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