Incorporating Exercises When on Vacation

Swimming

If the vacation is by a beach or a pool then swimming is an excellent sport to take as a daily exercise.  It is one of the best to take up whilst away.  It will make the body fit and healthy working every muscle and giving you strength and vitality.  It will, also, burn lots of calories compensating for all those extra foods eaten.  If you cannot swim, then just simple movements such as jumping or walking in the pool will help.

Walking

This is another exercise that can easily be taken up on vacation.  An hour walk a day can make the world of difference.  Take a walk to the beach, to the shops, sightseeing walks or stroll after dinner in the evening.  It doesn’t have to be a strenuous walk, just easy steps to give you some movement whilst on vacation.

Water Skiing

If you are an avid swimmer and love water sports, then water skiing is a good exercise too.  Take the chance and get out there in the water.  Show off your talents at this sport.  Be a devil!

Pedal Boats

Hiring a pedal boat at the beach can give you some form of exercise if you pedal it.  It will work those leg muscles and keep them in shape whilst away.  You will not have to worry about having to work out at a gym.

Ride A Bicycle

Hire a bike and pedal around.  This is an energetic way to keep you in shape whilst eating your favourite foods on your vacation.  It’s a brilliant way to tone the body too and burning all those excess calories that have been eaten.

Horse Riding

If this is available as an excursion sport such as taking a ride along a beach or through countryside then take the opportunity of doing it.  It’s still exercising.

Skiing

If you are on a skiing vacation, then skiing will be the ultimate exercise here.  If you cannot ski then learn.  Even the smallest of movements will be helpful.

Wind Surfing
This is, also, a beach one.  Wind surfing can keep the body in tone, as you are using your balance to keep afloat.  So, if you love this sport then do not hesitate doing it.

Surfing

If you are able to surf or can take lessons, then this will tone your body no problem.  The movement and balancing effect is an excellent form of exercise.

Using a Gym

If your hotel has a gym then definitely take advantage of this.  Visit the gym once a day after breakfast or even before.  This would be a great way of not having to loose out on your daily regime whilst being away from home.  It’s not something that most people want to do when away, but it will still keep you in shape.

Overall, I would say that swimming, walking, skiing and pedaling a boat to be the most used form of exercise for the majority of people whilst on vacation, but all of the above are still good ways of keeping yourself fit when away.

How To Buy The Perfect Treadmill

Whether you are a fitness buff or a complete exercise beginner, a treadmill can be a wise investment. But with the hundreds of companies out there selling treadmills, there is an array of options to choose from.

In this article, I will discuss four of the most important items that you should look for, when shopping for a treadmill.

Motor

When shopping for a treadmill, the most important consideration is the motor.

The majority of treadmills operate on a DC electric motor that provides an easy to control electric current. Quality treadmills use a power output anywhere from 1.5 to 5 horse power (Hp). Obviously the larger Hp will be more expensive.

If you are using your treadmill for your home and for only a few people, then 2 Hp is all you need.


Running Deck

Since you will be doing your exercise entirely on the deck of the treadmill, it is very important that you find one that will fit your frame and provide comfort.

Usually running decks on most treadmills come with two rollers on each end, which help operate the belt. The deck is generally composed a wooden or fibre board that provide some level of spring every time a foot impacts on it. Shock absorbance is important to preventing injury.

When shopping for a deck you should primarily look for decks that can maximize the impact of your legs. In addition, look for at least a 60” length and 20” width. This will provide enough room for the average person's running stride. If you are bigger, then you might need more room.


Frame

Treadmill frames should be composed of a steel or aluminium material. Over time, these frames are known to be much more durable then plastic or wood frames. Durability is the key, so only select a frame that can take a pounding without breaking.


Console

The final factor to consider is the console. This is the one section where treadmill retailers overwhelm consumers with a bunch of jargon and cool sounding gadgets.

When you shop for treadmills, the important item you should look for is a control panel that will display your speed, time, pace and distance. Anything beyond that is your personal preference. While many people love extras, you can get by with just these items.

So if you have a little more in your budget, you can look for some factors such as:

· Programmed workouts
· Incline settings
· Maximum speeds going up to12 mph
· Safety features that allow for quick turning off of the machine
· Heart rate monitors that can be clipped to your chest, ear or finger
· Entertainment functions that can help distract the user


Buying a treadmill can be confusing because of the technical terms and jargon. By understanding the basics of what you need, then you can ignore all the fancy sounding names and focus on what is important. When you understand the basics of a quality treadmill, then it will be easy to find one that is perfect for your home and budget.

Home Gyms Review: 5 Tips To Get The Most From Your Home Gym

A home gym can help you build an incredible looking body, skyrocket your metabolism and shave years off your age.

If you choose wisely, you'll have all the tools you need to accomplish these goals (and more). But not everyone knows where to start or how to get the most from a home gym.

When clients ask me about buying home gym equipment, here are 5 things I tell them to get the most from their purchase:

1) Buy a well rounded piece of equipment:

Unless you have hundreds of square feet in your home to dedicate to multiple pieces of equipment, you should look for a home gym that covers all the major exercises (including the ones you don't like), such as chest, back, legs (hamstrings & quadriceps), shoulders, biceps and triceps.

2) Make sure your home gym is stable:

There's a saying, 'You get what you pay for.' Most of the inexpensive home gyms you buy from a local department store have very narrow bases, so they tend to rock. Stay away from home gyms that do not have a good stable base.

For a basic rule of thumb, look at home gyms that are more 'square' or 'as high as they are wide'. As an example, you won't want a home gym that 10ft high x 2 ft wide x 2 ft deep, unless you are going to anchor it to a concrete floor.

3) Put your home gym in a place you will use it:

If you leave your home gym in a room you normally don't go into to, odds are high that you aren't going to use it. The more inviting the room where you place your equipment, the more likely you will use it (how many of us really want to work out in a dungeon?).

If there's only one place you can place your home gym, then work on the room. Maybe add a coat of paint or put up pictures that inspire you. Add a stereo system or a wall mounted television. By making the room inviting and inspiring, you'll ensure that workouts will be enjoyable.

4) Make a simple & short workout routine:

Don't go making or using 'Mr. Or Ms. Olympia' home gym workouts. That's the first big mistake that people make when they first get their equipment. Instead, start by making a workout that is only 30 to 45 minutes long. That's less than a 1 hour TV show.

Do this workout 3 to 5 days a week. Remember to work all your muscles (not just the ones you like) for optimum results. It helps to keep a record of your workouts on paper so you can see just how far you've come.

If you're stuck on what to do, don't worry. Many home gyms come with beginner workouts. But again, don't go all out and kill yourself the first few workouts - start from where you are and build on it. Consistency is key for a killer body.

5) Write your workout days on the calendar:

Like any important appointment, make an appointment with your home gym. You need to make the effort to put yourself, your body and your health first - especially at the beginning stages. Experts tell us it takes 3 to 6 weeks before actions become habit. Once you've built the habit of working out, it will get easier.

To help you stick to your exercise appointment, get loved ones to encourage you and make you accountable. Once you get past the 8-week mark, you'll feel (and look) so great you'll wonder why you didn't get a home gym sooner.

So those are 5 ways to get the most out of your home gym equipment. If you want to know which home gyms are my picks for 'Best Buy' check out:

Home Exercise Workout Equipment

Life is busy. Between jobs, housework, family, and errands, the days fly by. Add into that the task of spending time going to the gym, and it just doesn't seem possible for a lot of us. Home exercise equipment and exercise videos are often a great alternative to spending time and money at a gym. If you are planning to start a home exercise routine, you may be wondering what type of exercise equipment you will need to get an effective workout. Often, you will find that you can get the best deals on home exercise equipment online.

