is fairly simple.

This equipment won't take up much room in your home, so they are a great choice for those with space limitations. Today there are even foldable exercise bikes that take up even less space than traditional models.

Although an upright exercise bike is a great first piece of home gym equipment, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you want a very vigorous workout, an upright exercise bike might not be the ideal choice. Those who are very obese or who have back injuries or issues may find them difficult to use. But for the majority of people, an upright exercise bike is a great option for an indoor workout.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=CH_Brown

Three Types of Exercise Bars to Improve Your Workout

2009-11-18T06:18:00.001-08:00

When exercising, it is important for you to find the appropriate type of bar so that you are able to effectively target specific muscle groups, while exercising in a way as to prevent injury. There are three main types of bars that are often seen in the workout room: the long bar, the curved short bar, and the straight short bar.

The long bar is often used by people exercising to target their back muscles. As the name suggests, the bar is long and offers the user to opportunity to do exercises like the pull down. They usually have differently spaced grips so you can change your exercise routine fairly easily.

The curved short bar is shorter and almost has a "u" or "v" shape to it. It is helpful to people attempting to work out their upper arms and triceps muscles. It offers the user an easy to grip frame, so the work out tends to be very helpful, but allows the person using it to maintain the appropriate amount of control over the weight.

The short straight bar is similar to the long bar, aside from the fast that it is much shorter. This type of bar is helpful for exercises like biceps curls and rows. It is very sturdy so the person is able to pull a decent amount of weight with such a small bar. This helps with the proper amount of leverage in the exercises. The person exercising can move at a fast pace and have a powerful workout with the help of these bars.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Murphy-Dean

How a Personal Trainer Can Improve Your Exercise Routine

2009-11-18T06:17:00.003-08:00

Everyone knows that exercise is a critical part of a healthy life style. It not only benefits your health, it is also a mood booster. For those who want to accomplish a specific fitness goal, a personal trainer can be helpful.

Some people think they know what is best for them, since they know their own body, but there are many benefits to having a personal trainer you may not have realized. A personal coach will often begin with an assessment of your body, your level of physical fitness, and your goals.

One benefit that individual instructors provide is increasing your motivation to meet or succeed your fitness goals. For most of us, being watched, supervised, or held accountable, makes us perform better. This is just as true with an exercise program as in other facets of our lives.

Those who exercise alone may do so to reduce stress or get in shape. Others may need a partner to give them an extra push to exercise regularly because someone is relying on them. Personal trainers can be whatever motivation you need them to be for your situation and personality.

If your fitness goal is to lose weight, your coach can help motivate you with education about diet and nutrition. Also a trainer will know what level you will need to exercise at to reach your weight loss goals, and if in fact, you weight loss goals are even reasonable for you.

If you are training for a specific event, such as a race, or extreme hike, it might be beneficial to you to have an individualized program designed for you to get the essential muscles in shape for that event. People tend to have higher success rates with goals when that goal is shared with others. The trainer acts like your personal supporter who wants you to succeed.

Another benefit a trainers can provide is the fitness knowledge he/she possesses. Most instructors these days have completed specific education, and are certified as personal trainers. The education should have taught him/her how to work with different body types, and physical limitations, such as injuries. You should be able to rely on this person to teach you to do an exercise correctly, so that you are in fact working the muscles you need to work for the highest benefit.

Your coach can show you exercises that you may not have known about, and you might feel muscles worked that you never even knew you even had. Personal trainers help you make the most of your time spent in the gym because they know what they are doing.

When searching for your personal instruction guru, be sure to find one who you like who matches your personal needs and your personality. While personal training implies a one on one relationship, small group classes are often available as well, and if cost is a consideration for you, working out in small groups may be the best way for you to go. It is important to take the time to search for a certified instructors who take the time to get to know you, your unique situation, and your goals. Your body will thank you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_A._Daniels

Designing Your Home Gym

2009-11-18T06:17:00.001-08:00

With a home gym there are no membership fees to pay, you can work out whenever it suits you and you don't have to queue to use the shower. But, beware, the dropout rate for home gym users is even higher than for health-club users. One way to overcome this and the associated guilt is to design your home gym carefully. This article shows you how.

If you're thinking of setting up a home gym it's very tempting to hit the shops and buy lots of shiny new kit but before you do, take time out to decide your goals, your budget and the space you have available.

Here are some things to consider before you go shopping:

* Cover all the bases. If you want to get fit at home you need to be able to do aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises. So, think about how you are going to achieve all three types of exercise. For example, if you're going to do your aerobic exercise such as walking or running outdoors, you can spend your whole budget on weight equipment.
* Choose the best spot for your equipment. Where you choose to site your equipment can make all the difference between using it regularly and just letting it gather dust. Maybe you are someone who likes to be distracted when you are exercising. If that's the case, choose an area with a TV or music system within range. Alternatively, if you want to be completely free of distractions choose a spare room which you can reserve exclusively for your gym and where you can keep all of your equipment together. It's also a good idea to install a mirror, if you are planning to lift weights. Not only will it give your gym a health-club feel but it will also enable you to check that you are lifting them correctly. It will also motivate you, as you'll be able to watch your body gradually slim down and tone up. hichever spot you choose, make sure there's adequate venti
* lation, space, lighting and climate control. Measure the available space. Check the length, width and height of the space to ensure you can use your equipment without smashing into things or banging your head on the ceiling. Also, measure the doors to the space to make sure you can get your equipment in and out easily.
* Consider the type of flooring. If you're planning on using exercise DVDs a carpeted floor works best because it protects your joints, deadens the sound and lessens the danger of slipping. If you're going to be pumping weights don't do it on a tiled floor because if you drop them you'll crack the tiles. The best choice, if you can afford it, is to put in a rubberized floor. If you can't afford it, just put rubberized mats under your cardio equipment. Rubberized mats reduce vibration and stop your flooring from being stained by oil and other debris that inevitably drop from this type of equipment.

Designing your home gym is great fun as you can tailor it to your precise needs. But before spending your hard-earned cash on fancy gadgets, take some time to consider the aspects explained in this article and you'll end up with a gym that will be practical and one that's used for years to come.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_L_Read

Upright Exercise Bikes Vs Recumbent Exercise Bikes

2009-11-04T02:10:00.003-08:00

Due to hectic and packed schedules not many of us find time to exercise and keep fit. However, the alarm rings when we see those obnoxious love handles and flab dangling from all the wrong places in our body. Most of us are lazy to get up in the morning or do not have the time to join a gym. In such cases Exercise Bikes are the best investment.

These bikes are very popular amongst fitness freaks and amongst people trying to burn all those extra fat. These bikes are designed keeping in mind your requirements and the functions fulfilled by the bikes used in gyms. These exercise bikes can easily be adjusted inside your abode and you can use them as and when you like. Just bring them home and see their benefits and positive impact on your health and overall well being.

These bikes are available in two different designs to suit your requirements:

* UPRIGHT EXERCISE BIKE: these are backless bikes, which is the traditional design of these bikes. This backless feature has its own advantages and disadvantages that have led to a mixed bag of reviews about these bikes.

When exercising without any back support, you keep your body posture straight and upright. This helps in exerting pressure on your abdomen, which leads to toning up of the abdomen muscles and loss of fat from the belly area. The foot rest are directly under your bodyline. Also, this upright position while paddling the bike helps you develop an upright posture even while sitting and doing about your daily works.

On the other hand, the upright posture without any kind of back support results in exerting pressure on your lower back. This can lead to pain in your back after 15-20 minutes of paddling. Also, you can experience stiffness in your neck and back due to wrong back and hand postures while exercising. This is highly uncomfortable, especially for people new to exercising.

Except the above mentioned problem, this bike has no other disadvantages. The back ache subsides with experience and also body becomes accustomed to it. However, it can lead to a perpetual bad body posture.

* RECUMBENT EXERCISE BIKES: These bikes are the modified and more comfortable version of the Upright bikes. These bikes have a comfortable back attached for back support and they have wide and padded seats. These are a little reclined backwards thus, providing an extremely comfortable exercising posture. Also, these are lower in height and much closer to ground. The footrests are provided in front, near the front wheel of the bike.

These bikes are perfect for people with back problems and for old aged people, who cannot sit upright for long. Also, these bikes are much comfortable for obese people. These bikes are considered a better option than upright bikes and are thus, more popular.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michel_Disusa

Beachbody Products to Note

2009-11-04T02:10:00.001-08:00

Fitness is one of the top priorities that people who are more conscious of their health are focusing on. There are a lot of things that you can do in order to keep yourself fit and healthy. You can adopt a healthier lifestyle, which includes proper and nutritious diet and regular exercise, since this is the best way to go about keeping yourself full of health and fitness. You can also choose where you are to do your exercising. You can go to the gym and hire a personal trainer. However, with the recession that we are experiencing today, this might not be good for our pockets since memberships to great gyms and hiring a good personal trainer can cost a pretty penny. The solution to this problem is relatively simple: why not join an exercise program where you buy some products like an exercise video and do your workouts in the comfort and privacy of your own home?

Now, it may sound like it would cost a lot of money but it is not. On the contrary, involving yourself in such an endeavor would even be a good opportunity for you to earn some money. The Beachbody Program is such. Simply put, the Beachbody program is a fitness regimen created by a company which manufactures and sells popular products and brands like P90X, Turbo Jam, Power 90, Slim in 6, Hip Hop Abs, and so much more.

The Beachbody products, although a tad intense at times, are immensely fun, and extremely effective. A lot of the customers of the Beachbody program have been nothing but awed with the outcome that they experienced from these incredibly fun and easy to do workouts and the products that they used.

So, what are the most noteworthy Beachbody products? First off, there's the P90X workout series, which is one of the company's top best sellers. The P90X workout series is presenting their customers with the capacity to obtain super fit, sexy and sculpted healthy bodies in a period of ninety days. This product boasts of doing so from the comfort of your own home with no need to use any heavy and expensive equipment.

Another noteworthy product in the Beachbody program is the Shakeology program. This product is a tasty shake that you drink as a replacement for one of your meals in a day. The system comes with a DVD with instructions and a workout routine that you do three times per week. By following this and eating healthy, you will loose weight and get a fit body in no time.

The Shakeology program also has a supplement product, the Fiber Boost. You can just add this non gritty and relatively flavorless powder that is very easy to mix into your daily Shakeology shake or any other shake or drink. You will be losing weight and adding more fiber to keep your colon healthy.

If you already have a workout program from the Beachbody Company, then you may want to purchase their workout accessories. Worth mentioning are the Plyometrics Mat, which is crafted for safety, comfort, longevity and performance; The Beachbody Squishy Ball, which is a small but very durable resistance tool that you can used to tighten up and tone the abdominal muscles.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jesse_L_Regan

Life in Motion - Review of the Precor EFX 546

2009-11-04T02:09:00.002-08:00

Precor is one of the top names in the world of commercial exercise equipment. Precor fitness equipment is built to resist the wear and tear of frequent use. While the machines are built to last, they also feature enhanced features to provide an effective workout. It should come as no surprise that Precor elliptical exercise equipment is held to the same standard of excellence.

Intended for commercial use, the Precor EFX 546 usually sells for around $5,000 when purchased brand new. Although the price is a bit high, you are getting a very high end elliptical exercise machine. For those consumers that would like to experience the Precor workout but can not afford this model, the Precor EFX 546 is available in remanufactured versions. The key to purchasing one of these is finding a reputable reseller.

Consumers can find a slew of reviews on these machines. One of the most common advantages that user's rave about it the machines durability. This elliptical machine is quite bulky in design and remains grounded where ever it is placed. While the machine is quite bulky, Precor designed the machine to be "mover friendly". Therefore although it is large in stature, it is designed to fit easily thru standard doorways, etc.

One downfall of the Precor EFX 546 model is the lack of upper body movement. This machine is built to work your lower body only. This is a major downfall when this machine is compared to other machines in its price range. While most users desire a full body workout, the Precor EFX 546 remains a great option in elliptical exercise equipment.

The Precor EFX supports a low impact workout by providing a smooth workout. This is a major advantage as it decreases your chance for injury. The Precor EFX also features an adjustable cross ramp. This machine features a wide range and as result will work for a consumer of many heights, including those 6 feet and over.
Although this machine has one major weakness, it still ranks as one of the best elliptical exercise machines on the market.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jasmine_Turner

Exercise Ball Workouts - Effective Low Impact Exercise

2009-11-04T02:09:00.001-08:00

Exercise ball workouts are the new trend in fitness. This is probably directly related to the low cost of the equipment involved. The equipment is a ball. Yes a ball. There use to be a child's toy on the market that was similar to this piece of equipment except it had a handle on it. The child would sit on the ball and bounce around while holding on to the handle. Exercise ball workouts are similar to this activity except there is no handle and no bouncing involved.

Exercise ball workouts are really based on the ability to use the muscles in your body to balance and move on the ball. The workouts are great for tightening virtually every part of the body and definitely will improve balance over time. These workouts vary in intensity according to the ability of the user.

Novices usually start out with the simplest of the workouts, spending a good deal of time just acclimating themselves with using the ball. Some simple workouts include holding the ball between the ankles while laying on the floor and than raising the head toward the chest. Also sitting unassisted on the ball can also be a workout at first.

Advance users and intermediate users can use the exercise ball for every part of their body. These workouts vary and can include laying flat on ones back across the ball with the feet on the floor and the head hanging down the other side of the exercise ball and than moving ones head towards the chest while keeping the feet planted firmly on the floor.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Jane_Dempsey

Exercise Fitness Equipment

2009-10-21T23:01:00.004-07:00

Being physically fit is always a good thing and effects most aspects of our lives. It provides us with strength and vitality needed to undertake our busy lives and also helps to provide us with a healthy and glowing appearance. Exercising in today's society has already peaked at a whole new level as more and more people have already become aware of the benefits which can be reaped by exercising, countless types of exercises have been devised to cater for this increased demand.

Exercising can be undertaken even in the convenience of your own home and any room in your house can easily be turned into a makeshift gym area. You can do simple push-ups, sit ups and crunches without purchasing any equipment although you can also use different types of exercise fitness equipment to help assist you in your exercise.

Different exercises require specific types of exercise equipment. For cardio, you could simply utilize that old unused rope in your basement; this makes an effective skipping rope - cheap yet very effective. If you have some cash to spend on equipment you can also buy exercise bikes or a treadmill for personal or home use. If you are a gym buff, there are different types of exercise fitness equipment that you can choose from targeting specific areas of the body, for optimal results you may seek help from your fitness instructor as to which equipment to use and the frequency and the length of time to use it.

On the other hand, if you chose to buy exercise fitness equipment instead, this can be a very worthwhile investment. Owning personal exercise equipment is very convenient. You can use it anytime you want or for those that are portable, you can pick them up and transport them anywhere you want. Common types of exercise fitness equipment are stationary exercise bikes, treadmill, dumbbells and exercise balls. You do not have to limit your equipment to the ones mentioned however given there are thousands of different types of equipment now available.

The more choices you have, the better. You can either look online or visit a fitness store to purchase these fitness devices but always keep in mind that you should try them first before purchasing. Make sure that the quality is good and in cases where you are looking at types of equipment that have revolving or movable parts, make sure that the movement is smooth and the whole set up is sturdy and robust. If you are purchasing the products online, take special notice of the warranty and the return policy of the vendor.

Exercise fitness equipments are very important since they provide variation in your exercises routines. Our muscles have the tendency to be very good in doing repetitive exercise which may negatively impact on the desired results of your exercise. Having variation will challenge the muscles to move and exert more effort thus a more effective exercise routine will result.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Noone

Abdominal Exercise Equipment

2009-10-21T23:01:00.003-07:00

Exercise is the key to a healthy body which most of us are aware of. Different exercise routines have already been devised for different parts of the body and if you have been thinking about eliminating those fats in your middle stomach area, then you really need to have good and effective abdominal exercise equipment.

It is very important to remember though that abdominal exercise equipment is not designed to eliminate fat in your core area. What it does is it strengthens your core muscles and makes these muscles defined and toned.

Please also keep in mind however that despite how much exercise you conduct with a view to toning these muscles the results will still very much depend upon your lifestyle. Obtaining more defined abdominal muscles is not a simple task given these muscles in the middle area of the body are one of the hardest muscles to tone not to mention also one of the easiest to be affected when you are not careful around what you eat.

Obtaining a defined abdominal muscle would start with your daily food intake. Your diet is a very important factor in your whole workout routine and in your total lifestyle so being careful of what you are eating is an integral aspect of obtaining the physic you require. Be mindful of the calories consumed and if possible take only as many as you need as any excess calories will be stored as fats. If you want to get that abs that you desire, naturally you need to burn those fats first in your stomach.

Using abdominal exercise equipment can be easily carried out even if you do not have a local gym membership. In the confines of your own home, you can easily conduct the type of exercises required and the floor is a very good place to start with simple yet effective crunches and sit ups and even steady jogging will all help to promote stronger stomach muscles.

A variety of abdominal exercise equipments are readily available in the marketplace to help you tone those muscles and help you become more focused in what you are doing. If you subscribe to a local gym many of these also have fitness trainers who can give you a personal workout routine specially formulated for you. They even have workout classes which you attend if you want to participate in group activities making exercise more enjoyable.

If you want to do things at home, there are also a wide variety of home gym equipments which can be purchased to enable you to set up your own exercise gym in the comfort and privacy only your own house can provide. There are really no hard rules when it comes to the location you can do your exercise so wherever suits you best.

Getting those desired well-toned abs is no easy task, but with the right equipment, attitude and lifestyle, and focus they can be yours in no time at all.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Noone

Abs Exercise Equipment

2009-10-21T23:01:00.001-07:00

Nothing compares to being healthy and physically fit. That is why more and more people are already aware of the benefits of exercise. Not only will exercise give you the boost in your strength, it also keeps you mentally focused.

A lot of people also exercise because they want their body to be toned. Flabby and unattractive stomach muscles are not good to look at so major exercise focus would be eliminating these fats.

While you can do exercises on your own, you can also use abs exercise equipment. Exercising the abdominal muscles can be done with simple equipment that you set up in your home with ease. A very simple and effective method is to utilize your floor area which can simply be used to easily do crunches and sit ups. These are cost-free but getting help from other exercise tools can help to quicken the muscles toning and build stronger muscle mass.

You do not necessarily need to go to a gym to be able to use abs exercise equipment. There is equipment already available in the market that you can purchase and you can easily install in the home environment. Taking advantage of abs exercise equipment is a great advantage to one's workout routine as the equipment will help you give variation to your exercises.

You must remember also that the main purpose of using abs exercise equipment is not to eliminate fats in your abdominal area but more importantly to strengthen you abdominal muscles giving it a more toned and defined look.

Getting rid of fats should be done with other dedicated exercises and of course through a well-balanced diet. You must remember that your daily food intake is a very important given if you are not careful enough and not also choose the right foods to eat, your exercise routine will just be useless.

There should be a balance in everything you do which includes your diet and the exercises you undertake. Other sets of exercise targeting other parts of your body are best paired with exercises done using abs exercise equipment enabling a good variation in your workout routine will challenge your body in a beneficial way.

When it comes to abs exercise equipment, if you prefer to exercise at home, there is a variety of equipment that you can buy. Example would be Bosu balance trainer. This is more common nowadays since it a very flexible exercise equipment. The Bosu balance trainer does not only help you obtain a more defined abdominal muscles, it also targets other body parts with the help of other exercise routines.

