Finding the best type of exercise equipment for your needs

Finding the best type of exercise equipment for your needs isn't just a case of buying the most popular and expensive piece of equipment on the market. While brand and price are important factors they are not the only things to consider. Your workout goals will determine what type of equipment is best for you. It is also important t remember that balance is crucial to any type of workout program. The following are examples of the types of exercise equipment that would be best suited to the corresponding goal.

Weight loss

The biggest weight loss myth is the idea that it is possible to lose weight in only one area of the body. This is known as 'spot reducing'; but the fact is that this is not possible. The only way to lose weight is to work the entire body. The best exercise equipment for this includes elliptical trainers, cross-country ski machines, rowing machines and treadmills. Treadmills normally work the lower body quite intensely but swinging your arms when you run will give you a very effective full-body workout.

Body building

Free weights are by far the most effective tool in any workout regime aimed at building muscle mass. This is because free weights do not provide the same stability and control as weight machines. This means more muscles are used to support and stabilize the body during each exercise. Stabilizing muscles include the abdominal, back and leg muscles. Again, balance is important. Always make sure that all opposing muscle groups are worked equally to prevent injury to the corresponding joints.

Toning

Weight machines are ideal for toning as they control and limit your range of motion meaning the exercise is targeted to a specific area of the body. Machines are also easy to use as they support and brace the body during exercise. This adds an element of safety as well as making toning your body a more pleasant experience. Free weights can also be used for toning and can be very effective, not to mention far cheaper. However, they do require a bit of getting used to.

Elderly exercise

The first thing to do before starting any exercise is to check with your doctor. It is safe for most elderly people to exercise, even those with arthritis. In fact, exercise has been known to improve a number of conditions common to ageing. Aerobic exercise should be done on most days of the week in one form or another. Walking and swimming are both an excellent way to get a cardio workout. The best exercise equipment for the elderly are elliptical trainers and exercise bikes. These both provide very good low-impact workouts that are easily adaptable to all levels of fitness. Yoga is a good workout option for elderly exercisers with conditions such as arthritis as it increases strength and flexibility.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Best Exercise Equipment

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