What Exercise Equipment Would Be Most Beneficial For Cardiovascular As Well As Muscle Toning?

Many types of exercise equipment are available, including treadmills, elliptical trainers and recumbent bicycles. To improve your fitness level you should exercise intensely several times a week. Cardiovascular exercises include walking, skiing and rowing. Strength training exercises are performed with free weights, resistance bands or your body weight. When working out, save valuable time by using one machine to improve your muscle tone and cardiovascular health.

Elliptical Machines

The first time you step up onto the elliptical machine and begin working out, it may seem easy. After just a few minutes you will feel your heart beating faster and your arms tiring. According to MayoClinic.com, using an elliptical gives your upper and lower body a workout without the joint impact of a treadmill. Simply stand on the foot pedals, grab the handlebars and begin walking. At first, take advantage of the preprogrammed settings to get a complete workout.

Cross-Country Ski Machine

Using a cross-country ski machine mimics the motion of snow skiing. Stand upright on the machine and move your legs back and forth in a skiing motion while using the ropes or poles like ski poles. Once you familiarize yourself with the basic movement, you can adjust the settings on the machine to enhance your workout and further challenge yourself. You can tone your legs, buttocks, upper body and burn approximately 350 calories per half an hour of exercise.

Rowing Machine

The rowing machine works your upper and lower body while at the same time giving you a complete cardiovascular workout. It is a low-impact exercise that is easy on your joints. To use the machine, simply sit on the seat and put your feet on the pedals. Adjust the seat so your leg is almost straight and your foot is flat against the pedal. Grab the handles and begin rowing. As you get stronger, adjust the tension settings on the machine upward.

Circuit Training

Circuit training combines cardiovascular and strength training exercise in one workout session. Len Kravitz, Ph.D., associate professor of exercise science at the University of New Mexico explains, "Each participant moves from one station to the next with little, 15 to 30 seconds, or no rest, performing a 15- to 45-second workout of 8 to 20 repetitions at each station." You use weights or bands for three to four weight training exercises and then perform three minutes of an aerobic exercise, such as marching in place, jumping jacks or running on the treadmill.

Recumbent Bike

The seat on a stationary recumbent bike seat feels like the seat of a comfortable chair. Your legs reach forward to the pedals and your arms are free. Riding a recumbent bicycle burns 250 to 400 calories per half an hour and helps you develop strong leg muscles. When at the gym or purchasing a bike for your home, look for a model that includes rotating handlebars. You can then work your arms, back, shoulders and heart at the same time.