If you are considering purchasing any abs exercise equipment, you must also consider portability. If the equipment is portable enough, and not overly heavy and simple to set up, naturally, you can take it anywhere in the house or even when you go on a vacation or out of town providing you with total flexibility.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Noone

Leg Exercise Equipment

2009-10-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

Strengthening the leg muscles is a very important part to a more complete body exercise routine by allowing you to carry out more stringent tasks easier such as running, hiking, swimming plus many more. Leg exercises target the muscle groups in the legs helping to improving their strength and flexibility. Leg exercises themselves generally follow the natural movement of the leg with the only difference being that resistance is added to make the exercise harder resulting to stronger muscles in the legs. The fitness equipment marketplace offers many types of leg exercise equipment which we discuss in more detail;

One of the most popular pieces of leg exercise equipment available today is leg press machines. These types of machines have several different forms namely the diagonal leg press machine, the sled type leg press machine, the horizontal leg press machine, the seated press machine, the lever seated leg press machine and finally the 45 degree leg press machine.

There are other special leg press machines available out there in addition to the above but can be broadly categorized into two distinct groups: the sled type leg press machines and the cable types. Whatever type of leg press machine you have they all serve one purpose and that is to improve lower body strength. Another often neglected form of leg exercise equipment is the calf machine that targets the calf muscles and not forgetting the leg curl machine that improves the strength on the muscles of the knee and the leg extension machine utilized to promote strength for the thighs.

Since mostly all leg exercise equipment involve heavy weight materials in their operation, it is very important to be very careful in using them to prevent injuries and accidents and be sure to understand how to correctly lift any heavy weights. If you are unsure then ask a member of staff at your local gym whom will provide you with the required training.

A good place to purchase these different types of leg exercise equipment is online. Numerous vendors are available in the marketplace and having similar products but are based on better specific technologies for a more optimized result. You may check different online vendors to see which one offers the best value for money and comparing prices using the internet is always a good starting point.

Do not also forget to also take note of the warranty and any post sale service that comes with the product and so also the return policy of the vendor just in case you receive equipment which is defective. If you are planning on purchasing any equipment from a physical store, be sure to test the product first before buying them.

Leg exercises are often an overlooked exercise. You should however try to ensure that you incorporate a good proportion of your exercise routine to your legs and utilize any leg exercise equipment you have available to you to ensure a balanced and thorough workout.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Noone

Cybex 600A Arc Trainer Review

2009-10-05T06:35:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity of reviewing the Cybex 600A arc trainer and I have to say this piece of fitness equipment was a pleasant surprise.

This provided an excellent lower body cardiovascular workout.

Here is a quick list of the specifications that I noted.

The resistance levels varied from o to 900 watts.

There were several programmed routines such as quick start which enabled anyone to jump on and start customizing their workout.

Some of the other programs were weight loss, cardio, interval, hill, strength and manual which happened to be my favorite because I was able to customize the workout to me.

When you are actually on the cybex 600a arc trainer you also notice the console which provides a number of nice features. One of the features was a large LED display.

This large display provided information such as distance covered, calories burned, MET's, strides per minute and heart rate. Some other nice advanced features I noticed was the built in wireless heart rate receiver and contact heart rate monitoring.

The cybex 600a arc trainer has been voted "Product of the Year" the last two years. Not to mention Cybex's patented advanced stride technology gives this fitness machine a very smooth workout.

The size of the arc trainer was another added bonus because the space needed to use this piece of exercise equipment was small meaning that you would be able to place this really anywhere in your home or gym.

The only downside that I would say for the Cybex 600a arc trainer was the expense. These machines are pretty expensive starting around $5,500 and up but they are designed to last a lifetime if you take care of them.

This is a professional machine and if you are actually going to workout then I strongly recommend this piece of fitness equipment if not then there really isn't a machine I can recommend.

I did find a website on the internet that is offering the Cybex 600A arc trainer for over 50% off the price of a new one but supplies are limited, so check out the website below if you are interested in working out on a Cybex 600 A Arc Trainer and saving money at the same time.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_R_Jones

Polar S725X Heart Monitor - For All Your Training Needs

2009-10-05T06:34:00.000-07:00

The Polar s725x is one of the latest cycling heart rate monitors to come from Polar. It comes hot on the heels of the successful Polar s626x monitor. The maker Polar has been in the heart monitor industry for over thirty years and knows a thing or two about heart monitor technology and quality. They have stayed ahead in terms of market shares over rivals such as Garmin, Nike, Suunto and Timex. If you are looking for a stylish design with innovative features and functions in a heart watch, look no further than a Polar heart monitor. The following is a short review on the Polar s725x.

Training Features and Functions of the s725x Polar Heart Monitor

In simple terms, this Polar heart rate monitor is a powerful cycling computer with innovative features and functions such as a heart rate monitor to help maximize a person's workout or training session. It has the ability to measure distance and speed and also give training and outdoor conditions such as temperature and altitude. These are all very important to professional athletes who rely on training tools such as the Polar s725x to help them reach their training goals.

This Polar Heart Monitor also has infrared capabilities. This allows the user to send training and exercise data wirelessly to a PC for further analysis. Unlike other monitors, the s725x is also able to connect to cell phones such as the Nokia 5140 and 5140i. Heart beats or rate is displayed in beats per minute and can also be shown in maximum percentages. It can also give average heart beats and rate plus the duration of exercise sessions. One of the biggest advantages for the Polar s725x cycling heart monitor is that it has the ability to have two bicycle wheel bases entered in. With this feature, the user is not limited to training on one bike only.

More Features and Functions

This Polar Heart Rate monitor also comes with a wide screen display for easy reading and a split screen option with back lighting for those times when light is not good enough. It also comes with a 24 hour clock with a week and day display, a stop watch which is a really handy feature and is water resistant to 100 feet or 30 meters.

Overall, the Polar s725x heart monitor is one of the best cycling monitors out there. Polar has really outdone themselves with this release. If you are searching for an ideal heart monitor to help you in your workouts, do consider the Polar s725x. You would not be disappointed.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edward_Price

Tips For Selecting Quality Exercise Equipment

2009-10-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

Many people are looking for ways to get in better shape and have a nice body. Those who wish to burn some fat and lose weight are more in search of the best exercise equipment. The training equipment can be an ab machine, elliptical trainer, exercise bike, treadmill, rowing machine or exercise balls.

Where can we find the best training machines?

If you browse the internet, you will find many choices of training equipment with different prices, but if you drive to your local store and look around you might find some machines, nevertheless the choices will be limited to only a small selection. Searching online has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance: if you look for training equipment online, you will not be able to test them or consult with the seller to find out what benefits the equipment has. However you may find many machines that are described via text and pictures containing their benefits and functions.

What kind of exercise machine can be suitable for you in order to give you the best result?

It all depends on what you are looking for. If you want to lose calories and fat you need treadmills as you can adjust the height, the programs and the timing. You can either program manually or simply find your cardio, loss weight or resistance program and select it. If you want to get rid of belly fat, the best and lease expensive choice is to use and exercise ball. You have no idea how effective and affordable it is. With some good discipline and the right ab training, you will be able to lose belly fat and start getting killer abs! Some over $30 ab machines are also great such as: Torso Track II which has a modifiable resistance and a velvety movement. It is also easy to utilize.

If you want to buy an elliptical trainer that you can use in your home, try a machine that is 47" long x 29.5" such as the Gazelle. The best Elliptical trainers are from $200 to $3000 plus warranty.

If you want to buy an exercise bike to strengthen your legs and get a better general shape, you can find one from $200 to $600. Generally, many who enjoy bike riding, prefer the Nordic Track SL 705 Upright Bike. Since it works like a treadmill and an elliptical trainer. Because of that it is an extremely popular choice. Ignite is another type of recumbent bike that is quite popular as it has good ergonomics and a telemetric heart rate adjustment.

There are many types of home gym equipment and sometimes you can find an affordable one if you are tight on cash. The Bodylastics gym can be a good choice for a budget home gym. If you don't have any financial problem and are looking for a muscle building machine, then I recommend Powertec WorkBench Multigym which has three independent leverage stations.

If you want to purchase a treadmill you should try and get one with a good display console and you will find many great machines such as: Bowflex, Diamond Back, Life Fitness and PrecorUSA.

In conclusion fitness equipment can be useful if you have plan to use them. Some of them are good for losing body fat and calories and some of them, as stated above, are good for building big muscles. You need to make a choice and find your suitable exercise equipment that will help you achieve your goals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Morgan

Recumbent Exercise Bike

2009-09-25T02:38:00.003-07:00

With people getting into the fitness craze, it is not shocking that cycling is one activity that has become popular to achieve a good fitness levels. However, nowadays, a lot of bikes have surfaced offering different sorts of advantages. One of the more recurrent types of bikes that fitness enthusiasts swear by its effectiveness is the recumbent exercise bike. What's great is, you do not need to be a fitness expert or equipment engineer to really understand the mechanics of this bike and how it can bring you a load of health benefits. With just a basic understanding of what it is, you can actually distinguish it from other types of equipment like a stationary bike or a spinning bike, clearing the confusion and giving you more options of what would work best for you.

What sets a recumbent exercise bike the most from the rest of other fitness bikes is the inclusion of comfortable bucket seats in the equipment. A user of the bike sits back and lowers him or herself to the ground as pedaling starts. This makes this type of exercise bike a favorite among beginners, even the most sedentary and inexperienced of people who want to start a fitness routine. As this type of exercise bike is easier to use for beginners, it gives them an extra psychological boost they need to continue with their fitness regimen. Most beginners get discouraged and decide to discontinue when starting a fitness plan as they get intimidated with the equipment and the effort to begin. This is not the case with the recumbent bike.

Recumbent exercise bikes can be included in a program that keeps workouts from being mundane and boring. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose to simulate an easy or difficult course, with either flat or hilly terrain. This definitely makes workout more interesting. Recumbent bikes have different settings that you can manipulate. Thus, if you want an easy workout while still enjoying your morning paper, you can definitely choose an easy course setting. Otherwise, you may want to accomplish a more difficult setting and push your fitness levels while pedaling with ankle or arms weights.

Recumbent exercise bikes are safer in terms of your lower back. Hunching over a stationary bike can cause a stiff back, which will not be a worry for a recumbent bike, which promotes good posture. Cheating by standing when you pedal is also impossible with recumbent bikes. Some fitness experts may argue that the position of your body when doing a recumbent bike exercise may restrict your movements, but it assures you of less pressure on your knees and ankles, making them injury-free zones. People with knee problems will find a recumbent bike a refreshing alternative, as although it may seem that it encourages a slower workout, it is definitely easier to use by them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_A._Keo

Ab Machines Review - The Very Worse Ab Machines

2009-09-25T02:38:00.001-07:00

Everyone is looking for the best ab machine to help you strengthen your stomach and get flat abs. But it's difficult to know which machine is good and which isn't. Well, in this article I want to tell you about the very worse ab machines and help you save money and a great deal of frustration.

I'm talking about the electric Ab Belts you see so much on TV. Basically, what these gizmos claim to do is help you develop better abs just by wearing them. You don't need to do any exercise, just wear the belt for 20--30 minutes a day and the electric pulse is supposed to contract your muscles involuntarily to give you a workout without any effort.

Great, right?

The answer is that there are no easy fixes and if you want to get flat abs you will need to work to get them.

These ab belts don't work. In fact, in 2002, the FTC charged 3 manufacturers of these kinds of gadgets with making false claims in their advertisements. Mainly, the FTC disapproved of how these manufacturers promised people to get six pack abs, lose belly fat, or claimed that using their product equals doing so-and-so number of sit-ups or crunches.

All of these claims were unfounded and the FTC took action to protect consumers. However, other manufacturers have since produced new Ab belts and slightly rephrased their claims so they're still out there. But they still don't work.

In fact, when I recently consulted with a physiotherapist I know and asked her whether these machines can help you build muscle mass and lose belly fat she was quick to inform me that no, Ab Belts are not effective for these purposes:

1. They can't help you lose belly fat since you're not really working out. In addition, you can't lose fat from a specific body part.

2. While in theory you can get a muscular stimulation with electric pulses, you will need to turn the pulses to such a high level that they'll become unbearable. You won't be able to stand the pain.

So, don't fall for the false claims of ab belts. They just don't deliver results.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Davenport

Proform Treadmills - Why You May - Or May Not - Want to Buy a Proform Treadmill

2009-09-25T02:31:00.000-07:00

Buying a treadmill? Did you know that Proform treadmills are currently the most searched-for treadmill online? So they're definitely popular - but is a Pro form right for you?

If you're considering a Proform treadmill there are some things you should know before you buy. Based on these things you may or may not decide to buy a Proform model.

First of all, the Proform name is owned by ICON Health and Fitness, pretty much the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world. These guys are the giants in the treadmill industry. They also own names like Image, Weslo, Reebok, Freemotion, Epic and Nordic Track. Each of these brands has their own strengths and weaknesses.

Proform's main strengths are that they are affordable, plus they offer a truckload of cool fitness toys you won't find with other brands. At any given time, there are a huge range of Proform models to choose from to suit almost any taste.

Want a TV on your treadmill? How about a fitness age tracker (tracks your heart rate and fitness improvement over time)? Want a crosswalk model with ski-like poles to work your upper body? How about one that charges and plays your iPod through built-in console speakers? Chances are you can find any of these options in a Proform treadmill.

The main weakness of these treadmills is that, while affordable, they are well...affordable. With treadmills you get what you pay for. In general, any unit under $1000 is not built to last for a long time. Since most Proform treadmills come in under $1000 you can figure out their main weakness.

So is a Proform treadmill a good buy? The answer is both yes and no - depending on who you are and what you want.

Different buyers have different needs. So what is a great buy for one person can actually be a poor buy for someone else.

For instance a tall runner who is planning on using their treadmill for over an hour a day, every day will need a commercial grade treadmill with strong running deck, excellent cushioning, high powered, well-built motor and preferably a longer running belt of about 55" or more.

A 65 year old grandmother who wants the occasional light walk on her treadmill is not going to need that same treadmill. For her that same treadmill is actually a poor buy since it's way more than she needs.

So returning to the Proform issue. Do I think they're commercial grade treadmills that everyone will love? No.

In general, Proform units are economy, entry-level treadmills. They aren't built with heavy duty commercial parts as some treadmills are and will not last as long as some other brands out there, especially if you pound the daylights out of them every day.

On the upside however, they have improved in construction over the years and the new models offer a lot more value than older ones. Plus they're affordable for most people. And in this economy, that's the only way some people are going to be able to get a treadmill. Better that than nothing.

So if someone has a strict budget of only $500 or $600 then Proform is probably the strongest brand out there in this price category. Because ICON is the largest manufacturer, they have the resources to build a better treadmill for less. And if you don't plan on using your treadmill very often, you could probably get away with saving a bit and going with a starter Proform.

So those are several reasons why you may or may not want to buy a Proform treadmill.

One final warning: the resale market for Proform treadmills is huge. However what most people don't know is that almost all manufacturers - Proform included - will not honor the warranty on a second owner.

So even if a seller says to you, "No problem, the treadmill is still under warranty", realize that this means nothing to you. He's covered - but you're not. And since you really don't know the state of the treadmill when you buy it (heavy use, light use, etc.), you're taking a chance that you could have absolutely no protection if your treadmill breaks down the day after you buy it.

This is why many people choose to buy new so they're protected and they know the treadmill has not been used before.

In the final analysis, it's your decision. A treadmill is a smart investment in your health - just remember to do your research before you buy so you can choose the machine that fits your needs best.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vienna_Miller

Why You Should Consider Schwinn Recumbent Bikes

2009-09-17T04:33:00.004-07:00

Schwinn recumbent bikes are an excellent way for you to get into better shape without putting too much stress on your lower back or your knees. If you are considering exercise machines for your home, you should consider these excellent Schwinn exercise bikes.

A recumbent bike allows you to lean back and pedal with your legs ahead of you instead of underneath you. This makes it so you are putting less of your weight on top of your legs. This position reduces the strain upon your knees. Additionally by leaning back in a kind of bucket seat, you exert less effort to hold yourself upright thus you put less strain on your back (especially your lower back).

Schwinn recumbent bikes in particular feature extraordinarily comfortable seats. Schwinn is so confident and proud of their bike seat design that they have given them an official copyrighted name: the Bio-Fit Comfort Seat. If you ever get a chance to try the Schwinn recumbent bike, you will fall in love with the luxurious comfort of the seat. It isn't the kind of comfort you typically associate with the sweat and rigor of a workout.

Schwinn's recumbent bikes feature deluxe LCD monitors, clever integrated sensor grips to help you monitor your heart rate, a durable recumbent frame and on top of all that a relatively small footprint so you can reasonably fit your new Schwinn recumbent bike into your home.

The clear and well organized LCD monitors provide useful data such as speed, distance, calories burned, resistance level and more. These monitors provide you everything you need to monitor and improve your fitness progress.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Doyle

Safe Trampoline Activities

2009-09-17T04:33:00.003-07:00

Trampoline activity is becoming a popular sport and recreation for people from all age groups. It is deemed to be a healthy and cheap activity for the family. It is also said to be a good low-impact workout that help strengthen bones and muscles. But as with any other fun activity comes the risk of trampoline accidents.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported in 2004 that 89,000 people were admitted to hospital emergency rooms due to trampoline accidents. The ages of the patients were between 6 to 43 years old. The Commission has also reported 11 deaths which were related to trampoline accidents. Six of these were victims at the age s of 12 to 19.

The American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) has said that there are 246, 875 accidents that are treated each year due to jumping on trampolines. And most of these accidents were incurred by people at the age of 14 or younger. Some accidents were simple cuts and bruises incurred during play on the trampoline. The most common are falling off due to somersaults and collision with other jumpers.

This is a serious issue to take into consideration. Tramp accidents have led someone to be a quadriplegic when he landed on his neck and incurred some spine injuries. Falling off the trampoline also may lead to head trauma, paralysis, bone fractures and dislocations, and ultimately, as said earlier, death.

It is important to remember that like in swimming pools where we have lifeguards, trampoline games/activities must always be under supervision to avoid such incidents, especially for children. It is best to know who is on the trampoline and what they're doing. Most accidents occur when people try to do something 'incredible' like somersaults. Avoid having people try something crazy on the trampoline to avoid such accidents.

If you are dealing with children, make sure that, as mentioned above, they are supervised by an adult. Also, try not to put a ladder near the trampoline as this may provide easy access for children and may go without you noticing. In this way, we are sure that we are safe by being aware who is on the trampoline, what the kids are doing, and when they are on the trampoline.

In choosing a trampoline, if you would like to purchase one, make sure that the frame, hooks and springs have shock absorbing pads or cushioning. Some accidents were lacerations caused by the exposed springs and frame of the trampoline. Having cushioning on those parts of the trampoline may prevent such problems from happening.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_C_Taylor

Rectangle Trampolines

2009-09-17T04:33:00.001-07:00

Trampolines often come in several categories. They can be classified according to shape (rectangle trampolines, octagon trampolines, and square trampolines), size (trampettes or mini-trampolines) or purpose. In classifying trampolines according to purpose, there are two common types: competition trampolines and recreational trampolines.

Since competitions follow stringent regulations, competition trampolines are more carefully constructed and meticulously designed. The basic parts have specified dimensions. These are made of sturdier material thus making them more durable for a long period of time. The frames and frame pads are thicker than home trampolines. The mat is made from woven fabric and attached to high-tech springs. The springs are fitted with pads to reduce injuries upon impact. Competition trampolines are bouncy and can propel jumpers up to a height of twenty-five feet or higher.

