Exercise has evolved rapidly since British scientist, Jerry Morris, demonstrated a link between physical activity and cardiovascular disease in a 1953 study published in the journal "The Lancet." Exercise equipment allows you to target specific areas of the body and perform aerobic exercise. Several types of equipment stand out as the most effective or perhaps most enjoyable forms of exercise.
Treadmill
A 2011 Hotel Check-In poll found the treadmill the most important piece of exercise equipment in hotel gyms. Treadmill technology has elevated the simple walking workout to new levels. For example, Nordic Track's X7i Incline Trainer simulates famous trails such as the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire with elevation changes that replicate the hiking experience. It is endorsed by Biggest Loser Team Trainer Jillian Michaels. Most treadmills include preprogrammed workouts to making exercise planning effortless. You can also monitor your heart rate and performance over time.
Stationary Bike
The stationary bike has come a long way since its humble beginnings with the medieval-looking Gymnasticon in 1796. Like the treadmill, it provides an effective cardio workout with a high calorie burn for weight loss. You can also find models with programmed workouts to take the guesswork out of planning your routine, recommends Consumer Reports. Stationary bikes allow you to adjust your workout intensity and provide information about calorie burn and heart rate.
Free Weights
Like the treadmill, free weights are popular exercise equipment, according to the 2011 Hotel Check-In poll. They offer a clear benefit over exercise machines because of their affordability and easy storage. You can create free weight workouts to match your fitness level and strength. All of these factors contribute to the benefits of free weights, explains the American Council on Exercise.
Elliptical
The elliptical offers a cardio workout that engages both the upper and lower body for a greater calorie burn. These machines also allow you to control resistance and stride. Ellipticals vary widely in prices from Consumer Reports's recommended Nautilus E514, reviewed at $750 in 2010 to the Diamondback 1260Ef at $2,200.
References
- "The Lancet"; Coronary Heart-Disease and Physical Activity of Work; J. Morris, et al.; November 1953
- USA Today: Reader Poll: Working Treadmill Is No. 1 Priority in Hotel Gyms
- "Medical History"; "Illustrations from the Wellcome Institute Library: Medical Gymnastics and the Cyriax Collection"; S. Bakewell; October 1997
- Consumer Reports: Best Ellipticals
- American Council on Exercise: Free Weights vs. Strength-training Equipment
- Consumer Reports: Features that Count
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