Equipment
Tips To Care For Your Treadmill Equipment
by on Mar.01, 2009, under Equipment
Cindy Heller asked:
The right treadmill can cost a small fortune, so take good care of it! The good thing is that most exercise equipment is designed so that a lot of maintenance is not required. Thus by taking a few minutes a week on the maintenance of your equipment, it can appear brand new.
3 Killers of exercise machines
1) Perspiration
Take a dry towel and wipe any sweat from off the treadmill every time you finish a workout. Perspiration has acidic properties and over time can harm the belt on your treadmill equipment. Sweat will also make the belt slippery and thus dangerous for the next person after you.
2) Dust
Dust and dirt will impede the workings of your electronic board and inhibit the movement of the belt. Therefore, dust your treadmill exercise equipment once a week; use a clean dry cloth to remove dust from the belt and the area under the belt, and use a moist cloth on the electronic board, ensure that it is moist and not dripping wet or damp. Also never use oils or polishing material on your equipment, as that will strip away the good oils allowing the metal parts to rust..
Every couple of months, gently remove the hood of the machine to clean up any dust or dirt that has accumulated inside.
3) Belt Maintenance
Every month you should check the belt on your treadmill to ensure it is aligned and that it seats securely. For the new machines the belt tends to expand after a few uses, or start to slip, that is natural, just fit it back to its place. The machine is being broken in and after a few re-fits it will work fine. The screws to tighten the belt is usually located at the back of the treadmill, be careful not to tighten too much. A small turn is usually all that is needed to tighten a lose belt. To realign a belt pull genteelly, do not tug, tugging at the belt will only cause tears and spoil your belt. If you encounter any difficulties tightening or realigning the belt, seek assistance from the manufacturer or the store where you first bought your treadmill equipment.
New treadmill machines generally do not need belt lubrication, and therefore you should only grease your belt if the manufacturer expressly recommends it. Most manufacturers who do recommend regular lubrication tend to sell DIY kits with instructions and that tends to simplify matters a lot.
A proper maintenance schedule for your equipment is not all that time consuming at all. When in doubt about the specific care that is recommended for your equipment, contact the manufacturer for additional information before taking on any tinkering.
Taking Proper Care of Exercise and Fitness Equipment
Getting the most out of your exercise and fitness equipment does not always refer to how often you work out or to what amount you workout. In fact do you know that the quality of your workout is actually directly related to the quality of the exercise and fitness equipment, and that is not to say anything about the cost of the equipment, but rather the sate of repair that that the equipment is in. Nothing is worse for you than to work out on a poorly maintained piece of equipment, you risk injury and also your time and effort is not netting you the correct results.
The Problem of Neglect
You might think that your exercise and fitness equipment is working just fine without you taking much care of it. But the fact is that your equipment may only look fine and may be developing little problems inside as a result of not being properly handled and taken care of. It is these small problems in the equipment that, on adding up, leads to its undoing of your equipment and a deteriorating quality of exercise for you.
For example, if one is using spring loaded exercise equipment and the springs have not been properly maintained, rust will set in The presence of rust will then corrode the metals and thus, cause problems with the entire machine itself.
Proper Care Must be taken
Storage is another vital aspect to the proper care and maintenance of exercise equipment. This might seem a trivial or small thing but actually it is of great importance. Remember to always put the equipment back where it belongs- be it in a closet, or if it is too big, in an area away from direct sunlight and free from dampness. Exposure to such elements will damage certain crucial parts of your equipment. In-fact placing your exercise and fitness equipment back into its safe place will serve you a dual purpose of maintaining its quality and also the aesthetic beauty of your house, where you will be saved from the clutter that usually gathers when one is careless about neatness.
Posted by Rob
The right treadmill can cost a small fortune, so take good care of it! The good thing is that most exercise equipment is designed so that a lot of maintenance is not required. Thus by taking a few minutes a week on the maintenance of your equipment, it can appear brand new.
3 Killers of exercise machines
1) Perspiration
Take a dry towel and wipe any sweat from off the treadmill every time you finish a workout. Perspiration has acidic properties and over time can harm the belt on your treadmill equipment. Sweat will also make the belt slippery and thus dangerous for the next person after you.
2) Dust
Dust and dirt will impede the workings of your electronic board and inhibit the movement of the belt. Therefore, dust your treadmill exercise equipment once a week; use a clean dry cloth to remove dust from the belt and the area under the belt, and use a moist cloth on the electronic board, ensure that it is moist and not dripping wet or damp. Also never use oils or polishing material on your equipment, as that will strip away the good oils allowing the metal parts to rust..
Every couple of months, gently remove the hood of the machine to clean up any dust or dirt that has accumulated inside.
