So let's answer the first question: “What treadmill model should I choose?”. Well it really depends on how much you will use it, where you will use it and how much money you have. When choosing a treadmill model you should first look for two things: manufacturer and warranty. If the manufacturer is an established treadmill sports distributor, then you can be half-sure of its quality. If the warranty is also high, you made ends met and you can be fully certain of the treadmill's quality. If the warranty of the treadmill is high, it's like a confidence vote given to the machine by its manufacturer. Think about it, long warranty means a low breakdown rate.

It will be useless for you to choose a treadmill, come home and find out that you have no free space where you can set it up. Try and think of an exercising spot before you choose the treadmill and try to figure out how big or small you need your treadmill to be. Treadmills come in a large variety of models and some have the ability to fold two thirds of their body, so if you don't have a lot of room, you might want to consider this alternative.

Another important fact that needs to be taken into consideration when choosing a treadmill is that it maintains healthy exercising conditions. One of the most important factors is the thickness and mobility of the walking deck, which needs to be of at least 3 or 4 inches thick in order to avoid causing you any pains or health problems. The walking track is also extremely important as it will have to withstand a lot of direct pressure from the person who exercises, so it needs to perform at top speed while maintaining comfort levels high. The walking track should be approximately 17 inches wide in order to provide the necessary leg room for you to exercise correctly and it should also have a length of somewhere around 50 inches to provide your body with a comfortable position.

Other factors might come into play when choosing a treadmill, factors like accessories, special features, electrocardiogram devices, heart rate monitors, book-holders or whatever gadget and feature you think would be useful. Make sure that before you choose a treadmill and purchase it, you thoroughly test it if the store allows you to (and most of the important sports stores offer this opportunity).

We receive many calls from customers who have purchased trainers online, generally through internet auction sites, and have found them to be copies when they receive them. If they receive them at all.

China is a great exporter of these copies, with thousands entering the UK every month. As a company, we receive a large quantity of emails from these manufacturers trying to sell their products to us—some for as little as £10 per pair. All such emails are forwarded by us to the relevant authorities but this is unfortunately nowhere near enough to tackle the huge problem.

Nike in particular is targeted by the illegal factories, employing workers in “sweat shop” conditions, and loses a lot of money through the trade. Air Max and Jordans are two of the styles favoured by replica producing factories, however the fakes can come in virtually any form.

often sells rarer trainers in full size runs at much lower than average prices, we often get calls and emails asking if our trainers are authentic and how we can sell them so cheap. We guarantee that every pair of trainers we sell are genuine—and this is what has helped our success.

There are many sites and auction traders out there that will happily take your money in exchange for fake shoes, or just take the money and run.

The appearance of the majority of fakes is very close to the real thing, which makes them even harder to spot. The quality however is far from that of authentic trainers.

Fake trainers affect the buyer, responsible online retailers and the manufacturers. In order to help with the battle of fakes, we have put together a few pointers to help you spot fakes so you don’t become a victim.

Spotting fakes - a guide

1. Is the deal too good to be true? Counterfeit trainers are sold , often in large quantities and size ranges, for incredibly low prices. Although there are some good bargains to be found on auction sites, the fact is there are more fake trainers listed on them than real.

2. Check the small print on the site or auction you are buying from. Some sites admit that they are selling fakes, or “variants” as they are often described as for the purpose of fooling the consumer.

3. Research auction sellers. If you are buying from an online auction, check the seller’s feedback and look for negative comments - although all their previous customers may have been fooled enough not to question the authenticity. Check for a history of selling large quantities of “rare” trainers and contact previous buyers to ask them to check their purchase.

4. Check the box. Fake boxes are of poor quality both in the construction and the print. The wrapping inside them should be thick paper and not thin tissue.

Unfortunately, there are no comprehensive methods of spotting fakes because of the closeness of the imitation however we will be more than happy to help you if you would like to contact us with any concerns about trainers you are thinking of buying.

In today's increasingly fitness orientated world, treadmills can be an easy and convenient way to exercise without spending hours running around busy streets or parks allowing you the opportunity to acquire and maintain a good level of fitness even if you choose to exercise while watching a favorite soap opera or day time talk show. Treadmills can be expensive and before purchasing one it is highly recommended and necessary to make sure that it is both within your financial budget and that the treadmill is capable of meeting your fitness needs, expectations and desires. There are many ways to find out which are the best recommended treadmills, to include reading exercise magazines and visiting fitness orientated web sites. Many of these include a exercise machine review section which will guide you towards the best machine for your price range.