First you will need to determine what is your current level of fitness and what goals you wish to accomplish. Your budget and the types of activities you enjoy are major factors as well. If you do not enjoy the exercises you are performing it is very easy to lose interest and quit. The safety of the exercise equipment and the amount of space you have in which to store and use the equipment is also a major concern.

Some of the different types of home exercise equipment are treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationery bicycles, cross-country ski machines, and free weights.

* Treadmills are very popular for use in the home. You can purchase a treadmill in any price range and with basic to advanced functions. You will need a treadmill with solid construction, smooth walking action, a wide belt, incline setting, and a safety cut-off. Make sure you understand the warranty and availability of replacements parts before making your purchase.

* An elliptical trainer gives you a comfortable, non-impact way to exercise and almost anyone can do it. You will be able to adjust the intensity and resistance to fit your current fitness level and change the settings as you progress in your exercise routine. Elliptical trainers vary in price and you should check out several models before making a purchase to make sure you find the best deal that you can possibly find on a well-constructed machine that carries an excellent warranty.

* Stationary bikes give you a no-impact, comfortable way to exercise and will take up very little space. Exercise bikes are great for those who have been leading a sedentary lifestyle and are just beginning an exercise program.

* You may also want to consider a step machine. Steppers give you a great cardio-vascular workout and will help strengthen your lower body muscles.

* Cross-country ski machines and rowing machines are a great way to exercise at home. You can get a full body workout in the comfort of your own home, but be sure to try these machines before you purchase. The workout you receive with a cross-country or rowing machine can be intense and may not be suited for beginners.

* Free-weights and other resistance equipment are great for toning muscles and improving strength and require very little space.

Before you make any purchases determine which kinds of equipment will be the best for you and what your particular goals are in starting a home workout routine. Compare prices, warranties, and consumer reviews for the exercise equipment you are considering purchasing to make sure it fits your needs, your budget, and is safe for you to use.

Most types of exercise equipment that you can use in your home will work great if you use it on a regular basis. Decide what your goals are and what your budget will allow before you begin shopping for new exercise equipment and purchase the types that you will find fun and challenging to use.

Gym Equipment - which machine works best?

It seems like every time you go to the gym, they’ve got another fancy new machine. The number of ways to build exercise machines seems to be almost endless, and coming up with new ideas for them is a lucrative industry. When you look at gym equipment, though, you can pick out some of the most useful and flexible machines and tools, and separate them from the gimmicks.

The number one piece of gym equipment, without question, has to be weights. Weights are just heavy pieces of metal, and yet are a vital ingredient of almost every gym machine, as well as very useful in their own right. Lifting weights can strengthen the majority of the muscles in your body, if you use a variety of lifting techniques.

Beyond that, many classic gym machines replicate real-world sports and activities in order to exercise your muscles. Treadmills, for example, reproduce walking and running, rowing machines allow you to train your arm muscles without actually going out on the water, and exercise bikes simulate cycling. Punching bags allow you to box without an opponent. Each one of these sports simulations has a specific reason for being included, usually that it is good for a specific muscle group, as well as being useful for people who are actually training for the sport in question.

If you’re thinking of buying gym equipment for your home instead of going to the gym, weights are probably the best thing to get, as they are versatile and compact. Machines like treadmills and exercise bikes can be ten times the size of a set of weights, not to mention ten times the price, yet cannot do as much for you as a simple set of weights can. Try not to get caught up in the latest ‘as seen on TV’ gimmick, as most advertised gym equipment will only do anything for one specific muscle group, and even then probably won’t do much for that. Make sure you know exactly what you’re buying and what it will do for you before you make the investment.

Going to the gym has its benefits

For most people, it simply isn’t practical to get gym equipment for their home. The equipment is expensive, and you probably don’t have anywhere to put it, and it’s certainly impractical to buy and store the wide variety of machines that are necessary for a properly balanced workout.

For this reason, most people choose to join a gym. For either a per-visit fee or a monthly subscription fee, you get to share the equipment with other people, paying a fraction of the price of what it’s worth. You also get to exercise in a specially-designed, luxurious air conditioned environment, with qualified trainers on hand to help you get the most out of the equipment and make sure you don’t hurt yourself.

However, gyms also have a bit of a reputation for being scammers: the big chains are very sales-driven, trying to sign people up for far more expensive monthly memberships than they need, and relying on people’s guilt about not going to the gym to stop them from cancelling the expensive commitment.

For this reason, you really need to know what you’re getting into before you join a gym. Avoid offers that seem too good to be true, and always pay the per-visit fee to go in and try out a gym first before you commit to anything. If there is no way to pay per visit, you’re dealing with shady types and should probably just go to another gym.

Even legitimate gyms will generally often cheaper and more expensive levels of membership, however, so it is also important to know what you can expect. Generally, the higher membership levels offer more one-to-one training from qualified gym instructors. However, it is worth considering whether you will really use this and whether it’s worth paying for, as when it comes down to it, there is little a gym trainer could tell you one-to-one that you couldn’t just as easily learn from books or the Internet.

Getting the Most Out of an Elliptical Machine

Do you want to get fit? Do you want to get yourself into a cardiovascular program that will shed pounds off your belly and keep your heart working in tip top shape? Most people would think that the answer to this is jumping on the treadmill or cycling endlessly. However such forms of exercise cause more pain than gain. If you are one of those who knows this very well then you might want to try using an elliptical machine.

In the 80s, the fitness world welcomed the arrival of cross-country sky machines. They were seen as better alternatives to the old-fashioned treadmills and stationary bikes because they allow health buffs to workout more with less time. The cross-country machines were indeed great in this light but a lot people find cross-country ski movements to be rather unnatural and thus more taxing to do. Because of this, innovative fitness machine developers modified the design to adapt to what people usually do with their body – walking, stepping, cycling, or skiing, but now with an elliptical motion, which produces less or no impact. This allows people to workout more and burn more calories without getting tired or burnt out easily.

How effective is an elliptical machine in burning calories?

There are hundreds of elliptical machines in the market and their effectiveness to burn calories varies greatly. Some manufacturers say that within an hour you can burn over 700 calories or more. While this may be true, the optimization of calorie-burning depends upon the user – how much time or how much effort is exerted working out is a primary factor on the elliptical machine’s effectiveness. It is safe to say that the rates would be similar to those of cross-country ski machines.

Benefits and Drawbacks with Elliptical Machines

An elliptical machine allows exercises to work out their bodies in shorter periods with less or no strain. Elliptical machines can be used for all fitness levels, from beginner to athletic, and all working out ages. The elderly could well benefit from its use because it produces less stress on the joints. It can be a great alternative to cycling and running machines to prevent boredom from exercise. At home, it can be used while watching the TV or listening to the radio as it generally produces less noise compared to running on treadmills.

The problems with elliptical machines also lie on its benefits. Because it is easy to use, some people tend to overdo their workout. People forget the importance of warming up, stretching, and cooling down. Some exercisers also tend to work their heart rates up to the limits. The lack of impact may also result into the burning of fewer calories when not enough effort is exerted. The variety of models can be confusing to a lot of consumers as compared to buying more basic machines like the treadmill, where the only concern is for it to allow one to run continually.

When buying elliptical machines it is important to first check your budget and then see all models and brands that would match your funds. You should then check the features of each model and see what you think would best serve your purposes. It is important to try working out on the machine as you would normally work out – with proper shoes and clothes on. Most importantly, you should check with your doctor to see if the machine and the exercise it allows you to do would be appropriate for your health level.