3) Belt Maintenance
Every month you should check the belt on your treadmill to ensure it is aligned and that it seats securely. For the new machines the belt tends to expand after a few uses, or start to slip, that is natural, just fit it back to its place. The machine is being broken in and after a few re-fits it will work fine. The screws to tighten the belt is usually located at the back of the treadmill, be careful not to tighten too much. A small turn is usually all that is needed to tighten a lose belt. To realign a belt pull genteelly, do not tug, tugging at the belt will only cause tears and spoil your belt. If you encounter any difficulties tightening or realigning the belt, seek assistance from the manufacturer or the store where you first bought your treadmill equipment.
New treadmill machines generally do not need belt lubrication, and therefore you should only grease your belt if the manufacturer expressly recommends it. Most manufacturers who do recommend regular lubrication tend to sell DIY kits with instructions and that tends to simplify matters a lot.
A proper maintenance schedule for your equipment is not all that time consuming at all. When in doubt about the specific care that is recommended for your equipment, contact the manufacturer for additional information before taking on any tinkering.
Taking Proper Care of Exercise and Fitness Equipment
Getting the most out of your exercise and fitness equipment does not always refer to how often you work out or to what amount you workout. In fact do you know that the quality of your workout is actually directly related to the quality of the exercise and fitness equipment, and that is not to say anything about the cost of the equipment, but rather the sate of repair that that the equipment is in. Nothing is worse for you than to work out on a poorly maintained piece of equipment, you risk injury and also your time and effort is not netting you the correct results.
The Problem of Neglect
You might think that your exercise and fitness equipment is working just fine without you taking much care of it. But the fact is that your equipment may only look fine and may be developing little problems inside as a result of not being properly handled and taken care of. It is these small problems in the equipment that, on adding up, leads to its undoing of your equipment and a deteriorating quality of exercise for you.
For example, if one is using spring loaded exercise equipment and the springs have not been properly maintained, rust will set in The presence of rust will then corrode the metals and thus, cause problems with the entire machine itself.
Proper Care Must be taken
Storage is another vital aspect to the proper care and maintenance of exercise equipment. This might seem a trivial or small thing but actually it is of great importance. Remember to always put the equipment back where it belongs- be it in a closet, or if it is too big, in an area away from direct sunlight and free from dampness. Exposure to such elements will damage certain crucial parts of your equipment. In-fact placing your exercise and fitness equipment back into its safe place will serve you a dual purpose of maintaining its quality and also the aesthetic beauty of your house, where you will be saved from the clutter that usually gathers when one is careless about neatness.
Posted by Rob
Things to Ponder Before Buying a Treadmill
by on Feb.28, 2009, under Equipment
Sue Jan asked:
Here are some tips to help you buy the right treadmill for you:
- There are many good treadmills available on the market today ranging from those that cost a few hundred dollars to those that cost a few thousand dollars, so it is a good idea to do some research on treadmill prices. You can check prices at the fitness store or you can also surf the net for further price information. Keep in mind that a high-performance treadmill doesn’t have to be expensive.
- Study the treadmill options such as programming, heart monitor, pulse rate and speed meter etc so that you choose a treadmill with only the features you want. Pick the treadmill that fits your exercise needs and fitness goals.
- Once you decide on the treadmill that you think most fits your needs, make sure to test it out. Do not go for a treadmill that looks good but doesn’t work well.
- The treadmill should run smoothly and should not give you knee pain.
Here are some further questions to help you make your purchase decision:
- How much do I want to spend?
Treadmills can cost a good deal of money. Before purchasing your treadmill you need to decide on your budget as your budget determines the quality of the treadmill you purchase.
A lower-priced treadmill could cost around $1000 and a better-quality treadmill around $2500 up to $4500. You could also look into used treadmills as they are much cheaper compared to brand new treadmills.
- What kind of motor do you want?
Most treadmills have two motor controls: the first motor drives the belt and the other one raises and lowers the bed for inclines.
Make sure the belt motor is a continuous duty motor with a speed of at least 1.7 horsepower. But if the motor is not continuous you will have to exert more effort and time when exercising on the treadmill.
Also, make sure that the treadmill does not shake especially when running.
Posted by Rob
Here are some tips to help you buy the right treadmill for you:
- There are many good treadmills available on the market today ranging from those that cost a few hundred dollars to those that cost a few thousand dollars, so it is a good idea to do some research on treadmill prices. You can check prices at the fitness store or you can also surf the net for further price information. Keep in mind that a high-performance treadmill doesn’t have to be expensive.
- Study the treadmill options such as programming, heart monitor, pulse rate and speed meter etc so that you choose a treadmill with only the features you want. Pick the treadmill that fits your exercise needs and fitness goals.
- Once you decide on the treadmill that you think most fits your needs, make sure to test it out. Do not go for a treadmill that looks good but doesn’t work well.
- The treadmill should run smoothly and should not give you knee pain.
Here are some further questions to help you make your purchase decision:
- How much do I want to spend?
Treadmills can cost a good deal of money. Before purchasing your treadmill you need to decide on your budget as your budget determines the quality of the treadmill you purchase.