Some of the more upscale and expensive treadmills come with a large amount of extra features, which although useful if you use them, are not entirely necessary and could mean that you may be paying more than you need to when buying your treadmill. However, if you want a more expansive machine some treadmills do come with features, which can be extremely useful and are well worth paying the extra money for when it comes time to pay. Many of the best recommended treadmills come with added safety features and pushbutton controls, which are much more convenient than on some of the cheaper or less well designed machines.

Depending on your budget, and the range of features that you require you can pay as a little as $300 or less or over $1000 for a treadmill. Whether you are looking to buy the cheaper or the more expensive option it is still worth researching the best recommended treadmills in your price range. Even some of the cheap treadmills, although not as sophisticated as their more expensive rivals, are built to a good standard and are perfectly adequate for normal daily use. One particular feature that you definitely want to check on is the length of the manufactures warranty, which in some cases can be as little as 90 days.

When you're looking at the reviews for the best recommended treadmills another important consideration is the stability of the treadmill itself. If the running belt is to narrow this places your feet in an awkward position and doesn't position them to be far enough apart allowing you to run safely and in a stable fashion. Additionally, if you're constantly concentrating on maintaining stability, then it will make the whole process of exercise a good deal more tiring, stressful and less enjoyable. You want to also be sure to double check the recommended or allowable weight limit on the treadmill machines that you are considering purchasing, especially on some of the cheaper models. Of course this won't be a problem if you don't weigh very much, but if you're heavier and looking to start running in order to reduce your weight it could be important to know if the weight limit for the machine is very low in order to prevent any sports or running injury from taking place.

Whether you are spending $300 or $1000 on a treadmill or indoor running machine it is important to make sure that you get good value for your money and that the machine will do what you require safely and effectively. In order to meet this requirement it is worth taking a little time and trouble to check through the various web sites and magazines to make sure that the machine you are thinking of buying is the best of its type at your available budget.

Treadmills can bring the outside into your own living room. Sounds ideal doesn't it. You can run 10 miles withour leaving your house. But can treadmill running deliver the same benefits as training outdoors?

Treadmill running differs from road running in a number of ways and this should be considered when training. The first obvious difference is the lack of wind resistance when running indoors. Another difference is the surface. Although experts differ on this issue a smooth moving surface underneath your feet is not the same as an uneven stationary road. Most runners agree that running on a treadmill feels different to road. This should be taken into consideration when training.

Is running on a treadmill better than the road? This comes down to preference. Many prefer being outdoors whereas others have environmental, climatic or personal safety concerns making treadmill running an ideal choice.

Firstly let's look at the psychological factors of running on a treadmill compared to the road. Unless you have a large room for your machine you will most likely to be facing a wall or window within a few meters. Research has shown that runners on treadmills take shorter paces that may be due to the proximity of a barrier or fear of falling off. It does take time to learn how to run on a moving surface and even when confident many runners will tighten their lower backs, again possibly a psychological reaction to staying on the machine.

When comparing physical technique, research has found that when the foot lands on the belt the foot, ankle and shin, become temporarily part of the belt and move backwards from the centre and mass of the body at the same speed. This means the shinbone of the leg landing is not as upright as with normal running and has a greater range of motion.

Treadmill running can be useful for injured athletes, using a mirror can be a good way to observe your technique (although it must be recognised that it is not the same as training on the road).

Whether using a treadmill or road you will need to vary your running program for two reasons. Firstly, if you continue doing the same distance and the same speed you will get less and less benefit as your body adapts. Secondly, you can soon become de-motivated by the same thing week in, week out. Alternating between shorter faster runs and longer distances at a slower pace will help to condition your body and improve endurance, muscle strength and cardio-vascular function. It will also provide you with variety and a different challenge for each session.

Exercise treadmills bring the outdoors inside so you can enjoy the benefits of running without leaving your house. They can be very useful for people who don't feel safe running out of doors and are popular with female runners.

But what needs to be considered when making the decision to use one? Are they a good substitute for running? Do I buy one? Are they expensive and what type should I buy?