Working out can be fun with an elliptical machine! Try and see for yourself.

Fitness and Health

Fitness and health have been closely related ever since fitness was first defined, because this sport involves good physical shape built on good state of health. The state of health of the people who practice various sports is always in attention of the instructors.

However, there are numerous sports which are rather spectacular, but practicing them exposes the sportsmen to particular risks. Such kind of problems can appear even in the sports for amateurs; there is, of course, specific pathology for every sport. Since the body is prone to different health problems, a factor which can provoke them is the volume and intensity of training. Long distance running and jogging are extremely popular forms of training.A frequent health problem in tennis is epycondylitis or 'the tennis player's elbow'. Weightlifting can lead to varicous veins or high blood pressure.

Fitness tries to make every exercise useful for health and body esthetics. The type of training that is recommended is the complex one, including aerobic and anaerobic exercises.

While doing aerobic exercises, the body satisfies its need of oxygen during effort. We are talking here about all types of resistance efforts, like long distance running, ski, rowing, fast walking, swimming, cycling, speed skating, etc. The consequences of these efforts are visible, first of all, at a cardiovascular and pulmonary level. This type of exercises are the most effective in burning calories and this is why they can easily burn fat tissue, as long as they last more than 40-45 minutes without stopping. The energetic support of these efforts comes from the fat acids which are mobilized from the adipose tissue.

The efforts of anaerobic type are responsible for increasing force and muscular mass and for bone resistance. During this type of short and intensive effort the body cannot satisfy the need of oxygen. What happens is the so-called 'oxygen duty', recovered in the breaks between the efforts. The most typical example is the break between two series of exercises meant to work the same muscle.

The effectiveness of fitness trainings is closely related to their weekly practice. There are a minimum number of trainings necessary for visible effects.

For the programs of anaerobic type (force) the experts say that two trainings a week are necessary, each of 30-45 minutes. During these sessions, the whole body is trained every time.

In the case of aerobic training (resistance), their weekly frequency must be increased to three, each between 20 and 60 minutes.

Both types of training must be continued uninterruptedly for at least two or three months. After this period, a one-week active break is recommended. In this time the person must make lighter efforts like walking and gymnastics, the purpose being now recovery and relaxation.

Starting from this minimum frequency, any supplementary training will make progress come sooner, as long as you avoid over-training or over-exerting. Deciding the optimum number of trainings, their volume and intensity depends a lot on the particularities and the possibilities of the person who practices the sport.

Features Of Home Gym Equipment

Home gym equipment is a great way for you to stay in shape, stay healthy and keep and build muscle tone. There are many home gym equipment reviews online that tout the benefits of the home gym. You can exercise at home in relative ease. The equipment allows you to work muscles productively that you normally would have trouble exercising and the equipment is usually more effective in helping you exercise. It helps you to maintain proper posture and follow through in the correct motions.

Many users of home gym equipment have or use multistation pieces that allow them to workout on several types of machines in one. The multistation home gym will often allow you to work out your arms, legs, abs and buttock or thighs.

Its usually composed of a pulley or sliding bar system that ‘transforms’ into different positions when you wish to change your workout routine. The multistation home gym increases tension using these pulleys which equate to measures of five or ten pound increments.

You may wish to check out some home gym equipment reviews to find which multistation gyms people prefer. It is very important to find the right ones. Your workout routine will undoubtedly place a lot of stress on the machine and you want to look for the machine that will stand up to the abuse. In a worst case scenario your multistation home gym will break while you are using it and may cause you an injury.

All home gym equipment must have a steel or aluminum frame in order to be strong enough to support you during exercise. It should come with a warranty because it is a big purchase and you need to get your monies worth. Also its important to make sure that this home gym equipment works when you get it and that it has a return policy that the company will honor.

Exercise Bikes Burn Calories

Exercise bikes are a good way of losing calories and cutting the flab. They are a good cardio vascular workout and make the calf muscles especially strong. Cycling or biking is a very good form of exercising, as it tones up the entire body. Exercise bikes are equally good for providing such a workout. In the comfort of the home or the gym, you can easily work out and at any time of the day. Most of the exercise bikes, which are available in the market, have a control panel as well as a range of resistance levels. In this way it's beneficial to both the beginner as well as the advanced user.

The exercise bikes are available for as little as $200 for a simple bike and can cost till $3000 for an exercise bike with all the frills added. Thee are innumerable types of exercise bikes, which are available in the market. Before you buy an exercise bike its important to read before you make a decision as exercise bike reviews will give you an idea of the latest prices, functions and types of exercise bikes which are available in the market. There are essentially three types of exercise bikes, which are available in the market, which are upright stationary cycle, semi recumbent stationary cycle and recumbent stationary cycle.

It's important that you note all the functions of the exercise bike before you in for the purchase. Read all the exercise bike reviews online as well as visit the stores where they are displayed. There are many magazine which are specifically dedicated to reviews, in these exercise bike reviews each and every aspect of the bike is given and compared with many other bikes. In this way a person can compare various models, prices and functions before the final purchase decision is made.

Exercise Bike Benefits

So you know you want to buy some type of home exercise equipment - but why buy an exercise bike?

One of the top benefits of exercise bikes is that they are probably the most affordable piece of exercise equipment on the market right now. Starting around $200 and ranging up to $2500, exercise bikes offer a huge variety of models for every price range and every exercise level.

It is however advisable to keep in mind that you will get what you pay for with an exercise bike. Don't expect a $200 exercise bike to come with all of the bells and whistles and last you over 3 years. However if you are on a budget, an exercise bike is a great way to get in shape for less.

Another great benefit of exercise bikes is that they provide a much lower impact on your joints and ligaments than other piece of exercise equipment like a treadmill or stair climber. This can result in less chance of sustained injury over time and can also be great for people with joint problems, arthritis, etc.

Another recent factor that has made the exercise bikes much more comfortable to use is the introduction of the recumbent exercise bike - where you sit in a semi-reclined bucket seat with your legs angled out in front of you instead of hanging down.

Until the recumbent bike came along, many people just weren't comfortable on the standard upright bike seat. The recumbent exercise bike allows people to get a much more comfortable workout - which means that they can exercise for longer periods of time.

Exercise bikes can also be much safer than other forms of exercise equipment. You can slip and fall on a treadmill. You can lose your balance on an elliptical trainer. It's much more difficult to fall off or injury yourself on an exercise bike. This makes the exercise bike a great alternative for the elderly exerciser or someone who is new to exercise equipment in general.

Another factor that makes the exercise bike so popular in home gyms is the fact that (with a recumbent bike) you can read while you're exercising. Boredom is one of the main reasons people don't exercise. So instead of forcing yourself to trudge through your workout, why not choose a piece of exercise equipment that's going to allow you to multitask and do what you want while working out?

Read your favorite magazine or the latest murder mystery novel. Set the exercise bike up in front of the television and watch your favorite show while pedalling. Time will fly by and you won't even know you've been blasting those calories!

This leads into what is perhaps the best benefit of an exercise bike. Because exercise bikes are so affordable, comfortable, low impact and safe - and because they allow you to fight boredom while exercising - the chances that you'll use it are extremely high.

No one wants to spend a lot of hard earned cash a piece of fancy exercise equipment and then use it for a clothes rack. You want to be able to stay fit, burn calories and keep healthy by working out. But if you buy a machine that you never use, all of your best intentions have gone to waste.

Because of the great benefits of exercise bikes, many people find that they not only use them for years to come but they also end up exercising much more than they thought they would.

