Bowflex is synonymous with home gyms. However, since wading into the home gym marketing, they also started selling treadmills. This article is a Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill review setting out some of the key features of this treadmill.

Running Tread Deck Size

20" x 60". My preferred running deck size is 20" x 60", but I'm 6' 3" tall with a long gait. The downside to a longer running deck is the space it takes up in your home. That said, the Bowflex Series 7 is a folding treadmill which saves space.

Motor

3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor. Again, given my size and the fact I like running, I'm partial to 3.0 hp motors. The downside is the more powerful the motor, the louder it is. You'll find that more and more treadmills on the market these days feature a 3.0 hp motor.

Speed

.5 to 11 mpg /.8 - 17.7 km/hr. Fast enough to accommodate a fairly demanding runner. Some sprinters are faster than this speed - but 11 mph is sufficient for long-distance running.

Incline

0 -12% incline. If you're looking for a greater incline then, look into an incline trainer.

Heart Monitor

* It's nice to see a treadmill offer both handgrip and telemetric heart rate monitors. I'm partial to telemetric heart rate monitors so I don't need to maintain a grip on grip sensors for the duration of my workout.
* Telemetric heart rate monitor is so you can hook up a chest strap heart rate monitor.

Pre-Set Workouts

15 - cardio, manual, running, fat burn, speed interval jogger, hill training, 5 K run with 12 intervals, and the following heart rate monitoring workouts:

* fat burn; and
* cardio.

Plus two custom workouts.

These are just the key features of the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill. Find out what else the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill offers, including benefits and shipping terms.

If you're just starting your treadmill research, be sure to read other quality treadmill reviews before making your buying decision. Treadmills are a great investment, but it's best to get the perfect treadmill for your needs. Not all treadmills are created equal.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_J._Bancroft

Not everyone needs a folding treadmill. The Yowza Fitness Juno Running Treadmill is a non-folding treadmill by treadmill vendor Yowza Fitness.

Check out the specifications on the Juno Running Treadmill:

Running Deck Size

* 20 inches wide by 55 inches long. If you're tall and/or have a long gait, look for a 60 inch long running deck such as the Biscayne Treadmill by Yowza Fitness.
* The other consideration always when buying fitness equipment is how much space you have. We'd love to have a 60 or how about 80 inch running surface, but let's face it, most homes don't have 1,000 square feet dedicated to a home gym.
* If you have the space, determine the optimal running deck size for you by trying out some treadmills at retail stores. It's important you get enough running space that fits in your dedicated gym space.

Motor Power

* The Juno Running Treadmill has a 2.5 continuous duty motor. If you've been researching treadmills, then by now you probably realized that many treadmills come with a 3.0 horsepower motor.
* If you're a walker, speed walker, or hiker, then 2.5 hp will serve you just fine. If you're a demanding runner, then look for a 3.0 hp motor. Again, the Biscayne Treadmill, Yowza Fitness' premium treadmill, has a 3.0 hp motor.

Speed Range

* .5 to 10 miles per hour. This is a decent range for a value-priced treadmill. If you don't sprint or do serious interval training, this speed range will suit you fine. 10 miles per hour is doing a marathon in just over 2.5 hours.
* If you're running that pace, then you're a world-class runner. That said, sprinting and interval training is growing in popularity and if you can really motor, you might want something offering more speed. I caution you though that another treadmill may offer more speed in this price range (around $1,000) but you may compromise in motor or frame quality - both of which Yowza Fitness delivers.
* The console panel has single touch speed control - no navigating a computer to change the speed.

Frame

* Scratch-resistant powder-coated Unibody Steel. A strong frame is critical for a treadmill for obvious reasons. The frame holds the motor and running deck together. Running on a treadmill is a high-impact activity that continuously jolts the machine.
* How can you tell the quality of a frame? Largely by the frame warranty offered. Yowza offers a lifetime warranty on the June Running Treadmill frame.

Heart Rate Monitor

* The Juno Running Treadmill uses PolarTM heart rate technology. Better yet, this treadmill has two heart rate monitoring options - grip pulse and wireless heart rate receiver.
* For around $1,000 having a wireless heart rate receiver is outstanding. I love the wireless heart rate monitors because I don't like having to keep my hands on the pulse grips.

Discover more of what the Juno Running Treadmill has to offer - including its benefits, shipping information, warranty info and more.

Continue your treadmill research by checking out dozens of quality treadmill reviews and other fitness equipment reviews so you make the best buying decision for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_J._Bancroft

The Schwinn 240 Recumbent Bike is a very popular recumbent stationary bike loaded with pre-set computer programs. For around $500, this recumbent exercise bike is a great value evidenced by the fact it is a top-selling recumbent bike.

The following are some of the key features of this stationary bike.

Type of Exercise Bike

The Schwinn 240 Bike is a recumbent bike with an oversized saddle. A recumbent exercise bike offers extra comfort compared to an upright exercise bike. A recumbent also provides a varied leg and cardio workout.

Seat

Cushioned adjustable (forward and backward) seat with back support.

Handlebars

Parallel to the console screen. The console is adjustable which simultaneously adjusts the handlebars.

Noise Production

The Schwinn 240 Recumbent Bike is exceptionally quiet which is definitely something you want to consider when buying any exercise equipment for your home or office.

Pedals

Oversized pedals with straps. This is particularly convenient for foot placement and riding comfort.

Resistance Levels

16 resistance levels using quiet magnetic ECB (Eddy Current Brake) resistance. The Eddy Current Brake system offers smooth and consistent resistence which gives you a smooth ride.

ECB resistance is a frictionless resistence technology - something you definitely want with your stationary bike.

Unique Features

* BioFitTM Comfort: padded ergonomic adjustable seat and adjustable console.
* BioDyneTM smooth riding with careful flywheel engineering. Large stabilizers provide stable and solid exercise bike platform.
* BioConnect Feedback: 18 workout programs, telemetry heart rate monitoring (straps to chest), and 16 digital resistance levels.

Console

The Schwinn 240 Recumbent bike comes with a Water bottle holder and magazine rack.

Heart Rate Monitor

This stationary bike comes with a telemetry heart rate monitor system (i.e. chest strap heart rate monitoring system). This is my preferred heart rate monitoring system. I don't like maintaining my hands on pulse grips. This is a nice premium feature on this relatively inexpensive fitness bike.

Screen

The Schwinn 240 Recumbent bike comes with a screen that has the following features:

* Multi-color backlit LCD screen.
* Readouts: time, resistance, watts, pulse, speed, calories burned, RPM, distance, and interval time.
* The Schwinn 240 Recumbent Bike also converts miles to kilometers.

