Cardiovascular Exercise Equipment

January 29, 2009
By Josh Perez

cardiovascular-exercise-equipment

With cardiovascular exercise equipment – these machines simulate the movements of cycling, walking, running, rowing, skiing, and stair climbing. They’re great choices for cardiovascular and fat-burning workouts. The equipment can be motorized or not, portable or professionally sized, and relatively economical or quite expensive. Such equipment provides an excellent alternative to outdoor exercise. If you are looking for the top cardiovascular exercise equipment to design a home gym, or just looking for one quality product to purchase – here are some of the top investment descriptions:

Prices vary greatly (from a few hundred dollars to thousands), depending upon whether the machine is motorized or programmable or has add-ons, like such devices to measure heart rate, calories burned, and time elapsed. You may want to opt for a machine that offers information to help you track your intensity from day to day, such as calories burned in a given time or METs. These information is particularly important if your doctor has advised you to restrict your activity. Still, it’s important to note that these measures are based on the manufacturer’s estimates and may not be entirely accurate. Here’s the skinny on some of the more popular types of cardiovascular exercise equipment followed by my top recommendation for each piece of equipment.

Treadmills:

The treadmill machine enables you to walk or run indoors. Some models offer a flexible surface that cushions your joints. When purchasing a treadmill, look for a strong motor (the machine will last longer), a belt that’s long and wide enough for your stride, a sturdy frame with front side rails for safety, and an emergency stop device. You should also be able to adjust the speed and grade so you can walk at a comfortable pace. Treadmills.

TreadClimber:

The The TreadClimber TC5000 by Nautilus represents the ultimate in TreadClimber technology for fast and easy weight loss. Fully integrated electronics, including a wireless heart rate monitor, enable you to monitor every vital aspect of your workout – and achieve maximum results. For calorie-burning effectiveness, no other piece of exercise equipment comes close to the Bowflex TreadClimber.

Stationary Bicycles:

The stationary bicycles takes no training and is easy to use, although it can get uncomfortable for long stints. While riding isn’t as effective in preventing osteoporosis as weight-bearing exercise, it does provide an excellent cardiovascular workout. Look for a model with a comfortable, adjustable seat and toe clips. Stationary Bike.

Stair-Steppers:

The stair-stepper provides a low-impact workout that approximates climbing flights of stairs. Some machines have devices to work arms, too. Beginners may find stepper machines strenuous, and the motion can be hard on the knees. Look for machines that provide independent foot action and are equipped with handrails and large stair platforms. Stair Stepper.

Rowing Machines:

The rowing machines work the back, arms, and legs simultaneously, offering as close to a total-body workout as available from a machine. The motion can feel unfamiliar, and some people find it hard on the back. When purchasing one, consider pulley models instead of piston models for a more realistic rowing experience. Rowing Machine.

Elliptical Trainers:

The elliptical trainers have a circular up-and-down motion that’s a cross between a ski machine and a stair stepper. They provide a nearly impact-free workout. Some models have levers with handgrips to work the upper body. The unusual motion may take some getting used to. Important features to look for include comfortable handlebars and nonslip pedals with curved ridges. Elliptical Trainer.

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One Response to “Cardiovascular Exercise Equipment”

  1. Greg Sadowski Says:

    When I used to attend the gym I found the best cardio workout I got was from the tread climber machines. Now I am considering getting one for home. If you can get the results you want, Im sure the price will be worth it.

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