Complete Exercise Machine Guide - Treadmills, Bikes & Ellipticals: What's Right for You?
December 22, 2010 Fitness & Sports 0 comments
Everyone knows exercising is good for you and it's no secret that cardiovascular exercises are a great way to control weight, keep your heart rate in check and stay healthy. But with so many different types of exercise equipment available, which one is best for your workout? Check out this guide to cardio fitness equipment and find the right exercise machine to whip you into shape.
Treadmills:
You're probably familiar with treadmills - they simulate running on a motorized belt. If you can't make it outside to run, these machines are a great substitute. But before you think you've found the secret to an easy work out, be sure to consider all the available options.
Pros:
- Adjustable speeds - you can program the treadmill to run at a speed you're comfortable with
- Full range leg motion - unlike ellipticals, you're actually running on this machine
- Incline option - you can program most treadmills to run at an incline, adding resistance to your workout...whew!
Cons:
- Can't simulate wind resistance - for serious runners, this will make a big different when you actually run outside
- Bulky equipment - if you're buying one for your home, be sure you have enough space
- Monotonous - some exercisers find running in place to be boring and discouraging (hint: put your treadmill in front of the TV or read while you're working out)
Who should use it: If you're serious about running, the treadmill is the closest you'll get. You'll reach a longer stride and really simulate the experience of running. As long as you don't have joint problems, the treadmill is an optimal work out machine.
Ellipticals
Ellipticals are extremely popular in gyms for a low-impact cardiovascular workout. Most machines work both the upper and lower body but they are best at getting your heart pumping, not building muscle.
Pros:
- Low-impact - ellipticals are great for people with joint problems. No more painful pavement pounding
- Resistance - you can program an elliptical to reach a greater resistance for a more challenging work out
- Self-propelled - if you like to set your own pace, the elliptical is perfect
Cons:
- Low range of motion - in exchange for a low-impact workout, you won't read a full stride
Who should use it: Anyone with joint or back problems should opt for an elliptical over a treadmill. The low-impact workout will keep you fit and injury-free. The downside is obviously a less realistic running experience, but your knees, calves and back will thank you. Also, ellipticals an equally challenging and calorie-burning work out as treadmills.
Exercise Bikes:
Sometimes forgotten, exercise bikes are an extremely efficient and effective exercise option. Both casual exercisers and experienced bikers love exercise bikes for their low-impact workout and calorie burning capabilities.
Pros:
- Low-impact - like ellipticals, stationary bikes offer a low-impact workout great for people with physical limitations
- Effective - if used properly, exercise bikes can burn just as many calories as running on a treadmill
Cons:
- Not running - if you really love the experience of running, stationary bikes might just be too boring
- Low range of motion - you definitely won't reach a full stride on these machines and your arms are usually left stationary
Who should use it: Anyone who has serious back or leg issues will love stationary bikes. Also, if you're into bicycling, stationary bikes are a great way to train for biking outside.
Buy a Stationary Bike at Sears
So there you have it - a crash course in three of the most popular cardiovascular exercise options. Now get out there and break a sweat on the exercise machine that fits you best.
0 Comments