A lower-priced treadmill could cost around $1000 and a better-quality treadmill around $2500 up to $4500. You could also look into used treadmills as they are much cheaper compared to brand new treadmills.
- What kind of motor do you want?
Most treadmills have two motor controls: the first motor drives the belt and the other one raises and lowers the bed for inclines.
Make sure the belt motor is a continuous duty motor with a speed of at least 1.7 horsepower. But if the motor is not continuous you will have to exert more effort and time when exercising on the treadmill.
Also, make sure that the treadmill does not shake especially when running.
Posted by Rob
Body Fitness Equipment: The Basics
by on Feb.28, 2009, under Equipment
Seth Daugherty asked:
So are you looking for fitness equipment that can work the whole body? If so, then you already know that working the entire body, instead of focusing on one or two areas, will give you a better overall feeling of health and can have other lifelong benefits.
For instance, many body workouts will help to straighten the back and increase endurance and help to lower blood pressure. If you are going to work the entire body, you will find that a lot of the time you will be using endurance machines, which include elliptical machines, stationary bikes, treadmills, rower machines and stair stepper exercise equipment. These are known as cardio machines and have the ability to give you a full body workout. This is why they are called body fitness machines or body fitness equipment.
- Treadmills:
Treadmills are great for a good cardio workout. Treadmills can either be used to simulate brisk walks, or can be used for intense sprints or longer jogs or a combination of all three. Treadmill exercises are going to be very personal, in that there are a lot of different ways in which they can be used to get the full body workout. This is all done by either changing the speed of the treadmill, usually from 1 mph to 10 mph, or by inclining the treadmill. Sometimes an inclined treadmill is better for joints and will work different parts of the leg muscles.
- Elliptical Machines:
Elliptical cross training, can allow for a full body workout as they usually have you holding onto arm bars while the legs go back and forth. Most ellipticals can also be inclined at varying degrees, and also have different resistance settings that can make an elliptical workout very intense. Ellipticals are great for people that have bad joints and cannot take the pounding that is inevitable with treadmills. This is becauase an elliptical is designed to be very smooth and the joints are never under strain. It also burns calories very quickly without straining the joints they way treadmills can.
- Stationary Bikes:
Stationary bikes have been the standard in body fitness equipment and cardio workouts for a very long time. They are also very easy on the joints, just like elliptical machines. They will also provide overall cardiovascular conditioning while providing all around fitness. Stationary bikes are great because they burn calories quickly and do not usually cause serious fatigue after use the way treadmills might.
- Stair Machines:
Stair machines, also called steppers or stair exercise equipment, are terrific for the legs and buttocks. They can build great muscle in the calf area and the buttocks while also offering a great cardio workout. Stair stepper exercise machines can provide very intense cardio workouts in the same way that treadmills can. This is a very intense workout and will condition the body very quickly. Steppers are good for the joints as well.
- Rowers:
Rower machines, although not as popular as other body fitness equipment, offer a more complete body workout then most other machines. This is because they work the legs, arms, back, abdominals and buttocks. The legs provide most of the power while the upper body does the rest. This is one of the few machines that really works your back as well as the other parts of the body and for this reason it is in a class of body fitness equipment all its own.
Posted by Rob
So are you looking for fitness equipment that can work the whole body? If so, then you already know that working the entire body, instead of focusing on one or two areas, will give you a better overall feeling of health and can have other lifelong benefits.
For instance, many body workouts will help to straighten the back and increase endurance and help to lower blood pressure. If you are going to work the entire body, you will find that a lot of the time you will be using endurance machines, which include elliptical machines, stationary bikes, treadmills, rower machines and stair stepper exercise equipment. These are known as cardio machines and have the ability to give you a full body workout. This is why they are called body fitness machines or body fitness equipment.
- Treadmills:
Treadmills are great for a good cardio workout. Treadmills can either be used to simulate brisk walks, or can be used for intense sprints or longer jogs or a combination of all three. Treadmill exercises are going to be very personal, in that there are a lot of different ways in which they can be used to get the full body workout. This is all done by either changing the speed of the treadmill, usually from 1 mph to 10 mph, or by inclining the treadmill. Sometimes an inclined treadmill is better for joints and will work different parts of the leg muscles.
- Elliptical Machines:
Elliptical cross training, can allow for a full body workout as they usually have you holding onto arm bars while the legs go back and forth. Most ellipticals can also be inclined at varying degrees, and also have different resistance settings that can make an elliptical workout very intense. Ellipticals are great for people that have bad joints and cannot take the pounding that is inevitable with treadmills. This is becauase an elliptical is designed to be very smooth and the joints are never under strain. It also burns calories very quickly without straining the joints they way treadmills can.
- Stationary Bikes:
Stationary bikes have been the standard in body fitness equipment and cardio workouts for a very long time. They are also very easy on the joints, just like elliptical machines. They will also provide overall cardiovascular conditioning while providing all around fitness. Stationary bikes are great because they burn calories quickly and do not usually cause serious fatigue after use the way treadmills might.