Are exercise treadmills worth the cost?
Before you consider whether you need to buy one, you may like to answer the following questions.

1. Do you run at present?
If the answer is NO, can you be sure it won't end up as an expensive clothes hanger gathering dust in a few months time. Maybe try an exercise treadmill at the gym or start a running in the local park so you can judge whether you will enjoy running.

If you answer YES and have made a long-term commitment, appreciate that road running and using exercise treadmills are quite different activities. Personally, I prefer to stick to the roads but there may be reasons why you would like a treadmill.

2. What are your reasons for running?
If you are running to lose weight then exercise treadmills are popular where you may feel self-conscious about running in public or the gym. A treadmill offers a great way to start.

If you are running to keep fit and you feel safe running in your local area then road-running may be a better option. However, if environmental conditions make training difficult at times, an exercise treadmill is a good alternative to keep your on the move.

3. Can you use your local gym
The treadmill is the most common piece of gym equipment, even in an ill-equipped one. Of course you still have to pay gym membership or an entrance fee but you do have other machines to use. They may even have a swimming pool for a cool down following your run.

But again you may not want to run in front of all those fit individuals or your gym is inconvenient to get to when you fancy a quick jog in the evening.

4. Do you have the space? Where would you put it?
Obviously if you answer No here a treadmill is not an option. Unless you have a very dear friend who will house it for you.

Even fold-up treadmills take up space. Non-folding treadmills take up a considerable amount of a room. If you have got space, what type of room is it. Some use their garage, others prefer the bedroom or somewhere near a TV. Where ever you consider putting it, is it a room you would like to spend a considerable amount of time in? If you progress your running you may be training up to two hours at a time!

If after taking in the pros and cons you decide to go ahead and purchase an exercise treadmill be prepared to spend at least US$1000. If you buy a cheaper treadmill it is frankly not worth the bother. If you spend more you will get extras such as heart monitors, running programs, stopwatches and tilting surfaces for hill running.

Specifications:
You will need to look at the power of the motor and the maximum speed. You really need a minimum of 1.5 horsepower and one that can do up to 10 mph. You don't want to be growing out of your exercise treadmill in just a few months time after spending all that cash! The belt should be at least 48" long and 16" wide.

I would also advise you try a model before you buy one - you may use an online provider but always check the same model for yourself first. Check neither the frame or the belt moves when you use it. Make sure you can reach and use the control panel with ease.

Test run for at least 10 minutes and listen for any changes in the noise of the motor. Is it quiet? It may sound okay in a large sports store but what about in your garage?

As mentioned earlier, running on a treadmill is different than road running. The advantages to using one are first of all the obvious, such as running in your own home so you will feel safe and not need to worry about traffic or undesirables. You can run any time of day and not worry about weather conditions.

Bowflex is a subsidiary of Nautilus Fitness who have been in the exercise equipment business since 1986. Nautilus also owns Schwinn, Stairmaster and Trimline and they're the second largest producer of exercise equipment in the world.

Bowflex is perhaps better known for their range of home gyms, however they have also come out with several treadmills that add competition to the already crowded mid-priced treadmill market.

Starting around $1100 up to $1999 (MSRP), Bowflex offers 3 treadmill models: the 3 series, 5 series and 7 series treadmill.

Are Bowflex treadmills a good value? Here is a review of the pros and cons of Bowflex treadmills to help you decide for yourself.

Pros:

Bowflex treadmills are sleek, attractive machines. They fold up to save space and have Softdrop decline which makes unfolding your treadmill easier. Built-in wheels also help you to move your treadmill around if space is tight.

Motor power ranges from 1.75 HP to 3.0 which is fairly average in this price range. All treadmills offer built in workout programs and heart rate monitoring so you can stay in your target heart rate zone while exercising.

Bowflex treadmills offer Strike Zone™ deck suspension cushioning to make your workouts a little more comfortable and the higher end treadmills also come with 3 speed built-in fans to keep you cool.

The best part about Bowflex treadmills are probably their warranties which cover the frame for 15 years, motor for 10 years, parts/electronics for 2 years and labor for 1 year. Although there are similarly priced treadmills with longer warranties, this is still a good warranty that will give you peace of mind just in case something goes wrong with your machine.

How do users rate them?