Benefits of the Schwinn 240 Recumbent Exercise Bike

* Recumbent comfort with back support - get exercise if you have back issues.
* The recumbent style makes for easy reading.
* Very convenient to have an exercise bike in your home or office.

Investing in exercise equipment for your home or office can be a terrific investment as long as you get the right equipment for you. Read more in-depth exercise bike reviews or expand your fitness equipment search with treadmills and ellipticals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_J._Bancroft

What is the P90X equipment needed?

Recently a good friend of mine purchased the P90X workout program. After spending approximately $150, he realized that he did not have all the equipment that was required to complete the program.

So he asked me to write this article and break down exactly what are the best choices for equipment and not have to spend a great deal of money.

Here's a List of the P90X Equipment Needed:

1. Adjustable dumbbells, dumbbells or resistance bands

2. A pull up bar (however if you decide to purchase resistance bands you can forgo the pull up bar.)

3. A yoga mat or exercise mat (optional)

4. Push-up stands (optional, but it will help you avoid wrist strain)

5. Yoga blocks (optional)

6. A sturdy chair

There has been some debate online regarding the resistance bands vs. dumbbells for the P90X DVD exercise program. So let me give you a few pointers that'll help you in making that decision as well.

First, you have to determine how much room you can set aside for the dumbbells. In the beginning, you may only need two or three sets of dumbbells at different weight levels. For example, when doing the "heavy pants" exercise for your back; you will be able to use more weight than when you're performing a bicep curl.

One solution for this would be to purchase an adjustable dumbbell set. Unfortunately, they are a little on the expensive side. Fixed weight dumbbells cost an average of one dollar per pound. Consequently, if you purchase two 50 pound dumbbells it should cost you around $100. Sometimes, you can purchase a used set on eBay or craigslist. However, you should not pay more than $.50 per pound.

Getting back to adjustable dumbbells, they do fluctuate in price, but typically you will pay somewhere between $3-$5 per pound. As you can see, they are more expensive however, having a set of adjustable dumbbells like the Bowflex SelectTech will save you some space.

If you don't have a great deal of room to work out in and don't have a couple hundred bucks to blow, then you may want to consider purchasing a quality set of resistance bands. One of the advantages of resistance bands is when it comes to doing the pull down or pull up exercise. In the beginning, very few individuals can perform more than one or two pull-ups. If that's the case, you can do pull downs with resistance bands. This will build up your strength and develop your back muscles the same way as chin-ups or pull-ups do. That will save you approximately 50 bucks because you will not need a pull up bar right away.

Typically, a good quality set of resistance bands will run you anywhere from $50 to $100. So, they are much less expensive than fixed weight dumbbells or even adjustable dumbbells.

Hopefully this article will help you when you decide to purchase the P90X equipment needed to perform your first cycle.

If you are thinking about purchasing P90X Equipment then you might want to check out more information about B-Lines resistance bands or P90X resistance bands as they're commonly called.

If you're looking for workout routines, exercise equipment reviews, just visit this site for more info:

==> Build-Muscle-Guide.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Milano

Time flies so fast. Before you know it another year has passed. If you're like most Americans, you probably have a New Year's resolution. The top ten resolutions of 2010 includes two entries related to fitness. One is to allot time for fitness and the other is to lose weight. With obesity on the rise, this is not surprising. People know that being overweight predisposes them to a lot of health problems. However, good intentions are not enough to keep your resolutions. Studies show that there is a 50% chance that your fitness resolution is going to fail. To help you achieve your fitness goals this year, here are some tips to consider.

Your goal has to be obtainable. Resolving to grow muscles as big as Schwarzenegger's is not realistic for most people. Likewise, attaining the body of a super model. Unrealistic goals make you abandon your resolutions. They have the power to disappoint and frustrate you. To avoid this, make attainable resolutions. Resolving to workout for 30 minutes 3 times a week is achievable. Be consistent and soon, working out will become a habit. Then you can build on it as you go along.

When you resolve to lose weight, try to be more specific. Think about the number of pounds you want to lose. Being specific makes your resolutions more real. It helps you make a plan that will get you where you want to be. Best of all, it will enable you to break your goals down and track your progress better. For example, your resolution is to lose 20 pounds by year's end. Twenty pounds is quite intimidating. But if you divide it by 48 weeks, you only need to lose half a pound per week. That means you only need a calorie deficit of 1750 calories per week. That's only a 250 calorie deficit a day.

Make a plan on how to achieve your fitness goals. Write down the details of your diet and fitness regimen. Seek the help of a professional if needed. Be prepared for occasional snags in your resolution plans. You cannot expect the road to fitness to be smooth all along. Instead, make plans to overcome whatever sets you back. If you happened to overeat and forgot to workout, don't stress over it. You're human and you make mistakes. Dwelling on these setbacks can only make you frustrated. Get over it and get right back to the game. Your goals can only be achieved if you do not give up.

Sticking to your fitness resolutions will not be easy. That's why less than 50% are successful in making their resolutions work. Having an obtainable goal and a specific plan will help you reach your fitness goals. Having a firm commitment to your fitness goal will ensure your success.

Over at the FitnessArmory.com, you can let our expert advice on fitness and equipment reviews help you create the perfect home gym but without all the huge costs. We have the exclusive reviews on all your favorite brands and models to help you get in shape, get healthy and look great. Recent product reviews include: Proform 290 SPX Exercise Bike, Proform Live Exercise Bike. We invite you to stop by or drop us a line if you have any questions or need help with your fitness equipment selections.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Warrington

Without question, exercise is a key part of good health. We want taut toned arms and legs and a healthy heart. Trips to the gym are not always possible; busy schedules and crazy work hours conflict with our need to exercise. However, the need to stay toned and fit does not disappear.

There are a couple of options that truly keep us fit. We can eat right and drink water wherever we go but what about an actual workout? First of all, there are several elliptical machines ideal for home workouts. These wonderful machines provide a total body workout with 30-45 minutes a day.

After using a treadmill at home for over a year, my knees were becoming a real problem. It took me awhile to figure out the connection between the treadmill and the pain. With the elliptical trainer, the impact on the knees was gone and the pain was resolved. During my research of elliptical machines, it became clear that this is a great machine for all ages and all fitness levels. There are elliptical machines that range in price from $100 to $5,000. The lower priced machines did not seem sturdy and did not have a lot of features. Spending more than $1,000 was not an option. So, based on the features and the price, the Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer was right for me. It has several computer generated resistance levels, bi-directional pedaling and comfortable foot pedals. I also considered the Horizon Fitness EX-57 Elliptical Trainer and the Verso by Kettler CT307 Elliptical Cross Trainer. All three machines had excellent customer ratings, great features and were within the same price range.

