Getting involved in a fitness regime is a growing trend these days. From dietary programs to visiting the gym regularly is a must for all of us today not just to look great but also to be fit and healthy. We know that a well-rounded exercise routine can help us add years to our lives.
However, it is a well-rounded fitness regime that includes both cardiovascular and strength training regimes using the proper equipment and accessories. But while in a gym among rows and rows of treadmills, elliptical machines, and stair steppers it does become difficult for us to choose the ones that would be best suitable for us, and therein is the trouble. To help you get over with this confusion here are some tips to choose the proper equipment and how they might benefit you.
The Treadmill
It is the best way to burn calories out of all the cardiovascular machines. It can be adapted to different fitness levels and the impact of the force of walking can be less than that of walking on the road because of the constantly running conveyer belt. However it is advisable to keep away from treadmills if you have a lower back or knee problem. Also it can be real taxing if you are a newbie.
Elliptical Machines and Stair Steppers
They are a little easier on the joints and can be a good alternative to treadmills. The calorie burn rate is quite high because of the arm components. However, if you are a beginner then you might just be better off without the arm component.
Stationary Bikes
These are best of the lot if you suffer from joint aches, as they have the least impacts on your joints. However, you might consider adjusting the bike to fit your body in order to avoid knee strains. It is suggested to adjust the height of the seat so that when you are sitting on the seat of the bike with your foot on the pedal there is a slight angular bend on your knee. If you are sitting too low, you might not be able to receive an optimum result from your regime on it as it will prevent your leg from travelling its full range. It is a far less intense calorie burner than the treadmill or the elliptical machines though.
Rowing Machines
Be warned this machine is not just for your upper body workout. These machines are highly advanced cardiovascular machines and they help you develop amazing coordination as they involve both hands and legs. These machines help you work both your arms and your legs in tandem with each other and require your abdominal muscles to support and protect your back thus making it very potent and result oriented. If you are a beginner then it is best to stay away from it for now. Unfit and beginners might find it highly uncomfortable and it may result in giving you severe back pains.
Weight Machines
These not just provide great workout but are easy to use and equally safe. The machines guide you through your path of resistance so that you can safely workout without any assistance of a spotter. The safety feature of these machines might also tempt you to lift heavier weights than your usual free weights at times where you can pick and choose and change your weights quickly and easily.
In the end all that matters is a way for you to maintain a safe and proper way of working out to be fit and healthy. However, you must consider your fitness level, health, age and interest before plunging onto one of these machines. So get up and start working out.
