Exercise Equipment:
Exercise Accessories - A Guide to Gloves, Mats, Belts and More
by Ainuddin Mohamad
Gloves can keep your hands from slipping as well as
help prevent unsightly calluses. To choose the right size
glove, measure the circumference of your hand around the first
set of knuckles (at the top of the palm), not including your
thumb. Weight training gloves should...
If you have ever stepped into a sports equipment store, you may be overwhelmed
with the sheer volume of equipment that they have. You can find several
different types of cardio equipment, weights in all shapes and styles, and of
course all the items you need for every sport under the sun. If you are planning
a new workout routine, you probably already know what you want in the way of big
equipment. Maybe you are planning on getting a stair climber or a home gym or a
boxful of aerobic tapes. Whatever you decide to do, you do not want to overlook
some of the small stuff.
If you are planning strength training into your routine, one of the most
important things you can add is a good pair of gloves. Gloves can keep your
hands from slipping as well as help prevent unsightly calluses. To choose the
right size glove, measure the circumference of your hand around the first set of
knuckles (at the top of the palm), not including your thumb. Weight training
gloves should fit snugly, as they are designed to break in and stretch with use.
If you prefer a looser glove you might consider going one size larger than what
you need. There are several styles to choose from. Some have longer finger
lengths, others have wrist support to prevent injury, and many are washable.
Look for a material that allows your hands to breath and wicks perspiration away
from your skin.
A must have for nearly every workout routine is an exercise mat. Mats help
cushion underneath, provide a stable workout service, and help absorb impact to
make exercises easier on your joints. Depending on your room size and work out
style, there is a variety to choose from. Some mats can be permanently installed
on the floor if you have a home gym area. Other mats fold up to a smaller size
for easy storage. Yoga mats are lighter weight and roll so that they travel
easier. Choose a mat that is large enough for you to do your entire workout
routine on comfortably.
If you are serious about weight lifting and plan to lift weights extensively, or
if you are new to weight lifting but are prone to back injuries, you will want
to consider a weight-lifting belt. These belts offer lumbar support to help
prevent a back injury when lifting. Belts are measured by your waist size and
come in a variety of support strengths. Some even offer a wider front area to
prevent abdominal hernias. Always make sure that your belt fits snugly and
comfortably and is buckled securely.
Wrist and ankle weights are a good way to punch up your cardio routine. Ranging
in size from two to 10 pounds each they help provide resistance to your upper
and lower body respectively. This can help you get over weight loss plateaus and
get you to your leaner, toned body more quickly. The weights are designed to
strap onto your ankles or wrists, some varieties can be used in either place,
and buckle securely, usually with Velcro. Start with a lighter weight and work
your way up to prevent injury.
Another good addition to your workout equipment is a heart monitor. This way you
can monitor your heart rate to ensure that you are reaching your target. Getting
your heart rate up to the appropriate level helps ensure the most efficient
workout and highest calorie burn. Some of the larger exercise equipment pieces
include a heart rate monitor, but these are no help if you prefer to do cardio
or do part of your workout outside. Portable monitors fit like a watch, and
depending on the style you select come with a variety of functions. Some will
let you know when you have reached your target heart rate, and others will keep
a memory of your different laps. Most also have the added bonus of having
traditional watch features like a stopwatch and the ability to use it to tell
time.
This is just a basic list of some of the more popular exercise accessories. Talk
to your doctor or fitness professional about any additional equipment that you
might need. Remember to never start a new fitness routine without talking to
your doctor first.
About the Author
Ainuddin Mohamad is the Webmaster of
http://www.BestWebsites.com.my which is a Directory of Best Websites. Since
July 2000
BestWebsites.com.my has featured thousands of best websites in many
categories of interest with descriptions/reviews given by leading publications
and webmasters.
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