The New Balance brand is most recognizable as an athletic shoe manufacturer, but through an affiliation with Fitness Quest Inc., the company designs aerobic exercise equipment. "Endorsed by No One" is the company philosophy. It does not pay celebrities to advertise its products. Instead, the company invests in research and development for all of its products.
History
New Balance, founded in 1906 in Belmont, Massachusetts, began as the New Balance Arch Company. Arch supports and orthopedic shoes were the company's prime products. During the 1930s, the company began manufacturing orthopedic shoes for baseball players and track and field athletes. The company eventually developed other types of shoes for walking, running and training. This foray into the athletic and fitness market was a significant point in the company's history. New Balance, along with Nike and Reebok, became major players in the fitness shoe market. Nike and Reebok were already adding exercise equipment to their product line. To stay competitive, New Balance manufactured its own equipment line.
Types
New Balance manufactures elliptical trainers, upright and recumbent bikes, treadmills and pedometers.
Function
Most New Balance exercise equipment costs less than $1,700. These machines, which are designed for the home fitness market, are smaller than commercial exercise equipment. Some machines can be folded for easy storage.
Features
New Balance treadmills have a signature EZ Care Treadmill Maintenance System. This user-friendly system enables easy treadmill belt adjustments. Their elliptical machines, which have adjustable 18 to 20-inch stride lengths, upper body handles and large foot pedals with slip-resistant surface. All New Balance aerobic equipment features consoles with LCD readouts, which display speed, distance, time elapsed and calories burned. The more expensive machines have heart rate monitors.
Warning
Home gym equipment is not designed for continuous use throughout the day, and is therefore inappropriate for commercial exercise studios. Check the product warranty. Some companies will not replace damaged parts if the equipment was used in a commercial setting.
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