When weather, schedules or personal preference prevent outdoor workouts or visits to the gym, having a treadmill or elliptical machine in the guest bedroom can help to keep your fitness goals on track. Fortunately, merchants provide an endless variety of exercise equipment from which to choose. Unfortunately, picking the right product can be daunting. Doing a little homework and investigation before you choose might help keep your budget, as well as your body, fit.
Types
When it comes to selecting exercise machines, you can choose treadmills with or without inclines, elliptical trainers that mimic walking on air or compact gym units that promise a full weight resistance workout in one slim tower. Your overall physical condition and preferences will help to dictate the right product. If you have knee problems, for instance, you might do better with an elliptical machine than a treadmill since elliptical motion puts less strain on knee and ankle joints. If you hate riding bikes, you might hate riding a stationary bike as much as the real thing. Trying out various machines at local gyms or retailers can help you to choose which is best for you.
Cost
Prices for exercise equipment vary widely. For instance, as of 2009, the three best stationary bikes ranged from $145 for a basic upright to $1,200 for a luxury recumbent, according to reviews by Consumer Search. The basic upright will likely get the job done if you intend to exercise a few times a week. If you plan more than that, however, professionals endorse the higher priced model. Internet purchases are convenient and basic prices are often attractive, but shipping and handling figure into the "real" cost. Used exercise equipment typically offers significant savings, but generally comes with no guarantee or warranty, Consumer Search says.
Guarantees
While home exercise equipment typically does not need to be as rugged as that found in a gym, where hundreds might use it weekly, manufacturers should offer detailed guarantees regarding the durability and construction of their products. Additionally, internet purchases that promise a 30-day money back guarantee but require you to pay shipping and handling to return the product do not provide a truly "free trial." The U.S. Federal Trade Commission also reminds consumers to practice caution regarding any exercise equipment whose advertisers guarantee effortless, easy weight loss; healthy, toned bodies require work and sweat.
Facts
Space at home factors heavily into the equation, and concise measurements will prevent mistakes. Remember to calculate the dimensions of the machine as well as the space you will need to perform the exercise. For instance, a rowing machine might fit next to your bed but the space might not allow you to stretch your arms as far as necessary to actually row. Additionally, equipment that folds up for easy storage in a closet or under a bed requires additional time to pull it out and open back up for use.
Considerations
Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Otherwise, health care professionals at the University of Maryland Medical Center note the ideal exercise program includes cardiovascular or aerobic conditioning, flexibility or stretching exercise and weight training to strengthen muscles.
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