Choosing and buying the best gym equipment for your home is not as easy as it may seem at first glance. It is challenging for a newcomer who has never before dealt with fitness equipment and is making a purchase for the first time.
We’ll tell you which model is best for weight loss, and which one is best for quicker lifting and muscle definition. We’ll also focus on the models’ pros and cons, the price, and share tips for training.
Types of fitness equipment for the home
Exercise equipment for the home comes in the following varieties:
* The exercise bike is the equivalent of a bicycle. A machine with pedals, knobs and a display that shows your workout data.
* The treadmill is probably one of the most known pieces of equipment. The treadmill, data display, various modes can be set, and the treadmill speed can be adjusted.
* A stair stepper is an exercise machine that simulates stair climbing. It consists of two alternately lowering steps when loaded.
* Rowing machines – simulates rowing with oars, one of the most challenging simulators to learn, which requires a good level of fitness.
* An ellipsoid is a complete exercise machine that combines an exercise bike, stepper and treadmill at the same time.
* Free weights – this section includes various dumbbells, barbells, benches, etc.
*Multi-gyms – this is a single trainer combining multiple pieces of various training equipment.
Bicycle simulator
The home bicycle takes up little space and is simple and easy to operate. All devices have a screen and an in-built computer with sensors that calculate your performance during your workout.
The exercise bike works the abdominal muscles, legs and back.
Pros:
* Small size – easy to fit in the home, you won’t need a lot of space;
* Effective training not only gets your muscles pumped but also your respiratory and cardiovascular systems;
* Great for weight loss, you can lose weight quickly if you exercise actively and regularly;
* No unnecessary sounds or noise in the classroom;
* Almost no stress on the joints.
Minuses:
* Not all muscle groups are engaged during the workout, the upper body hardly works at all;
* You can buy a real bike for this price.
Treadmill
An excellent substitute for running exercises. A big plus is the smoothness of the track surface and not leaving the house and looking for a perfect place to run.
Running engages many muscle groups – abs, legs, calves and glutes and is one of the proven ways to lose the belly fat and extra pounds. However, treadmill exercise is not suitable for everyone. If you have joint problems, bronchial asthma or pulmonary heart disease, this exercise machine is contraindicated.
Pros:
* A good way to lose weight;
* Stamina, respiratory system and lower body muscles are improved;
* It’s easy to combine working out with watching films or TV series and listening to music;
* You can change the built-in workout modes and customise them to suit you;
Minuses:
* There are contraindications;
* Most models are quite expensive;
* Takes up a lot of space;
* The upper body is not involved in the workout.
Stepper
A compact version of the fitness equipment for the home. Despite its simplicity, training can be considered quite effective, as it generates an intense workload.
The stepper has many contraindications, as it actively involves the knees, joints and feet. It is advisable to buy stable and sturdily constructed models to avoid injury during training.
Pros:
* Its compact and can be easily stored;
* Affordable price, low-cost budget models can be found;
* Easy to use;
Minuses:
* It is not possible to obtain detailed data from the training session;
* Has many contraindications;
* Only certain muscle groups are engaged during the workout.
Rowing trainer
Rowing machines are very effective but are very complex machines to use. It requires a good fitness level to work out successfully, but the effect will be much more significant than other home fitness equipment models.
When rowing on the rowing machine, both lower and upper body parts work simultaneously. Virtually all muscle groups are involved, helping you losing weight and strengthening your shoulder girdle.
Pros:
* Effective in pumping the muscles and shoulder girdle, giving a comprehensive workout for the whole body;
* Allows you to lose weight quickly;
* Non-injury hazard;
* Beneficial effect on posture;
Minuses:
* The price of some models “bites”;
* Large dimensions;
* Contraindicated for people with spinal disorders;
Ellipsoid
Elliptical trainers are versatile models that combine the qualities of a stepper, treadmill and exercise bike. It is for its versatility that it is beloved by many users.
Buy an ellipsoid at home, and you already have several options for working out different muscle groups. Exercise on the machine trains the cardio system, allows you to lose weight quickly and tones muscle groups. Most models are easy to operate and use and will not take up much space in your flat.
Pros:
* Versatility;
* Small dimensions;
* Inexpensive models;
* Does not make unnecessary noises during exercise;
* Has a display and a built-in computer for recording workout data;
Minuses:
* The upper shoulder girdle is barely engaged during exercise;
Free weights
Free weights usually refer to:
* Booms;
* Dumbbells;
* Benches;
* Racks, etc.;
They are compact, easy to transport, easy to operate and available in most sports shops. A simple bench with an adjustable angle and two dumbbells can be used to perform various exercises:
* Squats;
* Leans to the side;
* Lunges;
* Lying or seated presses;
The biggest pro is the price, the free weights are inexpensive and cheaper than standard fitness equipment.
Pros:
* Affordable price;
* Easy to use;
* Does not take up much space;
Minuses:
* Work for specific muscle groups;
* A variety of equipment will be needed for comprehensive training.
Tips for choosing and buying an exercise machine
* Decide on the purpose of the exercise – it may be to lose weight, pump up your muscles, improve your stamina, etc. With this in mind, consider which models of fitness equipment are best suited to your goals.
* How often are you planning to exercise? You should not buy an expensive machine if you do not intend to work out regularly on it. You’re better off looking at inexpensive models.
* Consider wherein the flat the exerciser will be placed. Will it fit in there, will it fit into the interior?
* Allocate a budget for the purchase. Try not to be tempted by advertising and choose an exercise machine solely based on your needs. Amateurs certainly don’t need the fancy models.
* If you are not exercising alone, consider the profiles and workout options programmed inside the trainer. Don’t forget to consider the weight allowance; some fitness equipment is not designed for users weighing more than 100 kilograms.
Recommendations for training
* Exercise regularly, 3-4 times a week. The duration of the class depends on fitness level, starting at 25-30 minutes.
* Always warm up before beginning a training session. This will help avoid unnecessary injuries and warm up your muscles and joints before exercising.
* Don’t overload your body. If you feel unwell during exercise, stop the practice immediately.
* Watch your breathing during training. It is advisable to inhale while the muscles are tense and exhale while the muscles are relaxed.
* In addition to exercise, start to eat right and watch your diet. Eat 2 hours before training.
* Drink while exercising and avoid dehydration.
Conclusion
Take your choice of trainer seriously, as it will cost you a lot of money. Allocate a budget in advance and decide on your goals. Consult people you know who have already bought exercise equipment for your home. They will help you choose a good model.
It is advisable to consult a specialist doctor before you start exercising to determine if there are any contraindications to exercise. Combine exercising on machines with a healthy lifestyle for the best effect. Have fun!