The most popular Bowflex treadmill features with buyers are the solid feel, professional look and ease of construction. (However it is only fair to point out that there are still very few user reviews.)

Consumer Reports also rated the Bowflex Series 7 treadmill a 'Best Buy' in their February 2006 ratings, giving it an "Excellent" rating in Quality, Exercise Range, and Ergonomics.

Cons:

Treadmill experts have reported noise problems with some of the treadmills due to the plastic parts. This can cause an extremely annoying rattling sound when using your treadmill.

Also, at this price range, competition is fierce and there are several other brands that offer you more for your money, especially in the terms of warranties, consoles and cushioning.

Conclusion:

Bowflex treadmills are getting very positive reviews and they do offer some great warranties. If you really love the Bowflex name, you'll no doubt be happy with a Bowflex treadmill. However at this price range there is a lot of competition and you might want to do some more research before making your final decision.

Scientific studies have shown a direct correlation between physical environment and fitness level. It’s something to keep in mind when planning where and how to use your new stationary bike. You may have already given up on the great outdoors for your cardio workout but have decided correctly that those with quick access to parks, trails, sidewalks and nice weather have an easier and more satisfying workout.

That does not mean that those who have opted for stationary bikes are to be short changed on the esthetic value of their workout time. If upon a careful stationary bikes reviews you decide to make that purchase, make similar choices about the placement and use times for that home exercise equipment. People often are so excited about the new equipment that they forget that the repetitive activity can become boring and enthusiasm soon fizzles.

Keeping that in mind, it becomes paramount to take measures from day one to facilitate the entertainment value of time spent on the stationary bikes. Consider things like other household members and their use of the space that you’ve chosen. If your quarters are limited the dining room, then dinner time may be the worst time to use the stationary bike. If you have chosen to work out in the morning maybe headphones with an extra long cord will let you watch the stock market reports while others sleep.

Consider the physical environment carefully. Are you relegated to a dank basement at exercise time? Take the time to brighten the area. A little paint and posters that inspire you can go a long way. Favorite music or videos can make the time spent on the stationary bikes the best part of the day. Without such careful planning the time spent that you used on a stationary bike review might have been as well spent for other purposes

Although the personal trainer at the fitness club will say differently it is imperative to note that even low intensity workout on the stationary bike will produce health benefits and be less likely to produce injury. The inactive population is often led to believe that there must be sore muscles and a lot of agony associated with the daily workout but not so!

Part of the reason to exercise regularly has only glancing relation to improved muscle tone and cardiovascular improvement. Much of the reason has to do with stress reduction and improved range of motion. Flexibility and balance can be improved and maintained as well. In fact there is only one real rule to keep in mind when exercising. That is simply that you didn’t get out of shape over night and it is probably best not to try to get in shape over night.

The good news though on this topic is that measurable aerobic improvement can be obtained in about one month after beginning any aerobic activity. Think of it. Almost no other self-improvement project can be successful in so short a time as an aerobic fitness program. It is nearly instant gratification when compared to body building for instance. To achieve the competitive well defined muscles required of this sport takes approximately two years of four to six hours per day. Much of that is painful by the way.

Stationary bikes can be successfully incorporated into the more demanding athletic workout. It can provide valuable cross training benefits to any athlete. For most it is used as a stand alone workout. Few of us has the time to invest in a fully evolved regular workout. At least for a long term consistent matter it becomes a luxury.

But if cross training , weight training and triathlon are words that don’t apply to one’s fitness level don’t despair. It may be time to start stationary bikes reviews. Exercise can be fun and beneficial.

If you have decided to use a fitness facility when riding stationary bikes consider factors that can make that more enjoyable. And consider factors other than price if at all possible. Save money by not eating fast food as often and use the money saved to pay for a club that is better for your purposes or even to rent an apartment with a fitness center over one without. This helps you save money for that fitness center membership and cuts back on the bad foods you eat. Both of which are good for those intending to use stationary bikes

Remember if you join a fitness club that is across town you’ll spend valuable time and money just commuting. In the end you’ll also lose the stress busting effects of exercise when you’re caught in traffic on the way home. You may find that the light enters the room at a more appealing angle in the morning or that you can watch the stars in the evening. Maybe there are people you like to visit with at certain times of day or perhaps crowds to be avoided at other times. Whatever it is that makes you enjoy the very same stationary bike at different times is something that will keep you biking and that consistency will pay off handsomely.