Elliptical Workout - 3 Advantages Of Working Out With An Elliptical

If you're trying to decide between an elliptical trainer and another piece of exercise equipment, consider the workout advantages an elliptical provides. What's so special about an elliptical workout? Here are 3 unique advantages of using your elliptical trainer to workout:


#1) Forward & Back Motions Provide Better Workout Results

Almost all elliptical trainers offer both forward and back motion (also called dual action motion). This allows you to work different sets of muscle groups in your legs (hamstrings vs quads) which adds up to more calories burned, more muscles toned and an overall better body workout.

You can't walk backwards on a treadmill (ok, you can but that might be difficult. And peddling backwards on a bike might not be so helpful. The dual action ability of your elliptical trainer helps you work more muscles. Plus you have the potential to burn more calories


#2) You Get A Lower Impact Workout

A properly designed elliptical trainer mimics your body's natural stride - the way your foot moves elliptically when walking, running, or jogging. You stand upright striding in a forward or reverse motion. Your feet never leave the pedals.

Because of this, impact is basically eliminated and there is much less overall stress on your knees, hips and back, joints and back. (Just make sure you get a properly designed elliptical trainer - not one of the cheaper department store versions!)

Because of the lower impact of an elliptical workout, the elliptical machine is becoming very popular with the older population or those who are more easily prone to sports injury.


#3) Upper Body Arm Bars Help You Burn More Calories & Get A Superior Overall Body Workout

Many elliptical trainers offer moveable upper body arm bars. By working both legs and arms, your heart rate elevates more quickly which encourages your body to burn calories faster and more efficiently.

It also results in a lower perceived rate of exertion (basically you don't feel like you worked as hard as you really did). This may mean that you end up burning more calories, even without feeling like you did much of a workout.

By offering upper body arms, an elliptical trainer workout also helps you tone your arms, shoulders and back for better definition.

An elliptical trainer workout has many advantages over other exercise machines. It gives you an overall body workout that burns extra calories and gives you an extra efficient workout. Just make sure you choose one that meets your needs and is properly designed for maximum comfort.

Elliptical Trainers - A Complete Workout

Elliptical trainers can give a complete body workout if the arms are also used. They are low impact cardio vascular workout machine and are easy on the joints of the legs and the knees. They help you to lose weight and stay in shape. In fact you burn the same number of calories as you would when you are jogging on the treadmill. For this reason, people of all age groups can use the elliptical trainers. Thus whether you are a beginner or an advanced athlete, you can easily work out on the elliptical trainer.

The cheapest models come for as low as $300, but they have the most basic functions. The top of the range elliptical trainers come for $4000 and has advanced functions. These elliptical trainers are meant for gym use. If you want to see the features of various elliptical trainers, you'll find the reviews of the elliptical trainers are extensive and they also give the ratings for the various models. It's also important to try out the elliptical-trainers before you actually purchase them. By going to a physical store, you can easily try out the various elliptical trainers.

In the more expensive models, some of the features included are warm up and cool down periods. This prevents the body from having cramps. Therefore when you look at look at the features and the cost of the elliptical trainers very closely, this helps to analyze which is the better elliptical trainer. It's important to buy the elliptical-trainers from a reputed company that can also provide after sales service. Look at the warranty periods to ensure that you get the best deal when you buy the elliptical trainer. Normally there is one-year warranty for the labor and three year warranty for the machine parts.

Lifetime warranties are possible and recommended if you find something in your price range.

Elliptical Trainer - Health Benefits For Hearts, And Hips

Having an elliptical trainer as a cardio workout companion pays handsome health dividends. Improved cardiovascular function, overall conditioning, and healthy weight loss due to a revved up metabolism, are all part and parcel of the benefits of an elliptical trainer package.

Although these machines were primarily developed as a low-impact exercise solution, elliptical trainers have become superb general fitness tools, as discussed at Best-Gym-Equipment.com. They offer continuous motion, without the commotion, so to speak!

With the help of the firm footing provided by the elliptical trainer's footpads or footplates, the user 'walks' with a natural, smooth, flowing movement. The result is bone-strengthening, weight-bearing, fat-burning, aerobic exercise, without the jarring that is a major cause of joint injuries.

You will have a riot on your hands if only your hips, glutes, and legs are called to 'gym' service. Maintain bodily harmony and peace, by looking at elliptical trainers that sport crosstraining handlebars. This will get your upper body into the game, placating complaining hips and thighs.

By following this strategy, you maximize the calorie-burning benefit you derive from your time on the elliptical trainer. At the same time, you will be strengthening your arms, back, chest, and shoulders.

Elliptical Trainer - A Basic Checklist:

Adjustable Resistance: As your body adapts to the cardio workout, and your aerobic capacity increases, you will need an adjustable resistance feature to maintain the effectiveness off the elliptical trainer program. Look for a machine that offers this feature at the push of a button. You don't want to lose your momentum, while changing gear.

Backing Up Is Beneficial: An elliptical trainer should offer both forward and reverse motion. This prevents repetitive strain injuries, by cajoling different muscles into action. It also adds variety to your exercise routine, maintaining interest.

Concise Consoles: Make sure that you will be able to understand the workings of the elliptical trainer's console. Functionality and clear programming are vital. Some machines conveniently accommodate more than one user.

Do-It-Yourself: Most elliptical trainers feature a wide variety of pre-set programs - more than enough to test your limits for some time. However, you may want the option to customize programs to allow for your particular needs. Check that this will be possible.

Even Fluency: When testing an elliptical trainer, a clear sign of the quality of the machine, is the fluency of the motion, and a low noise level. Any sign of instability, is a sign to focus on a different model.

Footprint Fit: If space is a problem, an elliptical trainer may be an ideal option, as it usually is quite a compact piece of fitness equipment. Many models come with wheels for no-fuss mobility.

Heart Rate Monitor: Most elliptical trainers feature hand grip sensors on the handlebars. In any cardiovascular exercise program, it is vital to monitor your heart rate, in order to make adjustments to the workout intensity. A heart monitor strap may also be available.

Incline Incentive: A quality elliptical trainer will have as one of its features, an 0% to 10% adjustable incline, allowing you to up the ante as your muscle power increase. For maximum cardiovascular and strength-building benefits, it is important to retain an element of challenge in your routine.

Jolts And Jars: When testing an elliptical trainer, look for a completely smooth movement, without any jolts or bouncyness in the footpads.

Knee-Demands: An elliptical trainer often is a suitable option to consider, if you are experiencing any knee problems. The natural movement promotes proper alignment of ankle, knee, and hip. However, it is always safe to check with a health practitioner, if you have any medical concerns.

Length Of Stride: Test the elliptical trainer to make sure that it is completely comfortable. Don't let the machine cramp your style!

All the prominent manufacturers have designed state-of-the-art, feature-rich crosstrainers. The only way to make sure that you find the perfect partner for your cardio workout, is to thoroughly test a wide range of elliptical trainers.

Elliptical Exercise Equipment - What To Look For When Buying

Buying <b>elliptical exercise equipment</b>? There are so many different brands and types of ellipticals out there - it can get confusing! How do you know which one is best for you and how do you avoid buying a lemon?

In order to keep things simple and have the very best buying experience, here are 3 key tips to help you choose the <u>best elliptical exercise equipment</u>:


#1) Price


If you want a quality elliptical trainer, be prepared to spend at least $800.  Why? Because most ellipticals under this price point just aren't built to stand up over the long haul. 

Example: My $400 elliptical that I bought from a department store several years back lasted 3 months - 4 if you count the last month it was used as a clothes hanger in my living room. 

After 3 months it developed a loud squeaking noise that couldn't be fixed - no matter how long or hard my handyman husband worked on it.