- Stair Machines:
Stair machines, also called steppers or stair exercise equipment, are terrific for the legs and buttocks. They can build great muscle in the calf area and the buttocks while also offering a great cardio workout. Stair stepper exercise machines can provide very intense cardio workouts in the same way that treadmills can. This is a very intense workout and will condition the body very quickly. Steppers are good for the joints as well.
- Rowers:
Rower machines, although not as popular as other body fitness equipment, offer a more complete body workout then most other machines. This is because they work the legs, arms, back, abdominals and buttocks. The legs provide most of the power while the upper body does the rest. This is one of the few machines that really works your back as well as the other parts of the body and for this reason it is in a class of body fitness equipment all its own.
Posted by Rob
Weslo Treadmill Review - are Weslo Treadmills a Good Buy for You?
by on Feb.25, 2009, under Equipment
Vienna Miller asked:
Considering a Weslo treadmill? Weslo treadmills are some of the most popular budget treadmills on the market today. You can usually find them at a variety of places including department stores and online.
But are they a good buy for you? Here’s a brief overview of Weslo treadmills along with the strengths and weaknesses of the brand to help you make up your mind.
Weslo is owned and manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness, one of the largest producers of treadmills in the world. They also own brands like Epic, Image, Healthrider, Proform, Nordic Track and Reebok.
Weslo offers both manual and motorized treadmills with a range of options like Heart Rate Monitors, handweights, iFit compatibility, foldability, adjustable inclines and more.
Strengths:
1) Affordable - Weslo models are definitely affordable for the home gym on a budget. Starting from around $249 for a motorized treadmill and $99 for a manual treadmill you really can’t find a cheaper treadmill than a Weslo.
Weslo has also introduced a few higher end models in the $700+ range that give you even more options than their budget treadmills like more workout programs, better cushioning and stronger motors.
2) Manual Treadmills - If you’re looking for a manual treadmill, you’ll probably consider a Weslo. Weslo offers some of the most popular manual treadmills for sale with adjustable inclines and large LCD displays.
3) Solid Brand Name - In this uncertain economy, some smaller fitness equipment manufacturers have already had to file for bankruptcy protection.
Since Weslo is a part of the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in North America, you can be fairly certain that they’ll be around for a while in case you need to service your treadmill.
Weaknesses:
1) Just as price can be a strength, it can also be a weakness. You just can’t build a high quality treadmill for this price. Most Weslo models are basic treadmills with bare bones features. And they’re definitely not recommended for heavy use or running.
2) Most treadmills offer poor warranties of around 90 days - which doesn’t give you much protection on your investment.
3) In terms of walking space, Weslo home treadmills have some of the smallest treadbelts on the market (for example the Weslo Cadence C32 is around 15 x 45″). While this does give you a very compact treadmill, in my opinion, it isn’t really safe. Especially if you’re tall, you’ll feel like you’re falling off the treadmill.
4) Most Weslo models do not offer one-touch incline (where you push a button while walking and the incline automatically increases or decreases). You have to adjust the incline manually, which can be a pain if you’re used to doing intervals while working out.
Conclusion:
While Weslo makes some of the most economical treadmills on the market, they are the most basic of basic treadmills with small walking space, short warranties and bare-bones features.
Considering this, these treadmills are probably not best for runners, frequent walkers or taller users. If you’re on a strict budget they may be sufficient for infrequent and very light walking. But don’t expect them to last very long under heavy use.
If you can afford to spend a bit more, there are other economy brands that give you more in terms of motor power, belt size, construction quality and warranty. But it’s really up to you and depends on your situation, budget and size restrictions.
Posted by Rob
Considering a Weslo treadmill? Weslo treadmills are some of the most popular budget treadmills on the market today. You can usually find them at a variety of places including department stores and online.
But are they a good buy for you? Here’s a brief overview of Weslo treadmills along with the strengths and weaknesses of the brand to help you make up your mind.
Weslo is owned and manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness, one of the largest producers of treadmills in the world. They also own brands like Epic, Image, Healthrider, Proform, Nordic Track and Reebok.
Weslo offers both manual and motorized treadmills with a range of options like Heart Rate Monitors, handweights, iFit compatibility, foldability, adjustable inclines and more.
Strengths:
1) Affordable - Weslo models are definitely affordable for the home gym on a budget. Starting from around $249 for a motorized treadmill and $99 for a manual treadmill you really can’t find a cheaper treadmill than a Weslo.
Weslo has also introduced a few higher end models in the $700+ range that give you even more options than their budget treadmills like more workout programs, better cushioning and stronger motors.
2) Manual Treadmills - If you’re looking for a manual treadmill, you’ll probably consider a Weslo. Weslo offers some of the most popular manual treadmills for sale with adjustable inclines and large LCD displays.
3) Solid Brand Name - In this uncertain economy, some smaller fitness equipment manufacturers have already had to file for bankruptcy protection.