Be sure to take snacks with you to the fitness center, spinning on stationary bikes can really get the appetite going and you’ll find it much easier to ignore the temptation of the smoothie bar or a fast food restaurant if you’ve brought something that is both healthier and tasty that you like. A good food item could be a pita stuffed with lettuce, and other veggies and a package of your favorite salad dressing to top it off. If you want to add a little protein take along some peanuts to eat with it. Don’t forget your water bottle.

Indoor trampolines, also known as mini-trampolines, are small trampoline kits designed for children between 3 to 7 years old. They are available in many sizes but most of them are portable and smaller than regular trampolines. Average height is about 9 -11 inches off the ground and may be circular, rectangular or square in shape.

Since many emergency room-treated injuries are related to trampoline jumping, before letting kids use indoor trampolines (though smaller and look more harmless), all safety precautions should be taken. Adequate adult supervision is also imperative for all types of trampolines if it involves kids in the trampoline activity.

Indoor trampolines may also be used as a bouncing device by gymnasts or stuntmen to be catapulted into the air. Professional indoor, or Olympic style trampolines, have a webbed surface and are generally much more expensive. They also need folding down and are not suitable for outdoors. Other indoor trampolines may also be used as fitness and weight loss tools.

Popular Indoor Trampoline Models:

Nursery Trampoline: This indoor trampoline has a grip handle, and is designed to encourage children to exercise and keep fit. The model is suitable for outdoor use too. It is also equipped with a weatherproof mat and tubular steel frame with a durable coated finish. The padded cover around the mat cushions the frame and prevents children from stepping through the bungee cord for extra safety. Costs around $100 to $135.

Joey Trampoline: is designed to help kids learn balance and coordination with the assistance of a handlebar, which can be removed as the child gets older and bigger. It features 6 steel feet, anti-slip rubber pads, a powder-coated steel frame, heavy-duty jumping mat, and strong padded foam cushion frame cover for extra safety. Approximate cost - $60 to $70.

Child Sport Fit Trainer: Manufactured by Texas Trampoline, the jumping surface of this indoor trampoline is woven Permatron material, and has extra wide, deluxe safety pads that cover the frame and the springs. It’s an 8-foot square and 24 inches high trampoline which can also be used by adults who want to stay in shape. No additional tools are required for assembly. It costs around $600, and is one of the most expensive indoor trampolines.

Soft-Bounce Rebounder: A product from Needak, it has a surface diameter of 28.5 inches and a Permatron mat rebounding surface, with protective, spring cover padding, and is intended for indoor, aerobic use by adults. The rebounder comes in a folding or non-folding model. Purchase also includes a video, book, article, and a carrying bag. Costs around $120 to $180.

TP Medium Junior Trampoline: Features a detachable handle which can be used when the trampoline is used by more than one child. Designed to improve co-ordination, balance skills and spatial awareness of the child through play. Made from galvanized steel frame and tough mesh mat that allows rain to fall through. Costs around $60 to $70.

The exercise bike has been a staple in health clubs and gyms for decades. The elliptical trainer on the other hand is relatively new, but it has quickly become a favourite of exercisers of all ages. At my gym, there is usually a waiting list to use the elliptical trainers.

Both the elliptical trainer and the exercise bike give you a terrific cardiovascular workout. Let’s review the elliptical trainer versus the exercise bike to see how it compares!

The elliptical trainer and the exercise bike both provide a low impact workout.

If you have ever tried an elliptical trainer at your gym, you may have been impressed by the smooth gliding action of the machine. The elliptical (oval shaped) motion lets you experience a full range of motion, but the smooth action keeps your joints supple.

The exercise bike is also a low impact exercise. Riding an exercise bike allows even people with back pain to exercise because it does not jar the spine like some other forms of exercise. In fact, rehabilitation specialists will often recommend the exercise bike to people who have joint issues or who are rehabilitating after surgery.

Both machines minimize the force on your knees, ankles and feet.

Both the elliptical trainer and exercise bike are great for beginners.

If you’re just starting out exercising, you won’t find an easier exercise to get used to than the exercise bike. It mimics the action of riding a bike, so even beginners feel comfortable within a few minutes of getting on the machine. Resistance levels can be adjusted, so that you can choose a very low level of resistance when just starting out.