Bottom line for selecting the right elliptical trainer, decide on the features most important to you. Elliptical trainers definitely provide the total body workout; you'll see improvements in muscle tone, you will burn more calories than just walking, and you will experience a great cardio workout. With the Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer at home, I've saved time in getting to and from the gym, not to mention time wasted waiting to use a machine at the gym.

Learn more about Elliptical Trainers to stay toned and fit at home.

Mel Otero, author, worked in management in the mortgage banking industry and title insurance industry for over 25 years. She has started web sites and written articles to provide information, resources and inspiration during this difficult economy. She loves to write, learn and share experiences and information. Constantly researching and looking for helpful tools, the ultimate goal is making a positive difference in lives.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Otero Without question, exercise is a key part of good health. We want taut toned arms and legs and a healthy heart. Trips to the gym are not always possible; busy schedules and crazy work hours conflict with our need to exercise. However, the need to stay toned and fit does not disappear.

There are a couple of options that truly keep us fit. We can eat right and drink water wherever we go but what about an actual workout? First of all, there are several elliptical machines ideal for home workouts. These wonderful machines provide a total body workout with 30-45 minutes a day.

After using a treadmill at home for over a year, my knees were becoming a real problem. It took me awhile to figure out the connection between the treadmill and the pain. With the elliptical trainer, the impact on the knees was gone and the pain was resolved. During my research of elliptical machines, it became clear that this is a great machine for all ages and all fitness levels. There are elliptical machines that range in price from $100 to $5,000. The lower priced machines did not seem sturdy and did not have a lot of features. Spending more than $1,000 was not an option. So, based on the features and the price, the Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer was right for me. It has several computer generated resistance levels, bi-directional pedaling and comfortable foot pedals. I also considered the Horizon Fitness EX-57 Elliptical Trainer and the Verso by Kettler CT307 Elliptical Cross Trainer. All three machines had excellent customer ratings, great features and were within the same price range.

Bottom line for selecting the right elliptical trainer, decide on the features most important to you. Elliptical trainers definitely provide the total body workout; you'll see improvements in muscle tone, you will burn more calories than just walking, and you will experience a great cardio workout. With the Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer at home, I've saved time in getting to and from the gym, not to mention time wasted waiting to use a machine at the gym.

Learn more about Elliptical Trainers to stay toned and fit at home.

Mel Otero, author, worked in management in the mortgage banking industry and title insurance industry for over 25 years. She has started web sites and written articles to provide information, resources and inspiration during this difficult economy. She loves to write, learn and share experiences and information. Constantly researching and looking for helpful tools, the ultimate goal is making a positive difference in lives.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Otero

The best home workout equipment can take your fitness program to an entirely new level. At home workouts are more popular than ever, and there are a number of reasons for this, but you still need the right gear to help you accomplish your goals. Take a look at this quick guide towards finding some of the best gear for working out at home, whether you're looking to pile on muscle, build total body strength or lose weight.

The first step you need to take when searching for the best home workout equipment is to think about the goals that you are trying to achieve. This will help you narrow down the selection right from the start and prioritize the gear that you need the most. That strength training gear might be great, but if you're training for a 10k race in a few months, should that be your main focus?

From there, the best home workout equipment for men is going to be multifunctional. Space is always a concern, as is how much money you have available to spend. One of the great aspects of working out at home is that you can save on that pricey gym membership, but that doesn't mean you should spend thousands of dollars on the equipment you use for your at home workouts. Complete and effective home gyms can be built for less than a few hundred dollars in many cases.

For example, you can take a few pieces of gear like a pair of kettlebells and a doorway chinup bar. If your goal is to pack on muscle, gain functional and total body strength, and also to shed away excess pounds of fat, then these two small items can help you get there amazingly well, and they are both highly affordable and don't take up any space in your home. You'll be able to perform a variety of exercises and different complete workouts, and you can target many different areas of your body. That sounds like a much better plan than that $3,000 home gym you saw advertised, or all of those individual workout stations that you were thinking about buying.

Smart planning like that can make all of the difference in the world not only in your budget and in the amount of space in your home, but also to the success of your workouts and your fitness plan. The best home workout equipment for men is affordable, space-friendly, easy to use and multifunctional, like the items mentioned above. Think about your own goals and then go about finding the best gear to match up with your personalized at home workouts.

At RealGuysFitness.com, you'll find everything you need to accomplish your fitness goals, including comprehensive guides for at home workouts and recommended home workout equipment to make sure all of the Real Guys out there can look and feel their best.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Emen

COTTAGE GROVE, Wis. (October 20, 2009) – There’s no doubt that Suspension Elliptical™ trainers are gaining in popularity among fitness consumers. The ability to vary workouts and target different muscle groups all while mimicking your natural movement is a distinct advantage over traditional fixed-stride elliptical trainers. However, Suspension Elliptical trainers can be prohibitive for some consumers due to their sheer size and cost. Vision Fitness is tackling this challenge by introducing the S7100, a smaller, more economical Suspension Elliptical trainer that offers many of the same features and benefits of the larger-sized versions.

The S7100 (MSRP: $2,699 to $2,999) measures 61.5” L x 30” W x 65” H, making it one of the most space-friendly Suspension Elliptical trainers available. But don’t let its size or value price fool you. The S7100 is a scaled-down version of Vision Fitness’s very popular S7200HRT, which was introduced to the market last year to rave reviews and widespread consumer acceptance.

“After the successful launch of the Vision Fitness® S7200HRT, we saw an opportunity to develop a more compact, lower-cost version,” said Peter Sell, director of product development for Johnson Health Tech. “The S7100 opens our Suspension Elliptical trainer platform to a much broader audience.”

So, what exactly is a Suspension Elliptical trainer? The most obvious difference between a traditional elliptical trainer and a Suspension Elliptical trainer is the pedal arms. A Suspension Elliptical trainer, as the name suggests, has pedal arms that are suspended off of the ground—the arms do not roll up and down tracks. Since there are no wheels or tracks, there is less rolling resistance or friction. This results in a more comfortable elliptical motion, while reducing unwanted noise and wear-and-tear on the equipment.

The S7100 is unique because of its PerfectStride™ system, which is exclusive to Vision Fitness. PerfectStride technology offers the ideal combination of biomechanical and ergonomic features: pivoting footplates, a natural elliptical foot path, a stride length that automatically adjusts with incline changes, and small pedal spacing that results in proper knee and hip alignment. These features make the S7100 extremely comfortable for users of all shapes and sizes. To top it off, this trainer offers 20 levels of incline (18 to 37%) and both forward and backward pedaling to keep workouts varied and challenging.