If I'd been smart enough to spend a bit more, I'd probably still have the elliptical today. In the end it was a huge waste of money and time.

So the bottom line is this: If you're really serious about getting in shape, you deserve to invest in a piece of exercise equipment that's going to last you - so be ready to spend a bit more on your elliptical trainer.  If you consider how long the elliptical will last you, you actually SAVE money over the long term.


#2) Who Are You Buying It From?


While there are lots of places the sell elliptical exercise equipment - both online and off, make sure they have several years of experience and a solid return policy.  If a company has experience selling elliptical equipment, this will make your transaction (and shipping) go much more smoothly.

A solid return policy also gives you peace of mind when buying your elliptical. For example, even if you try your elliptical out in a store, you might get it home and find that after a week it strains your arms or hurts your hips.  You want to know that you can return your elliptical without a hassle.

Many specialty fitness stores will offer some kind of return policy and most experienced online elliptical stores also offer you a standard 30 day return policy. But it's always important to check before you buy.


#3) Upper Body Arms


The beauty of an elliptical trainer is that it offers you a total body workout.


Whereas treadmills and recumbent bikes tend to work mainly the lower body only, ellipticals offer you a chance to burn calories and build strength using upper body arm handles. This means more calories burned in less time. 


Surprisingly enough however, not all elliptical trainers offer upper body arms with their units. Make sure you choose an elliptical with upper body workout arms included if this is an option you want. 


It usually won't cost you extra to have upper body arms however one note of caution: Many of the cheaper ellipticals don't necessarily have the coordination between the arms and legs exactly right.  This can result in injury or a less efficient workout.


Rule of Thumb: You should not have to lean over to use the upper body arms.


So there are three things to consider when buying <b>elliptical exercise equipment</b>.

Create your Home Gym with Minimum of Equipment

Training at home could prove as a good solution for the ones interested. The effectiveness of this type of training could compare to the one of working out in the gym, as long as some factors are considered.

The first, and at the same time the most important of these, is owning the necessary equipment. If, besides this, you also have a partner who trains with you, the exercises can be as effective as the ones performed in the gym. Of course, we are talking now about the ideal situation of affording a gym in your own house.

Even with these conditions fulfilled, some practitioners, especially the more extrovert ones, might lack the stimulating atmosphere, the sharing of experience, the communication that they can find in the gym.

 In most of the cases, what you can do at home is improvise a room or just a corner of a room, for fitness. Besides, most of the times you have to train by yourself. As these are the most frequent situations, we'll deal with them now. Anyway, it is preferable to have constant training at home, rather than interrupt it a lot because the gym is too busy, too far, too expensive, etc.

The minimum of equipment necessary for training at home includes: an adjustable bench, a set of two dumbbells, with increasing weights, a barbell, with free weights and a fix bar for pull ups. This equipment will enable both executing basic exercises (squats, bench presses, pull-ups, sit-ups, etc.) and diversity of exercises, necessary for avoiding routine.

The main disadvantage of not having a partner to train with is reflected in the amount of loading in some exercises, which cannot reach its maximum. There are many exercises which can be loaded to maximum without any risk, even if there is no partner to assist you (pull-ups, dips, shoulder presses, barbell curs, dumbbell curls, etc.).

An advantage which comes from training at home is that you can choose the training time without any restraint. Moreover, the speed of exercising can be increased a lot if the practitioner chooses to execute supersets, tri sets or giant sets. You can also save time, as you are not distracted by casual conversation, by waiting for the machines to be available, by having to change the weights for every personal series of exercises, etc.

In the extreme case when we can only afford as equipment a mattress, chairs and a towel, we can focus on exercises using the weight of the body (push-ups, reverse push-ups, between chairs push-ups, squats, sit-ups, crunches, hyperextensions, lunges, plyometrics, plunks, etc.).

All the exercises involving the body weight are considered as really demanding, because they mobilize more stabilizing muscles that ensure coordination and balance. The body-weight exercises are often introduced in the programs at the gym due to their proven effectiveness. They are also used in training and testing people in special troops, as these need a lot of force and discipline in their training.

Choosing Your Fitness Equipment

Fitness equipment is a large group of tools that are used in exercise and are referred to also as exercise equipment. These can include simple items such as balls, track shoes and skipping ropes as well as more complex pieces of equipment such as treadmills, weights, bicycles and many others. Today a wide range of fitness equipment is available for sale with new designs constantly being produced due to the high demand for equipment that is effective in building muscles and strength as well as for losing weight.

Some of the types of fitness equipment available for use can be classified according the type of exercise for which they are built. The first class to be discussed is the strength training equipment. These include free weights and machines referred to as the resistance machines.

The most common type of resistance machine is one that uses gravity as a resistance source. This design is used mainly in weight machines. Gravity in combination with a simple design of pulleys, wheels and inclines, uses a percentage of the weight of the user as the resistance transferred. Other types of resistance machines can use other forces other than gravity to provide resistance. These include friction, spring-loaded, fan-loaded or fluid-loaded machines.

Another type of equipment belonging to the strength training equipment is the bands and tubing, which are lightweight options for training at home and in the office.

The other class is the aerobic fitness equipment which is mainly the endless-path machines. These include devices such as the stationary bicycles, the treadmills, the elliptical trainers, aerobic riders, the stair climbers, the ski and rowing machines. The stationary bicycle focuses the exercise on the legs by the action of pedaling. The treadmills are an all body exercise as you may walk or run at various speeds. There are also some models that can simulate slopes for a more intense workout.

The stair climbers replicate the action of climbing a stairway. This device now also has modifications that replicate the pulling up action off the hands for a more through workout. The skiing and rowing machines work both the arms and legs simultaneously with the rowing machine also working the back muscles. The elliptical trainers are a cross between the stair climbers and the ski machines. The aerobic riders also exercise the arms and legs at the same time by the use of a simultaneous pull and push motion.

There is also a miscellaneous group of fitness equipment. These include items such as heart rate monitors and exercise balls as well as many others. The heart rate monitors are used as a motivational tool in exercise as they monitor the heart rate and provide feedback to the individual exercising. The use of exercise balls has become very important in training such as flexibility training and for balance as well.

When using any type of fitness equipment it is always important to seek professional advice as the improper use of this equipment can cause severe damage.

Choosing Quality Exercise Equipment

It seems like every time you turn on the TV these days, there is another commercial for exercise equipment. The latest and greatest treadmill or the second to none all in one machine are advertised on a daily basis. And why not? Consumers love them. We’re always looking for ways to shape up faster and without as much work. And, that’s just what this equipment claims to do. Work out for just 20 minutes a day, three days a week and you’ll have the body of a supermodel in just one month. If only that were true. We wouldn’t have to put ourselves through the pain of the gym everyday.

If you are looking for some quality exercise equipment though, it is available. You just need to do some research and talk to enough qualified people to learn what equipment will be best for your work out routine. A treadmill works for a lot of people who like to work out in the privacy of their own home. And there are a lot of benefits that can be gleaned from running on a treadmill everyday. This type of aerobic exercise is good for your heart and your lungs. Just be sure to keep tabs on your heart rate so you don’t over do it and put your heart in danger. A general rule of thumb for running is that you should be able to talk semi-comfortably while you’re running. If you can talk without any trouble at all, you’re probably not running hard enough or fast enough. If you can’t talk because you’re busy huffing and puffing, you’re probably pushing yourself too hard. Slow down a bit and take it one step at a time.

There are several other types of exercise equipment available that can prove beneficial to our health as well. A popular piece of equipment these days is the exercise ball. They come in different sizes, so it’s important to determine which one will work for the goals you have in mind. There are many muscles that you can work using the ball. And the balls usually come with a set of instructions that tell you how to use it for different muscle groups. It’s also a great way to stretch your muscles, which is an important factor in every work out.

