Building a home gym can be complicated, as a wide variety of fitness equipment exists for almost every fitness goal. Not all home gym equipment is equivalent in quality or price, so it can be difficult to find the most appropriate equipment. Cardio equipment refers to exercise machines or accessories that can improve your cardiovascular health, usually through aerobic activities such as running or biking. Consult a doctor before beginning any fitness plan.
Jump Rope
Although jump ropes are not as large or complicated as treadmills and other cardio equipment, they can still provide a beneficial workout. Jump ropes are often used by boxers to improve their footwork and cardiovascular capacity. In addition to being inexpensive, jump ropes are superior to other forms of exercise equipment because they can help you burn a lot of calories. MayoClinic.com explains that an hour of jumping rope burns 730 calories or more, depending upon your weight.
Bicycle Trainers
Although stationary bicycles are beneficial for cardio workouts, they can be a bit too expensive for the typical home gym. Bicycle trainers tend to be less expensive and can turn any bicycle into a stationary bicycle, by attaching to the rear wheel and keeping it in place. As BicycleTrainer.org explains, trainers provide resistance via magnets or fluid. Bicycle trainers differ from stationary bicycles in that you must pedal hard to get a high resistance level, whereas stationary bicycles usually have adjustable resistance settings.
Cardio Steps
Cardio steps are low platforms, usually made of plastic, that can be stacked to adjust the height. Step-training workouts are similar to moving up a flight of stairs and can help train your leg muscles in addition to providing a cardio workout. While a wide variety of cardio steps are available, the Calgary Herald suggests using alternatives to cut costs; toolboxes, step stools or any platform about 8 inches high can be a suitable substitute.
Rowing Machine
Rowing machines are unique because they provide strength-building and cardio benefits. Although some rowing machines are expensive, lower-end rowing machines can be reasonable in price. In addition, rowing machines can help you burn many calories in just one session. MayoClinic.com notes that an hour of stationary rowing burns more than 500 calories. Research from the journal "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise" also suggests that rowing machines can increase your heart rate and may provide a more efficient cardio workout than cycling.
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