There are a number of other features that make the S7100 one of the most feature-rich ellipticals for the price, including:

Low Step-Up Height – A low 8.5-inch step-up height provides easy on-and-off access, as do the convenient rear hand grips and out-of-the-way front-drive system.

Multi-Position Hand Grips – The dual-action arms keep users in a proper upright position, while the multi-position grips fit any user, allow different muscle emphasis and add variety to the workout.

Two Console Options – Choose from two console options:
Deluxe – This console option comes with an LCD display with a scrolling message bar, 20 levels of resistance and eight workout programs.
Premier – This option includes the LCD display with three additional feedback windows, 20 resistance levels and 18 different programs, including: five Custom programs, three HRT® programs, five classic programs and four Sculptor programs, which are exclusive to Vision Fitness and are designed specifically for the PerfectStride system.

SPRINT 8 – Both consoles come with the SPRINT 8® anaerobic workout program, which is medically proven to provide the most effective workout one can achieve in 20 minutes.

Contact and Telemetric Heart Rate Monitoring – In addition to contact grips, the S7100 Premier comes with a telemetric heart rate monitor and chest strap for wireless monitoring of heart rate activity.

Accessory Tray – There is a place for everything, including a water bottle, cell phone or TV remote; it also comes with an integrated reading rack.

For more information about the S7100 Suspension Elliptical™ Trainer from Vision Fitness, visit www.VisionFitness.com or call 1-800-335-4348.

About Vision Fitness
Vision Fitness, which began as a division of Trek® Bicycle Company, is the premier specialty fitness brand of Johnson Health Tech, the fourth largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world. In addition to Vision, Johnson is home to some of the most respected brands in the fitness industry, including: Matrix, AFG, Horizon and LIVESTRONG. The company manufactures a wide assortment of fitness equipment for both commercial and residential use, including treadmills, elliptical trainers, exercise bikes and strength training equipment.

We all need a certain amount of exercise to maintain the best quality of health. There are many benefits to maintaining a consistent and regular exercise routine. It is beneficial for your heart, lungs, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, and helps your body maintain proper levels of insulin.

Walking on a regular basis is a great way to get a healthy workout. Unfortunately, with our busy lives, we don't always have the time to go for a walk. For many people, a treadmill is the best solution.

The most important benefits of using a treadmill include:

- Bad weather is a big reason why many people may stop going for walks, Rain, heat, snow, cold, and wind, can make a walk quite unpleasant. By using a treadmill, you never have to worry about bad weather preventing you from getting exercise. You are in the comfort of your home.

- A treadmill can save you time and money. You can exercise any time of the day and night. Also, when the weather is bad outside such as a snowstorm, you can lose money on a Gym membership by not attending. You don't have to worry about losing money when you have a treadmill in your own home.

- With a treadmill, you can listen to music, read a book or magazine, or watch television which makes time go by, and before you know it, you have walked many miles

- With a treadmill, you can control the difficulty level. As your legs get stronger and your endurance increases, you can increase the level of difficulty which will give you a more productive work out. You can even increase the speed of the treadmill. If you have any health problems, the ability to pace yourself will be of great benefit. You can walk as slow or as fast as you want.

- There are many health benefits to using a treadmill. This includes burning fat and calories thereby achieving weight loss, increasing bone and joint health, getting a great cardio workout, strengthening leg muscles, and improving your lung function. The choice is yours to walk, run, or jog at a steady pace. Exercising with treadmills can burn around 700 calories per hour using a medium level of intensity.

- Using a treadmill helps you improve your mental state such as decreasing your stress level, feeling refreshed and relaxed, and boosts your self confidence. You will feel more positive. As well, your energy levels will be increased. It can even reduce the symptoms of depression.

- Researchers have discovered that exercising using a treadmill will help one have a better night's sleep.

- You can place your treadmill in any room of your home. The various computerized settings are designed to give you a great work out.

Regular exercise is essential to maintaining good health. A treadmill is a great method of maintaining optimal health. The key to making the most out of a treadmill is to use it on a regular basis. You need to be motivated to achieve your fitness goals. It is important to seek the advice of a physician before starting any exercise routine. You should also make sure that you implement a healthy diet along with your treadmill workouts.

Fitness equipment retailer provides you with an informed decision on what fitness equipment would work best for you. Choose from many brands in exercise bikes Toronto, treadmills Toronto, ellipticals, personal gyms, Home Gyms, free weights and Power Plate.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt

When you're planning your first home gym, you may find the huge choice of equipment quite daunting. First off, you'll need to keep in mind three key factors:

Space
Purpose
Price

Space

If you're lucky enough to have a spare room you can convert, you'll probably be able to accommodate a good mix of equipment. A great combination would be a multi-gym, treadmill, rower and cross trainer for an excellent overall workout. You will need to look at the measurements of the items you're buying to make absolutely sure they're going to fit, allowing for clearance.

Many of us will have to work with a spare corner here or there. There's a huge range of home gym equipment suitable for smaller spaces, and many rowers, treadmills, bikes - even weight benches and multi-gyms, fold away. Free weights are excellent as there's a huge variety of exercises they can be used in, and afterwards they can be stored away discreetly.

Purpose

Do you wish to improve your overall fitness? Then cardiovascular equipment will be for you - items such as rowers, steppers, treadmills and cross trainers. If you are looking to increase muscle mass, weights will be the answer for you. Most of us are looking for something in between: to improve our overall fitness whilst toning up at the same time. A combination of cardiovascular and weight equipment will bring maximum effects.

Price

This will be a major consideration, affecting greatly what you're going to buy. If your budget is restricted, do not be put off. You can pick up a skipping rope for less than £2 - skipping is one of the best exercises for weight loss. Resistance bands are available for as little as £5 - they're great for working on the upper and lower body. There is a vast range of home fitness equipment on the market and the opportunities are endless. The big advantage is that by investing in your own home gym, you can avoid those astronomic gym membership fees!

The great news is that if you shop online for Home Gym Equipment or for Fitness Accessories you can find unbeatable deals at great prices!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lindsay_Coope

Whenever you see an infomercial for a stomach workout machine like the Ab Circle Pro it suddenly seems like you can get flat abs in a matter of weeks if not days. Maybe it's these kinds of infomercials which make people believe they can get a flat stomach in 2 weeks. The reality is a little different.

While special effects in infomercials make it seem like belly fat can be transformed into rock hard abs in an instant, in reality it takes longer whether you're using the Ab Circle Pro or any other ab machine. After all, you didn't gain all that excess belly fat in a day and so it's unlikely that it will come off as fast either.