Some people prefer yoga or Pilates as their main workout. Each of these activities has their own set of exercise equipment as well. Along with the exercise ball, it’s important to invest in a mat. Not only will it give you the comfort you’re seeking when lying on the floor, but it’ll help keep you from getting dirty as well.

Buying a Discount Treadmill – Is it Really a Bargain?

Have you ever noticed how many treadmills are being sold at a discount prices? Of course, that is part of commercialism.  For example, when was the last time you paid list price for a car or jewelry? 

What motivated me to write this article is the fact that “Discount Treadmill” is a very popular search term.  <b>People are looking to get the best deal possible when they purchase a treadmill.</b>   That makes sense, since even a moderate priced treadmill can run from $1,000 - $2,000. 

<b>So how do you tell when a treadmill is being sold at a discount?</b>

First, by comparative shopping.  You find a particular model that satisfies your needs and you shop around.  Depending on the quality of the treadmill, you compare prices at the various mass retailers, large sporting goods stores, specialty fitness stores and online. 

In addition, you look for special offers like free shipping, added accessories and extended warranties.  Regarding shipping, some businesses may drop off a treadmill on your curve, while others will bring it into your house, set it up and remove the packaging.  Considering the weight of some models, that can add considerable value. 

<b>Discounts from Buying Online</b>

More and more people are going online to purchase a treadmill.  Are they really saving money?  Yes and no.   Yes, you can save money from not having to pay sales tax if you purchase from a business that is not located in your state.  You can also find discounts online that are better deals than you would find in retail stores.  Also, several manufacturers sell direct on the Internet, thus cutting out the middleman. 

In contrast the large sporting goods stores generally sell for the same price online as they do in their store.   Furthermore, many treadmill manufacturers set a minimum price that any and all dealers cannot go under, regardless whether they sell online and off.

<b>Discount Prices vs MSRP</b>

Regarding the manufacturers  suggested retail price, that is a number that has nothing to do with reality.  It is deliberately inflated in an attempt to make the real selling price less intimidating.  Both manufacturers and retailers play serious games with their prices.

For example, one online retailer that sells private labeled treadmills lists the MSRP at double the real selling price.   They attempt to suggest you are saving as much as 50%.  But in realty their private label treadmill is sold for the same price as the manufacturer’s models.  Another popular treadmill sold online promotes discounts at 15%-40% off. 

<b>With all this slight of hand with prices how do you determine the real value?</b>

First, you decide how you are going to use the treadmill, and determine what features would satisfy your fitness goals.  For example, if you plan to use the treadmill for walking and want the machine to last for more than 90 days, you want certain minimal features.  If you plan to use it for running, than you need upgraded features.  Here are some of the features you want to compare:

<li>Motor size</li>
<li>Deck size</li>
<li>Roller size</li>
<li>Electronics</li>
<li>Console</li>
<li>Programs</li>

In addition, you want to compare the warranties.  The warranty says a lot about the overall quality of the machine and the components.  You also want to research the reputation of the manufacturer.  You want to buy from a company that is synonymous with quality.  You also want to do business with a company that stands behind their treadmills.  

When buying a treadmill do not get caught up in marketing hype of discount prices.   <b>Instead look for the best value in your price range. </b>

Breathable Fabrics or Regular Garments- Click Your Option

Leaves have a neat way of getting rid of water vapour. They have chambers with tiny pores (stomata) that allow water vapour to escape (transpiration).

Have you seen people wearing clothes having almost the same expertise? Clothes, which are elastic, non-absorbent, weatherproof and lightweight and fits any form! 

Just imagine someone wearing an outfit that removes sweat from the skin thus keeping it dry and comfortable; regulates heat, keeping muscles and joints warm without overheating; provides compressive support for muscles, ligaments and joints; increases blood flow!

Such garments are now available in market with all those above-mentioned facilities. It has hollow cavities and tiny, raised holes - just like the stomata, which allow plants to cool themselves and regulate moisture loss through transpiration.

Not only as a sports fabric or as orthopaedic supports or as military clothing, general people, who want to loose weight naturally, without being soaked in sweat while running, are using such garments.

They feel that these breathable fabrics are too good for daily rough wear and tear. Fabrics like those that Stomatex is used to make all forms of athletic vests, shorts, back belts and knee supports. Products like wet suits, surfing wetsuits, survival suits, thermal underwear and warm-up suits are always in demand round the world.

Nevertheless, how does it work?

It uses a pattern of dome-shaped vapour chambers. Each chamber has a tiny pore in the centre. While resting, excess body heat and perspiration rise into the dome-shaped chambers and exit through the tiny pores at a controlled rate. The chambers contract and stretch with each movement of the body, causing excess heat and perspiration to be pumped out of the small pores (This also allows cooler, drier air to enter from the outside).
The unique pumping action of the vapour chambers increases and decreases with the user's level of physical activity.

Over the years, Neoprene, which has holes punched through it, was employed in many applications, primarily because until now there has not been a better alternative. While fabrics like Stomatex have advantages over traditional Neoprene in certain circumstances, the size and formation of the holes significantly reduce the insulation value resulting in condensation of sweat and cooling of the skin. It also causes significant changes in the material's compressive and elastic qualities.

Now it is really the time to dress in green leaves rather than simple clothes.

Bicycling Down Memory Lane

Many adults only remember riding a bike. They gave it up as they became older. Adults can and should take advantage of bicycle riding to get some exercise. Older folks may want to ride the large tricycle with a basket on the front.

I remember my first bike. It was blue with a bell attached to the handlebars and when you worked the little tab back and forth with your thumb, you would hear a tinny ring. All the kids in my neighborhood had bikes, of course they were two speed bikes, stop and go, unlike the many different bikes that are available now.

I don't remember any of us being overweight back then. We rode bikes rather than watching some silly or violent program on TV. In fact, there was no TV, no McDonald's, no computers, no Gameboys; the only video games we had were pictures in our heads.

During the daylight hours we didn't have many sedentary games. We ran around in the yards playing imaginary games. It was great fun. At night the whole family would sit around the supper table eating and talking. The meal usually consisted of a meat, two or three vegetables, and dessert with tea or milk to drink. No one opted for bottled water, oh yeah, there was no bottled water.

The only time we had hamburgers was on Saturday nights, no fries. Instead of fries we had goulash. During the summer we cooked outdoors on a homemade barbecue pit made out of stone. There were no charcoal, electric, or gas grills, we used wood in the pit.

Some of the neighborhood kids were always invited to eat supper with us on Saturday night. We would eat on a wooden picnic table in the backyard. After supper we would play basketball or horseshoes, or some other game. We got plenty of exercise.

Maybe if we had kept on doing those type of things, we would not have so many lazy and overweight people now. Get some "kids" of all ages together and go for a bike ride at least once a week. When you are riding, maybe along the way you'll ride upon a backyard barbecue pit where you can fix some burgers the old fashion way and pitch a few horseshoes after supper.

Benefits Of Elliptical Machines

In the history of fitness and aerobics, elliptical machines are the only aerobic products who made a breakthrough. Almost all gyms, fitness clubs and even homes have already acquired their own elliptical machines. Elliptical machines continue to be popular. Users and buyers of these machines even reached 2.8 million in 2005.

Why are elliptical machines popular? What do users get from them? There are many benefits that can be enjoyed by using an elliptical machine.

Elliptical machines are able to provide healthy bodies by maintaining a healthy bone density. Researches have shown that the bone density has an impact on how healthy the person would become. A person is healthy if he has a healthy bone density.