Generally, competition trampolines are rectangle shaped, and are suitable for competition because its geometry provides a large jumping area and the physics involved results to safer trampolining. The springs criss-cross each other and allow an almost even bounce over the entire surface. When the springs deform, the middle part stretches more than the sides. Thus, there is a little tendency to be thrown off the sides. Rectangle trampolines are the only trampolines used in competition.

Home trampolines are commonly found in backyards and are used for recreational purposes. Unlike competition trampolines, these have more flexible designs. The basic parts can have a wide range of dimensions as long as it is within the allowable scale. The geometry can be square, circular or octagonal. The mats are made from waterproof canvas or woven polypropylene material. The springs are smaller compared to competition trampolines. It is less bouncy compared to rectangle trampolines.

The most important feature of a home trampoline is that it is constructed such that the bounce height is lower compared to rectangle trampolines. A common misconception is that when a trampoline is bouncy it is easier to attain controlled bounces. It is actually safer to use trampolines that allow lower bounces at home. It minimizes the risk of bouncing too high. It also allows the non-professional jumper to control his or her bounces. Higher, uncontrolled jumps tend to make novice jumpers lose their balance. Losing balance is dangerous because the user may rotate his or her body while suspended in the air. This causes the person to land on other limbs or parts of the body instead of the feet. The end result is of course a bone fracture or an injury.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_C_Taylor

Treadmill Preventative Maintenance

2009-09-17T04:32:00.000-07:00

Treadmill preventive maintenance begins when you select a permanent location for your unit. First, you will need to make necessary adjustments to assure your unit is level before your first workout. Most manufactures have adjustments to compensate for an uneven floor. Check your owners manual if you can not locate them visually. Use a level, don't trust your eyes.

There are costly circuit boards in your Treadmill, to protect these electronic components, the treadmill must be plugged in to a surge protector and a grounded AC outlet.

I suggest a Treadmill Floor Mat. Not only does the mat protect your carpet or flooring. It keeps dust and debris from being inhaled into your Treadmill while in use. Lint and Dust may produce a static charge. Treadmill Mats can be purchased online, form a local Sports Store or from the manufacturer.

One of the biggest reasons of Treadmill Failure is dirt, dust and pet hair. When I make service calls, I am always amazed at the dog or cat hair I find under the hood or between the belt and deck. All these contribute to premature failure to your investment.

Below are some tips for extending the life of your machine. Always unplug your Treadmill and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before performing any maintenance. This will give the transformer time to discharge, avoiding possible electrical shock.

Weekly Cleaning and Maintenance:

* Keep the area around your unit dirt and dust free
* Pull a damp towel between the belt and deck, rotate belt and repeat
* Clean and disinfect all handrails and /or grips and traction strips

Monthly Cleaning and Maintenance:

* Remove Hood
* Vacuum all foreign matter, this reduces wear and tear on motor and belt
* Check motor drive belt for wear and adjustment

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_B_Gray

Finding the Best Home Elliptical Machine

2009-08-23T06:15:00.003-07:00

Finding the best at home elliptical machine takes a little bit of research in three main areas. Finding good customer reviews and expert ratings on the best selling ellipticals is a great way to get the information you need to make a good purchase decision. Make sure to look for one that ranks highly in the following three basic categories.

1) Price. All at home workout equipment are broken down into three seperate price categories. Ellipticals are reviewed this way. Economical, (less than $1000 retail), Moderate, (between $1000 and $2000 retail), and High End, (over $2000 retail). Finding machines that are rated highly in their specific price category will help to ensure good value. Determine what your price range is first, then choose a machine that fits into your budget.

2) Durability. Of course quality of performance is important, but too many people make the mistake of just looking for the best rated elliptical in terms of performance. Sometimes, after a short period of time, the quality of performance quickly drops off. It is important to look at the durability ratings of a specific model you are looking at. You will not get good value if the machine deteriorates quickly.

3) Size. Make sure the elliptical trainer will fit in the space that you have designated for it and allow you workout on it safely and comfortably. Is a portable elliptical something you need? Does the model you are considering fold down for easier storage? Is this feature worth paying more for to you? A lot of people make the mistake of purchasing an elliptical trainer that simply does not fit or is too big to be convenient. Get the measurements ahead of time and draw out a space for it wherever you will be storing it. Is there ample room or do you need a smaller machine?

For free information and help on finding the right elliptical machine for you, and securing the best price on it, visit Elliptical Machine Buyer's Guide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Lynn_Hanson

Cheap Elliptical Trainers - Good Value Or Bad Investment?

2009-08-23T06:15:00.001-07:00

In the at home fitness industry, you usually get what you pay for. Workout machines are expensive and usually the more expensive the machine, the better the value, performance and durability. A cheap elliptical trainer is one that costs less than $1000 retail. While there are some reputable manufacturers that offer models within this price category that are of decent quality, the great majority are not.

Durability is probably the biggest issue when it comes to cheap elliptical trainers. They simply do not last, or can't stand up to constant use. Often, the performance will be great for the first few months of usage and the owner will be ecstatic about the value they received purchasing the machine. Often, though, it quickly falls apart on them and is hard to use or breaks down altogether.

One thing to remember here is that you have to want to workout on the machine you buy. If it is not performing well, is unbalanced, or even dangerous to use, you will be much less likely to use it consistently. Any piece of at home workout equipment that goes unused, is worthless. Wobbling and loud noises are the most common problems associated with cheap ellipticals.

If you have to purchase one, find good customer reviews of ellipticals that mention durability and performance. Go to websites like Amazon and Buy.com for legitimate reviews from people who already own and use the machines. Some customer reviews are put out there by people trying to sell the machines. You want to avoid these as they are not legitimate representations of the quality of the machine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Lynn_Hanson

Treadmill Fitness Equipment - Manual Treadmill Or Electric Treadmill, Which is Better?

2009-08-23T06:14:00.002-07:00

Looking to get some treadmill fitness equipment? When you're looking for a treadmill, there are 2 main considerations, you need to decide on if you want a manual treadmill or an electric treadmill. This article will help you to distinguish between the two so that you pick up the treadmill fitness equipment that is right for you.

1. Manual Treadmill

A manual treadmill is often going to be the cheaper of the two options as there is no motor that powers it. It is run based off of momentum. In order to get it started, you need to apply your body weight to it to get the treadmill conveyor rolling. Once its rolling you can then resume running at a more even pace.

Not everyone likes having this kind of functionality though, it's a bit primitive, however it does get the job done. This kind of treadmill is perfect for someone on a small budget.

2. Electric Treadmill

On the other hand, if you need the treadmill to come with bells and whistles, you had best look to an electric treadmill. Electric treadmills will give you things like heart rate monitors and intensity programs. You can even adjust the incline on the fly as well as the resistance.

This all comes at a premium though as electric treadmills are often double the cost, coming in at $500-$1000 at the cheapest levels.

When you're deciding on the treadmill fitness equipment that is right for you, it's essentially going to come down to price. I would look upon this as a long term investment though and go with the more expensive of the two, if you do it will last you at least a good 5 years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Dilantros

Treadmill Mat - 2 Reasons Why a Treadmill Mat is a Must Have Item!

2009-08-23T06:14:00.001-07:00

Looking for a quality treadmill mat? If you're picking up a manual treadmill or an electrical treadmill, having a good treadmill mat is pretty much a necessity. They are really cheap at only $30-50, so there really is no excuse to get one and their benefits far out weight the costs.

Why do you need them? Well, here's why:

1. They Protect Your Flooring

When you are running on a treadmill, you are exerting quite a bit of force against the floor with each step, if you place your treadmill on some hardwood flooring you can damage it through the vibrations. Even if you have it on carpeting, the treadmill can damage that as well by leaving permanent indentations on the carpet that are unsightly.

2. They Protect Your Treadmill

As much as they protect your flooring, a treadmill mat will also work to protect your treadmill. You see when you setup a treadmill on a carpet, there is a chance that some carpet fibers can get tangled up in the mechanical machinery of the treadmill and cause it to break down prematurely. A good thick mat will provide the barrier needed to keep your expensive investment safe though.

Treadmills are an expensive investment to make and the last thing you want is to damage them by not taking proper care of them. Additionally, you don't want to damage your even more expensive home, this is why it's critical you go out and get a treadmill mat when you pick up your new treadmill, it's a small investment which makes a big difference.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Dilantros

Deciding on the Right Exercise Equipment

2009-08-19T23:51:00.003-07:00

Breaking down that Google search further based on the type of exercise equipment, we find that there are over 800,000 results for muscle building exercise equipment, and almost 500,000 for fat loss exercise equipment- two of the most popular types.

Generally, men look for equipment that will help them build up their muscles, and usually gravitate to weight machines with huge stacks of metal plates. You need to decide what areas you want to work on, and make sure the options you're considering will work on those. These machines are usually very high-quality, and also quite high-priced.

Women, on the other hand, are usually looking for something that will burn calories and help them lose fat and excess pounds. They often look for solutions that do not involve lifting heavy weights, like cardio programs, pilates, and exercise balls. Again, deciding what your problem areas are that you'd like to target, is quite important for making the right decisions.

Once you narrow down the particular type of equipment you would like to purchase, you will need to research all of the different variations of that equipment to find options that meet your needs. You need to ask yourself how often you really are going to use this equipment, and buy accordingly. If the truthful answer is every now and then, you probably should save yourself some money and buy cheaper equipment. On the other hand, if you are truly serious about daily workouts, good quality and durable equipment should be what you are after. It will cost more, but will also last much longer. Be sure to do your homework and check sites which have unbiased reviews from people who've actually bought the products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samantha_Clemmons

Wii Fit Vs the Gym - Which is the Best Workout?

2009-08-19T23:51:00.001-07:00

With the growing popularity of the Wii Fit, more and more people are making the living room their fitness venue of choice. It's certainly cheaper and more convenient than going to your local gym, but is it as good a workout? Let's put the Wii Fit and The Gym head to head and find out...

There are two factors that make a workout a good workout - the "enjoyability factor" and the "results factor". Some workouts bring phenomenal results if you stick at them for long enough, but they're too hard and too boring, which might put you off after just one attempt. Other workouts are great fun and easy to do regularly, but are so low-intensity that they bring no real fitness gains. Before choosing between the Wii Fit and The Gym you need to consider both factors based on your personality and fitness goals.

The Wii Fit pros...

•you don't have to travel to use it, it's right there in your living room
•it is something you can easily fit into your daily routine at home
•it offers yoga, strength training, aerobic and balance workouts
•the workouts are great fun and you can do them with friends

The Wii Fit cons...

•the variety of exercises are limited, meaning limited fitness gains
•the intensity of exercises are limited, meaning limited strength gains
•if the novelty wears of it can conveniently be hidden under the sofa

The Gym pros...

•there is a vast selection of resistance and cardio equipment
•the fitness possibilities and results are endless, the sky is the limit
•it's a more motivating exercise environment, so you workout harder
•it's far more social, so you can meet new people while exercising

The Gym cons...

•you have to travel to the gym to do your workout
•some people might feel intimidated by the gym environment
•it can get monotonous, especially if you stick to the same routine

So which is best?

Whilst the Wii appears to favour the enjoyability factor over the results factor, the gym goes the opposite way and offers far better fitness gains at the expense of the fun factor. It really comes down to how much you want to enjoy your workouts versus how much you want to see results. My honest opinion? You just aren't going to get very fit using a Wii Fit, nor are you going to be wetting yourself with excitement at the gym. The Wii Fit is ideal for people who want to enjoy exercise and be a little more active, the gym is for people who are serious about getting slimmer, leaner, stronger and fitter.

The two don't have to be mutually exclusive. Perhaps if you are very unfit and just getting into exercise then the Wii Fit might be a good place to start to build up your fitness and confidence before joining a gym. If you are already at a good fitness level then the Wii just isn't going to challenge you, but it is great fun!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liam_R_Taylor

Elliptical Trainers For Cardiovascular Workouts

2009-08-19T23:50:00.000-07:00

It is absolutely true when we hear that health is wealth. Health is definitely the best asset a man can have in order to perform all the other tasks, duties and responsibilities in a far batter manner. There are some who think that food and the choice of food is pone way through which the goal of better health can be achieved and there are those who think certain types of exercises to be truly beneficial for a good health. Cardiovascular exercises in this regard are very important and these types of exercises are meant to have very good effects on the body besides taking and opting nutritional food choices. Elliptical trainers are a medium through which cardiovascular exercises can be performed in an effective and convenient manner.

Doing different types of exercises is said to be one of the most helpful option related to health concerns. There are other things as well that can be opted in exercising. Some like to go for jogging, swimming, walk, etc, some join the gym for cardiovascular exercises and some like to put the gym equipment in their home and do these workouts at the home. Elliptical machines are a sort of gym equipment machines that provide you with a chance to do a cardiovascular workout and that too at your home. It not only helps in reducing the weight, burning the extra fat and calories of the body but it also helps in maintaining a better level of health and fitness.

Elliptical trainers are a recent phenomenon that is working very effectively. These trainers have gathered a lot of prominence over a shorter span of time. Elliptical trainers or machines are not as old as the treadmills but they have managed to gather immense popularity over the recent period of time. These machines provide the full opportunity to do the whole body workout, where not only your lower body gets to be involved in the workout but the upper body as well. Doing a cardiovascular workout on this machine helps a lot in enhancing the metabolism as well which consequently helps in burning the extra fat and attaining a very slim trim physique. Elliptical trainer provides you with full body workout in contrast to many other gym machines. If your legs and lower portion in involved in a workout, it does not mean that your arms and hands will be in a very stationary move. Rather, doing a cardiovascular workout on an elliptical trainer means that your arms will also be in constant motion if you want to.

Elliptical trainer cardiovascular workouts are beneficial in another sense as well because this machine workout des not affect your joints and bones rather keep the stress off your joints and consequently minimize the risk of any sort of orthopedic injury that can occur on many other exercising equipment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Debastita

Power Plate Training

2009-08-15T01:31:00.003-07:00

Power Plate is a new form of vibration training that puts its users into shape, promising greater strength and flexibility with a decidedly non-traditional workout. Embraced by athletes, celebrities and fitness experts, it works through a science called "acceleration training" that was pioneered by soviet scientists in the 1960s and used to keep cosmonauts in shape while in space. The concept behind it is that standing on the machine's vibrating plate makes the muscles work harder, as the effort to maintain balance is added to the exercise. The minor instability causes muscles to act in reflex up to 50 times a second, resulting in a more rigorous workout in a smaller amount of time. The machine is simple looking, absent of pedals, stairs and moving treads. It is composed of a large black platform facing a control panel in the center of wide, tall handles. When the plate is activated, the platform starts to vibrate. Frequency and intensity of vibration can be programmed from the panel interface. The user then performs typical exercises such as squats, lunges, and push-ups. The effects of doing the typical exercises on the vibrating platform intensify the workout.

The machine comes with straps that attach to the platform to get the arms involved for exercises such as pulls or curls. The vibrations are subtle, but users feel a buzz. Other advantages of the plate include muscle relaxation, increased flexibility, strength and bone density and even improved circulation. Workouts typically can go from 10-15 minutes to half an hour or so and can be done three times a week. The workout chosen varies depending on the results desired. For instance, someone who is working on increasing stamina will do a different workout routine than someone who is working on weight loss. The "accelerated training" program offered by Power Plate is carefully designed to increase the intensity of the workout while introducing the benefit of the device from the very beginning. All workouts begin with a warm up and end with a cool down. The hamstrings and quads can be massaged by laying them on the machine and laying the rest of the body on the support pad. This should be done at the beginning and end of a workout. Also, typical stretching exercises can be done with the plate, for added benefit of the vibrations.

The vibration motion is in all directions simultaneously. The plate causes involuntary muscle contractions in the muscles at a rate that's equal to its frequency. When exercising on the plate, the muscles are actually being turned on and off at a rate of 30-50 times per second. The plate's vibrations help increase blood flow, muscle fatigue, lymphatic circulation, and anaerobic performance. The skeleton also reacts to the vibrations, therefore, making the plate a great tool to increase bone density. Use of the plate also multiplies the effectiveness of training, where just 15 minutes on the plate can produce effects similar to 1 hour of conventional training. Users will also experience increased flexibility, increased range of motion, and typically a sense of relaxation after each session.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Luke_Trencevski

Body-Solid Equipment - How to Build a Multi-Station Gym

2009-08-15T01:31:00.001-07:00

When putting together a multi-station gym, you want to be able to target individual muscles with effective resistance rather than just providing a quick workout. The goal is to build strength while also improving endurance and range of motion beyond what is typical with basic exercises. Body-Solid's line of freeweight machines are an excellent choice for creating this type of gym.

Body-Solid offers a wide choice of freeweight machines - leg press, leg curl, bicep curls, triceps extension, ab, arm curl, pectoral, squat and row machines are all available. These machines provide resistance by adding plates rather than a regular weight stack, so users can put the weight exactly where they want it. This also allows for better tracking of progress, providing a more accurate sense from week to week on how muscle strength is improving. Set up your gym with one of each of these and you'll have a place for serious toning or bulking up through targeted exercise.

Body-Solid also offers an inner- and outer-thigh machine and a weight assisted chin-dip machine. These machines feature the more traditional weight stacks and can build muscle in more troublesome and difficult to strengthen spots of the body.

Machines, however, can't cover every muscle, making toning exercise stations just as important in building stabilizing muscles. Add a knee raise and dip station for toning upper body and abs. Get a Roman chair and back hyperextension for toning abs, lower back, and legs.

Free weight stations using barbells, like the Body-Solid Pro Power Rack or the Multi-Press Rack, will also help build muscles and balance. Perform a variety of power building exercises, such as squats, calf raises, lunges and rows, safely and effectively with these stations. The Pro Power Rack and Multi-Press Rack are designed for heavy duty weightlifting and work with all types of free weight benches.

With Body-Solid's line of multi-station equipment you will be getting a lifetime guarantee on the frame, welds, and rods. The DuraFirm pads that come with these stations are tear resistant and durable, but you'll also have a one-year guarantee on these as well.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ty_Hartwell

Pilates Machines - Malibu Pilates Vs Pilates Performer

2009-08-15T01:30:00.002-07:00

There are many pilates machines on the market today but the two most popular are the Malibu Pilates chair and the Pilates Performer. These are two completely different machines and offer different benefits. Below is a review of each machine and its pros and cons.

Malibu Pilates - this a relatively new machine for the public. Joseph Pilate (the designer of pilates) used a chair to do his exercises on years ago but this is the first main stream, easily available to the public chair. This machine comes with two videos (another video is offered with an upgrade). Both videos focus on strength training and the added benefit of cardio.

Pilates is typically known for its strength and flexibility workouts so to add in cardio is almost unheard of. The exercises are simple to do yet extremely effective. The workouts are typical of all pilates workouts because they focus on the core but the way the exercises are performed is very different than any standard pilates workout. Using the chair you reach muscles you wouldn't be able to reach otherwise. The chair is very stable but some exercises take a little time to get used to.

Pros - easy to assemble, comes with a 20 minute video and a more advanced 45 minute video. Exercises target the core but also the legs and arms. Includes a good cardio workout. Folds easily for storage. If you're bored with normal pilates this is a fun alternative.

Cons - some exercises look a little intimidating. Several have you almost standing on the chair, bending over. The chair is stable but it can still take a little while to feel comfortable performing the exercises.

Pilates Performer - this is a more traditional machine. It's a lay down machine that focuses on doing exercises slowly. There isn't any cardio involved and is a more laid back approach.