If you put all of your effort into training your abs, with the AbCirclePro or without, you will not get flat abs. It's just impossible and it's not because the AbCircle is uneffective. That has nothing to do with it. It's impossible since belly exercises simply don't burn enough belly fat to get you flat abs in 2 weeks or even 2 months, especially if you're more than just a few pounds overweight when you start.

You can't spot reduce belly fat by doing stomach exercises of any sort. This is a myth. It has long been proven that our body burns fat as a single unit from all your body parts regardless of which muscle group you train. This means that you'd better focus on exercises which burn maximum fat and not on stomach exercises which generally don't burn a lot of fat.

What this means is that you can't get flat abs in 2 weeks with the Ab Circle Pro because our body simply doesn't work that way. No ab machine can do this. In addition, giving yourself just 2 weeks to transform your body is a recipe for disappointment and frustration. It takes longer to get yourself in this kind of perfect shape. You have to be patient and allow yourself to make a gradual improvement with the right full body training and nutrition.

To see how fast you can get flat abs, click here: Flatten Your Stomach In 2 Weeks

To read more about the Ab Circle, click here: Ab Circle Pro Review

John Davenport lost over 30 pounds in his twenties after being overweight most of his life. He now runs a weight loss forum and publishes a diet and fitness newsletter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Davenport

You may have seen the highly impressive infomercial for the Ab Circle Pro exercise machine and have been tempted to get one for yourself. You may be wondering whether it's possible to get the kind of results the infomercial promises. I won't get into that issue in this article but what I do want to do is help you get the best results possible with this machine by giving you a few tips:

1. Start using it fast - A lot of people buy a machine, get it delivered, and then wait for a week or two while it sits there accumulating dust in its original package. Unless you begin using the Ab Circle Pro immediately you may find it slowly slipping from your mind. Therefore, the first key is to begin using this machine as soon as you can. In the same day it's delivered, if possible.

2. Make it a powerful workout - Don't be easy on yourself during the workout. Even though the it's suggested that using the AbCirclePro for 3 minutes a day is the same as doing a ton of sit-ups, I can tell you flat out that this isn't true, in particularly if you don't make your workout hard and strenuous.

3. Don't make it your only workout - If you believe that the AbCirclePro alone will get you the kind of results you're seeking than you may find yourself disappointed because it's impossible to lose belly fat with ab exercises alone. You can't spot reduce fat from a specific body part. You need to workout your entire body to do that. Therefore, I recommend that you continue doing regular exercise for the rest of your body. It will help you flatten your stomach and get lean all over.

4. Watch what you eat - Remember, you can't outtrain a bad diet. It's simply impossible. Therefore, if you want to shed fat and get the kind of results you're seeking, you have to make sure you follow a solid, nutritious, and healthy eating plan. Otherwise, whatever results you expect to get with the Ab Circle Pro will never happen.

To read more about this machine, click here: Does Ab Circle Pro Work?
To see what other people say about this exercise machine, visit: Ab Circle Reviews and Testimonials.

John Davenport lost over 30 pounds in his twenties after being overweight most of his life. He now runs a weight loss forum and publishes a diet and fitness newsletter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Davenport

Find Out Everything You Need To Know About Fitness Equipment. Do You Need It? Or Are You Better Off Investing Into A Fitness Trainer?

Fitness equipment in your home will not produce the same fitness results that a qualified personal trainer can offer for around the same price as the expensive fitness equipment, if not cheaper. Since a piece of fitness equipment is nothing more than an object, it is unable to compete with the advantages that an actual fitness trainer can provide. This equipment will not assist you in the proper techniques for losing weight and getting into better shape. Additionally, fitness equipment will become useless once you achieve your desired level of health.

As a resident interested in improving their health, you need to establish a proper fitness plan. The expertise that a fitness trainer has with fitness equipment will provide you a much better knowledge.

Fitness Equipment Is A Temporary Solution To Better Health

The fitness equipment, regardless of what type of equipment it is, only has limited use. There is not one piece of fitness equipment that will assist you in completing all of your fitness goals.

Many people give up on their fitness goals or if they do reach them, the expensive exercise equipment invested in starts to collect dust.

Equipment For Fitness Will Not Plan Your Entire Workout

Regardless of the price that you pay for your fitness equipment, it will not plan your entire workout. It will not tell you everything that you need to do to succeed at your individual fitness goals.

Only a proper personal trainer can guide you to successfully completing your fitness goals, even if they seem impossible to tackle.

Invest Smart By Rethinking Your Fitness Equipment

In reality, there is not much of a difference between the price of fitness equipment and the price of hiring a personal trainer. Both options are considered expensive, but you will gain so much more from a personal trainer than you ever will from a piece of equipment.

Your Mental Health

Fitness equipment will not help you in maintaining your mental health. Even though you are trying to achieve a higher level of physical health, you will only receive the best results when you are mentally prepared for the enduring workout sessions that you will face.

A fitness trainer can assist you in keeping your morale up while the fitness equipment will encourage you to give up on your fitness goals, if anything.

Improving Your Social Life

By investing in the services of a fitness trainer against purchasing fitness equipment at your local store, you can improve your social life. You often meet other people with similar fitness goals when you work out in a fitness center.

These people will want you to succeed in your goals as much as they wish to succeed in their own.

You will have someone to talk to (in your personal trainer) when you have questions regarding your fitness plan. A piece of fitness equipment is unable to carry on a conversation with you, leaving you with a lonely workout session.

So, In Conclusion..

Fitness equipment will do you little good unless you are using the fitness equipment of a fitness trainer that you have hired. Your fitness trainer, just like any human, will always be more valuable than a mechanical device.

As I'm sure you've seen numerous people line up at health clubs or gyms on the treadmills and other machines and avail to no results.

Zach Hunt is a Spokane fitness equipment expert, personal trainer and owner of Physzique, a fitness coaching service in Spokane, WA. Go here: Go here: Personal Trainer Spokane for more fitness tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zach_Hunt

If you have a home gym, then you might be taking it for granted. Are you using the home gym every day, or at least for a routine time as though you were actually in a gym and paying for your gym membership? Are you exercising all your muscle groups, or at least the muscle groups that you are recommended to exercise or tone? Are you avoiding any measures of either diversifying your routine, or at least making it more exciting for you to do? If you answered no to all these questions, then you are not only taking your home gym for granted, but you are wasting your investment. A home gym is designed for you to use, and for you to experience convenience - it is not something that you should use at your own convenience.