The exercises needed to maintain a healthy bone density include running, aerobics, weight lifting and exercises where the person remains on his feet. However, these activities may cause jarred bones, which is very dangerous.

With the elliptical machine, all exercises to maintain a healthy bone density can be performed. Using an elliptical machine, the person will be standing on his own feet on a platform wherein he will be bearing weight.

Stepping up and down the platforms causes pedaling with an oval movement. This is very similar to the movement done when walking or running. This only means that the elliptical machine is able to provide the same benefits people can get with these exercises. Plus, they do not experience harmful stress that can impact the bones and muscles.

Safety is ensured with elliptical machines. Using the machine will allow a person to perform exercises smooth and flowing. This minimizes the risk of being injured when performing workouts. The muscles are safe since the pressure is evenly distributed on all the muscles of the body. This will prevent the person from stressing and harming a certain muscle group.

Elliptical machines were also proven to provide workouts best for the cardiovascular system. This is because of the many movements that can be made using the machine. All the muscles of the body are working which is good for maximizing the cardio impact in the body.

Many people would like to maintain a healthy body or even lose weight the easier way. However, they would not like to risk the benefit they can get in doing harder exercises. With the elliptical machines, users are able to do exercises the easy way without sacrificing the amount of weight they would lose.

Many manufacturers have developed elliptical machines and incorporated high technology with them. Many were designed to provide natural motion of body when using the machine. They may be priced higher than other aerobic products but people can be assured that the physical benefits they would like to get will not be neglected.

Buyers can choose from a wide variety of elliptical machines that are now sold in the market. They may come in different forms, in prices and most are incorporated with the highest technology there is in aerobic products. People may still opt to buy the more traditional elliptical machines, which continue to be bestsellers.

Elliptical machines will continue to develop and provide optimum workout for its users. These machines will continue to grow in popularity since they appeal to almost all users. Anyone who uses the machine can be assured of a total workout and the same time will allow burning of fat and calories.

Benefits of an Elliptical Trainer Workout

Elliptical trainers are ideal for getting in shape and losing weight. When you workout on an elliptical trainer there are two important benefits:

<li>Low-Impact Exercise</li>
<li>Upper and Lower Body Workout</li>

It is for those reasons that elliptical trainers are growing in popularity.  Treadmills sell more in total numbers, but elliptical sales are growing at a faster pace. They are particularly appealing to the baby boomer generation that is looking for an alternative form of exercise and workout that lessens the impact on aging joints. 

<b>Low-Impact Exercise</b>

The two most popular forms of exercise are walking and running.  But the facts are running, and to a lesser extent walking, cause stress to your body through continual impact.  In fact, runners can apply as much as 2.5 times their body weight to their joints with each stride.   This is why runners and walkers often suffer from ankle, knee, hip and back injuries.  Especially if they workout outdoors on concrete or asphalt.  With every step there is a degree of shock absorption.  This shock can be felt throughout your entire body. 

Elliptical trainers reduce impact through their elliptical motion.  Your feet never leave the foot pedals.  There is no reverse action, or significant impact.  Consequently there is virtually no shock absorption to your joints.  The motion of an elliptical trainer simulates the natural path of the ankle, knee and hip joints during walking, jogging or running. And yet you still get a weight bearing workout, which builds bone density, and inhibits the onset of osteoporosis.

With a treadmill you are constantly lifting your feet and impacting the treadbelt with every stride. Treadmills are designed to absorb some of the impact, but there is still that constant jolt to your joints.  

<b>Upper and Lower Body Workout</b>

In addition to the low impact exercise, elliptical trainers workout both the upper and lower body simultaneously.  By exercising several muscle groups at once you are able to optimize your workout.   By involving more muscle mass in your aerobic workout you increase the efficiency of your workout.

When you exercise both the upper and lower body on an elliptical trainer, you utilize the quadriceps, glutes, chest, back, hamstrings, triceps and biceps. By exercising more muscle mass you attain the following benefits:

<li>Improved fat mobilization</li>
<li>Build muscle endurance</li>
<li>Burn more calories and fat in less time</li>
<li>Reduced perceived rate of exertion</li>

Regarding the reduced perceived rate of exertion, studies have shown that an elliptical trainer workout will often be perceived as less strenuous due to the combined upper and lower body exercise.   The perception is that you get more results with less effort.

The benefits of an elliptical trainer workout have resulted in increased sales for both residential and commercial use.  They are gaining in popularity at health clubs, and where several years ago you may have seen one or two, you now see rows of ellipticals.

If you haven’t used an elliptical you need to give one a try.  If you are thinking about home fitness equipment, seriously consider an elliptical trainer.  The benefits surpass those you receive from a treadmill, and you will be doing your body a favor.

Benefit From Using Home Gym Equipment

Nearly everyone today has been educated on the benefits of getting regular exercise. Yet still there are an average of sixty percent of American adults not getting enough exercise, while twenty-five percent of the population isn’t active at all. Whether this comes in the form of housecleaning for an hour or strength training at the gym--exercise keeps your muscles strong, your heart strong, and your body in shape. You may find that having home gym equipment to exercise on is a great way of staying active so that you can stay healthy.

Doctors have found that the more active you are the healthier you are in many studies. There is a direct correlation between physical activity on that home gym equipment and a lowered risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, colon cancer, and muscle, bone and joint problems. Also if this wasn’t all ready enough to have you looking up home gym equipment reviews on the internet, exercise can literally make you feel better mentally and emotionally.

Plus you don’t have to exercise for hours a day every day of the week to receive these benefits. Most doctors suggest that you exercise three to five times a week for about a half an hour each time to remain happy and healthy. On a piece of your home gym equipment that’s only one and a half to two and a half hours of exercise each week. More than likely you’ll get addicted to the exercise once you get into a routine and end up exercising more than that on a weekly basis.

Anyone can benefit from the exercise that they get from using home gym equipment. As mentioned previously there are many home gym equipment reviews available online for you to look at in order to get an understanding of the wide variety and availability of home gym equipment on the market.

Basic Trampoline Tricks

If you own a trampoline, you already know that it is a great way to get out of the house, and into the fresh air. Did you also know that it's benefiting your health? Jumping up and down on a trampoline is great for strengthening the cardio-vascular system and it is also an excellent workout for almost every muscle and organ of the body. Exercising on a trampoline can also be very helpful for adults and children because it helps to improve reflexes, flexibility, balance and coordination.

One way to enhance not only the fun aspect of the trampoline, but also increase the health benefits, is by putting a little extra effort into your jumping by doing some tricks! There's lot of tricks that can done on the trampoline, from the beginner level to the advanced. Here's a few of them beginning with some basics including additional tips to ensure safety and avoid injury.

'Landing on the Back' is one of the first, basic trampoline tricks any bouncer should learn and its very simple. Stand motionless on the trampoline with your arms at your sides or even with your hands in your front pockets. Fall backwards onto the trampoline, keeping your body straight and your head up. As your back meets the trampoline, let your head meet it naturally too, don't jerk or twist it. You will bounce back up and then you can do it again, over and over until you achieve a good rebounding height. The more you practice this trick, the higher you will bounce back and forth!

Here's an intermediate trampoline trick you can do once you've master the basic Back Landing trick. Begin the same way, standing straight and motionless, with arms at your sides or hands in your pockets. Fall straight back again, but when you bounce back up, land on your knees instead! The motion will keep sending you back and forth so you can repeat the trick as many times as you want.