Since Weslo is a part of the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in North America, you can be fairly certain that they’ll be around for a while in case you need to service your treadmill.
Weaknesses:
1) Just as price can be a strength, it can also be a weakness. You just can’t build a high quality treadmill for this price. Most Weslo models are basic treadmills with bare bones features. And they’re definitely not recommended for heavy use or running.
2) Most treadmills offer poor warranties of around 90 days - which doesn’t give you much protection on your investment.
3) In terms of walking space, Weslo home treadmills have some of the smallest treadbelts on the market (for example the Weslo Cadence C32 is around 15 x 45″). While this does give you a very compact treadmill, in my opinion, it isn’t really safe. Especially if you’re tall, you’ll feel like you’re falling off the treadmill.
4) Most Weslo models do not offer one-touch incline (where you push a button while walking and the incline automatically increases or decreases). You have to adjust the incline manually, which can be a pain if you’re used to doing intervals while working out.
Conclusion:
While Weslo makes some of the most economical treadmills on the market, they are the most basic of basic treadmills with small walking space, short warranties and bare-bones features.
Considering this, these treadmills are probably not best for runners, frequent walkers or taller users. If you’re on a strict budget they may be sufficient for infrequent and very light walking. But don’t expect them to last very long under heavy use.
If you can afford to spend a bit more, there are other economy brands that give you more in terms of motor power, belt size, construction quality and warranty. But it’s really up to you and depends on your situation, budget and size restrictions.
Posted by Rob
Buying A Treadmill With Confidence
by on Feb.25, 2009, under Equipment
Norman Stanley asked:
With the ever growing demand for exercise and fitness training equipment you have an unprecedented range of machinery to choose from and that includes running machines or treadmills. Along with demand for cheaper treadmills has come the requirement for better and more sophisticated treadmills and so even the less expensive pieces of equipment now have variable speeds, heart monitors and performance calculators.
The choice is yours, so what treadmill should you be looking for? This depends on factors such as what budget you have, how much space can you spare and what will you be using it for.
How much to spend? Only you know how much you can or want to spend but as with everything in life you get what you pay for. If you will be using the treadmill regularly and you really should be, a little more spent will pay dividends as the treadmill will be more robust, have better controls and will be more stable. Stability is an important factor as you are more likely to exercise regularly if your treadmill gives you confidence.
Measure the available space before you buy your treadmill as they are fairly bulky pieces of kit. Check your measurements against that of the treadmill and if you are unsure then ask the seller for exact dimensions. Remember also that motorised treadmills require a nearby socket. If space is a premium then folding treadmills are available.
What do you want a treadmill for? If you primarily want it for walking you can have a shorter treadmill but if you wish to run on it then a longer model would be better ,running increases your stride and your treadmill needs to accommodate this. The speed of a motorised treadmill also has to be taken into account, for walking a top speed of around 5-6 miles per hour would be ideal but for running the treadmill needs to offer higher speeds.
The deck, i.e. the surface upon which you walk or run should be about 130 cms long and about 40 cms wide, this gives a comfortable space in which to exercise on your treadmill. The motor rating on the treadmill should be sufficient for your needs. A minimum of 1 1/2 HP continuous duty should be the minimum.
These are the basic requirements for your treadmill but you can consider what other factors are important to you. Look for a warranty if the treadmill is new, extras such as heart rate monitor, speed control, incline adjustment and ease of use are all part of the buying decision and a thorough consideration of them at the outset will make your treadmill a good and healthy investment
Posted by Rob
With the ever growing demand for exercise and fitness training equipment you have an unprecedented range of machinery to choose from and that includes running machines or treadmills. Along with demand for cheaper treadmills has come the requirement for better and more sophisticated treadmills and so even the less expensive pieces of equipment now have variable speeds, heart monitors and performance calculators.
The choice is yours, so what treadmill should you be looking for? This depends on factors such as what budget you have, how much space can you spare and what will you be using it for.
How much to spend? Only you know how much you can or want to spend but as with everything in life you get what you pay for. If you will be using the treadmill regularly and you really should be, a little more spent will pay dividends as the treadmill will be more robust, have better controls and will be more stable. Stability is an important factor as you are more likely to exercise regularly if your treadmill gives you confidence.
Measure the available space before you buy your treadmill as they are fairly bulky pieces of kit. Check your measurements against that of the treadmill and if you are unsure then ask the seller for exact dimensions. Remember also that motorised treadmills require a nearby socket. If space is a premium then folding treadmills are available.
What do you want a treadmill for? If you primarily want it for walking you can have a shorter treadmill but if you wish to run on it then a longer model would be better ,running increases your stride and your treadmill needs to accommodate this. The speed of a motorised treadmill also has to be taken into account, for walking a top speed of around 5-6 miles per hour would be ideal but for running the treadmill needs to offer higher speeds.