Pros - You can purchase videos that you show you how to use your machine and get the most out of it. This is a great machine to use if you need to strengthen your back and stretch out your lower back muscles. The pilates performer is easy to use and strengthens and tones your body quickly. It easily slides under a bed out of the way when you are finished using it.

Cons - it doesn't offer any cardio workout.

Depending on your style and personality one of these machines will make a perfect addition to your normal routine. Both offer strength training and flexibility exercises and both are easily put away out of sight when you're finished using them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shannon_VanBergen

Vibration Plates - How Do They Work?

2009-08-15T01:30:00.001-07:00

Vibration plate fitness machines have many benefits and work by producing fast and controlled vibrations which cause the body's muscles to rapidly contract and release. The muscles do this involuntarily on a vibration plate fitness machine which means a larger proportion of the muscle fibres are used.

The accuracy of this vibration means the contractions and releases are equal and safer. This rapid contraction and release burns more calories in a shorter space of time, develops the core muscle strength and improves the blood circulation. It also helps strengthen the bones as bone development is governed by the shape of the muscle around it and the muscle activity that is generated increases the diameter of the bones and their strength.

As well as increasing fitness, the subtlety of the vibrations make these fitness machines a key element in rehabilitation therapy. They can be used to strengthen and build up damaged muscles by improving the core strength without the need for weight bearing exercise. This makes them suitable for users with back problems and sports injuries who are looking to increase their muscle strength without putting unnecessary strain on rehabilitating injuries.

Through the different programs vibration fitness machines offer, the benefits are suitable for the most elite athlete, through the fitness enthusiast, to the occasional user. The effects they have in toning the muscle and developing core strength are suitable for all regardless of fitness level.

With the short workouts recommended these machines benefit people who find long periods of activity difficult, such as overweight people, people with breathing trouble and people who find extensive weight training difficult. Combined with a suitable cardiovascular program they are ideal in increasing weight loss, suppleness and all round well-being.

You can perform static or dynamic movements including standing, sitting, kneeling, lying, and placing your hands on it and almost any exercise performed during a typical gym workout can be done on vibration platform thus creating an all over body fitness workout.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_A_Butler

Running Machines

2009-08-08T09:49:00.003-07:00

If you're reading this, then you were probably born to run. Or at the very least, you'd like to walk more briskly. Maybe you don't like exercising outdoors, where you're a victim of circumstance; if the heat is too intense, you could give yourself a heart attack, and if it's raining, you'll ruin your new exercise clothes.

Luckily, we live in a day and age where we're not held hostage to mother nature. If you're serious about your exercise regime, the investment in a running machine may very well be worthwhile. Ask yourself a few questions:

Would you exercise more if it wasn't so hot/cold/inhospitable outside?

Do you prefer listening to music while you exercise?

When you go to the gym, do you find yourself mostly sticking to the running machines?

If the answer is yes, you may want to consider shopping around for a running machine. The convenience of having a running machine in your own home will make you use it more often than you would if you had to lug yourself all the way to the gym. And speaking of the gym, you can kiss that membership dues goodbye. In a couple of years, your running machine may well pay for itself.

Lots of improvements have been made to running machines since they first came out, too. They now come equipped with all sorts of gadgets and gizmos that even the most unenthused exercise participant will be tempted into giving it a go when there's so many interesting components to explore and investigate.

Hold your fists around two conveniently located bars for a few seconds, and one running machine will take your pulse, then tell you where your heart rate needs to remain to continue your ideal workout level. Many running machines now have built in media jacks, so you can easily plug in your MP3 players or other devices and workout to your favorite tunes and audio books.

Some people prefer to read while they run. Make sure you find a running machine that has a convenient place for you to lay out your book or magazine. There are even running machines that hook up to your television screen, allowing you to program different running environments so you can have the appearance of mother nature, without the nasty weather. Imagine going running on your favorite beach without having to pick sand out of your shoes later.

And if you like to be cooled off while you run, or simply simulate the feel of wind in your hair, look into a running machine that has a built in fan. It'll cool you off without slowing you down.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Richard_Kerridge

The Health Benefits of Used Treadmills

2009-08-08T09:49:00.001-07:00

There are hundreds of articles on the Internet explaining the health benefits of used treadmills. Most of these articles will focus on the physical benefits to the body like increased cardiovascular health and decreased weight leading to a reduction in health problems like adult onset diabetes. It is the less talked about benefits of used treadmills that make the purchase of this exercise equipment worth its weight in gold.

Used Treadmills Can Relieve Depression Symptoms

Exercise has always been great for the body, but now researchers are finding it is also great for the mind. Regular exercise boosts self confidence which can alleviate some of the symptoms of depression associated with low self esteem and weight related emotional issues. Beyond the physical, the effect of exercise on the mind may also include an effect on the brain.

Regular use of used treadmills may also increase the level of neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood. Beta endorphins, for instance, have been linked to what is termed, "runner's high". With regular use, the used treadmill can cause this same high leaving the user feeling emotionally more in control after the workout than before. The second neurotransmitter, serotonin, offers a stronger link to depression. Many medicinal depression treatments focus on the level of serotonin in the brain. Exercise, including the use of used treadmills, can increase these serotonin levels in the brain naturally without the need for expensive depression medications that come with a laundry list of side effects.

Stanford University Says Exercise = Sleep

Insomnia is a condition that many people suffer from occasionally. For chronic insomniacs, traditional medications may have some effect in the beginning, but the body soon grows accustomed to the medication and the feeling of being awake 24 hours a day soon returns. A study at the Stanford University School of Medicine may bring light the endless cycle of sleeplessness. Exercising regularly with used treadmills (meaning 30 to 40 minutes of exercise, 4 times a week) can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve the quality of sleep.

Stop the Effects of Aging on the Brain

Science is not done with used treadmills yet. Exercise studies have now linked one hour of exercise every day of the week to a reduction in the brain shrinkage that occurs with age. Starting at the age of 40, every 10 years the brain shrinks by 5%. In addition to keeping the brain from shrinking, the mental cognitive decline associated with age can also be slowed with regular use of a used treadmill and a healthy diet.

Other positive effects of the use of used treadmills include increased blood flow to the brain, glucose management, increased bone density, decreased risk of certain types of cancer and marked improvements in sex life and sexual function.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Richard_Kerridge

The Benefits of Treadmills

2009-08-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Anyone beginning on a personal exercise program knows that there are countless equipment options available for losing weight and improving muscle tone. Weight machines, stair climbers, exercise cycles, and more are popular choices, each of them having their own distinct benefits to the user.

Aerobic exercise is the way to go for those who want to lose weight and body fat, so machines that will help you get a good aerobic workout are the best options for those looking to shed the pounds. An excellent option for providing such workouts is the treadmill. Easy to use and versatile in application, treadmills are the machine of choice for people from all walks of life and for men and women at every age, both young and old alike.

Treadmills give you the chance to do your walking in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Weather conditions in some parts of the world prevent people from getting in that walk around the block every evening. Other people have odd work schedules and can only do their exercising at three in the morning, which is hardly the best time for being out in the neighborhood alone. But treadmills enable walkers to get moving no matter the weather or time of day. When set up in one's home, they also make it easy for the walker to watch TV or get reading done while exercising, two things that are impossible when walking outside.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of treadmills is that the speed and resistance of the machine can be adapted to nearly every fitness level. Those who have not walked in a long time will need low resistance and an easy pace so that they can get into shape before moving on to more challenging speeds and resistance levels; as your fitness improves, so too can you increase the workout intensity. The ability to increase the resistance of the treadmill through an adjustment of its incline is especially good for the exerciser, as going up an incline typically burns more calories and strengthens the heart more than just simply walking on level ground.

Treadmills also are able to measure the heart rate and give a record of the calories burned and the distance walked. It can be hard to measure your progress if you are just taking a stroll around the block, but the calories-burned readouts on treadmills can show you just how much your walking is benefitting you, and you can base your workouts on the amount of calories that you desire to work off. Set the treadmill for a 500-calorie workout and once those calories have been burned, the workout is over. You can also tell the treadmill the equivalent distance you desire to walk and then have it shut off once that distance has been reached.

All in all, treadmills are an excellent choice for any person starting a personal fitness plan. Inexpensive relative to the health benefits they provide, treadmills can help you workout for years to come. Choose one today and you will be well on your way getting back into shape.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Richard_Kerridge

Rowing Machines

2009-08-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

You've seen them in films--students at Ivy League colleges gliding swiftly through the water in sculls with that distinctive back and forth sliding motion. Turns out it's a great workout, and one that you can do at home on your own rowing machine.

Rowing machines support the user in a smooth, low-impact motion that works the entire body. Regular use promotes a trim waist, improved posture, excellent cardiovascular health, and an overall full-body workout. While stairsteppers and treadmills put most of the focus on the lower body, rowing machines offer a more balanced exercise solution that is kind to your joints.

Is there any drawback to using rowing machines? If used improperly, back injury may result. Pay attention to proper form and take your time learning to use your machine.

First, make sure you are properly seated on the rowing machine. The first position in the rowing motion is called "the catch." Arms should be straight with wrists flat. Lean forward slightly with calves straight up and down. Your chest should be close to your thighs. Check for a straight back and remain aware of any tendency to hunch.

The next part is "the drive." Push your feet down on the rowing machine's pedals as you pull the bar toward you. Do not hyperextend the knees; keep them slightly bent at all times. Stop when the handle is about one inch away. Elbows should be back. If you are tipped back slightly, take care that you are not hyperextending.

For "the finish," return to the starting position. You may notice your body slumping over the knees. Correct by bending at the hips and keeping your back straight.

Rowing machines are available in a wide range of styles and prices. While perusing the vast array, keep the following in mind:

- Handles. Are they comfortable enough for a longer workout? Do they cushion and support the hand?

- Features. Do you want a heart monitor or an display that provides speed and other rowing statistics?

- Stability. You'll have less confidence on machine that wiggles and tips, so it's worth the money to invest in a machine that glides smoothly and remains stable throughout the full range of motion.

- Resistance. Hydraulic rowing machines tend to be smaller and more affordable, but the hydraulics tend to leak after long-term daily use. Air resistance is a popular choice and offers a very smooth glide. Magnetic resistance is the quietest choice if noise is an issue. Water resistance rowing machines offer the closest experience to rowing on actual water, but they are pricier and do require some maintenance.

If you work out at home without a dedicated space, look for a foldable model that will fit under a bed. Ideally, check out the rowing machines at a gym to get a firsthand idea of the comfort, features and model you seek.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Richard_Kerridge

Introduce a Trampoline to Your Garden

2009-05-31T05:50:00.001-07:00

It's interesting to watch habits changing. You can see products becoming increasingly popular, suddenly appearing in more homes and gardens. This has clearly been the case with trampolines - they can now be seen in far more gardens than they once were.

Why have they become so popular? If you've not already bought a trampoline for your garden then you may be missing out on the many advantages. Garden trampolines tend to be aimed at families with children. They can, however, also be used for exercise purposes solely for adults. Most people buying outdoor equipment of this type are initially thinking about it being used by their kids. So let's take a look at why many parents are opting to buy garden trampolines.

The first major advantage that they have is that they are great fun! Those of us with children know just how important this is. Finding activities that our children will want to keep coming back to is not always easy, but it's extremely useful when you find something that fits the bill. It's easy to see why trampolines do cause such excitement. There's something funny about watching someone use one - even us adults can't help but feel younger when we're on a trampoline.

They also promote an active form of play. Think about the fitness benefits here, which are just as important for children as they are for adults. It's obviously better for our kids to be outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and keeping fit. The fact that they'll be having so much fun at the same time is an added benefit.

What about safety? It's important that our kids are safe when they play. Fortunately, you can use trampoline enclosures to ensure that your children are safe when using the equipment. You can currently buy trampolines online at discount prices. Some of the leading manufacturers include the likes of Super Tramp and Jump King. You can compare prices before buying to make sure that you get the very best deal.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Barrett

Weighted Hula Hoop - Proper Use

2009-05-31T05:49:00.004-07:00

Believe it or not but weighted hula hoops are quickly becoming the latest craze in the world of fun and fitness combined. The biggest thing is just don't sweat over how to use them. Just pick one up and start having fun. You can't really do things wrong. However if you are looking for some basic steps then feel free to read the rest of this article.

The first step is simply taking hold of the hula hoop. Just pick it up and hold it.

Now you want to move the hoop to ankle level, so just a few inches off the ground.

The time has come to take your first step into your new weighted hula hoop.

Bring the hoop up to your waist level.

At this point you want to have the hoop rest against your back. Do this by holding the hoop with both hands and pull it forward until you feel it on your back.

At this point you want to swing the hoop to the left on your body. Just let it roll around your body and let it fall. Go ahead and do this a few times until you get a good feel for what you are doing.

So now you kind of have a feel for the hoop. This time leave the hoop at your feet and do some practice with your hip movement. Just keep your feet planted firmly on the ground and do some pelvis circles. Do this as many times as you need to get it to feel good.

The time has come to put the practice to use. Go ahead and give the weighted hula hoop a flip around your waist. Get the hoop meeting your hips and continue the movement to keep the hoop circling your body.

The whole idea is to keep the hoop going as long as possible. Of course it will eventually fall but that's okay. It's as simple as picking it up and starting over.

At the end of the day make sure you are having fun because that's what it's all about. The hoop is great for a fitness regime but the key is don't get too serious because as long as you are enjoying yourself the weight loss will come with it. Go ahead and get your hands on a weighted hula hoop and have some fun.

Jane is just one of those ladies who goes through life having fun. She now wants to help many others have fun.

Jane first got involved with weighted hula hoops about 5 years ago and soon realized that the kids toys of the past could not only be used as fun but also as a great fitness tool.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Styles

Weighted Hula Hoops and Getting Fit

2009-05-31T05:49:00.003-07:00

Weighted hula hoops are just another one of those silly toys that have made their way into the world of fitness. If you want to get fit in this century you really don't have any excuses any more. The equipment is limitless and now with hoops you can add a lot of fun into what you are trying to do.

You have treadmills, balls, stair climbers and very expensive gym packages. Most would think with all the equipment available weight loss would be quite simple. The problem is that isn't always true because you still need the commitment to what you are doing. That's where the problem comes in. That's why the weighted hula hoops come in nice because you are mixing fun with exercise thus making it easier to make a commitment.

The definite focus with hoops is losing inches off your waist. All you need to do is set up a schedule that you can live with and maintain happily. The great part is you set the schedule up to what works for you. Maybe you can only do a few minutes at a time but that's 3 minutes closer to losing the desired weight. You take care of the schedule and the hoop will take care of the fun.

So now you are wondering where you can find weighted hula hoops. Just remember we live in an age of technology and you can find anything you want on the internet. You will be able to find a great number of sizes and colors of hoops when shopping for the hoops. Of course you will want to investigate where you are buying from especially if it's on the internet. It's really quite simple. Just make sure you do your homework and go slowly and everything will go great.

If you want to put a lot of time and effort in you can actually become very good at using the hoop. The thing is that doesn't really matter. You don't need to become great to reap the benefits from hooping. Just continue learning and having fun and the hoop will take care of the weight loss you are trying to achieve. Of course the amount of time it takes will depend on how much time you can put in.

No matter what you do the only thing that matters is staying committed to yourself. Don't let anyone ever sway you in what you are doing. The key is to just do your best while having fun. That is the key reason why weighted hula hoops are so great. They allow you to get what you want with losing fat but you also get to have fun at the same time.

Jane is just one of those ladies who goes through life having fun. She now wants to help many others have fun.

Jane first got involved with weighted hula hoops about 5 years ago and soon realized that the kids toys of the past could not only be used as fun but also as a great fitness tool. She started building her own hoops and when she realized how easy this was she has now decided to share some of her knowledge with anyone that may be interested.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Styles

Make Your Own Weighted Hula Hoop

2009-05-31T05:49:00.001-07:00

Of course you can make your own weighted hula hoop. Of course it doesn't just fall out of the sky and you will need a few things. The primary parts you will need are connectors and some piping which you can get at your local hardware store. You can also get colored tape to add some neat looks to the hoops. Hockey or electrical tape is acceptable but I prefer electrical tape because its glossy finish makes it easier to keep the hoop clean. To finish off the list you will need a hack saw, a hair dryer and some boiling hot water.

The pipe you are looking for is 160 psi, 3/4" tubing. This will almost always be found in the plumbing aisles. While you are at the store you may as well pick up the connectors for your weighted hula hoop.

Length Of Weighted Hula Hoops

The cool thing about building your own weighted hula hoops is you can build them to any size you desire. Of course it depends who will be using the hoops. If you are building for children you are going to want to build smaller ones than if you are making them for adults. The size you should usually be looking for is by putting the hoop on the ground. From the ground the hoop should come to between the armpits and the mouth. However there is no need to fear because the hoops can be easily altered. One important thing to remember is that the smaller hoops are harder to use.

Cut The Tubing

Now that you have a size that you want for the weighted hula hoop it is time to do the cutting. There are a few tools that can be used but by far the best tool is a hack saw. Now you have to do some melting. You need to get the plastic softened up a bit in order to get the connectors in properly. The tools of choice for this are either a hair dryer or a pot of very hot water. I prefer the water just because it is clean and safe.

Just like that you have your home made weighted hula hoop. Now that you are sure of the length you can move forward on decorating. This is where only your imagination will limit the decorating. Don't be scared to try different patterns, they will all look good and be unique. The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to take your time and do things properly the first time. You will have to portray a bit of patience but it will be worth it once you start using your brand new weighted hula hoop.

Jane is just one of those ladies who goes through life having fun. She now wants to help many others have fun.

Jane first got involved with weighted hula hoops about 5 years ago and soon realized that the kids toys of the past could not only be used as fun but also as a great fitness tool.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Styles

Bowflex Revolution Review

2009-05-24T04:13:00.005-07:00

The Bowflex Revolution Home Gym is actually a gym in itself. It was designed to combine all the strength building exercise equipment from a full sized public gym into one simple exercise machine.

It offers over 100 different exercises that can be changed into 400 variations. It has a 600 lb. leg press station where you can start from 10 lbs and add weights that will accommodate your range of exercising needs.

It has also been designed for saving space in your home as it can fold into 4 ½ feet x 3 feet. Unfolded and set up for exercising it is only 9' x 5', and that is all the extra space you will need to get your daily workout.

The Freedom Arms can adjust 170 degrees and has 10 different settings. This will allow you to put the resistance in any position you desire to work your upper body muscles. The weights are no longer as bulky as they have been in the past. The SpiraFlex plates are attached to heavy gauge elastic straps and once you begin to exercise, the plate's bands tighten on the pivot coil, which in turn creates the resistance. The SpiraFlex technology is what is being used aboard the International Space Station, so that the astronauts can get their daily exercise.

There are several attachments and accessories that are included in your purchase of the Bowflex Revolution; such as a preacher curl pad, leg press plate, hand grips, foot harness, and the previously mentioned independent moving arms. You may also choose to purchase other accessories for your Bowflex Revolution, such as a machine mat to help protect your floors, or the SpiraFlex plate upgrade, or even an accessory rack. Plus the Revolution comes with a 10 year limited warranty.

There is also a Bowflex Revolution XP edition that is still designed for saving space; however, it offers 20 lbs less than the 220 lbs of resistance than the one above, however it can be upgraded to 280 lbs. It also offers an optional Lat Tower, which helps you build your back and shoulder muscles, and the lower body workouts help to work your leg and hip muscles, using a Squat Harness. A leg Attachment is equipped for seated leg extension and standing leg curls. It has only 90 exercises to offer. It also uses the same SpiraFlex plate technology and it is even more compact than the first one using only a 4' x 5' space.