Nevertheless, the elliptical trainer is also terrific for beginners because it mimics the same movement you use in walking, so you will find it easy to learn and use. The resistance level on the elliptical is also easy to adjust and change. Experiment a little bit to find the level that’s right for you.

The elliptical trainer with handlebars provides a great cross training work out versus the exercise bike.

Probably one of the biggest advantages of the elliptical trainer versus the exercise bike is its ability to give you a cross training workout. The handlebars give you the ability to work out many of the muscles of your upper body at the same time that you are working your legs. Many people choose the elliptical trainer over most other types of cardio equipment because you can get the best overall workout for your time.

The elliptical trainer and the exercise bike both allow you to reverse direction.

Don’t just get stuck in fast forward when you’re exercising. A great benefit of both the exercise bike and elliptical trainer is your ability to move your legs in a backward motion on the elliptical and to pedal backwards on the exercise bike. You may not realize that reversing the motion actually engages different muscles in your legs, thereby giving your legs a better all around workout.

The elliptical trainer provides a weight bearing workout versus the exercise bike, which does not.

Another benefit of the elliptical trainer is its ability to provide you with a weight bearing workout. Weight bearing exercise is important for protecting against muscle and bone loss, particularly as you age. Many fitness experts agree that weight bearing exercises are the best way for you to also improve your conditioning, strengthen your muscles and burn more calories efficiently.

The exercise bike is much smaller and less expenses versus the elliptical trainer.

If you are considering which piece of equipment to purchase for your home gym, space is typically a consideration. Exercise bikes take up less space than elliptical trainers do, so it may be a better choice if you have limited space.

In addition, you can usually get a decent exercise bike for a few hundred dollars less than a good quality elliptical machine. Remember to shop around to get the best price!

The exercise bike can help you build up your leg muscles.

If you are training for a specific purpose or sport, exercise bikes can be used to help you build up your quadriceps and calves. To achieve muscle building on the bike, you need to progressively increase your resistance on a regular basis. However, you are probably better off using the exercise bike for your cardiovascular benefits and using weight training for your muscle building.

Exercise has always been a part of a person’s life to ensure good health. But exercise should be done properly to make sure that it gives you the benefits that you expect. That is why it is necessary to use a heart rate monitor to keep track of your progress in achieving your exercise goals.

If you are on the look out for a high quality heart rate monitor, you should check reviews to arrive at a wise purchasing decision. Heart rate monitor reviews should be able to give you an insight on the different types available and their features and benefits. Aside from this, reviews should help you determine which monitor is right to help you achieve your personal goals. They should also help you examine your exercise objectives, and see which heart rate category best fits your situation.

The different types of heart rate monitors that are usually included in heart rate monitor reviews are the heart rate monitor watches, digital heart rate monitors and the strapless heart rate monitors.

Many prefer the heart rate monitor watches since these are very light and can be worn easily. These also include different features that make them very convenient to use even on a daily basis. The heart rate monitor watch includes a chest strap and a receiver that are used to register and monitor the beats of the heart.

The digital heart rate monitors, the latest in digital technology, offer the accuracy demanded mostly by athletes. Anyone at any age can use these to improve fitness condition, lose weight and burn fat, increase stamina and aerobic endurance and achieve peak athletic performance.

If the digital and the heart rate monitor watches are preferred by athletes, the strapless heart rate monitors are for those who only need heart rate monitors for casual monitoring.

A few days ago I testified a bit on how to properly choose a home / residential grade treadmill. This time, since it has been a quiet day at the DOJO, I am going to ramble a bit on the ins and outs of remanufactured commercial equipment. This guide can be used not only for cardio equipment like treadmills and ellipticals, but also for strength equipment...although I get more than enough of a strength workout every day lifting and moving heavy treadmills around the DOJO.

Remanufactured equipment (sometimes called refurbised or reconditioned -- it all depends on which company you are dealing with) has taken off quite a bit in the last few years as gym owners and home buyers both have realized they can purchase ultra high quality commercial equipment, in great condition for a fraction of the cost. Most remanufactured equipment with sell for 30-70% off of the original price! If you've ever wanted to have a Precor Elliptical or Life Fitness treadmill in your home, now you can!