The deck, i.e. the surface upon which you walk or run should be about 130 cms long and about 40 cms wide, this gives a comfortable space in which to exercise on your treadmill. The motor rating on the treadmill should be sufficient for your needs. A minimum of 1 1/2 HP continuous duty should be the minimum.
These are the basic requirements for your treadmill but you can consider what other factors are important to you. Look for a warranty if the treadmill is new, extras such as heart rate monitor, speed control, incline adjustment and ease of use are all part of the buying decision and a thorough consideration of them at the outset will make your treadmill a good and healthy investment
Posted by Rob
Fitness Equipment Basics
by on Feb.25, 2009, under Equipment
John Mac asked:
Fitness equipment can be split into 2 basic areas, first there is aerobic or cardio fitness equipment which is designed to give you a fitness workout to burn off calories & loose weight. Secondly there is strength/muscular fitness equipment which is designed to tone, or increase in size, your bodies muscles.
Most fitness equipment that you would expect to find in your local gym or fitness centre can now be purchased for home use depending upon the space you have available & the type of fitness equipment you require.
For aerobic fitness equipment you should consider a treadmill, an exercise bike or a rowing machine.
Treadmills are popular because you can walk, jog or run on them making them an ideal piece of fitness equipment for the beginner right through to professional athletes, being suitable for all levels of fitness. Make sure you choose one with a wide belt that is long enough for your stride. If you jog or run a lot then you should consider a model with cushioning between the belt and treadmill bed to lesson the impact on your joints.
Basic models are powered by the user but you should choose one with a motor to vary the speed, the faster you like to run the higher the motor speed you should choose. New treadmills will set you back approximately $299 for a self powered one up to over $5000 for a motorised commercial style one.
Exercise bikes are a popular item of fitness equipment especially for home use, with numerous types available. Apart from the standard upright exercise bike some models now offer upper body work outs as well. The latest designs have recumbent seats which support your lower back & leave your hands & arms free to use weights for upper body exercise. Cost $229 or less to $2599.
Rowing Machines are a very useful piece of fitness equipment particularly for those with knee problems who feel they are not up to running or cycling because of their problem. They come in many different designs from lightweight foldaway to heavier more rigid designs. New equipment should set you back $239 to $1900.
Fitness equipment for strength/muscular work comes as individual pieces, such as dumbbells, weight benches, leg or abdominal equipment or for a total body workout you could try a home gym which should set you back between $399 to just under $4000 depending upon the space you have available and your budget.
For the best results you should choose at least one piece of fitness equipment from both the cardio fitness equipment & the strength fitness equipment, with a home gym being the recommended piece of equipment for the strength work. Make sure you choose fitness equipment that you know you will enjoy using & not something that will end up stuck in the garage.
Posted by Rob
Fitness equipment can be split into 2 basic areas, first there is aerobic or cardio fitness equipment which is designed to give you a fitness workout to burn off calories & loose weight. Secondly there is strength/muscular fitness equipment which is designed to tone, or increase in size, your bodies muscles.
Most fitness equipment that you would expect to find in your local gym or fitness centre can now be purchased for home use depending upon the space you have available & the type of fitness equipment you require.
For aerobic fitness equipment you should consider a treadmill, an exercise bike or a rowing machine.
Treadmills are popular because you can walk, jog or run on them making them an ideal piece of fitness equipment for the beginner right through to professional athletes, being suitable for all levels of fitness. Make sure you choose one with a wide belt that is long enough for your stride. If you jog or run a lot then you should consider a model with cushioning between the belt and treadmill bed to lesson the impact on your joints.
Basic models are powered by the user but you should choose one with a motor to vary the speed, the faster you like to run the higher the motor speed you should choose. New treadmills will set you back approximately $299 for a self powered one up to over $5000 for a motorised commercial style one.
Exercise bikes are a popular item of fitness equipment especially for home use, with numerous types available. Apart from the standard upright exercise bike some models now offer upper body work outs as well. The latest designs have recumbent seats which support your lower back & leave your hands & arms free to use weights for upper body exercise. Cost $229 or less to $2599.
Rowing Machines are a very useful piece of fitness equipment particularly for those with knee problems who feel they are not up to running or cycling because of their problem. They come in many different designs from lightweight foldaway to heavier more rigid designs. New equipment should set you back $239 to $1900.
Fitness equipment for strength/muscular work comes as individual pieces, such as dumbbells, weight benches, leg or abdominal equipment or for a total body workout you could try a home gym which should set you back between $399 to just under $4000 depending upon the space you have available and your budget.
For the best results you should choose at least one piece of fitness equipment from both the cardio fitness equipment & the strength fitness equipment, with a home gym being the recommended piece of equipment for the strength work. Make sure you choose fitness equipment that you know you will enjoy using & not something that will end up stuck in the garage.