It does not matter which machine you choose, each one is well worth the money and will give you a very extensive workout.

These exercise machines have the overall quality and high standards as all other Bowflex equipment. You can always trust the brand name for the most fantastic exercising experience you have ever had.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brandi_Yates

Bounce Your Way to Fitness!

2009-05-24T04:13:00.003-07:00

Are you as fit as you could be? What about the rest of your family? The unfortunate reality is that many of us don't get enough exercise as we should do. This can be a real problem, particularly when it comes to our children.

Kids who don't get enough exercise when they are young are likely to pick up some bad habits. That means that it's highly unlikely that they'll get enough exercise when they grow older too. This is a real concern - it leaves them open to health problems early in life and also as they grow older.

It's clear that ensuring that your whole family is active could be the key to all of you having longer, healthier lives. So how can this be achieved? It's not always easy.

For starters, many of us don't like running or going down to the gym. We feel uncomfortable when surrounded by all of those fitness enthusiasts. This isn't a frame of mind that is going to help us get more active.

What about when it comes to our children? They're unlikely to want to spend time getting more exercise if they see such activities as being dull and boring, particularly when compared to the perceived excitement of playing computer games indoors.

The answer could be to make use of a trampoline. Larger trampolines are perfect for the whole family, but they do more than simply providing a means to exercise - they're also great fun!

Bouncing up and down on a trampoline is fantastic and allows the entire family to get together and enjoy themselves. It's also a way to spend time outside, enjoying the fresh air. So much better than being stuck indoors!

Trampolines come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most popular tend to be circular and are perfect for many gardens. Prices have been dropping in recent years and many of the very best deals are to be found online.

You could save up to 40% when you buy from a specialist store online. A good first step is to carry out a price comparison to see what sort of deals are around.

A trampoline could provide the perfect answer to your fitness concerns. It's great for the whole family, allowing all of you to enjoy yourselves while also getting the levels of exercise that you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Barrett

5 Benefits of Home Rowing Machines

2009-05-24T04:13:00.001-07:00

Home rowing machines offer several important benefits to practically anyone looking to get in shape, lose weight and gain muscle tone and strength. This flexible form of exercise equipment offers a one machine solution to all your major fitness needs. A home rowing machine offers the additional flexibility of being able to work out at your convenience and in the privacy of your own home. Many rowers fold up and can be stored either upright or under a bed. Here are five important benefits of home rowing machines.

Benefit #1 Offers full body workout

Home rowing machines work all the major muscles of your body, including your back, shoulders, arms, chest and legs. Rowers also provide both aerobic and resistance exercise, all from one machine.

Benefit #2 Provides excellent aerobic exercise to improve your cardiovascular system

A rowing machine workout is a great form of aerobic exercise that will help to strengthen your heart and lungs. You can go at your own pace and work out as hard and as fast as you want to burn calories and improve your cardiovascular system.

Benefit #3 Offers resistance training which helps to strengthen and tone your muscles.

The best home rowing machine will offer you the ability to adjust your resistance level at your own fitness level. Rowing will work all your major muscle groups and help to strengthen and tone your entire body.

Benefit # 4. Provides a low impact form of exercise which is easy on your joints and knees.

Unlike jogging or running on a treadmill, rowing is a low impact form of exercise that does not cause any jarring to your knees, joints, hips and ankles.

Benefit #5. Rowing can be done by people of almost any age, ability or health status.

Rowing machines are very flexible and can be used by almost anyone. They offer a low impact form of exercise that can be done at an individual's own pace, comfort and fitness level. Of course, be sure to consult with your doctor before embarking on any serious exercise program.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jules_Wright

Tips on Finding the Best Exercise Bike

2009-05-20T18:41:00.002-07:00

With so many different types of exercise bikes on the market today it can be confusing to determine which is the best one for your fitness needs. The last thing you want to do is fall into the trap of buying on price alone, yet some of the best options happen to be offered at more than reasonable prices. Consider a few tips to help you buy the best exercise bike for your home.

When it's time to buy the best exercise bike for home use, you must first determine the most basic features that you cannot live without. For example, if you are seriously trying to lose weight then you may need a heart rate monitor and some pre-programmed workouts to help you get your heart rate up where it needs to be to burn a lot of calories.

On the other hand, if you are a professional athlete training for a marathon or other big event, you will require a more advanced fitness bike than the average user. In both of these situations, the exercise bike recommendations would be totally different because the intended use is totally different.

After you determine the features your fitness bike must have, it is time to start searching out bikes with those features and comparing to see which one offers the highest quality for the best price. Of course, some will have additional features that you may enjoy, but don't fall into the trap of buying beyond your budget for features you are not likely to use regularly.

Now for the most important aspect: where to buy the best home exercise bike. If you think you can just walk into a local store and get the best price possible, think again. You should never go shopping without first doing your research and knowing what you are looking for. You may go into a store to try out a bike on display, but it is likely the best prices are going to be through online retailers.

No set of tips to help you buy the best exercise bike would be complete without recommending that you stick with well known name brands. No matter what your budget may be for this piece of fitness equipment, there are top brands with proven reputations of offering top quality products at very reasonable prices. The quality from these brands is likely to be much higher than a brand you have never heard of, especially if the prices are considerably lower on the unheard of brand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_Cassidy

Magnetic Bike - Why It's the Best Type of Exercise Bike

2009-05-20T18:41:00.001-07:00

Before you hit the stores looking for your next piece of home fitness equipment, look into purchasing a magnetic bike. If you have not looked into what is being offered in the exercise bike market in awhile, then you will be quite shocked that the older models you may have in mind are by far not what is out there today. You may have heard of the recumbent bike, but there are other valuable changes in fitness bike designs as well.

One of the best technological developments in the home fitness industry was the design that led to today's magnetic resistance exercise bikes. You don't have to understand the technical details of what makes these bikes a million times better than bikes of the past, but you do have to understand that they have a very smooth, quiet performance that make them ideal for any room in your home.

Bikes that your mother may have used when you were a child had large fans that whirled around noisily as she pedaled herself harder and harder trying to create more resistance and burn extra calories. Today, the best exercise bikes utilize magnet technology so that you change resistance levels simply by pushing a button.

A magnetic resistance bike will be quieter than bikes of the past, allowing you to watch television or listen to music without cranking up the volume to uncomfortable levels. They will also ride smoother and you will not be able to feel the resistance change anywhere but in the increased intensity on your legs.

If you are looking for a very affordable recumbent bike that still performs to high standards, consider purchasing a Stamina magnetic bike. While these bikes may not have as many preprogrammed workouts or other features such as heart rate monitors and built-in fans that come with more expensive models, you will still have a sturdy bike that gives a good workout with this newer magnetic technology.

One good recommendation for the typical home exerciser is the Stamina 1350 magnetic exercise bike. It looks and sounds just like the higher priced models from other brands, except the console is a little smaller and may not deliver some of the more advanced feedback that you would get with a bike several hundred dollars more.

Exercise bikes today are just not the same as they used to be, largely because the demands of modern day consumers is not what it used to be. Check out a magnetic bike to see the difference for yourself!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_Cassidy

How to Choose a Home Fitness Gym

2009-05-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

A home fitness gym is a great idea and will give you a convenient place to work out at home without having to go to the gym. As they are private, in your own home, if you do not like to work out with the people around they are ideal. However there are a few things to consider before you purchase a home gym in order that you find the right one for you.

Some Things to Think About

* How much space do you have in your home? Home gyms can be quite bulky and you will need quite a bit of space for the gym and also space around it.

* How much money do you have to spend? good quality home gyms can be quite expensive, as much as $5000 for a multi-gym. Cheaper gyms start at about $500.

* Which type of home gym is right for you? You would need to choose between a resistance machine uses rods or cables, or a free weight machine.

Some Advantages of Home Fitness Gyms

As we already said the biggest advantage is that you can do your workout at home, when it is convenient and in private. You won't have to get ready and go out to the gym and, once your home gym is paid for, they'll be no monthly fees to pay.

Some Disadvantages of Home Fitness Gyms

One of the biggest disadvantages is very often motivation. Many people find it easier to stay more motivated when they work out around other people who can help to encourage them to continue. There is also a social aspect of going to the gym which some people may miss and at the gym you can have a trainer help you with your exercises and keep you motivated. You will also not have the benefit of someone working out an exercise schedule for you, you will have to do it yourself.

Some gyms can be very difficult to set up initially and some can be awkward to change exercises or to change the setup for another person. They also take up quite a lot of room in your house so are not going to be suitable if you only have a small home.

Considerations When Choosing a Home Fitness Gym

The very first consideration, we think, is to make sure you buy a well-made home gym. A home gym that is not well constructed and is made of flimsy materials is poor value for money as it will not last long and you won't get a good workout. Cheaper gyms may be tempting but they won't save you money in the long run as they won't last very long. We suggest you look for a gym that is made from strong, heavy-duty tubing that is at least 11 gauge steel. Cheap gyms often have bolted together joints that will not last as long as welded joints. You should also make sure that the home gym you choose has a good warranty. Some of the better quality gyms have lifetime warranties, but you should look for at least a three year warranty on the upholstery and any moving parts.

Next have a look at adjusting the gym for different exercises or for the use of a different person. How easy it is to adjust can have a big impact on your motivation to use it. If you find it difficult or it takes too long to change between exercises you can easily be put off working out.

Make sure that benches and seats are well padded so that they are comfortable and that they can be cleaned easily. Well padded seats and other parts help to prevent injuries and blisters.

Conclusion

Home fitness gyms are a great idea if you know that you can stay motivated on your own or do not have the time to go to the gym regularly. Make sure that you do all the necessary research into the type of home fitness gym that will suit you before you buy one as they can be very expensive.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janet_Ashby

A Smooth Treadmill With Which You Can Set Yourself Smoothly

2009-05-09T21:27:00.001-07:00

A squirrel wheel flat offers great training for the serious runner and novice alike. With a robust framework and a range of great features of Office, a squirrel-wheel flat has everything you need to achieve their fitness goals, whether they are getting up to speed you running the marathon, or just get in shape for summer.

- The price of chipmunk wheels smooth, the mid to high range, you can buy one of these machines running a bit prohibitive, but any review of the smooth wheel squirrel that you can find almost certainly tell you that a Lisa squirrel wheel is well worth the investment. With a robust framework and features include the ability to pre-training, speed and easy to use adjuster slope, any revision of the flat wheel tells you that the squirrel trademark smooth running machine is suitable for beginners and expert on the squirrel wheel anyway.

- While a wheel is not smooth squirrel wheel cheapest available and was able to do a runner ask the meaning of the principle of buying a flat machine, are extremely good value for money, especially the interactive features available with many varieties smooth wheel squirrel are the ideal way to push ahead with a beginner fitness goals. With fitness programs that can be customized to a particular user, to monitor heart rhythm and even a tool to measure their BMI, a squirrel-wheel flat is ideally equipped to help the new rider to follow his progress, something that a qualified fitness trainer will tell you that it is crucial in the custody of the motivation in the optimal levels, ensuring that you reach your goals in a truly effective manner.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danish_Muzaffar

Where to Start - Creating a Practical Home Gym

2009-05-09T21:26:00.002-07:00

Our lives are getting busier, people have less time, and we all need to exercise daily to keep our bodies healthy and in shape. Gyms are great if you have the time to spare and if you need more motivation from other people, but how often in a week do you have plenty of time before or after work? When you are trying to fit a fitness program into your life, convenience is a vital factor. Add up the time used in packing your gym bag and toiletries, driving there, fighting for a carpark, checking in, putting your items in a locker room, waiting for equipment, making polite conversation with staff or other members, showering, then driving home. This can add up to 2 hours per day. If you have a home gym you can save more of your precious time plus never have to pay a gym membership again!

To help choose what equipment is best for you, start with these steps:

• Work out what goals you want to achieve and break them down into achievable goals. For example, if you desire to lose body fat, you must choose exercises that build muscle to increase your metabolism as well as some equipment to do cardiovascular work on. For muscle development you will need to train with your body weight and/or external weights such as dumbbells or a barbell to make your body shape change.

• Create a good workout program yourself or look on the internet. The best place to start though is to get an experienced Fitness Specialist or qualified Personal Trainer to write your program and take your measurements. I'm sure you agree that guaranteed success is superior to guessing your program.

• Choose an eating plan that suits your goals and is maintainable. You won't lose body fat very easily if you only increase your exercise and don't change your diet. Otherwise a Trainer can also help you with this if you want faster results.

• Update your program by doing something different or ask a Trainer to tweak it for you every 10-12 weeks to give your muscles a new stimulus.

See below three categories of Home weight training equipment to suit your needs:

Essentials for a Basic Home Gym Setup
- All dollar values are in Australian Dollars

- What
- Why
- Approximate Investment
- Considerations

1) Training Mat
- For floor work & abs
- Starting around AUS$20
- Make sure that it is thick enough for a concrete surface

2) Sets of dumbbells - at least 2.5kg, 5kg & 7.5kg
- Many exercises such as Shoulder press, Upright rows & Squats
- Starting around $3.50 per kilo
- Rubber coated are best as they don't scratch or rust as easily

3) Fitball / Swissball
- Core strengthening, balance, abs, & legs
- Starting around $50 for a good quality one
- Make sure that the maximum weight tolerance is at least 110kg

4) Resistance tubing/strips
- Upper body exercises, assisted chin-ups, rehabilitation
- Starting around $15
- Tubing is better if it has handles

5) Weighted Medicine Ball - 3kg, 4kg or 5kg
- Abs exercises, power throws, pushups, weighting your squats
- Starting around $12 per kilo
- You only need one or two

6) Weight Bench
- Great for many dumbbell & body weight exercises
- Starting around $200
- Very useful if you also have dumbbells

7) Stairs, strong wooden box or strong chair
- Dips, step ups, step downs, power jumps
- You will already have it at home
- Make sure it's sturdy!

8) Big Mirror
- For watching your technique
- Depends on whether you get it new or 2nd hand
- The bigger the better!

For a Well-Equipped Home Gym - Add these too:

1) Complete Multi-Purpose home gym
- Targets most areas of the body
- Starting at $1000+ depending on the facilities available
- Make sure you choose one with a wide range of exercises

2) Adjustable weight bench with a benchpress rack, plus a barbell & weight disks
- Good for training legs, chest, back, legs and even use the bench for step ups; very versatile
- Bench - Starting around $250
- 20kg Olympic Barbell - Starting around $120
- Weight Disks - Starting around $3 kg
- Start with 5kg & 10kg disks, then add some 20kg as soon as possible.

3) Pairs of Dumbbells 10kg, 12.5kg, 15kg
- Squats, presses, rows, flyes, abs, lunges, deadlifts plus much more
- Starting around $3 per kilo
- May need a storage rack to keep them tidy and easy to access

4) Ankle weights - 1kg, 2kg, 3kg
- Good for leg curl, step ups & weighting your wrists for pilates exercises
- Starting around $35 a pair
- You may need one or two

5) Half foam roller
- Good for balance exercises such as squats, also for stretching and myofascial release to help minimize tight muscles and injuries
- About $35 - A full foam roller is great for myofascial release, especially for the ITB - when you're ready for the pain!

6) Chin up bar
- To strengthen your upper body & improve your posture, and burn heaps of calories
- Install one yourself or do outside on a tree branch
- Can do incline chin ups on the edge of a heavy table also

7) Back extension bench
- Glutes, back and hamstrings - Starting around $200
- Get one that you use your own body weight

8) Rubber Floor Mat
- For protecting your floor from dropping equipment
- Starting around $15
- Stop the dents in your floor from dropping dumbbells

9) Balance disk or balance board
- Works on core and balance - essential for over 50's
- Starting around $15
- Great for core stabilisation and balance work

10) Pictures of Arnold or someone you want to be like on the wall
- To get inspired and more motivated - Priceless!!

For an Optimally-Equipped Home Gym - Add these too:

1) Leg press
- Targets quads as well as strengthening calves, hamstrings, glutes, and adductors
- Starting around $400 or save money by having it part of your Multi-Purpose Home Gym
- Make sure you choose a Multipurpose Home Gym with a wide range of exercises

2) Leg curl
- Targets hamstrings & glutes
- Starting around $300
- Make sure you learn correct technique so that you will fire the right muscles

3) Pairs of Dumbbells 17.5, 20kg, 22.5kg, 25kg, 27.5kg +
- Train for strength, muscle growth or just to better tone muscles, depending on what program you are using
- Starts around $3.50 per kilo
- You will definitely need a storage rack for these!

4) Squat Power rack (adjustable for both barbell squats and benchpress)
- You can do most strength as well as power exercises
- Starting around $500
- You will need more weight disks with this. No slacking with the weight!

5) Lat Pull-down machine
- Better back and bicep strength. Helps improve posture.
- Starting around $500
- Just get it!

6) Cable machine
- Can be used for many strength, power and ab exercises
- Starting around $1000
- Adds more variety to weight exercises, if you can afford it

If you think that any of this is out of your price range, firstly do some adding up for yourself. What would you and your spouse spend in gym memberships in the next 5-10 years? About $7,000-$10,000? This makes the cost of a basic home gym fade into insignificance - it will pay for itself before 5 years is up! (You could even charge for the kids to use it to cover maintenance costs!) What a great investment which means an extra $1200+ per year that you can have in your pocket instead of a wasted membership at a non-attended gym. Also if you start with the basic set up you don't have to outlay much money at all.

If you are looking more at buying single bits of equipment that do a lot of different movements but don't involve a lot of shopping around, the best single piece of equipment to invest in is a Multipurpose Home Gym. These come with several different upper & lower body weight exercises as part of the setup. If you choose to go with a Multipurpose Home Gym, make sure you also add some extra free weights as soon as possible in your program to give you more variety.

In conclusion, there are unlimited machines available to target every area of the body. Just make sure you choose the right equipment for your specific wants and needs so that you don't waste money on useless gimmicks. Always invest in good quality, as it will save you money on maintenance costs in the long run.

Be ready for our next article which goes on to explore cardio equipment for your home!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angela_Watson-Brown

Pro Form Treadmill Review - Is This Popular Product Line Worth It?

2009-05-09T21:26:00.001-07:00

The Pro Form Treadmill models are among the most widely known in the industry. If you've been looking for a treadmill for any length of time, chances are you've come across these in your searches.

Are they really the best? That's the question of the hour. Here are a few things you need to know about it to help you decide whether or not to buy.

(1) Warranty

First, the Pro Form Treadmills come with a paltry ninety day warranty. In case you aren't aware of it, getting things fixed on your treadmill can be quite pricey, and a three month warranty just isn't going to cut it, at least not if you want to save money.

If you do buy this machine, I would strongly advocate you go with the forty eight month warranty, which should save you on any costly repairs down the road. Sure it will cost a bit more up front, but the money it will spare you long term makes this more than worth it.

(2) Design

Keep in mind that Pro Form treadmills are not known for their durability, and things break on them fairly frequently. Therefore, getting a warranty is an absolute necessity should you buy one, to prevent you from having to pay for the inevitable repairs that will come up.

The fact that they offer such a lousy warranty shows that the company is not confident in their quality.

(3) Free Trial?

One thing they claim is that they offer a one month no cost trial to use their machines. However, they actually charge you ten percent of the cost of the treadmill during this period, although they don't make this widely known.

