CARDIO EQUIPMENT
Cardio machines are a great way to up your fitness game and get those endorphins flowing. There are so many different types of cardio machines available, each with its unique benefits. Treadmills are great for getting your heart rate up and burning some serious calories. Spinning bikes are perfect for low-impact training, while stepper machines and vertical climbers help build lower and upper body strength. All these can be incorporated into your home gym and be used two to three times weekly, as recommended.
How to Choose the Right Cardio Equipment?
If you’re unfamiliar with cardio machines, the amount of options available can be daunting. Treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, stair climbers, and the list goes on. How are you supposed to know which one is right for you?
Choosing the right piece of cardio equipment will depend on several important factors. It’s equally important to consider your goals and current fitness level. Although all cardio machines will help you improve your cardiovascular health, some machines will support your goals better than others. For instance, if your goal is to complete a half marathon, investing in a treadmill would be the obvious choice.
Another factor to consider is the physical demand on the user’s body. Some cardio machines are built to impose minimal impact on the user’s joints, while others require the user to have a relatively strong physique to execute the activity safely and effectively. An example of this contrast would be a recumbent bike vs. a treadmill. The user can sit comfortably on the recumbent bike which makes it ideal for individuals working with injury, muscle weakness, and balance issues, whereas the treadmill will engage more muscles and require balance and stability.
What to Consider While Purchasing Cardio Equipment:
- Your goals and fitness level
- Space for your equipment
- Seat comfort and adjustability
- Console, LCD screens
- Built-in programs
- Built-in fans
Benefits of Cardio Equipment
The benefits of using cardio equipment extend beyond increasing your daily caloric burn. Regular cardiovascular exercise is proven to improve your circulation and oxygenation. It will also support heart health and the prevention of chronic disease.
There is no doubt that incorporating the use of cardio equipment on a regular basis will boost your energy, your mood, and your level of motivation, especially when you begin to see results. Having a superior quality piece of cardio equipment in the comfort of your own home will only increase the likelihood of adhering to a solid fitness routine.
With so many varieties of cardio equipment available, exercise is made accessible to all. Whether you’re challenged with injury, lack of strength, or balance issues, there is a machine that can provide you with a great workout. Seasoned athletes can also benefit from sport-specific training on various cardio machines, especially in the off-season or when the climate isn’t favorable to train outdoors.
If you’re just starting out, aim for 20 minutes every day. You don’t have to do it all at once; start with five or ten minutes of cardio multiple times a day. To get the most out of it, the CDC suggests doing it at least three times a week.
There are several cardio machines for targeting different muscle areas. Treadmills, stair climbers, and spin bikes can all be used for high and low-impact workouts depending on your fitness goals. You can always contact our team of specialists for assistance in selecting the best cardio machines for your needs.
The rowing machine is often overlooked when it comes to cardio equipment. The main advantage of using one is that it delivers a full-body workout, targeting the major muscle groups and thus providing both a cardio and strength workout.