Compare Different Types of Gym Equipment

Gym Equipment

Have you ever stepped into a gym only to feel overwhelmed by the many choices around you? You’re not alone. In fact, gym owners know how confusing it can be to decide which machine to use and which to skip, and they are counting on your confusion to try and sell you personal training services. If you can’t afford a trainer or you would rather go through the whole process on your own, here are some tips on the pros and cons of each cardio machine.

Treadmills
The simplest and most versatile of cardio equipment, is the treadmill. They are great for both beginner and advance exercisers. Motorized treadmills (the standard in most gyms) are best; since they allow you to choose the level and program you want for your workout. They’re also the best piece of equipment if you want a basic workout without any hassle: simply jump in, choose a program (cardio, fat burning, endurance) and get walking. Many treadmills also allow you to take a Fitness Test, so even if running is not your thing, you can still take the test (which usually last 5-7 minutes) and then design an exercise program based on your results.

Bicycles
A great option if you have knee or hip problems and you need to choose a cardio machine that has little to no impact on your joints. Indoor cycles are also great for people who are obese or pregnant and cannot stand or walk for long periods of time. Don’t be shy when it comes to bikes: they may look harmless, but they can give you a really hard workout if you adjust the intensity accordingly. If you have back problems, the semi-recumbent bikes (the ones that look like a chair, rather than a regular bike) are great for supporting your waist and lower back.

Steppers
Steppers are one of the most difficult cardio machines to master. This is part because they raise your heart rate rather quickly, making you tired and getting you out of breath before you have a chance to work out enough to make a difference. If you’re trying to lose weight, you need at least 30 minutes of cardio, 3-4 times a week. Doing t hat on a stepper can be next to impossible for a beginner. Posture is also a problem here, as people tend to lean forward to compensate for the difficulty, putting added pressure on their knees and lower back.

Elliptical Trainer
A hybrid of several machines, the elliptical trainer works in a cycling motion (which is softer on the joints than running) but has you standing up—which increases the amount of calories burned. Good elliptical trainers allow you to change the incline as well as the intensity. When choosing an elliptical, look for one that provides smooth motion, rather than jerky moves, and make sure the stride size is big enough to accommodate your height: 21" is best, although the larger the machine gets, the higher the price.

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