Therefore, don't get conned into this, and should you take this offer be aware it's not really free, like they claim.

(4) Customer Service

Also, the company that makes Pro Form Treadmills, Icon Fitness, is known for their lousy customer service, so expect a big hassle getting replacement parts should you need them. Many, many customers have reported bad experiences in dealing with them.

In short, these machines are far from the best. They simply are not designed for more avid runners, as they are among the cheapest on the market, and simply don't have the power or longevity to stand up to the beating.

A Pro Form Treadmill might be sufficient for just walking, but even then, I wouldn't be so sure. It's better to be safe than sorry, and avoid this product line altogether.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Mitchell

Life Fitness C9i Exercise Bike Review

2009-04-14T05:41:00.003-07:00

The Life Fitness C9i is based on their popular gym bike and you can feel the same quality in this home version. The saddle is a dream to sit on and the forearm supports on the racing handles ensure a great riding position that's possibly the most comfortable on any bike we've tried. The action of the pedals is ultra-smooth and, of course, very quiet.

The console consists of 6 LED display windows that tell you all you need to know about your workout such as distance, calories, revs and heart rate. Compared to some models on the market the C9i's LED display may be starting to look a little dated but its simple layout makes all the data instantly readable.

You have a number of options to measure your pulse, both the vertical and horizontal handles have grips or you can use the more accurate chest strap (included) that communicates your pulse rate to the chip in the console. The chest strap is more accurate than the grips and a better option if you're using the heart rate controlled programmes.

There are no less than 19 workouts including 3 heart rate programmes to get you burning the fat at a fast rate whilst getting you fit quick. The in-built polar chip will measure your heart rate and alter resistance (there are 20 different levels) or the speed target to ensure the optimum benefits from your workout.

You can also design and name up to 7 programmes yourself plus store your workout data and keep track of your progress over time. Like the C9i this is self-powered meaning you can use it anywhere as it doesn't require mains electricity.

The warranty is an excellent lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the alternator, 3 years parts and labour on everything else.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Nautilus NR2000 Recumbent Exercise Bike Review

2009-04-14T05:41:00.001-07:00

The Nautilus NR2000 recumbent exercise bike is a scorcher! I had to check the price tag on Nautilus's popular recumbent bike after taking it for a spin. It really is a cracker and easily the best I've tried so far for under £800. Their V-Force magnetic braking system apparently uses fewer moving parts than most on the market which means a longer life and a very quiet cycle action. It's also very smooth in action and the ride.

The console allows you to design two custom programmes in addition to the 6 other pre-set programmes which include 2 heart rate controlled workouts. Your pulse can be measured by grips in the handles or via a chest strap (provided) that communicates with a chip in the console. This is the best option as it's more accurate and therefore better for use with the heart rate programmes. These popular workouts monitor your heart rate and then alter the resistance on the pedals or speed targets to keep your heart beating at an optimum level for burning the fat or enhancing your fitness.

Pre-set programmes are a very useful way to keep your training varied so you don't get bored and stay motivated to keep coming back.

On a practical level there are large transport wheels at the front so you can tip it up to move around. A built-in water bottle holder and reading rack offer added convenience. The seat has lumbar support and was very comfortable.

The warranty covers the frame for life, all other parts for 10 years and labour for 1 year. Conclusion: The NR2000 looks great, feels great and is a treat to use for a very reasonable price.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Schwinn IC Elite Spinning Bike Review

2009-04-14T05:37:00.000-07:00

The Schwinn IC Elite Indoor spinning bike brings the outdoor cycling experience into your living room. Well that's what they claim and apart from the flies, traffic and pedestrians the Schwinn IC Elite does a pretty close job in my view.

The adjustable handles and seat settings will allow anyone from 4' 11" to 6' 8" (the extremes of our reviwers) to find an optimum riding position. Adjustments can be made quickly with the easy to use stainless steel locking pop pins. The handles are well designed and we found them to be very comfortable and give the bike a great feel.

The cycling action is very smooth thanks to a 17.5 kg flywheel and it's design. Now I have to admit I don't understand the theory behind Schwinn's flywheel but they claim that it 'optimally distributes the weight of the wheel to the outer part of the wheel and only minimum weight on the inside'. This provides the smooth, realistic racing bike feel whilst 'making it easier for the beginner yet challenging for the athlete!' - I'll take their word for it.

In addition to the innovative flywheel,Schwinn's Smart Release System combines the benefits of a fixed gear whilst allowing you to stop the pedals and slow down the flywheel by applying back pressure. The IC Elite gets the thumbs up from many professional cyclists for indoor training so you can get an idea of it's quality and features.

The resistance level adjustment knob is the easiest to use on the spinners I've tried so far and other touches such as transport wheels and bottle holders make it a very practical bike to train on. The warranty covers all parts for 2 years and includes labour for one.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

NordicTrack CX650 Elliptical Trainer Review

2009-04-04T02:26:00.004-07:00

The NordicTrack CX650 elliptical trainer is not only a great looking machine, it's also a great machine to train with. It has everything we've come to expect from the Nordictrack brand in recent years.

The big bonus with this model has to be the iFit Workout Card Technology. These are specifically designed programmes on a card, similar to a digital camera card, to help you achieve whatever your fitness goal may be. Not only do they control the machine to take you through a series of levels of difficulty, it will also talk to you! You recieve step-by-step instructions via the built-in speakers on the console.

The CX650 comes with 5 Personal Trainer workouts that work on aerobic fitness, weight loss, or performance goals. There are also two heart rate controlled programmes that help you stay in the fat-burning zone by matching the machine's resistance to your pulse, if it slows down it increases the resistance, if it gets too high it will lower it - so it does have a heart :0)

You can measure your pulse using the grips next to the console. More expensive models also have sensors in the training handles but with this model you have to take your hands off to hold the grips to track your pulse.

The CX650 has a good stride length of 18 inches with a very smooth action and large non-slip pedals, although non-adjustable. If you get a bit warm during your workout it has a fan in the console, although it has to be said it's not that effective.

The Console/ Display Unit
The console (see left) has a backlit colour LCD display and was clear and easy to read. The slot for the iFit Workout cards is on the front - circled left. You can see your speed, time per session, distance travelled, calories burnt, a carb gram counter and your pulse rate.

From our experience of working with many clients knowing this information can help when you're getting tired. To see how many calories you've burnt and how far you've gone can inspire you to keep going to the end of your programme. The one touch buttons to change resistance is a nice touch as this saves you having to scroll through the settings whilst trying to do a manual workout or override an automatic programme - you have 10 resistance levels to choose from.

Practical Information
This is a foldable trainer so if space is a little tight you can reduce its length and slide it away out of sight. The folding mechanism is well-designed so it was easy to operate. Moving the machine around is pretty straight forward thanks to the built-in transport wheels fitted at the front, it can be moved either folded or fully extended.

Ease of portability can be a major factor in choosing a trainer because if you're not feeling too motivated to train, the thought of struggling to get your trainer into place may be enough to put you off! If it's easy you've got no excuse :0)

Pros: iFit Workout Cards, variation of programmes, good stride length, stylish, the folding mechanism.

Cons: No heart rate sensors in the workout handles.

Our score : 8.5 ( out of 10 ) An excellent trainer with some great features.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Life Fitness X3 Elliptical Cross Trainer Review

2009-04-04T02:26:00.003-07:00

The Life Fitness X3 Elliptical Cross Trainer on first look appears very similar trainer to the X1 model with extras, but it does cost an extra £370. For that you get better pedals with a more comfortable feel, hand pulse sensors in the stationery handles plus a mini control panel situation by the grips for use with their CoachZone Activity Zone, a programme that changes the motion of the handles and foot pedals to work either the glutes (your butt muscles) or the arms for extra toning.

Whilst it may seem a lot to pay for a few extras over the X1, this machine does have a better overall feel to it. The more ergonomically designed stationery handles allow you to really work the lower body in a better position. Plus if you find the chest strap heart monitor uncomfortable to wear the hand grips are an alternative although not quite so accurate - a feature the X1 doesn't have.

The X3 has a massive 20 inch stride length where most other trainers on the market are 18 inches or less. The longer stride pattern delivers a truer 'elliptical' pattern which means the action is smoother, kinder to your joints and easier to use even when at full speed.

The advanced console has a good variation of programmes including 5 heart rate controlled workouts to help shift the fat and burn up the calories. The X3 comes with a chest strap that transmits your heart beat to the console. Life Fitness have probably the most accurate heart rate monitors on the market and these programmes ensure you get the most from each training session.

However, be warned that the X3 is a big machine so if you need to be moving it around you'll probably need a helping hand.

Conclusion:

It's no surprise that Life Fitness have produced yet another gem of a machine. The X3 trainer is a real treat to use and with all the programmes you'll never get bored of using it so you'll soon achieve your fitness targets - and then some!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Life Fitness X1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Review

2009-04-04T02:26:00.001-07:00

The action of the Life Fitness X1 Elliptical Cross Trainer is unbelievably smooth and quiet and the range of programmes is a great to stay motivated to keep up the training. The 'advanced' refers to the functions of the console that include the wireless heart monitoring several more programmes than the X1 Basic.

The Life Fitness x-series ellipticals are designed for what they call a 'total-body workout'. The elliptical action of the pedals combined with the shape and positioning of the handles synchronise your upper and lower body movement to burn more calories whilst not feeling so difficult. We initially thought this was just marketing speak but we put it to the test and compared it to another trainer on a calorie goal programme - and guess what? It did actually feel less effort to burn 500 calories on the X1!

The Life Fitness X1 has a massive 20 inch stride length where most other trainers are either 16 or 18 inches. The longer the stride length the more 'elliptical' pattern you get which means the action is smoother, kinder to your joints and easier to use even when at full speed.

The advanced console has 5 heart rate controlled programmes that are ideal for burning off the calories and getting rid of the fat. The console alters the resistance level or sets a speed to keep your heart pumping at a set rate of 70%, 80% or 90% of your maximum rate depending on your age. The X1 comes with a chest strap that transmits your heart beat to the console. Life Fitness have probably the most accurate heart rate monitors on the market and these programmes ensure you get the most from each training session.

There are also goal workouts so you can set a specific target for a session such as a distance or total calories you want to burn. So if you've had a big meal the night before you can set the calorie goal to 2,500 and get going :0) With the advanced console you can store two user profiles so you and your partner can keep a track of your progress. The console has a backlit LCD display window to display everything you need to know about your training session. To select and change setting or training intensity is easy enough using the large buttons.

A few nice touches also make it a very practical trainer to use such as a reading rake for your book - although you won't be needing that on the Extreme Heart Rate Programme - and space for two bottles. However, this is a big machine so if you need to be moving them around it would take two people to do so.

Conclusion:
The X1 Advanced is probably one of the best in this price range we've tried. Yes, it's pricey but you do get a heck of a lot of machine for it!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Choosing the Right Warm-Up Or Training Bicycle

2009-04-04T02:25:00.001-07:00

Exercise bikes are very good for exercising cardio, burning fat, strengthening muscles and building on the levels of endurance. It does not really matter where you use the exercise bike; whether it is before a bodybuilding exercise, the essential thing is to make sure you know the safety and basic uses that pertain to a full throttle bike exercise.

Naturally, there exist two exercise bike styles, the recumbent and upright styles, which have the same operation. To begin the exercise, position your frame upon the bike seat and put the feet upon the pedals. Adjust the bike seat to be able to close the range towards a full extension of the knee, but make sure you don't go beyond the normal limits. For comfort, try to adjust the seat-back angle. Immediately you feel ready to don't hesitate. The go ahead then starts the bike machine and the remaining item is to select which workout programs you want from the preset available, or you can personalize the workout to the limits that you want. You can also use the bike to harness your aerobic fitness by doing intervals. For exact warm ups, cycle fast for around 30 seconds, slow down for about 60 seconds and repeat the exercise. To end the exercise bike workout, decrease slowly the bike speed till you have reached that final stop.

As a word of caution, use the pedal straps if your exercise bike has, since they could halt an injury that may be brought by an over-extension or a slippage. Always remember to make a consultation with your doctor before you embark on any exercise program.

The basic operations are quite easy but shopping for an exercise bike is very intimidating. The exercise bikes come in distinct brands, styles, and models which makes it a complex affair to purchase the right bike for your exercise endeavors. Have in mind that the exercise bike which you are buying is a crucial investment. It is a true investment mostly for those people who have made a decision to start that important step towards true health and physical agility.

Invest on an exercise bike that is well constructed and your whole family will always offer thanks for it. Choose the one which has been built with the use of steel alloys or aluminum frames since they are very strong and can support any heavy person.

Some bikes come with a noise control and come in handy when you want to camouflage any noise. You can go through all the motions to assess the level of noise of the exercise bike. Also, you have a choice to make between getting a recumbent bike or an upright one. It all depends on your taste and preference. A recumbent bike has a characteristic sitting position, as if you are on a chair and works well for those who have back problems, while the upright type is the perfect choice for anybody who wants a spinning workout with a classical seating position. Always test the exercise bikes and make your choice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dane_C._Fletcher

York C301 Cycle Review

2009-03-27T23:21:00.001-07:00

The York C301 is another feature-packed, quality bike from York. The C301 has a great look and feel to it and it's one of those bikes you can't walk past without being tempted to get on. It's a very comfortable bike to use with both vertical and horizontal saddle adjustment to find that perfect riding position.

The console is easy to use, although some may find the smaller numbers hard to read, and displays all your workout data in a well-laid out manner. There are 22 pre-set programmes that range from the gentle to the downright difficult so it should keep you going for years.

The 4 heart rate programmes are based on your age and alter speed targets and resistance levels to keep your pulse in the optimum zone for fitness and fat-burning. You can also design your own custom programme and use the fitness test to monitor your progress. Pre-set programmes are good for keeping you motivated to use your bike everyday. They help to bring some variation to your training and prevent you from getting bored - a real killer when it comes to getting into shape.

You might want to look at the York C302. For about another £100 you get all the above programmes plus a better riding position, console and 4 user profiles if more than one member of your family are going to be using it. As with all York machines you can feel the quality even down to the design and construction of the bottle holder! The warranty is a great 3 year parts and labour cover so you can get an idea of their confidence in the bike.

Conclusion:
A quality built bike with features that would give a more expensive bike a run for their money

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

York C201 Cycle Review

2009-03-27T23:20:00.000-07:00

The York C201 cycle is a stylish bike that delivers what it promises in our view. The combination of the pre-set programmes, 16 resistance levels, build quality, a comfortable riding position and good price make this a great budget buy. Obviously it can't compete with the more expensive bikes but in this bracket it's hard to beat.

We all found a comfortable riding position (we range from 5'5" to 6'2") thanks to a fully adjustable saddle for both height and reach - it's a well padded saddle. The action on the pedals was smooth and quiet, although our big chap did make the saddle squeak at top speed! The saddle also have a towel holder which is one of a number of touches that set this bike apart from its closest rivals.

The console is a typical York one in that it's easy to use and understand. The LCD display is large and tells you everything from the distance you've travelled to the number of calories you've burnt. However, some may find the lower digits in the window difficult to read. The flywheel control knob makes it easy to change programmes and settings whilst in the middle of a session. The console has a reading rack for a book or magazine if you need anything to keep you occupied whilst cycling.

The C201 may qualify as a budget bike but it doesn't cut corners on the features. There is a great selection of pre-set programmes (21 in total) including hills, intervals and three heart rate controlled workouts. These control the resistance or set speed limits to keep your heart beating at the optimum level for fat-burning or improving fitness fast. Your pulse is measured by hand grips which aren't as accurate as a chest strap - but you would have to pay much more to get a bike with this feature.

The full three year warranty is great for a bike of this price.

Conclusion

An excellent bike at a keen price - stylish, comfortable and a great way to get fit.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Palmer

Is the Ab Rocket a Scam?

2009-03-27T23:19:00.000-07:00

If you own a TV you must have seen the infomercial for the Ab Rocket exercise machine. Let's just say they know how to push the desire buttons. The infomercial shows a bunch of sexy guys and gals all of whom swear that they got their hot bodies by using the Ab Rocket.

Is this the truth or is the Ab Rocket a Scam?

I won't go as far as saying that the Ab Rocket is a scam. For one thing, I don't want to get sued. For another, I do believe that this exercise machine does have its merit, but only if you're a beginner without too much strength in your abdominal area, or if the mere presence of this machine in your home will get you to exercise when you otherwise wouldn't.

Other than that, I find it hard to believe that the Ab Rocket is truly responsible for the great abs you see in the infomercial.

I base this belief on a couple of facts:

1. Getting flat abs is more about losing stomach fat than anything else, and the Ab Rocket can't help a lot in that respect simply because you can't spot reduce fat from a specific body part. This means that doing abs exercises doesn't really burn all that much stomach fat.

2. A lot of people complain that the Ab Rocket doesn't provide a good degree of resistance. That's why I said it may be alright if you're a total beginner, but if you do abs exercises regularly, the resistance this machine provides may not be enough for you.

3. Since losing belly fat is more about nutrition than it is about exercise, the Ab Rocket doesn't really get to the core of the problem. Of course, working out is important, but without a sound nutritional plan and routine, you will get nowhere and still have belly flab.

In my mind, this device is probably not worth its price. You can find a more complete solution with various abs programs on the market today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Davenport

Do Elliptical Trainers Give You Twice the Workout in Only One Machine?

2009-03-03T22:23:00.001-08:00

With elliptical trainers getting more and more popular, it's no wonder that most gyms are now filled with row after row of these machines. They certainly have a unique premise - combining the best of stair steppers and treadmills, and topping them both by adding arm bars that give you an upper body workout as well.

The big question when these trainers first hit the market was whether or not they worked as advertised. Could one machine really do the work of two, or was this going to be another in long line of passing workout fads?

Let's start by talking about the machines that an elliptical takes the place of. Stair climbers do a great job of strengthening your legs, and can give a decent cardio workout if done long enough. But you really aren't doing anything at all with your upper body.

Conversely, jogging on a treadmill probably gives you the best cardio workout that a machine can provide. However, there is no strength training component whatsoever. Another point to consider is this: if you are planning to buy these machines for use at home, both of them (and the treadmill in particular) take up a tremendous amount of space.

But many folks interested in improving their fitness don't care about any of the above items. They just want to know one thing: will an elliptical burn as many calories as the other two machines?

Well, beyond the obvious difference in the smaller amount of space it takes up, elliptical trainers are designed to maximize the lower body work of a stair-climber in combination with a full-fledged cardio workout. However, these machines up the ante by adding an upper body strength training component as well. Ellipticals include long, ski-like poles that can be used to improve arm strength as well.

These machines gets their uniqueness from the center wheel at the heart of the unit. This wheel moves in an elliptical motion rather then a circular one. This motion and movement is what gives the lower body such a great workout, and the poles work in conjunction to give you a good upper body workout as well.

They can also bet set up to run specific types of programs with varying lengths of time and speeds. These can be adjusted as your fitness level improves. To top it off, because using an elliptical demands that you are at least somewhat coordinated, it keeps the exercise from ever getting boring!

As it turns out, elliptical trainers deliver on their promise of two workouts for the price of one machine. This appears to be one new piece of fitness technology that is here to stay.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Long

Exercise and Older People - Could an Elliptical Trainer Be Your Ideal Solution?

2009-03-03T22:21:00.001-08:00

Many of us find that as we get older it is more difficult to stay in shape and exercise. We no longer participate in team sports and it is common for older people to have a more sedentary job.