A Few Tips for the Flagging Enthusiasm

If you are hoping to resurrect your love for your home gym, then you may want to take note of the following tips as you re-start your exercise routine. First, of course, you need to want to have an exercise routine and keep it. Moreover, you need to work toward a tangible goal. You may think that simply seeking to lose weight or to shed off some inches in some parts of your body are tangible goals enough - but if you aren't sure about what you want, what makes you think that your brain and body are going to work together to achieve it? Here are tips that you should keep in mind:

- Keep to a schedule. This may sound constricting, but sometimes, your body adapts faster to habit instead of spontaneity. Have an hour or two every day set aside for your exercise routine. You may want to pick an exercise hour in the morning, so that you can shower before you go to work; and then an exercise hour in the late afternoon, so that you can sleep soundly at night. In any case, a schedule should help you stay with the exercise routine.

- Keep a tangible goal: how many inches do you want to lose on your waist, how many pounds do you want to lose in a month, and how soon do you want to fit into that dress of your dreams? Set a goal. If you have a schedule and a set goal, you can psych your body easily into obeying what you sometimes merely wish for.

- Don't be afraid to add some spice into your exercise routine. What excites you, and what makes you have fun and like what you are doing? Take yourself back to the most boring times in your life when you were sure that you were going to die of the tedium, if not for one element that took away all the boredom. Was it music? A change in routine? If it's music, play music while you exercise. Play a motivational speech if you must. Find ways to keep yourself going.

Getting More out of Your Workout Means Staying on It

- Don't be afraid to ask for help. There may be people who were once discouraged to work out even with their home gym already ready for their use. You may have friends who surmounted the odds and went out of their way to get back into their workout. These people can help you. Ask for advice, and ask about their techniques in staying in their workouts. Who knows, you might be able to get your act together, thanks to a few kindly souls (in lean and fit bodies, too).

- Ask your doctor for advice. You may have an underlying condition that should prohibit you from working out for too long, or from using a certain exercise or exercising a certain muscle group. You will need to find out what you can and should do.

- Do research! Read on how your workout can and should help you.

You might be discouraged from time to time, so you will need to accept that such a thing can happen. Don't let a few snags let you down. Keep on the workout. You can go right with a lot of exercise, so be aware that you are working toward better health. If you are able to keep to your workout and make exercise a habit, you will certainly feel better, inside and out.

For more information on how to use your own home gym to get fabulous abs go to:
http://www.yourownhomegym.com/Exercise-Gym-Home-Program.html
http://www.yourownhomegym.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathalie_Fiset

Who says you need thousands of dollars just to get fit at home? These days, the cost of home gyms is much more reasonable and quite affordable even for the average home. A little imagination, practical common sense and research will come a long way to help you achieve the home gym of your dreams at a budget. Here's how:

Consider buying the most basic.

Most first time home gym owners make the mistake of getting carried away when buying their own home fitness equipment. They jump right in and buy the most complete, multi-function machine that beckons from the display room of a store. This is impractical and very costly.

The reason is that multigyms, apart from being quite expensive, offer multiple exercise or workout options. High-end ones even let you vary your workout routines by allowing you to do 50 to 60 exercise regimens. For the first-timer, this can be very overwhelming. Most beginners can do well with at least 3 and a maximum of 10 exercise routines to get a total body workout AND strength training as well. The result? You have an exercise machine that sits there, not fully optimized.

A better thing to do is to buy the most basic equipment first and expand progressively. This will allow you to add more features and equipment as your fitness levels change and improve. That way, you'll buy only what you need and can afford, at least for the time being.

Go for fewer bells and whistles.

For majority of home gym equipment, you will get what you pay for. However, that shouldn't stop you from keeping an eye on your budget. Losing weight and keeping fit generally requires you to purchase machines that allow cardiovascular equipment. The bad news is, this type of equipment will cost you. The good news is, you can do something about it.

Probably one of the cheaper cardio equipment available today that are effective and easy to use are stationary bikes. Inexpensive ones can cost from about $100 to around $180. The price range may be a bit steep for the budget conscious but remember that cardio exercise equipment are a good investment, so it's best to look for quality, performance and endurance. Just don't look for a lot of features, though.

If you prefer treadmills, there are options that cost around $150. These are generally self-powered (meaning, there is no motor that will move the conveyor belt) and you're usually limited to walking - no running or even jogging. You could power-walk, though and if paired with weights, this type of budget home gym equipment will do nicely for your fitness goals.

There are also cheaper alternatives to the generally-expensive ellipticals. Prices can range from around $280 to $430. Low-end ones do the job but they're mostly best for people with smaller frames. If you're taller or heavier, best go for equipment in the mid-priced range.

For total body workout, try a budget-priced rowing machine. For as little as $150, you'll get a great workout equipment that offers smooth motion, sturdy design and yes, even digital readouts to help you keep track of the calories you have burned.

Buy secondhand or refurbished.

There are stores (also online shops) that offer gym equipment you can get at a discounted price. You need only pay around 20% to 40% of the original price, maybe even less. Be careful, though. Make sure you can check the quality of the machine yourself so you are assured it will perform as it should and last long. Shop around and check out several sources before deciding on which refurbished or secondhand equipment to buy.

Penny pinching fitness buffs

So now that you have an idea of how little you could spend on a home gym equipment, you're probably thinking, 'What if all I can afford is equipment ranging from $50 to $100?' Well, take heart. You can still enjoy home gym fitness at zero budget, by investing in equipment that will not put a dent in your pocket. Here are some choices:

Skipping rope. A single set using skipping ropes offers you excellent cardiovascular exercise. Couple this with a routine in strength training with a set of free weights and you're good to go.

Free weights. If you must spend, spend on a good set of free weights. Free weights are excellent for strength training and muscle toning. Simply pair them with a cardiovascular exercise of your choice.

Boxing equipment. Boxing is a terrific workout because it allows you to shed sweat, it increases your heart rate and works out every muscle in your body. Buy a cheap but sturdy punching bag and a pair of gloves that offer sufficient protection. Then hit your home gym and start working out.

For more information on how to use your own home gym to get fabulous abs go to:
http://www.yourownhomegym.com/Designing-Fitness-Gym-Home.html
http://www.yourownhomegym.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathalie_Fiset

Do you suffer from back pain, shin splints, or stiff knees? No.... this is not an infomercial. But if you ever experience pain or injuries, maybe it's time to stop blaming it on genetics or old age, and start considering your shoes! Just because those Nike Shocks look "killer" on the basketball courts doesn't mean they will do the job. Shopping for the right pair of shoes takes much more consideration than brand name and color.

Think about it: people are all unique when it comes to the way we walk, stand, move, and balance. The way or feet initialize these movements directly affect the ankles, which affect the knees, which affect the pelvis, which affect the shoulders. If our footwear is not promoting correct movement, it can lead to injuries in any one of these areas of the body. And if you're injured, that means you have to stop exercising and rest, which postpones your workouts and results -- and no one wants that!