Posted by Rob
Getting the Most Out of your Exercise Treadmill
by on Feb.18, 2009, under Equipment
Paul Reeve asked:
Keeping fit is not only important for your general health, it can make you feel good and look great at the same time. One great way to keep fit, is by using a home treadmill – you will be able to burn calories, get in shape, and improve your general health without even having to leave your home.
Many people understand why getting a treadmill is important, however once they have read treadmill reviews and took the plunge they then fail to get the most out of their treadmill. This article explains how you can ensure that you get the most out of your exercise treadmill once you have took it home and your honeymoon period is over.
When you were reading treadmill ratings and reviews, before buying your home treadmill, you may have noticed that some treadmills come with inbuilt monitoring equipment. This will include a function to measure your heartbeat, time how long you have been on the treadmill and some will even have the ability to make, and help you implement, specific exercise regimes. The regimes may include going at certain speeds, climbing certain gradients, or even burning a specific amount of calories. These regimes are inbuilt for a reason; to help you stay motivated and ensure you get the most out of your treadmill. Therefore, one great way to ensure you get the most out of your treadmill is to follow the regimes and decide which one you want to do, and how frequently you wish to do it, You could even decide that you will work your way up to completing more challenging regimes, once your fitness improves.
As well as using the inbuilt monitoring equipment, there are also other ways to ensure that you get the most out of your recent treadmill purchase. One means of doing this is to contact a professional trainer and have them work with you, either at home or, at the gym. Although you bought your treadmill so you can work at your own pace, at home, that does not mean that a bit of extra help could not pay off in terms of keeping you motivated and measuring your progress.
When working on your home treadmill, ensuring that you get the right hydration and nutrition is vital to achieving exactly what you are looking to do. As everyone should know by now; when you fail to drink enough water you will not be able to push your body anywhere near its full potential. Just like with water, food is also vital in ensuring that you are able to get the most out of each treadmill session that you participate in. A few hours before you get on the treadmill you should ensure that you eat a light snack that is unlikely to leave you feeling bloated, but one that also fills you with the energy necessary to push your body as far as it can go. The same goes for water; you should be drinking water regularly throughout the day and ensure that you have a water bottle beside you when it comes time to get on the treadmill and push your body to the limit.
Posted by Rob
Keeping fit is not only important for your general health, it can make you feel good and look great at the same time. One great way to keep fit, is by using a home treadmill – you will be able to burn calories, get in shape, and improve your general health without even having to leave your home.
Many people understand why getting a treadmill is important, however once they have read treadmill reviews and took the plunge they then fail to get the most out of their treadmill. This article explains how you can ensure that you get the most out of your exercise treadmill once you have took it home and your honeymoon period is over.
When you were reading treadmill ratings and reviews, before buying your home treadmill, you may have noticed that some treadmills come with inbuilt monitoring equipment. This will include a function to measure your heartbeat, time how long you have been on the treadmill and some will even have the ability to make, and help you implement, specific exercise regimes. The regimes may include going at certain speeds, climbing certain gradients, or even burning a specific amount of calories. These regimes are inbuilt for a reason; to help you stay motivated and ensure you get the most out of your treadmill. Therefore, one great way to ensure you get the most out of your treadmill is to follow the regimes and decide which one you want to do, and how frequently you wish to do it, You could even decide that you will work your way up to completing more challenging regimes, once your fitness improves.
As well as using the inbuilt monitoring equipment, there are also other ways to ensure that you get the most out of your recent treadmill purchase. One means of doing this is to contact a professional trainer and have them work with you, either at home or, at the gym. Although you bought your treadmill so you can work at your own pace, at home, that does not mean that a bit of extra help could not pay off in terms of keeping you motivated and measuring your progress.
When working on your home treadmill, ensuring that you get the right hydration and nutrition is vital to achieving exactly what you are looking to do. As everyone should know by now; when you fail to drink enough water you will not be able to push your body anywhere near its full potential. Just like with water, food is also vital in ensuring that you are able to get the most out of each treadmill session that you participate in. A few hours before you get on the treadmill you should ensure that you eat a light snack that is unlikely to leave you feeling bloated, but one that also fills you with the energy necessary to push your body as far as it can go. The same goes for water; you should be drinking water regularly throughout the day and ensure that you have a water bottle beside you when it comes time to get on the treadmill and push your body to the limit.
Posted by Rob
Budget Treadmills - What You Need to Know!
by on Feb.17, 2009, under Equipment
Fred Waters asked:
So you want to get back into shape and lose those unwanted pounds. The problem is you have a limited budget, so a commercial grade model is out of the question. In fact, your limited to models under $1,000.
This puts you in the budget treadmill category. Although they may not be a sturdy as high-end treadmills, there are some budget models that can help you acheive your fitness goals without requiring a second mortgage.
There are several considerations before purchasing a budget treadmill.
Budget treadmills have some limitations. They are not designed to train for marathons, and they are not built to withstand hours of usage per day. Budget treadmills are best designed for walkers, although certain models in the $800+ range can handle joggers.
