Fitness equipment is available for strength training, endurance training, sport specific training and for use at home or in health clubs. If you step into a sporting goods store, you may be overwhelmed at the variety of fitness equipment from which to choose. This equipment has a use for exercise training, although many pieces provide similar results. Choosing the right equipment for you should be based on your goals, body type, personal preference and what you can afford.
Free Weights
Dumbbells, barbells and weight plates are free weights used for strength-training exercises. These strength-training tools are weights, meaning they have resistance, or pounds and "free," meaning they are portable and not stationary. Free weights can be used at home or at a gym and are available in a variety of resistance amounts from 1 lb. to more than 100 lbs., so this tool can be used if you are a beginner or advanced weight lifter. Free weights are a long-term investment in your health and wellness, so you can expect to pay approximately $300 for a complete set.
Weight Machines
Weight machines are used for strength-training exercises, but unlike free weights, they are not easily moved. You will find machines in health clubs and, typically, they will be set up in a circuit that includes one machine for every body part. The weight machines include weight stacks upon which you select your resistance amount and secure with a metal pin. Each weight machine costs approximately $500 to $1,000.
Balls
Stability balls, and a BOSU, which is a half-ball, half-platform piece of equipment, can be used for both strength training and cardiovascular training. You can bounce on a stability ball and perform arm and leg movements to increase your heart rate. A BOSU can be used like an aerobic step to mimic stepping movements. For strength training, a stability ball provides a base for pushups or sit-ups and a BOSU provides a base for squatting exercises. Medicine balls are weighted balls to be used during strengthening exercises. You can use a medicine ball similar to a dumbbell for an overhead shoulder press or an arm curl. A medicine ball can also be used for forceful throwing and catching exercises. A stability ball is a low-cost investment, one you can purchase for less than $20, as of 2011. A BOSU can be found for less than $100; medicine balls vary, depending on the weight, but you should be able to purchase one for less than $50.
Bands
Exercise resistance bands resemble large, open-ended rubber bands. Some bands are round with handles; some are flat without handles. Both types of bands are used for strength-training exercises. You can mimic most exercise machines through the use of a band. The bands are available in light, medium, heavy and extra-heavy resistance levels to provide resistance as your muscles develop. A set of resistance bands is affordable at less than $20.
Cardiovascular
Cardiovascular or aerobic exercise strengthens your heart, lungs and circulatory system. Types of cardiovascular equipment include treadmills, stair climbers, bicycles, rowing machines and elliptical trainers. You can find these at health clubs and also can purchase one for use at home, which will cost approximately $300 to $1.000. When selecting which machine to use for exercise, determine your personal preference. If you enjoy walking or running, a treadmill is designed for that type of workout. If you enjoy stair climbing, choose a stair stepper. Indoor cycling is popular as a class or for an individual workout and is not weather-dependent. Your heart and lungs cannot see which machine you are using, they will respond to the increased demand for oxygen, so select an exercise that you enjoy.
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