To prevent this from happening, follow these steps to ensure you're getting a good shoe that will keep your workouts pain- and injury-free:

1.) Get your posture assessed by a credible personal trainer

2.) Purchase your shoes from a credible sporting goods store or running shop with *knowledgeable* associates, like Hansons or Running Fit

3.) Inform your sales associate of your injuries and what brand or shoe type you were wearing

4.) Purchase more than one pair of shoes if you're going to be performing different activities, e.g. have one pair for running only, and one pair for weight-lifting

5.) Get a new pair every 6 months

6.) Always understand the return policy or trial period on the shoe you're buying

Visit my blog to see other great articles about women's health and fitness and send me a comment!

Have a great workout!

Jennifer DiDonato
Brides Made Fit - Personal Trainer/Corrective Exercise Specialist
Website: http://www.BridesMadeFit.com
Blog: http://www.BridesMadeFitDetroit.Blogspot.com

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Jennifer Didonato - EzineArticles Expert Author

There is probably a Schwinn exercise bike that you will enjoy using. Exercise bikes have been used for years while other exercise machine have come and gone. People buy exercise bikes because they work.

Why do they work?

1. Exercise bikes help you strengthen the major muscle groups in your hips and legs.
2. Exercise with a bike is low impact and easy on joints.
3. Work your cardiovascular system any time day or night, summer or winter.
4. Using an exercise bike is safe. You can do it at home and there's little chance of falling or injury of any kind.
5. With many bikes you can read or listen to music or even watch TV while you pedal.

Schwinn bikes are noted for value. They don't make extremely expensive bikes. Many Schwinn bikes are mid-price bikes that have the most wanted features combined with quality construction and design.

Here are three examples of different types of Schwinn bikes and a model of each type.

Upright Exercise Bike

The Schwinn 131 Upright Exercise bike is selected by many. The upright bike is configured much like a regular bicycle. These bikes have a small footprint and are relatively inexpensive and easy to store. You can get a magnetic drive systems and plenty of programming options. Some people find the design more uncomfortable than other designs.

Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike is a mid-price machine that has many of the features of much more expensive machines. You get magnetic resistance which can be varied from nearly nothing to very difficult to pedal. Plus you get several built-in programs to keep your workouts interesting.

The pedaling position is more comfortable to many than the upright bike's plus the seat is extra comfortable. Pedaling is almost silent so it's easy to listen to music or watch TV or even read a book.

Dual Action

The Schwinn Airdyne is unique because the resistance to pedaling is produced by turning a fan. Also handles are attached to the pedal cranks so you can pump the fan with your arms as well as your legs. These bikes have been made for years with few changes because they work so well. Plus they're rugged enough that many gyms and rehab clinics still use them.

You can choose a Schwinn exercise bike that is affordable plus has the quality to be fun to use and still work for a long time.

Looking for a fast way to get fit? Al Bullington learned about the Schwinn Exercise Bike while logging thousands of miles on his personal bike.

To learn more about exercise bike fitness, you're invited right now to visit http://www.exercisebikefitness.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Al_Bullington

The Omron HEM-790IT automatic blood pressure monitor is definitely a great model to consider when choosing a home monitoring health device. Its makers have designed this well crafted medical gadget with the young and old in mind. For instance, it has a simple one-touch automatic function that quickly gives you the result on a large digital display. Additionally, its built-in IntelliSense technology provides for very accurate readings by automatically adjusting to the right cuff inflation level. Not to mention, it affords the user greater comfort and ease of use through this technology.

In terms of smart technologies, this gadget has the intelligence to detect 'morning hypertension' and irregular heartbeat with its advanced diagnostic tool. This is important as any detection of 'morning hypertension' could indicate an impending risk of stroke. Such advanced information would be invaluable for early diagnosis by your physician.

The unit also comes complete with its own 'Health Management Software' that is installed on the user's PC. This is where it appeals to the more sophisticated user who wish to track and manage their blood pressure and pulse trends on a regular basis. As a multi-user software, this allows the whole family to benefit from its use. Additional features of this software include morning and evening comparison charts that displays your both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate, frequency distribution analysis for common values over specific time frames. Downloading data from the gadget happens in seconds via a connecting USB cable with a single touch operation.

As a standalone, it has a 90-memory recall feature with date and time stamps making it easy to take along on those business trips and vacations. For more insights from the inside on blood pressure monitors and health advice, you can visit the author's blog.

Aaron Hunter is a full time fitness and wellness training instructor and writes in his free time sharing insights on health and fitness matters. His articles can be found at http://www.bestbloodpressuremonitorreviews.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aaron_Hunter

These days many sports and bicycling enthusiasts are opting for recumbent cycles over upright ones, and with good reason. While upright bikes may offer more of an actual workout on the legs, recumbent cycles have less pressure on the back and entire upper body since sitting back puts less pressure on this area.

But no matter how good they are for you and your workout, there seems to be far too many recumbent cycles on the market today making your choice a seemingly impossible one! How to choose and what to look for?

First you need to be aware of your fitness levels and what you're looking for in a bike. Most recumbent cycles are very adjustable but still respond to a rider's height and weight. Women especially may want to choose options that are meant specifically for them, as trying to use a bike that's too large for your frame may mean that you are constantly reaching for the pedals and handles; simply moving the seat forward or up and down may only mean that you're bending your legs unnaturally, resulting in an uncomfortable ride or workout.

Your level of fitness also comes into play when choosing between recumbent cycles; different leg muscles are worked at various levels when cycling and much of this depends on your posture while riding. The longer the pedal base, the more you're working your entire lower and upper leg muscles and a shorter pedal base means the upper thigh muscles are being worked much harder than the lower leg muscles.

With a recumbent bike you are sitting in a position facing front so you will not get the neck strain so common with normal bikes. You are sitting in a seat with back support, not balancing on a little wedge of hard plastic which means no more chafing in those tender spots. Your weight is not resting on your arms, so you eliminate all the strain and pain from your hands, wrists, arms and shoulders.

Men should be especially careful about using a standard upright bike because the narrow seat puts a lot of pressure on the prostate gland. With a recumbent bike your legs also don't have as much stress and strain when they are out in front of you rather than pedaling underneath your body the way you do with an upright bike.

While you might immediately be thinking that you want to work these underdeveloped muscles, be sure that you're going to dedicate yourself to such a workout. Choosing from recumbent cycles that are difficult for you to use will only mean that you'll be more likely to give up on your workout or ride and let the bike gather dust.

