Everyone these days is looking for a way to squeeze a lot of exercise into a short period of time. People are looking for convenient ways to do it, and one great way is right at home. You have privacy and access whenever you want. Sure, the idea of having a fitness home gym is fantastic, but choosing the right brand and model of equipment is a different story.
These are the points which you should consider when you buy home gym equipment:
- Am I willing to actually use what I buy?
- How much space in my home do I have?
- What is my budget and are there coupons or discounts that will help me save?
- What certain exercises will not fit me? Which will I enjoy doing?
- By keeping the answers to those questions in mind, you have already narrowed down your possibilities for different home gym equipment brands and models.
Here is some guidance on some of the most popular types of exercise machines:
Treadmills
These machines mimic the natural running/walking motions of humans. When searching for a treadmill, an ideal one will have a 2.5 HP motor, with a 20”-wide walking belt. If you are considerably overweight, you should consider spending a bit more to get a stronger motor and a higher grade deck and belt combination. A heavy person walking at a slow speed will cause the motor to heat up and result in board failure. Also, if you are taller than 6’2”, consider a treadmill with a longer warranty and a longer tread belt to accommodate for your height.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes are very commonly used in home gyms. They are great for ambitious or new exercisers and offer a good cardiovascular workout. They essentially utilize the muscles of the legs and bottom. Generally, a high caliber bike will cost $500 to $1000. However, we recommend you looking for coupons or discounts available on the sites as many of the home gym equipment suppliers often have promotions.
Elliptical Machines
When looking for the right elliptical machine, one major factor you should consider is the stride length of the machine. You should feel comfortable, but still, be able to efficiently work out. The stride length is primarily determined by your height. Rear-drive elliptical machines are more effective because they give you the true elliptical motion.
There is one truth you need to know when buying an exercise machine. All machines are generally good. What matters the most is whether it fits YOUR specific needs. Also, look for good warranties that come with the product.
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Ideal Ways to Set Up Gym Equipment in Your Home
Let’s face it – It is a lot easier to hop on our exercise machines if they are 10 ft away from our couch, rather than hopping in the car in the cold, driving all the way to the gym facility, and then driving home again. To many people, a home gym is a more appealing way to get the daily/weekly exercise we all need. If you decide that a home gym is right for you, the next step would be to go out and purchase all the equipment for your home gym. Once the big boxes arrive at your front door, then what? How does one go about setting up his/her home gym? Here are some tips to help you:
1. Finding the ideal space in your home.
You may have to clear a section in your garage or your basement. If you’re lucky enough, you may have enough space to dedicate an entire room for your home gym. The amount of space you need is dependent on the size and number of your equipment. If you have young children in the household, it would be best if this room was not the playroom at the same time.
2. Planning where things will go.
Make sure there will be enough room so that the equipment is not too cluttered and becomes hazardous to your safety. If you are purchasing a multi-piece home gym, then a tip would be to place units in the order of which you would use them in one workout session.
3. Setting up the actual equipment.
If possible, do not set up the whole gym equipment unit on your own. Teamwork will not only get the job done faster but would be less dangerous to you because many of these machines are not light-weight.
4. Visual appeal counts.
One of the important things about your home gym is that it attracts you to use it. You are more likely to use your equipment if your home gym itself is visually appealing. Make sure there are good lighting and proper ventilation. Also, if you plan to do extensive exercises where you are lying on the floor, be sure to invest in a durable mat.
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If you are the type who likes to listen to music while working out, then a stereo is also ideal for your home gym system. This also avoids headphone wires possibly getting caught in the equipment or getting in the way of your workout. Overall, we think it’s about comfort, safety, and a little ‘personality’ when trying to make your home gym equipment work for you.
Tips on Staying Fit when Exercising at Home
Here are three easy tips to follow as you travel on the road to a new you.
1. Exercise regularly.
Your fitness goals – whether they are to burn calories, to get in shape, or to bulk up in muscles – are not one-day achievements. You need to make exercising a consistent thing. A good suggestion would be 3-4 times a week or every other day of the week. This is so that your body can rest and adjust to the workout you did the day before. Please keep in mind that different bodies have different needs for unique sets of workout routines along with a suitable home gym equipment system.
2. A healthy diet.
No matter how much you exercise, your body has the need for proper nutrients. A healthy diet does not necessarily mean a small one. If you eat the right foods, your body will feel much more energized and willing to exercise. Not only that, but you will feel a sense of self-accomplishment for your self-control and the fact that you are doing everything you can to reach your goals. Of course, always consult a specialist or your doctor for the best recommendations.
3. Keep track of your changes.
Sometimes, all we need to continue exercising (assuming you have started) is a sense that our efforts are giving positive results. To do this, you should first take a picture of yourself or write down your measurements before you begin your first workout. Then, at regular intervals, continue to track your changes. If you are exercising right and eating a good diet, then your positive results should give you nothing but more confidence. Again, we like to nag you on this one – always consult your doctor or a specialist for expert advice that is necessary to keep your unique body in check.