The single most confusing thing about remanufactured equipment is just what it means...and what the difference between a remanufactured treadmill, a refurbished treadmill and a reconditioned on is. Unfortunately for buyers and poor service techs like the Treadmill Sensei, there are no industry standard definitions for these terms and what you get will vary from company to company. If you are going to buy remanufactured (or refurbished or whatever) equipment, make sure to ask what a company’s definition of what they are selling you is because you might be surprised at the answer. Some companies will just wipe a unit down, touch up the paint and then send it out the door as "remanufactured." Beware of these companies!

Let’s go over the life of a piece of gym equipment destined for remanufacturing...this is something I do nearly every day for my repair clients so I know of what I speak!

The concept may seem foreign to some, as most people are not even aware of the existence of a portable sauna. But not only do they exist, there are more than one type as well. This article will focus on the benefits of a standard portable sauna as well as discuss the portable infrared sauna and why you should consider owning one.

But let’s start with a regular portable unit. When you go to a gym or spa with a sauna bath, most likely you are used to seeing a very large room that looks like it took thousands of dollars and a ton of time, effort and space to build. And in the case of some of the mega-saunas that they have in such places, you may not be completely off track. However, that does not necessarily have to be the case. If you are thinking of purchasing a portable sauna for your own home use, you certainly don’t need one capable of sitting half of a spa’s daily client list.

This is why a portable one may be for you - it is a smaller version of a regular spa unit that requires nothing more than a space to put it in and a heater of some sort (usually an electric or gas rock heater) to steam it up. You can find a space inside your home, garage, shed or even your backyard - it does not matter, as long as you have the proper capacity and heating unit.

There are many health benefits of a portable sauna - the steam can be relaxing and stress relieving, even releasing toxins and free radicals that may allow for better overall health. But did you know that a portable infrared sauna has all of the benefits of a regular sauna, and more? An infrared sauna controls the amount of heat, therefore making it safer and easier to breathe in than in a regular unit.

The infrared heat of this type of portable sauna absorbs 1.5 inches into the skin, which can be therapeutic in many ways. It is thought that a portable infrared sauna can help in this way with pain, arthritis and even some sports injuries like strains and sprains that are slow to heal.

A portable sauna with infrared heat is also rumored to help with weight loss as well. According to some (non-medical) reports, a portable infrared sauna can make you sweat away pounds, and not just water either. When your body sweats out fat instead of just liquid, you are capable of losing more weight than just diet and/or exercise alone would usually allow.

Elliptical trainers are a great way to stay fit and because they exercise the arms and the legs as well as giving you a very good cardiovascular workout they are fast being seen as one of the best ways to stay fit. It is also time saving to use one of these machines because you are exercising everything at once there is no need to use a variety of different machines. In fact, you can get a really great workout in around half an hour using an elliptical trainer.

Interestingly enough, many people use them not so much to keep fit but instead to effective lose weight so naturally one of the most important things to them is the amount of calories burned on an elliptical trainer during a workout.

Of course there is no one set in stone answer to the question on the amount of calories burned on an elliptical trainer. It is actually very dependent on how well you use the exercise machine. After all, if you just use the machine on it's lowest setting for a short amount of time then it is not likely that you will burn that many calories. Even so, some exercise is better then no exercise so it is still a good idea and even if you do not burn too many calories you should still get some benefit from it actually performing the exercise. The real fitness and weight loss comes from exercising for around 30 minutes then you will really begin to see some advantages to using an elliptical trainer over a treadmill or stair climber.

A good workout on an elliptical trainer can give you real benefits to both your health and fitness and you can begin to notice a difference in your overall health and physique rather quickly. If used properly an elliptical trainer can tone your body better and significantly improve your fitness level. When trying to determine how many calories burned on an elliptical trainer per person the truth is it can depend on your size as well as how you use the machine. An average sized woman can expect to burn around 400 calories on a good workout while a small woman may burn as little as just over 300. If you are bigger then you are usually using more energy to do the same thing as you have more weight to move.

So the calories burned on an elliptical trainer can depend both on how use the machine and what size you are but they are, as well as being good for weight loss, some of the most efficient machines that you can use to raise your fitness level and they can also do it with less trouble and quicker than most other forms of exercise.