As we age, it is common for muscle mass to decrease. This can result in a reduction in strength particularly for seniors. Balance and flexibility can also be reduced and reaction times are slower. But it is not all bad news. A sensible exercise program can increase strength and endurance and have a positive effect on a person's self-confidence.

Many older people do not like the idea of exercising at a health club. This may be because they are self-conscious or just prefer to do things in a more private setting. Thankfully there are many pieces of exercise equipment that can be used at home.

One of the most popular types of home exercise is to use an elliptical trainer. These machines are ideal for people that want to improve their cardiovascular fitness and also their strength.

They're suitable for older people because they have a smooth elliptical action. This is particularly gentle on the knee, hip and ankle joints. In this respect they are a better choice compared to a treadmill.

Another benefit that they have compared to a treadmill is that they also exercise the arms. This enables you to get a full body workout.

Many professional gyms will have a range of elliptical trainers available. However, they are also widely available for home use. Indeed, they are fast becoming the most popular piece of home fitness equipment. This is largely because they are efficient, quiet and low impact. These are the very points that make them ideal pieces of exercise equipment for older people.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Elms

7 Amazing Benefits of Using an Elliptical Trainer

2009-03-03T22:20:00.000-08:00

Many people believe that the elliptical trainer is the perfect piece of cardiovascular exercise equipment. Almost everyone will benefit from increasing their activity levels and the elliptical machine is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are some of the benefits of using this equipment.

1. Every day tasks such as walking upstairs will be less tiring and easier. This will make your life more enjoyable as you can do things such as lifting a grandchild or carrying home the shopping without over-exerting yourself.

2. Your performance at sports and work will also be improved. If you play team sports, having a good general level of fitness will inevitably improve your performance.

3. The health of your heart and lungs will be improved. The heart is a muscle and like other muscles in the body, it responds well to exercise.

4. Improvement in self-esteem and mood. There have been various studies that have shown that exercise can improve conditions such as depression. It can also have a beneficial effect on the way we feel about ourselves.

5. Our body shapes can also be improved. Using an elliptical trainer can be an important part of a weight reduction program. In combination with a healthy diet this can bring about lasting changes in how we look.

6. Exercise can reduce the risk of early death from serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and stroke. This is the reason that most doctors recommend people take more exercise.

7. Using an elliptical machine can also improve balance and coordination. This is because the arms and legs are worked out in a sequence that requires coordination.

With all these benefits, it is no wonder that the elliptical trainer is fast becoming the most popular piece of cardiovascular exercise equipment for use at home. It can also be found in gyms and health clubs across the country.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Elms

Best Home Treadmills - Some Must-Know Facts

2009-02-19T21:42:00.004-08:00

If you're looking for the best home treadmills, you're in the right place. Walking and running are very good exercise. They're great for the heart and great to lose weight. Walking outside though, is not always convenient, (if at all possible), like when it rains, snows or it's very freezing. Having a treadmill at home will give you all the advantages of walking or running without the inconveniences. Anyways, in this article I will discuss the best home treadmills and what features they share.

Fist of all, be aware that the best home treadmills keep changing - there's no treadmill that holds that title forever. The reason is that everybody has different needs and what one might consider best might be worst for someone else. If you're a professional runner and need a treadmill with a strong motor for intense workouts, buying an economical treadmill (for under $1,000) will definitely not be for you. On the other hand, if you just want cardio workouts or you need some help losing weight, an entry level, budget treadmill will fit the bill. Paying for an expensive treadmill will be like buying an Alaskan fur coat for a Florida winter. So, when you're looking for the best home treadmills consider your needs and buy accordingly.

Okay, when looking for the best home treadmills, there are some basic essentials that you should look at: the size, the motor, the cushioning, the warranty, and the price.

With size, I mean should you buy a folding treadmill or not. If you live in a small apartment and there's no extra space or you're thinking of placing the treadmill in a multi-use room, consider getting a folding treadmill. The quality of folding treadmills has improved greatly.

When looking at the prices of some of the best home treadmills on the market, you'll pay the most for the motor. Generally, the stronger the motor, the more you'll have to pay. And that depends on your treadmills goals. As stated above, if you're planning to use your treadmill extensively and for intense workouts, definitely pay more for a stronger motor. Otherwise, a cheaper model will fit your needs.

While you're looking around at the best home treadmills, bear in mind that a quality cushioning system is very important. It protects your back, your joints and your ligaments. Bad cushioning can cause injuries and physical pain that can easily be avoided.

Finally, look at the warranty. Any of the best home treadmills you're thinking about should have a minimum 5-10 year warranty on the motor and a lifetime warranty on the treadmill frame. A warranty is like a vote of quality from the manufacturer, so go for it.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Gold

Best Folding Treadmill - Check These Pointers Before You Buy!

2009-02-19T21:42:00.003-08:00

Are you in the market for the best folding treadmill? Today, folding treadmills are much better than they used to be. Just a few years back, you'd have to compromise on the stability and features if you chose a folding treadmill. But now many improvements have made these treadmills really good. Sometimes, even the frame used for folding treadmills are the same as for stationary ones. In this article I will explain the features you should look for so that you'll be able to get the best folding treadmill.

I know that treadmills do take up a lot of space and for those of us who live in the city or just don't have the space, a folding treadmill is a must. So here are the things you should look for when you're in the market for the a treadmill that folds.

First of all , the best folding treadmill is only the best if it fits your own needs. So determine your needs and your budget and take it from there. If you're going to use the folding treadmill for really intense workouts, then you need one that's really stable. Also one that has a strong motor (preferably more than 2.0 CHP). Prices of folding treadmills usually go according to the motor; the stronger the motor, the more money it costs. If you want to shed some pounds and you need the treadmill for your daily walks, consider buying a cheaper one. Why should you pay for something that you don't need? So when looking for the best folding treadmill, determine your needs first.

Make sure that the treadmill folds (and moves) easily. Some treadmills fold vertically and some more in a triangular shape. Check out the space you have allotted for storing it and make sure that it fits.

In short, when you want to buy the best folding treadmill look at the stability, folding ease and price. Don't forget to look at the warranty. Don't buy any treadmill with a tiny 90 day warranty. Whatever your situation is, the best folding treadmill will come with a minimum 5-10 yr. warranty on the motor and a lifetime warranty on the treadmill frame.

I am a fitness junkie. And I know a secret source where you can get the best folding treadmill, the Proform Weight Loss 620 treadmill online. Besides for being cheaper, you also get free shipping.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Gold

Best Folding Treadmill - Find Out Before You Buy!

2009-02-19T21:42:00.001-08:00

Are you looking for a treadmill and you're interesting in getting the best folding treadmill? If you live in the city where extra space is usually limited, you should consider getting a folding treadmill. Even if you do have the space required, why should it be taken up by a treadmill, especially if the room is used for other purposes besides doing exercise? Believe me, treadmills take up a lot of space. So, in this article, I will discuss what features you should look for when you're on the market for the best folding treadmill.

Not so long ago, if you were shopping for the best folding treadmill, you'd have to compromise on the quality of the treadmill.
Not anymore; in fact many treadmill manufacturers use the same frame for stationary and folding treadmills. Today, the best folding treadmill is just as good if not better than many regular treadmills available. When you're comparing folding treadmills look for warranty, weight capacity, stability, folding ease and price.

If you're considering buying a folding treadmill make sure that it doesn't lack in stability. If possible, use the machine... try it out. Can it absorb your impact? Do you feel safe walking or running on it?

While you're in the market for the best folding treadmill, look at how easy the treadmill folds. And how much space does it take up when folded? There are some treadmills that fold at an angle and some that fold vertically. Finding a place for a vertically folding treadmill is much easier... so consider that too. Also, if you will need to move the treadmill when folded to get it out of the way, find out the treadmill's weight and how easy it is to move. you're not out to get strength training when moving the treadmill, are you?

Look at the weight capacity. you want your treadmill to be able to support you. Now, look at the warranty. The motor should have a 5 yr. warranty, at least. Never buy a folding treadmill with a 90 day warranty. You're just setting yourself up for trouble.

When looking for the best folding treadmill consider what you want to achieve with the treadmill. Are you a professional runner and are you going to use the treadmill daily for intense workouts? Or do you want to lose some weight, you want to walk and you're looking to do it in the comfort of your own home. Also, look at your budget. You'll definitely spend more with a stronger motor, but do you need it? If you'll give it some intense workouts, definitely go for the more expensive one, otherwise why should you spend more when an economy, folding treadmill will do a fantastic job, all at a price that will not empty your wallet?

So we just discussed what features to look for when looking for the best folding treadmill. Look around, try some out... and know that you can get some really good deals online.

I am a fitness junkie. And I know a secret source where you can get the best folding treadmill, the Proform Weight Loss 620 treadmill online. Besides for being cheaper, you also get free shipping.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Gold

History of the Kettlebell

2009-02-06T22:25:00.001-08:00

Kettlebells are a great way to build muscle and burn fat, and they are becoming increasingly popular in the fitness world. Where did they come from though? Allow they are just beginning to come into the spotlight; Kettlebells have been used by bodybuilders and fitness gurus for hundreds of years. The information below will provide you with the history of the Kettlebell, a unique and effective weight loss tool.

What is a Kettlebell?

A kettlebell is a Russian type of hand weight that is shaped like a big cannonball with a handle. Often made out of pure cast iron, they are available in a wide range of weights and sizes. The lightest one weighs in at only 10 pounds, and they can increase in weight all the way up to 100 pound weights. These unique tools are used in a wide range of strength training exercises, to increase muscle and build endurance. Now that you know what they are, you can begin to learn the history of the kettlebell.

The History

Kettlebells originated in Russia, and the first recorded mention of them was in 1704 within a Russian dictionary. The Russian word for Kettlebells is "girya," and the men who lifted these weights were called "gireviks." Kettlebells gained recognition as a superb weight loss tool when they were featured in the fitness magazine Hercules in 1913. In the recent history of the Kettlebell, they have become increasingly popular within the United States thanks to a man named Pavel Tsatsouline. Tsatsouline is a fitness author who used to be a trainer for not only the United States armed forces but the Soviet Union forces as well. Once the United States noticed that they could not endure as long as their Russian counterparts within competitions, they began incorporating the kettlebell into their training routines. In 1985 a committee for the sport of Kettlebell lifting was created, and the first National Championship for Kettlebells was help in Russia in 1985 with its own set of rules and standards. Today, the Kettlebell is being introduced into the fitness routines of the everyday man, as their benefits have proven them to be one of the most useful tools for building strength.

The Benefits

As the long history of the Kettlebell proves, it has many benefits to offer those who use it on a regular basis. These benefits include:

* The building of endurance.
* Toning and Strengthening of almost every muscle of the body.
* Allows you to take harder hits.
* Increases flexibility.
* Helps you to shed fat.
* Gives you the freedom to get an intensive workout from home.

The history of the Kettlebell is a long and proven record of its effectiveness. These unique exercise tools have been used by individuals around the world for hundreds of years to build muscle, lose fat, and strengthen their endurance. Now that the Kettlebell s have been incorporated into everyday exercise routines, you can use them from the comfort of your home as a unique alternative to bulky fitness equipment and expensive gym memberships.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Bromley

Choosing the Best Treadmill For You

2009-02-06T22:24:00.000-08:00

Too busy to go out for a jog? Wanting to shed some extra flab fast? Go join a gym! And if there aren't any around where you live, don't worry, we believe we've got the very solution you require - keep a treadmill at home! A wonderful idea isn't it? No going out jogging, no more people staring at you while you're running, you can watch the TV, or listen to some music without having to step out of your own house! Treadmills for home use are heavy-duty and hence more expensive, but even if you don't have the money, you'll surely have the comfort in the end! So let's check out the pros and cons of the model you should choose to meet your wellness objectives.

What are the features you should keep an eye out for? The motor is the heart of your treadmill. 'Horsepower' is rated in two different ways --'peak duty rating' is the one you see on the price tag, and 'continuous duty rating' is the one stamped onto the treadmill itself, which tells you how long it'll last. A report in the Penn State Sports Medicine Newsletter advised customers to check the voltage, which is usually 220, hence unsuitable for homes, and also to buy products with at least 1.5 continuous duty horsepower, especially if you weigh above 185 pounds or want to have a jog.

Walking deck thickness is another important thing. Always choose treadmills with of deck thicknesses of around ¾ of an inch to about 1 inch. The walking track too needs to be at least 48 inches long and 17 inches wide, but you can opt for more length or width if you need to run or depending on your build. Thin walking decks can be uncomfortable and affect the legs and feet after prolonged use. So have a look while you're in the store.

The shock absorbers that take your weight while you use it have to be directly under the deck, and not on the legs, which isn't effective while you walk as the frame bounces up and down with every step. Padding can either be of foam, which surely is soft and compressible but isn't as springy as rubber. Rubber doesn't take time to return to its original state on impact, hence are great shock absorbers. Comfort should be your main concern when you're buying such products, so try it out yourself before you come to a decision.

If you're on a low budget, go for less expensive treadmills which have basic electric instrument panels with distance, speed, time, incline and calories. Machines with automatic speed and incline-altering preset exercise programs and heart rate measuring devices are the expensive ones.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Braun

When Should You Buy a Weight Bench?

2009-02-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

I'm a fitness minimalist so I believe in being able to get great results without turning your whole house in to a gym! A weight bench is a great piece of equipment to own.

Advantages of a Weight Bench

-Perform exercises more safely

-More exercise variety and a greater range of motion of exercises like the bench press.

-More comfortable than the floor

-Sometimes has extras like leg extension and a preacher curl pad

-Makes a home gym look complete

For the most part anybody can get results without a bench. By using your free weights seated, standing or on the floor you have a ton of variety.

However, consider getting a bench if:

1.You are starting to lift heavier than the dumbbells you own. If you have a set up to 40 lbs but your bench press requires 100lbs, it makes more sense (financially and space wise) to get a bench with a bar and weight plates instead of buying a set of 50lbs dumbbells. Chances are, you will progress beyond that weight eventually and will have to buy more weights again. Plus, most benches come with a rack so you can load heavier weights and lift off more safely.

2.If your body is getting bored. A weight bench adds more variety to a routine. It make exercises like the decline bench press, inverted chin ups and incline bicep curls much more comfortable. A bench helps you to keep your form and offers variety to keep your mind interested and your body guessing.

3. If you need motivation, getting a new piece of equipment is exciting. Especially if you have been lifting weights for a long time without one. Throwing something new in to your routine will help you get better results, which is always very motivating!

A bench can be inexpensive if bought used. Even new ones won't run you much over $250. It is best to try out some exercises on the bench to make sure it is built right for your height and size. Some cheaper benches are way too small and narrow for tall people, so make sure it suits you before buying.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kaleena_A_Lawless

Inversion Therapy Tables Available Online

2009-01-31T00:09:00.003-08:00

Around twenty percent of all those people whom have back troubles and undergo a surgical process will have no relief and the remaining eighty percent will continue to have problems ranging from moderate to severe. Inversion tables don't offer some supernatural remedy but, they can assist you in relieving the pain you are in now if you will devote to establishing a stronger spine and better posture. These tables in particular have been used since around 400 B.C., when Hippocrates, the forefather of medicine, first noted a patient having his knees bound and ankles tied to a ladder to be lifted upside down for a dose of what's come to be known as spinal traction. Obviously these Grecian theories still live on today but there is a much simpler way of going about all of this and it still will have the same outcome which allow you to remedy your back pain! By applying these inversion tables you are utilizing a sort of therapeutic process called Inversion Therapy and it can be one of the most natural and efficient ways to getting a better back and a better body.

I know it sounds a little strange at first but there really is verified test studies behind the inversion tables and Inversion Therapy. For example, did you know that by inverting yourself to as little as 25 degrees for even just few moments that it can really help decompress your muscular tissue and speed the flow of lymphatic fluids which flush out the body's wastes and carry them to the blood stream? Amazing! The faster this waste is cleared, and stimulating supplies of oxygen are introduced, the faster rigor and pain in the muscles can disappear. An actual study imparted by physiotherapist L.J. Nosse established that EMG (electromyographic) activity, an indicator of muscle pain, declined over 35% within ten seconds of assuming the inverted positioning!

Try some of these inverted therapy tables that are available online. All of these tables have received high reviews amongst the consumers:

Inversion Table System with Assist Handles -
The Stamina Inversion System Table with Return Assist Handles make inversion easier and safer. The half-circle padded assist handles are easy to grasp and allow you to leverage your weight to make inversion transitions smoother.

Deluxe Seated Core Training Inversion System -
The Core Training Inversion System is an inversion chair instead of a table, so you get the benefits of inversion therapy much less stress on your knees, hips, and ankles. The Seated Core Training Inversion System has four inversion position that lock with a hand lever. The hand lever also lets you easily change your inversion angle.

Seated Inversion Core Training System -
The Seated Inversion Core Training System gives you the benefits of inversion therapy with less stress on the hips, knees, and ankles than with flat inversion tables. Inversion therapy is a natural & non-invasive method of using gravity for treating back pain Use of inversion tables such as the Seated Inversion System is endorsed and recommended by doctors to strengthen your back and elongate your spine to relieve pressure on discs, nerve roots, and ligaments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristi_Ambrose

Try the Firm Wave Workout For Fat Blasting Cardio Exercise

2009-01-31T00:09:00.001-08:00

For exercising at home,I would say that your best bet with limited space and money is The Firm Wave. This is fairly new on the market, and is produced by The Firm, a U.S. based company with a good reputation for innovative weight loss products and inspirational DVDs.

The Firm Wave Personal Gym is a curved piece of equipment that can be picked up with one hand and is made of a strong plastic. It is shaped like a hump-backed bridge and has holes along the edges that resistance bands can be fitted into. What makes it so innovative is that it can be used either side up, and can be stood on, sat on or laid on to get a full-body, calorie-burning, muscle toning workout in a small space and at a fraction of the cost of other home exercise kits!

Any exercise professional will tell you that, for the most weight loss and the best body shaping, every workout that you do has to include the following:-

Cardiovascular exercise

Sounds complicated, but means only that you move your body in a way that makes you warm and slightly breathless - think brisk walking, jogging, swimming and cycling. This activity burns calories and strengthens your heart and lungs. Doing cardio exercise indoors can be a challenge, especially in a small space - a treadmill is good, but probably won't fit in your understairs closet!

The Firm Wave allows you to do your cardio exercise in 2 ways; curved side down, you stand on the sides and push through your legs to rock the board - a bit like a seesaw. It also challenges your balance, making you use more muscles and burning more calories. "Surfing" on the Wave will burn as many calories as jogging - and it's fun! Not only that, turn the Wave curve side up and you have a stable platform for "Step" exercises - any gym will tell you how good Step is for weight loss, and it's safer than running up and down stairs.

Resistance Exercises

An essential part of any weight-loss program, resistance exercise means just that - working your muscles against a resistance to make them stronger. Every time you get up out of a chair or lift shopping out of the car, you are building and strengthening your muscles. And the more toned and strong your muscles become, the more calories you burn - even when you are not exercising. Muscles need calories 24/7, so stored fat is used up to maintain them. Which means you lose weight even while you are asleep or watching TV!

This is where the holes built into The Firm Wave come in useful - they are designed so that you can fit elastic resistance bands through, enabling you to perform all sorts of muscle-toning exercises. Resistance bands cost only a few dollars, and most big stores sell them.