Some advanced trampoline tricks include somersaults and flips. Either of these can be done backwards or forwards, but you should be very comfortable and confident with your bouncing abilities before attempting either of them. Once you've got the flip down, you spice it up by adding a spin to it.

Before attempting any trick, ensure everyone's safety, including your own. Remember to look around and see how much room you have. You will definitely want to avoid a collision with any other jumpers that are on the trampoline with you. To further prevent any mishaps, warm up first by doing some simple bounces and once you get going, remember to keep your head and neck in a natural position. This way you don't hurt yourself.

Have fun, be safe and keep on bouncing!

5 Ways To Get The Best Use Out Of Your Home Treadmill

The #1 fear that people have when investing in a home treadmill (or any piece of exercise equipment) is that they won't use it.

You know the story. It gets delivered, you set it up and enjoy it for a few days...and then it sits...and waits.

A few months down the road, you notice how dusty it has become and how much space it's taking up. And you remember how much weight you were determined to lose by using it faithfully every day. But now, unfortunately, it doubles as a clothes rack.

Never fear. This article will help you make sure that DOESN'T happen.

A treadmill provides the best overall cardiovascular workout & it's still the number one exercise machine for those who want to lose weight. So it's an investment in your health that will pay large dividends...if you are prepared to get the maximum benefit from it!

Here are 5 easy ways to get the BEST use from your home treadmill:

#1) Do your research first

Make sure you look at what each treadmill offers you and compare it to your unique needs.

For example, if you live in a condo and/or like things neat and clean, a folding treadmill might suit you best. If you want a folding treadmill, do you prefer a manual folding treadmill (like most folding treadmills) or do you want a shock-assisted folding treadmill with wheels on the bottom that's easy to move?

If you like to drink water during your workout, make sure there's a water bottle holder included in the treadmill console (it might surprise you how many treadmills do not have this feature.)

Do you get bored easily and need a challenge? What about getting a treadmill with lots of user programs or one that is iFit compatible?

These things may seem little and maybe it might cost you a bit more; but if it means you're actually going to enjoy your workout it will be well worth it!

#2) Place the treadmill in a 'happy' spot.

By 'happy' I mean well-lit, open and stimulating. Don't put it so you face the bare wall when you walk or run. I've tried this this and the workouts don't last long! If you get bored easily, put it facing the television or facing a window where you can have an attractive view while working out.

Rooms and spaces have definite 'feels' to them and that will affect the success of your workouts. Make sure your treadmill is placed in an area that makes you feel energized, happy and mentally stimulated.

#3) Get your exercise arsenal ready BEFORE the treadmill arrives.

Do you like listening to fast music when you exercise? Do you like watching your favorite movies? What about reading magazines? What inspires you to work out and feel your best?

Get these things ready even before your treadmill arrives and you'll be three-quarters of the way there. Have several workout or favorite CD's around. Get your favorite movies or shows on tape. Gather your favorite magazines.

By having an 'exercise' stash around your treadmill, you'll be inspired to workout AND you won't be stuck running around looking for something to do when you want to start exercising.

Again, this may seem simple, but it works. Why do you think gyms have magazines, televisions and CD players handy?

#4) Make an exercise plan.

Before you start working out, try making a plan, a "roadmap to your rock-hard body" so to speak. By writing down how long and what kind of workout you'll be doing in week 1, 2, 3, 4 etc, you'll get yourself psyched up for success.

Remember that every time you workout, you are planting the seeds for the kind of dream body that you want.

By having a plan, you can see just how many seeds you've planted (and even how long it will take to start reaping the results!) Have fun with it and you'll be motivated to achieve your health goals (and get maximum benefits from your treadmill!)

#5) Track your progress

Ok this is related to #4 but it's more of an ongoing thing. By tracking your progress every day, you get a major sense of accomplishment which snowballs into even greater fat-burning results.

I suggest you have 'minimum goals' like "I'll walk for at least 10 minutes." or "I'll do 5-30 second intervals." These are easy to do and you'll probably go beyond them - which will encourage you even further and heighten your sense of accomplishment.

And of course, you're also getting maximum benefit from your treadmill!

Those are 5 ways to get best use from your home treadmill. Just remember that even a little bit of preparation will pay off large dividends in the long run.

A 10-foot trampoline might just be the best size for your family...

A 10-foot trampoline might just be the best size for your family. If you have a small yard and never thought a regular 14-foot trampoline would fit, then buying a 10 foot one might work best for you. Buying trampolines for your kids is becoming more and more popular even for families with a very small yard; a trampoline can turn that small space into a great area of fun.

Trampolines For Sale

When you first begin looking and trampolines in your newspaper and stores you might not know exactly what you are looking for. People who put their used trampolines up for sale are often just interested in finding someone to purchase their used trampoline. They might not even be that concerned about the price they get for it.

The sale price of a used trampoline should reflect the amount of wear and tear the trampoline has been through. If you are specifically shopping for a trampoline of the 10-foot variety then you might have a more difficult time. Consider looking online or shop at a specialty store that carriers all trampoline supplies for all different sizes.

The 10 foot Model

Most trampolines are 14 feet in diameter, so if you are looking for a 10 foot one you might have a difficult time. On the other hand you might find it easier than you though to find a 10 foot rebounder that is in good condition. Most likely this is because the family is upgrading to a 14 foot diameter trampoline.

The 10 foot style trampoline is great as a kids trampoline and a backyard trampoline. You may find it more difficult to locate an enclosed trampoline that comes in a ten foot model. So if you are lucky enough to find one, make sure and purchase the enclosure at the time you buy the trampoline. 10 foot enclosures can be extremely difficult to find.

If you are looking to buy a trampoline to be used as a gymnastic trampoline you probably will not want a 10 foot model. Consider getting an actual rectangular gymnastics trampoline or a bigger 14-foot round trampoline.

Kids Ages

A 10-foot size trampoline is great for smaller kids if you are able to find an enclosure system that will fit it. But it is important to remember that your kids will grow up and you may need to upgrade to a larger trampoline as they grow.

Although, people of all sizes can use a ten-foot model, it is recommended that only one-person jump on it at a time. You should always follow the safety instructions of your trampoline to help prevent injuries and keep your family safe. 

Consider the ages and sizes of your children before purchasing a 10-foot model of a trampoline. Most 14 foot trampolines are not much more expensive and will provide more room for you kids to grow into it. But if you have a small yard... the 10-foot style trampoline is the perfect one for you.

Power Inversion Tables, Great For Bad Backs

Inversion tables are used by thousands of people to help them relieve their back pain. There are many sizes as well as models which are available. Depending upon your comfort factor, you can easily purchase an inversion table. These inversion tables can be purchased from many websites on the Internet or you can also purchase from a store. Please look for all the features before you decide that this is the best inversion table for you.

As a beginner you should invert the table to 20 - 30 degrees only. This should be done for at least 2-3 weeks before you can start inverting the table to 60 degrees or more. This is important such that while inverting there is no back pain. You should also get comfortable with operating the table and shouldn't be under any tension while being on an inversion table. When you are really fit, only then can you start inverting 90 degrees. This is called the expert level.

Some of the advantages of an inversion table are that it reduces back pain as well as helps to relieve the tension from the back. The circulation in the body improves and it increases the flexibility of the muscles as well as the joints. Note the warranty period of the inversion table when buying it. Many companies such as Teeter Hang Ups give up to 5 years warranty. It should also be remembered that they provide an after sales service and have a qualified team to do so.

Along with inversion table, you may also receive a DVD on how to use the inversion table properly. If done under improper guidance or supervision, you are likely to cause yourself injury. Also look for the additional features that may be provided and take a demonstration before you actually purchase an inversion table.

Regular use can be all you need.