Your budget is also going to be a factor when choosing between recumbent cycles. There's no end to the many gadgets and features you can pick from with the various models, but of course you don't want to overspend either. A very basic model without all the "bells and whistles" can still provide an enjoyable workout or ride, so don't be taken in by all the recumbent cycles that have fancy gadgets and programs you're never going to use. Instead, try out a few in the store or at your local gym and find what feels best for you, and then choose according to how much you can realistically spend.

David Cowley has created numerous articles on Home Exercise Equipment. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to Home Exercise Equipment. Visit Home Exercise Equipment

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Cowley

It has become the answer for many people in this busy world, to go to the gym to get in better shape. Gym memberships allow you to keep your body fresh, healthy and fit. Making time to work out at the gym also can increase your energy levels. While working out is great idea, not everyone has the time. So how can a busy person with full schedule manage to stay in shape?

The best alternative can be a home gym exercise equipment purchase. After setting up gym equipment at home, you can save time and work out at your convenience. No more driving to the gym, lugging around extra clothes and membership cards.

The are many types of effective home gym exercise equipment to choose from. Consulting with an expert at the sporting goods store or a personal trainer is a good place to start. One can also browse the online user reviews.

Working out at home isn't just for experts. Beginners can also benefit, and there is home gym exercise equipment specifically denied to make your workout productive. These machines also help you to maintain proper posture to avoid injuries. There are also multi-station pieces available in the market which will in turn allow you to perform numerous exercises - one after another.

You can do exercises for your legs, arms, thighs and abs through a multi-station gym. The use of pulley or a sliding bar system allows the machine to changes its position as you require. These pulleys have increment of about five to ten pounds in weight to adjust the intensity of your workout.

The most important consideration in buying home gym exercise equipment is to select a long-lasting, well-built unit. Any breakage has the potential to lead to serious injury. Be sure it has an aluminum or steel support cover. This makes it strong enough to gradually bear your weight while you are exercising.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about home gym exercise equipment, please visit Fast Fitness Today for current articles and discussions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katie_Appleby

Before I get into the three specifics on how to lose weight with treadmill walking, let's take a step back. The science behind weight loss is very simple: you have to burn more calories than you consume. In addition, the more intense your workouts are the more calories you will burn.

With these principles in mind, let's now turn to the three critical things you need to know to reach your weight loss goals by walking on the treadmill. They are...drum roll please...frequency, consistency, and intensity. Let's take a closer look at all three:

Frequency
I hate to tell you this, but an occasional walk on the treadmill is going to do very little for you. It takes considerably more effort to lose weight by walking than other treadmill exercises such as jogging or running. The good news about treadmill walking, however, is that it has the least stress on your knees and joints. Unlike jogging and running where off days are important, you can walk everyday if you want. You should aim to walk at least 5 days per week. Anything less and you will find it very difficult to reach your weight loss goals (assuming you aren't doing any other exercises or strength training).

Consistency
You need to be consistent when it comes to treadmill walking to lose weight. Taking days off or cutting your exercise sessions short will hurt your weight loss efforts. As I've mentioned, walking is the least intense treadmill exercise. If walking is going to be your primary method to lose weight, your workouts need to be consistent day-to-day.

Intensity
If you are obese or just plain out of shape and just beginning an exercise program, then your treadmill walking workouts should not be that intense when starting out. Start your program slowly. Eventually, however, you'll need to increase the intensity of your treadmill walking workouts for maximum weight loss results. This shouldn't be a problem because the more you walk, the more fit you'll become. The more intense your workouts are the more calories you'll burn and the shorter your sessions will have to be.

What is an intense workout? It will vary depending on how fit you are, but generally speaking you should aim to walk on the treadmill for 45 minutes or more during each session. You should also try to keep your heart rate at a minimum of 70% of your maximum heart rate during each session. Again, these guidelines will vary and these are aimed specifically for effective weight loss results. Your sessions can be shorter and your heart rate can be kept in a lower range, but if you do this, it can take longer to reach your goals and you may never reach them if your sessions aren't intense enough.

Treadmill walking to lose weight is definitely possible but it takes frequency, consistency, and intensity. If walking is going to be your primary treadmill exercise for weight loss, keep these three keys in mind. Otherwise, you'll just be wasting your time and effort!

Lose weight with these fun and simple treadmill walking workouts! You'll also find indepth reviews and recomendations of the best treadmills here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Sailor

There is absolutely no end to the options you have when it comes to treadmills these days. From small, compact models that fold up or practically slide under your bed to expensive, fancy models that cost thousands and do everything but exercise for you, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the many models and features they offer and to make the decision as to what will be best for you.

But even with all the other equipment out there, treadmills sill remain the most standard and basic of exercise equipment and one that virtually anyone can use, so regardless of your level of physical fitness you would do well to consider this as an investment in your long-term health. But before you let yourself get overwhelmed with your options or just choose from one of the most expensive of treadmills, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Your budget is going to go a long way toward making your decision about the various treadmills on the market. There are some that are literally thousands of dollars, but usually they offer options that are well over and above what you need for a good workout and routine. While most treadmills offer preprogrammed settings, there are some that have a ridiculous amount of options in this area. Very rarely does anyone need to have more than just a few preset programs for their running or walking routine; anything else is just overkill.

Some treadmills also offer a lot of display options that many users just don't need. While it's good to keep track of your time, pace, incline, and maybe even your heart rate, some display options are never even used or may be inaccurate. For instance, unless your machine allows you to enter your exact weight, the "calories burned" is probably not going to be accurate as people of different weights burn calories at different rates. The heavier you are, the harder you work when you move so the more calories you burn per minutes. Treadmills that don't measure your incline and speed against your actual body weight are not giving an accurate number of calories burned per minute or per hour.

Before you start your search for exercise treadmill you should decide on the type of treadmill you think would be of the best benefit to you. Take a trip to your local home fitness center and check out the types of machines available. While looking at the equipment be sure to inspect the exercise machines for quality of workmanship and if you are looking at gym equipment in a gymnasium you should look for the normal wear and tare. This information will become vital when considering used a used treadmill.

Remember too that very often used treadmills are just as good as new. Check the belts and run on the machine for a few minutes to see if it drifts to one side or another; this is a sign of uneven wear. Of course, belts for most treadmills can be replaced so keep that in mind as well. Most brands last ten years or more, so just because it's used or pre-owned doesn't mean it should be dismissed. Check used sporting goods stores near you for their selection; this is a great way to save money when it comes to treadmills.

David Cowley has created numerous articles on Home Exercise Equipment. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to Home Exercise Equipment. Visit Home Exercise Equipment

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Cowley