Fitness Equipment

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Various Types Of Fitness Equipment

There are many different types of fitness equipment and they vary from a simple Pilate's ball to a highly sophisticated cardio machines equipped with a host of electronic displays. The major categories of fitness equipment are weight and strength training or cardio training and they are listed below.

Weight Training Equipment

The commonly used weight training equipment includes free weights, dumbbells and weight lifting bars. Although free weights are preferred by most body builders, their use requires more concentration and needs supervision.

Body Machines

There is a whole range of fitness machines used to isolate, tone, and strengthen a particular body part. These include machines for legs, arms, abdomen, back and more.

Cardio Exercise Equipment

Treadmills

Used for both commercial and home gyms, treadmills are undoubtedly, one of the most popular fitness equipments. The basic version of a powered treadmill uses a motor to move a belt, at a constant speed, maintaining the rate at which the user walks jogs or runs. Most of them come with powered incline adjustments. The biggest advantage of a motorized treadmill is that its speed can be increased by the click of a button, and the user will have to run fast to keep pace with the machine. Although, the home versions are basic, fairly inexpensive and foldable to save space, commercial treadmills are pretty sophisticated, with a whole lot of advanced options.

Elliptical Cross Trainers

These low impact machines offer the same benefits as treadmills and can be used for walking and running. Others include Exercise Steppers that offer workouts for leg and thigh.

Rowing Machines

These machines simulate the rowing action of paddles and provide the advantage of using the entire body in a single motion. They offer a low impact and non-load bearing exercise option. The seat and flywheel are free to move on a slide. Magnetic rowing machines are the most commonly used type, while water rowing machines are ideal for those who want to do indoor rowing.

Exercise Bikes

Highly suitable for large muscle groups in the legs, manual exercise bikes offer variable resistance. Some exercise bikes also assist in the workout of the torso and upper body. Some models are upright; while others are in recline position, putting less pressure and stress on the back.

Multi Gyms

This is multi-utility fitness equipment, which allows people to perform various exercises on the machine. Different parts of the machine offer exercise options to different muscle groups or body areas. For the most part, multi gyms concentrate on core exercises like chest press, leg extension and rowing.

For home use, the fitness equipment may be simple, user-friendly and inexpensive, while equipment for commercial use usually comes with a variety of options and is pretty expensive. Click on the links below to get more information on topics related to fitness and health.