Budget treadmill are not as durable as more expensive models. They are built with budget parts. Your chances of needing service increase in comparison to higher priced machines.
Budget treadmills come with budget warranties. Some have coverage for only 90 days. I recommend you get an extended warranty that covers you for at least two years. If the machine breaks it is not your problem.
Usually the specified user weight limited is too high. It is absurd to suggest a treadmill for under $1,000 can handle a 300+ lbs user.
Here are some recommendations regarding the features of a budget treadmill.
Motor - You need a motor that is sufficient enough to work without straining at higher speeds or steeper inclines. I recommend at least a 2.5 continuous duty HP motor.
Treadbelt Length - You want a length that is adequate for your height. For an average individual a 54″ treadbelt is sufficient. If you are over 6′3″ you may need to upgrade to a model that has a 60″ treadbelt.
Stability - Budget treadmills are often lightweight treadmills. You want a model that is stable when walking or jogging. Some models under $600 may bounce around when you use them. The heavier you are the heavier you need your treadmill.
User Programs - Some people prefer manually adjusting their treadmill. However, a selection of challenging programs can be very motivating. You want to get a treadmill that has at least 6 workout programs. User defined functions can also be a plus.
Brand Recognition - There are countless brands of treadmills, some are decent while others are junk. Check out both expert and customer reviews. Learn which brands have the best track record. Equally important, find manufacturers that have a good customer service reputation. Go to the Treadmill Buyer’s Guide to learn more about treadmill features.)
Here are some recommendations. Icon Fitness, which builds ProForm and NordicTrack treadmills, dominate the budget market. They tend to offer some of the best value and pack their models with impressive features, considering what you pay for them. Focus on their models that are on sale.
On the high-end of the budget category, both Smooth and Sole have an entry model that starts at $1,000. Both offer a lifetime warranty on the motor and 3-year parts coverage.
In general I would caution on buying a treadmill below $600. Considering the abuse a treadmill takes in order to function, you want to avoid a cheap treadmill with cheap parts. And you are not going to get into shape or lose weight when your treadmill is an oversize clothes hanger that doesn’t work.
When buying a budget treadmill do your research and use some common sense and you will end up with a machine that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
Posted by Rob
So you want to get back into shape and lose those unwanted pounds. The problem is you have a limited budget, so a commercial grade model is out of the question. In fact, your limited to models under $1,000.
This puts you in the budget treadmill category. Although they may not be a sturdy as high-end treadmills, there are some budget models that can help you acheive your fitness goals without requiring a second mortgage.
There are several considerations before purchasing a budget treadmill.
Budget treadmills have some limitations. They are not designed to train for marathons, and they are not built to withstand hours of usage per day. Budget treadmills are best designed for walkers, although certain models in the $800+ range can handle joggers.
Budget treadmill are not as durable as more expensive models. They are built with budget parts. Your chances of needing service increase in comparison to higher priced machines.
Budget treadmills come with budget warranties. Some have coverage for only 90 days. I recommend you get an extended warranty that covers you for at least two years. If the machine breaks it is not your problem.
Usually the specified user weight limited is too high. It is absurd to suggest a treadmill for under $1,000 can handle a 300+ lbs user.
Here are some recommendations regarding the features of a budget treadmill.
Motor - You need a motor that is sufficient enough to work without straining at higher speeds or steeper inclines. I recommend at least a 2.5 continuous duty HP motor.
Treadbelt Length - You want a length that is adequate for your height. For an average individual a 54″ treadbelt is sufficient. If you are over 6′3″ you may need to upgrade to a model that has a 60″ treadbelt.
Stability - Budget treadmills are often lightweight treadmills. You want a model that is stable when walking or jogging. Some models under $600 may bounce around when you use them. The heavier you are the heavier you need your treadmill.
User Programs - Some people prefer manually adjusting their treadmill. However, a selection of challenging programs can be very motivating. You want to get a treadmill that has at least 6 workout programs. User defined functions can also be a plus.
Brand Recognition - There are countless brands of treadmills, some are decent while others are junk. Check out both expert and customer reviews. Learn which brands have the best track record. Equally important, find manufacturers that have a good customer service reputation. Go to the Treadmill Buyer’s Guide to learn more about treadmill features.)
Here are some recommendations. Icon Fitness, which builds ProForm and NordicTrack treadmills, dominate the budget market. They tend to offer some of the best value and pack their models with impressive features, considering what you pay for them. Focus on their models that are on sale.
On the high-end of the budget category, both Smooth and Sole have an entry model that starts at $1,000. Both offer a lifetime warranty on the motor and 3-year parts coverage.
In general I would caution on buying a treadmill below $600. Considering the abuse a treadmill takes in order to function, you want to avoid a cheap treadmill with cheap parts. And you are not going to get into shape or lose weight when your treadmill is an oversize clothes hanger that doesn’t work.
When buying a budget treadmill do your research and use some common sense and you will end up with a machine that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
Posted by Rob