Exercise Equipment: The Most Beneficial Equipment for your Cardio Workout
by Ainuddin Mohamad
A treadmill is one of the most popular pieces of
workout equipment. You can use them for walking or jogging.
They come with a variety of features to help you tailor your
walk to your desired level. Look for a treadmill that has a
smooth, steady pace to it, a belt that is...
Whether you want to lose weight or just stay in shape, cardiovascular workouts
can help you do both. No matter what your workout level, having some basic
equipment at home can make your workouts more effective and more enjoyable. Here
are some of the top items to consider adding to your collection.
A treadmill is one of the most popular pieces of workout equipment. You can use
them for walking or jogging. They come with a variety of features to help you
tailor your walk to your desired level. Look for a treadmill that has a smooth,
steady pace to it, a belt that is sufficiently large enough to accommodate your
full stride, and incline settings. Most will also come with heart rate monitors
so that you can monitor your progress while you are working out.
Another favorite piece of equipment is a stationary or “exercise” bike. Perfect
for all skill levels from beginner to expert, they offer a great non-impact
workout that is easier on the joints. They focus mainly on the lower body for
the workout. Look for a bike that has smooth, quiet operation and adequate
resistance for your workout needs.
Elliptical trainers are almost like a combination of treadmills and bikes, with
a horizontally oval movement that is fun and easy to do. They can be adjusted
for a more intense workout for seasoned trainers, or kept low for someone just
starting out. The movement can take a little getting used to, so you might want
to try the equipment out at a health club or gym before making your final
purchase.
Step machines are another good lower body workout machines. The movement is
similar to running up a never-ending flight of stairs, but without the impact.
Resistance can be adjusted for a more intense workout. Step machines do tend to
be on the pricier side, so they might be a better addition for later on when you
are sure that your in-home workout is going to continue.
For the more advanced exerciser, rowing machines offer a good whole body
workout. Similar to rowing a canoe, you can get more of an upper body workout
with a rowing machine than with some of the other equipment. However, it is
essential to use a rowing machine correctly, as improper use can lead to back
strain.
Another more advanced piece of equipment is a cross-country ski machine. It
offers a great full body workout and is good for getting your heart rate up and
building endurance. It can however, be difficult to master the technique if you
are new to the machine. You might consider practicing on one at a gym to master
the technique before considering adding it to your home collection.
For a more balanced workout, or to add some difficulty to your current one,
consider adding some resistance equipment. This can include something as major
as an entire home gym, or something as minor as some basic free weights. Home
gyms are a big and expensive purchase, so they might be best left to the more
advanced trainer. Resistance bands or free weights can add some punch to your
workout, and cost much less to own and take up less room. If you do decide to go
with a home gym, remember that in this case you do get what you pay for, so be
prepared to shell out big bucks for a good piece of equipment.
Another thing that you might want to consider adding to your collection is some
equipment that can make your cardiovascular workout fun. Consider balance balls
or jump ropes to add variety and fun to your workout. Balance balls work wonders
to improve your core strength, agility, and coordination, while jump roping is a
fun way to get your heart rate up. Not to mention they are items that can make
exercise a family affair.
Lastly, you will want to consider anything that will make your workout more
comfortable and encourage you to complete it. Some people find that working out
to music helps get them pumped up, so a small stereo or you iPod and a
collection of energizing music might help. Others enjoy getting their
cardiovascular workout from specially designed videos, so a spot for the TV and
VCR are essential. If your floor is hard, you might also consider getting some
mats for working out on.
With the right equipment, you can be on your way to a great cardiovascular
workout in your own home.
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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