To get the best exercise equipment for your home, determine your available space, your exercise goals and your budget. Consider if other people in the family will use the equipment and their size and fitness needs as well. Before purchasing any equipment, try it out in a show room or a fitness center to be sure that it is an easy-to-use, comfortable machine for you. The best exercise machines are ones you enjoy using and will make part of a weekly routine.
Stationary Bicycle
Stationary bicycles come in both upright and, slightly more expensive, recumbent models. Both offer a low-impact cardiovascular workout and can serve both most fitness levels. Stationary bicycles are easy to use, require little specialized skill or coordination. Upright bikes fit best into tight spaces---the American Council on Exercise recommends reserving about 10 square feet, while recumbents require a bit more room. When purchasing, ask about weight limits as some models may not accommodate people over 250 or 300 lbs. An hour-long stationary bicycle workout burns approximately 300 calories for a 160-lb. person. The workout's challenge can be increased by altering the resistance against which you pedal. Stationary bicycles also tend to be less expensive than other pieces of electrically powered exercise equipment of similar quality.
Treadmills
Treadmills require a bit more investment and space---about 30 square feet. Treadmills are also easy to use, and because you can use them to walk, jog or run, they accommodate a wide variety of fitness levels. Home models often carry lower weight limits than commercial gym models. The Mayo Clinic reports that a modest jog at 5 mph will burn almost 600 calories for a 160-lb. person. The impact involved in treadmill training may not be appropriate for people with joint problems, arthritis or the extremely overweight.
Ellipticals
Elliptical trainers offer a running-like movement without the impact. They also come with a higher price tag and need about as much space as a treadmill. Depending on how much you are willing to invest, some models feature arm poles which you manipulate back and forth with the legs to achieve an upper body workout along with cardio and legs. Most ellipticals also feature an adjustable cross ramp that raises and lowers to target different leg muscles during your workout. A workout that revs your heart rate will burn calories similar to a jog or run. With an elliptical, it is best to invest in a quality product that accommodates your stride length and allows you a smooth, safe workout.
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