As many as 72 million Americans are estimated to be obese, with body mass index scores of greater than 30, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics. With so many people overweight, fitness centers and gyms play an important role in helping Americans get back on track to a healthy weight. Gyms offer various options to help their members get in shape, lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle.
Aerobic Exercise Equipment
Aerobic exercise equipment occupies a large portion of floor space in many gyms, for good reason. Aerobic exercise is one of the best ways to burn calories. It increases the use of energy, forcing your body to look for ways to create new energy, such as breaking down fat deposits in the adipose tissue. Get at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise per week. Aerobic exercise can be done on gym equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, stair steppers and stationary bicycles.
Strength Training Equipment
Strength training can also help you lose weight working out at your gym. Strength training equipment includes free weights like kettle balls, dumbbells and barbells, or weight machines that target specific muscle groups. Strength training equipment burns calories, and also strengthens and enlarges the muscle tissue. This muscle gain helps your body burn calories more efficiently, helping increase your overall weight loss.
Exercise Classes
Exercise at the gym does not have to be boring. Many fitness centers offer a full line of classes that can help you burn more calories while enjoying yourself. Classes vary, depending on your gym, and may include yoga; indoor cycling; Pilates; water aerobics; boot camps; kickboxing; and dance aerobics such as hip-hop, salsa or line-dancing classes.
Personal Training
Personal trainers are another benefit offered by fitness centers and gyms. These fitness professionals can help you develop an individualized weight loss routine, and also encourage you and push you further during your workouts. Some personal trainers help you develop a healthy diet plan to incorporate in your health regimen. Personal trainers typically cost extra, and the price will vary depending on the gym and expertise and certification of the trainer.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Halting the Epidemic by Making Health Easier: At A Glance 2010
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How much physical activity do adults need?
- MayoClinic.com Strength Training: Get stronger, leaner, healthier
- ACSM: Selecting and Effectively Using a Health/Fitness Facility
- ACSM: Selecting and Effectively Using a Personal Trainer
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