For many people, it's simply easier and more convenient to work out at home. But with many home exercise equipment machines on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Below, you'll find a quick overview of your options.
Home fitness equipment can be used in different ways to match your particular training goals. High-intensity / short-duration anaerobic exercises can enhance strength. Medium- intensity/medium-duration physical exercises can improve your aerobic fitness. If losing weight is your intention, then low-intensity/long-duration exercises are most effective.
Treadmills
Treadmills are one of the best ways to work the cardiovascular and circulatory system, making them one of the best ways to lose body fat. You can vary your workout by mixing up walking and running. By increasing the treadmill's incline, you can increase the intensity of your workout, or simulate hiking uphill.
Compared to running or walking on pavement, treadmills are easier on your body because they absorb some shock, which is important for those concerned about the impact of weight-bearing exercise.
Stationary Bikes
For those interested in mimicking their bike workout indoors, upright stationary bikes are the way to go. Serious cyclists should consider Spinner bikes, which simulate the hand positions and body movements of road races.
However, if you find upright stationary bikes uncomfortable, consider a recumbent bike. Recumbent bike trainers put you in a reclined position, supporting the lower back. Those who have back problems or balance problems and those in cardiac rehab usually find recumbent bikes more comfortable than other bikes.
Recumbent bikes give the buttocks and hamstring muscles a tougher workout than do upright stationary bikes. They also work the quadriceps and calf muscles.
Climbing Machines
You've probably used a stepping machine if you've been in a gym in recent years. A climbing machine is a stepper, but with a vertical component that allows you to also move your arms. You can hold the horizontal railing and use it as a traditional stepper, or grasp the vertically oriented moving handles and climb.
Using gravity, climbing machines tone the muscles of the upper and lower body, including the shoulders, arms, chest, back, hips, buttocks and legs. The fluid motion offers exercise without impact on your joints, and because you work against gravity, you burn a significant number of calories. By switching from the climber to the stepper position, you can allow certain muscles to rest as you target other muscle groups.
