Thinking of investing in home fitness equipment to keep up your aerobic workouts during inclement weather? Here is a look at four of the most popular items.
Rowing machines provide a whole-body aerobic workout. The arms, shoulders, back, abdomen, legs, heart and lungs are all worked while rowing.
One of the advantages of rowing is that it does not cause the pounding on the legs and knees that running does. Rowing also builds muscle strength and endurance in addition to the aerobic benefits.
There are two types of rowing machines. A hydraulic machine uses a piston to provide the resistance. With a cable-driven machine, your pull spins a flywheel which produces a smooth action similar to rowing on water. The smoothness of the flywheel creates little strain on the back. If handles are not adjusted properly for height differences, hydraulic rowers can create back strain.
The stationary bicycle is another popular means of exercise. Like the rowing machine, the bicycle works the hearts, lungs and legs. Some bicycles have moveable handlebars that can be used in a rowing-like motion to work the arms. Nearly all bicycles have an adjustable braking force and pedal resistance.
To make your cycling more comfortable, find a bicycle with well-positioned handlebars; a comfortable seat; smooth pedaling; quiet brake mechanism; a speedometer and odometer. Many people find that reading, watching TV or listening to music while cycling can alleviate the boredom that is often associated with indoor cycling.
Cycling, like rowing, has the advantage of less stress on the legs and knees than running since your weight is supported by the seat and not your legs.
Treadmills are becoming more popular. Treadmills benefit the heart, lungs and leg muscles. If looking at treadmills, find one that is motor-driven with controls for speed and elevation. It should also have a sturdy safety rail. Non-motorized treadmills are not recommended for running due to foot irritation. The treadmill can be set at a speed and pace, so be sure it will go as fast or slow as you will be walking or running. If boredom becomes a problem, a radio or TV may help pass the time.
Many people refer to rebounders as mini-tramps. The difference is that the mini-tramp is designed to be a springboard to give you height while the rebound exerciser is designed to absorb the stress of low bouncing while you exercise. The rebounder does not produce the stress on the joints that running does. It also is portable and easily stored.
One problem with the rebounder is that it does much of the work and you do not get as much aerobic benefit as you would from jogging, As with the treadmill and bicycle, you can watch TV or listen to the radio while bouncing along.
Check with your physician if over 35 or have a health condition. Be sure you know how to use the equipment properly to prevent injury.