Carol J Bartram is a qualified Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor. She has evaluated many different pieces of exercise equipment and has the following to say about the Wave.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_Bartram

Incline Trainer Review - Strengths and Weaknesses of Incline Trainer Treadmills

2009-01-31T00:06:00.000-08:00

There's a new breed of fitness machine on the market - the incline trainer. These machines are a cross between a regular treadmill and a stair climber.

You can usually walk on a flat plane as you would a treadmill, but you can also choose to walk at very high inclines - up to 40% in some cases. The benefit is that you burn calories and get results very fast.

For example, you can burn 3X more calories walking on a 25% incline that you would on a flat incline. And you can burn 5X the calories walking on a 40% incline as compared to flat plain treadmill walking.

There are several different types of incline trainers on the market. The most popular are the Bowflex Treadclimbers and the NordicTrack Incline X3 Trainer.

Each has it's own strengths and weaknesses. This article will outline the general strengths and weaknesses of incline home trainers as a whole so you can decide if it's the right choice for you.

Strengths:

1) Burn Up To 5X the Calories in a Single Workout

The main benefit to incline walking is that you can burn up to 5X more calories vs walking on a flat surface. Incline walking forces the larger muscles in your legs through a greater range of motion.

Because of this, you also tone and tighten up faster than you would on a regular treadmill. This also makes the incline treadmill ideal for those who don't have a lot of time to workout. You can still get your exercise in, but don't have to log hours in the gym.

2) Get the Benefits of Running Without the Stress On Your Body

With an incline workout, you can burn just as much, if not more calories than you do running. You also get similar lower body toning effects. All this without the strain and toll that running takes on your body.

3) More Compact Than A Treadmill

On the whole, these machines are more compact than treadmills and take up less space. One reason is that the belts tend to be smaller (because they aren't built to be used for running). This is handy if you're short on space or need a compact machine for your home gym.

4) Lower Impact Workouts

These machines are also lower impact than traditional treadmills. Because you don't have the pounding impact from running, they can be easier on the knees and less stressful on the joints as a whole.

5) Advanced Workout Technology

Incline trainers offer some new console technology you won't find on standard treadmills - and they're getting better every year. For example you can get 3D console graphics and even stereo systems built into some incline units.

Weaknesses:

While it is possible to run on some models for the most part, it's not recommended. You really can't run at all on a Treadclimber (they have short belts and only up to 4.5 MPH speed limits). And the NordicTrack Incline trainer has a shorter belt size (51") that might be ok for shorter runners but not for anyone over 5'8".

If you're a runner, you should probably consider a mid-priced to high end treadmill with excellent cushioning and a strong deck, instead of an incline home trainer.

Also, for the new exerciser, this kind of machine might be a bit much to start out with. Walking on a 25% incline burns a lot of calories - but if you don't have much workout experience you'll definitely be feeling it the next day.

Conclusion:

Incline trainers offer some great benefits like fast calorie burning and quick toning - which can get you to your weight loss goals faster. You also get the benefits of running, without the toll it takes on your joints. They're also more compact than treadmills and can give you lower impact workouts.

Keep in mind however that these machines are probably not the best choice for runners and may be a bit too much for the exercise newbie. Overall though, if you're looking for something beyond the traditional treadmill workout that gives you fast results in less time, an incline trainer may be perfect for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_ONeill

Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical Trainer - Not Pretty, But Top Notch Budget Value

2009-01-22T23:28:00.002-08:00

The Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical Trainer might not look flashy and expensive, but if you don't care about elegance but simply want an excellent value on a top notch exercise machine, than the Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical might be just what you're looking for.

This specific elliptical trainer is a budget model that is very strong despite being compact, and has a quality amount of "advanced" features for a budget model elliptical. Then again, what else have you come to expect from any piece of exercise equipment offered from the Smooth line of products.

One of the most popular advanced features on this budget elliptical trainer is the body fat calculator. The body fat calculator is a really nice tool to help individuals exercise and keep their progress towards their weight loss goals by keeping track of the body fat percentage.

In addition to this, the Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical also has excellent overall ergonomics, which is easy on the joints and makes exercising not only easier on the body, but also decreases the chance of injuries, both small and serious.

The Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical isn't designed to look fancy or pretty. This is a budget model and it appears really basic, but it is a quality machine that will work for individuals weighing up to 300 lbs. In addition to this, for a budget model this machine has many excellent features including 12 different workout programs, 16 resistance levels, adjustable pedals, and an excellent warranty.

One thing virtually every expert can agree on is that performance is never a problem with this model of elliptical trainer, and so to get an elliptical trainer of this quality for right around a grand or even less - that's a fantastic deal.

If you need a cheap, but still high quality, exercise machine, then the Smooth CE 2.0 Elliptical Trainer might be the right choice for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gonzalez

Kettlebells For Fat Loss and More

2009-01-22T23:28:00.001-08:00

Kettlebells tick all the boxes as far as I, as a trainer, am concerned. My clients want great results in minimum time, and they want fun and varied workouts. The kettlebell delivers on all counts.

So, what is it about kettlebells that make them the best choice for fat loss?

1. Maximum Results, Minimum Time

You hit every muscle in the body in most of the kettlebell moves - string a few targetted exercises together in a circuit (or even in one super exercise) you leave no muscle un-worked. This is they key when it comes to maximum fat loss - working as much of the body as you can. The bodybuilding style of hitting one muscle at a time is very outdated when it comes to fat loss in less time - of course bodybuilders have very little fat and plenty of muscle, but it takes hours of painstaking work to get there.

Kettlebells deliver double the results in half the time - a no-brainer in our busy world.

2. Kettlebell Training Boosts the Metabolism - So You Burn Fat All Day Long!

Muscle uses up more calories at rest than the equivalent weight of fat, and also takes up less space. So if you are composed of more muscle and less fat, you take up less space and can eat more calories just to maintain your weight! A double whammy, that is the result of the fact that muscle is more metabolically active. Kettlebells enable you to create long, lean muscles that are burning more calories while you do nothing than all that extra fat. Kettlebells make your body a fat burning furnace!

Added to the long term effect of having more muscle in relation to fat, is the fact that you actually burn more calories all day after a kettlebell session. When you burn 300 calories on a cross trainer or treadmill, you get off and go back to normal. With intense kettlebell training, you not only burn more in a session, but you also continue burning calories for 24 - 48 hours (known as post-exercise oxygen consumption, EPOC).

3. Kettlebells Make Your Life Easier!

Increasing the strength and tone of your muscles means you will not only look incredible, but you will function better too. Whether you are carrying shopping or children, or playing your favourite sport, being strong means you can perform better in every area of your life. If you are used to throwing around a heavy weight in your training sessions, a bag of shopping seems easy in comparison. You also get cardiovascular conditioning, so previously hard activities, like running up the stairs, will also seem easy. You can get more done in your day when you are fitter.

Kettlebells are superior to traditional weight training as you perform movements that mimic the challenges of daily life, and the uneven stresses that are imposed on the body. In addition, the kettlebell is held differently, and has an offset centre of gravity, meaning your small, stabilising muscles have to work harder to support the weight. This adds a core challenge to every exercise (for great abs and a strong back) as well as preventing injury by strengthening all your muscles, including the stabilising muscles.

In terms of fat loss, this is an added bonus - if you are laid off exercise because you are injured you are likely to get fat again and lose all the results of your hard work! Training yourself to be strong and injury-free means you can keep yourself in tip-top shape all the time.

Caroline is a Personal Trainer, Yoga Teacher and Kettlebell Instructor based in the UK.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Radway

Too Busy to Workout? Not With a Kettlebell to Hand!

2009-01-22T23:23:00.000-08:00

If you are still struggling to get to the gym three times a week for your weekly dose of exercise, you can stop beating yourself up about it right now! Most of us can't find the time needed to get to the gym this often, and rather than feeling guilty and promising yourself you will manage it next week, why not try a change of tack?

After all, the definition of madness is repeating the same thing over, while expecting different results.

If you can't get to the gym, don't blame your lack of commitment or motivation. Blame the model. Getting to the gym involves travel, changing, finding a locker, finding equipment that is free and coming into contact with a lot of other people's sweat. Not surprising it can often be the last place we want to be at the end of a hard day at the office.

Instead, why not invest in a chunk of cast iron, that you can store at home and that you can use any time and anywhere?

Instead of struggling to find the will to workout after a day at the office, get up 15 minutes earlier and do a pre-breakfast metabolism boosting session that will have you burning fat all day, feeling super-charged and energetic, and help you sleep better at night (so you feel fresher in the morning, despite the alarm going off 15 minutes earlier).

10 - 15 minutes a day, or 20 - 30 every other day is not to hard to find, especially if you take my advice and make time rather than hoping to find it somewhere (after all, it is elusive and rarely 'found').

An example workout:

Start with a dynamic warm up - squats, lunges, shoulder circles etc with no weight, for a few minutes.

2 handed swings - 1 minute

1 arm kettlebell chest press - 15 on each side

2 handed swings - 1 minute

1 arm kettlebell row - 15 on each side

Figure of 8 pass and hold - 15 on each side

1 arm military press - 15 on each side

Figure of 8 pass and hold - 15 on each side

Windmill - 10 on each side

Kettlebell Russian Twist - 15 on each side

Plank - as long as you can!

Perform this circuit one or 2 times through, resting as you need to depending on your fitness level (decrease the rest as you get fitter). Be sure to stretch your main muscles, paying attention to tight areas, after every session.

This is the by far one of the best ways to start your day - boosting your metabolism, mood and energy levels so you are bound to hit the rest of your day with style.

Caroline is a Personal Trainer, Yoga Teacher and Kettlebell Instructor based in the UK.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Radway

Affordable Home Fitness Equipment Tips

2009-01-07T22:23:00.001-08:00

If you are planning about going out and buying new home fitness equipment, you need to consider carefully exactly what it is you need; it is necessary to know what it is you want to accomplish. The problem is excited first timers get caught up in the moment when they see a great piece of equipment advertised on the TV but don't really think it through. Sit down and think about what it is you are hoping to achieve before you take out your credit card.

No-one wants to waste money no matter who they are because home fitness equipment can be expensive; it should hopefully complement your outside interests, that way it will not be wasted. Buying equipment is never a guarantee that you will use it especially if it is something new which just makes it harder to use so make sure it is something that you have already tried in a fitness club; if it is something you have never used before you need to make sure it is exactly what you need. Make sure you can afford it and don't be fooled into the thought that you will definitely use something because you spent a great deal of money on it; a person who is committed is just as likely to train with cheaper equipment. Always consider how much you are willing to pay for certain equipment and ask yourself if it is worth it, always check on the quality before you buy equipment.

Price however, is no guarantee of quality; the equipment needs to be checked as there are many cases of expensive equipment being made shoddily and vice versa. You may also try buying used equipment because most of the time, this is where you will find a better deal. If you can, wait for the sales or when ex-demonstration home fitness equipment becomes available in the stores. It may seem like a strange point to make but it is often overlooked; can you actually fit the fitness machine in your home?

Where your equipment is going to live should be worked out carefully; although a favorite location is the garage. It is also a good idea to have yourself checked over to make sure there won't be any problems with using the equipment you are going to purchase. Whilst you are trying the fitness apparatus out, ensure that it doesn't cause any discomfort because if it does you will refrain from using it. One way to get around this is to join a fitness centre and get used to using certain pieces of apparatus first; this can be a viable alternative to actually spending money on personal home fitness equipment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nic_Marin

6 Second Ab Machine and Ab Blaster Are a Farse

2009-01-07T22:21:00.000-08:00

15 minute abs...then 6 minute abs.... then 6 second abs! Ab machine commercials represent the most popular and lucrative infomercials of all time. We all know it. Every day on TV there is a 30 minute infomercial selling some sort of machine, or device that gives a person "abs" in just seconds a day.

Turn the TV on right now, I will bet you there is a commercial running right now for some silly exercise machine being sold by some old athlete or movie star. This marketing works, but for getting great abs, this is sheer nonsense. The basic infomercial ab machine commercial, usually centers around a plastic "ab compression" device or some other silly thing, that will give you "killer" abs in seconds.

But it's not cheap. The 6 second ab machine with DVD sells for over $80! ($9.95 and 3 payments of $24.24). That is over $80 folks! The cardio course, workout course and so forth cost even MORE money! Another $20.00 a pop! Plus of course you have to buy the absurd plastic "6 second" ab machine itself first. Here is a picture of the device. Having tried this thing, I can tell you, it's not my first choice for ab exercise machines. But there is good news, if this hunk of plastic is not enough for you, you can upgrade to a single rubber band, and pair of tiny 2.5 pound dumbbells for the "deluxe set" for another $20.00! Are they kidding? I guess not. I see these things at garage sales every day for about $2.00. People think it's a 2 handed hand vacuum cleaner.

Save your money folks. Buy The Fast Fat Loss Plan and get a REAL plan of action on how to get six pack abs for real. No plastic machine or gym needed! No upgrades. A complete diet and exercise program in one complete package. No bullshit. We teach you simple exercises and a clean diet. These are the things that will give you 6 pack abs. This is a fact. I know all about 6 pack abs and I can prove it. Dr. Phil has yet to show me HIS 6 pack abs and he has given out MORE diet advice than Richard Simmons or Jack LaLanne. I would be MORE convinced if Dr. Phil showed ME his abs.

Do you really want sexy six pack abs? Some gimmick machine or 200 sit ups a day won't do it. It's all about lifestyle and diet folks! Eat and live like a person who has great abs and you too will have great ab muscles too!

Guess what? Beer and snack chips, candy and soda, won't give you six pack abs no matter how many sit-ups and leg raises you may do. You can own your own gym and still be fat (as so many gym owners are). Diet, what you eat, controls the ability to "see" a person's abs or not. Low body fat = abs. Small amounts of training (5 minutes 2x a week) can give you great abs visually. No amount of training or use of exotic ab machines sold by sexy TV commercials will give you abs UNLESS you follow the complete lifestyle THAT GIVES you 6 pack abs. This is a fact! No tight diet, no tight abs!

So don't order the ab blaster 4000 tonight from the blond bombshell ex-movie star selling the latest hip ab machine. Instead buy The Fast Fat Loss Plan and get a REAL plan of action that will teach you everything you need to know to lose weight fast. The Fast Fat Loss Plan even has a special section on training for 6-pack abs, for those that really want them. Get real. Stop believing in rainbows and magic 6 second ab machines (available for 3 easy payments of only $24.24) that don't deliver results.

There is no magic ab machine. But if there was a magic ab machine, I say 6 seconds is too long to train abs. I think 3 seconds would be better, for a total of 9 or so seconds a week. When you really feel fit you move up to the full 6 seconds. For a total of just 18 seconds a week! After you finish your 6 second abs you can start on a 4 second PHD program, and the 2 second Math Genius Rocket Scientist course. Please! Use common sense when you make decisions. If it sounds too good to be true, guess what? It is.

Dan Burke, The Figure Coach, is the author of the Fast Fat Loss Plan 3 books series that is a complete guide to weight loss and healthy living. Dan is a diet and fitness guru, athlete, coach, and writer. He has trained thousands of people from all walks of life for over 25 years. Dan has created and authored all of the products sold at http://www.figurecoach.com a website dedicated to the women's sport of Figure Competition. He has taught thousands of professional and amateur Figure Athletes how to diet, exercise, and pose to compete on stage and win women's Figure Competitions.

Dan has taken the secrets these athletes have used to get in fantastic shape, and to look and perform their best, and revealed them to you. He has boiled it down to an easy-to-understand wholesome approach to weight loss and weight maintenance. The Fast Fat Loss Plan gives the dieter all of the different tips to maximize weight loss and they can develop their own plan of action that they can, in fact, follow and live with for the rest of their life. He even teaches how to cheat properly on the diet as well, making it realistic for individuals to follow. Visit our website http://www.fastfatlossplan.com and you cam learn the secrets of creating The Negative Calorie Balance through Food Combining and Natural Metabolism Boosting. Take our 30 day challenge and change your life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Burke

Is it Crunch Time For Gym Equipment

2008-12-24T03:28:00.001-08:00

With the 'credit crunch' affecting the cashflow of many gyms, it is time for many of you to look at the bottom line of your business to see how to improve the flow of money in and out. Whilst you may be in the business of keeping people fit, at the core of your business is the need to make money - or go to the wall. At a time when cash strapped gym owners need to update equipment, the need to make and to save money has never been greater.

Cutting business operating expenses whilst still providing the level of equipment and service that clients expect is never an easy task. Trying to save money by cutting corners achieves nothing if it creates problems in the future, such as disatisfied clients who will go elsewhere. If you need to update you could consider buying cheaper makes but will these have the luxury feel your clients expect? An alternative is to buy expensive gym equipment but at substantially reduced prices - but how?

Buying reconditioned high quality exercise equipment is the route of many savvy gym owners, who buy from reputable companies who offer value-for-money and often similar warranties compared to new machines. Good-as- new often reads as good for your bank balance! However, the same care needs to be taken to select the right equipment and company as for a 'brand new' refit. Research is necessary - it could save you a fortune.
How to Select Reconditioned Gym Equipment

* Do your homework and shop around. Think about your needs and take time to plan your ideal layout.

* Does the company have sufficient reconditioned stock to allow you to choose exactly what you need?

* What is the history of the machines. How long were they originally used for and how long can you expect them to last?

* Are your supplier's customers happy with their purchases? Ask for a list of previous customers and find out if they have experienced any problems with the equipment or level of service.

* Does the equipment come with a guarantee or warranty and how long does it last?

* Can the supplier offer technical support and regular maintenance?

* What quality standards and tests are the suppliers applying to the machines - are they rigorous enough?

* How long has the supplier been in business? A guarantee and back-up service can only last as long as they do.

If your gym equipment is technically up to scratch but the upholstery is looking a bit worn, a simple upholstery repair or update can make all the difference. However, it is important to have the upholstery and equipment professionally inspected, as sometimes repairs are simply not cost efficient. Transforming your gym equipment may simply be a case of changing the colour of the upholstery and decor to breathe new life into your gym surroundings, saving you unnecessary downtime and expense.

There are a few companies that offer reconditioned equipment and upholstery repairs, and it is important to check them out and make sure they are reliable. For instance, Sportsafe UK (0844 581 0550), based in Colchester, Essex, who have been in business for 30 years, offer certified pre-owned equipment under the Still Novo label, reconditioned by Technogym and backed by a one year guarantee, nationwide technical support and with the option of a regular maintenance contract. Their reconditioned equipment is renewed and tested to meet the same performance criteria as brand new equipment. They are also able to advise on updating and designing your gym area. Do your research, pick the brains of your chosen supplier and, above all, put them to the test. Make your needs clear to them but be open to new ideas and suggestions - they could save you a tidy sum.

If your cashflow does not allow for considering refurbishment at the present time, it is important to at least make sure your equipment is kept up to scratch with regular maintenance and repair. If your equipment is out of use due to breakdown your clients could be frustrated if they cannot do their usual full routine, and if it keeps happening they may simply vote with their feet - and leave. If you need spares in a hurry Sportsafe UK, one of the leading sports products and spares suppliers in the U.K., can offer parts at extremely competitive prices with quick delivery and various service options.

Considering reconditioned exercise equipment can free up funds, providing you with the opportunity to add other equipment as and when needed. At the very least, keeping your equipment in tip-top condition is necessary, but with careful planning and regular maintenance this should save you money in the longterm. Quality gym equipment by itself will not make your business successful, but wasting time and money, in a period of economic downturn, on poor quality or faulty equipment could break it. The balance between top quality equipment, highly trained staff and client retention may be the key to survival in these difficult times.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Orvis