According to the Weight Control Information Center, nearly 32 percent of adult Americans are obese. While diet is a major factor in losing and controlling weight, exercise is also an integral part of any weight reduction program. Finding and using the right exercise equipment for obese patients makes exercising more palatable, safe and effective.
Aquatic Equipment
Exercises performed underwater can help relieve pressure on joints, feet, legs and arms caused by excess weight. Underwater exercise equipment, including treadmills, stepping machines and cycles, is available from companies such as H2O Gym. While water aerobics and swimming also are good forms of exercise for the obese, underwater equipment can increase the intensity of a workout while adding strength training to an exercise regimen. Underwater equipment also allows overweight patients to exercise for longer periods without becoming as tired.
Recumbent Bikes
Fitness trainers at Weight Loss Central report recumbent bikes are a good choice of exercise equipment for obese patients. Sitting while cycling reduces pressure on the spine, legs and feet. The seats typically are larger than those on upright cycles, providing a more comfortable and sturdy base. Patients should start out with short periods of cycling and increase the time as they build strength. Recumbent cross-trainers provide the sitting position for the workout as well as additional handles that can be used to work the arms at the same time.
Portable Pedlar
A small piece of exercise equipment that is ideal for obese patients is a portable pedaling machine, report trainers at Weight Loss Professional. The equipment consists of two cycling pedals mounted on a stationary rack that allows patients to exercise while sitting. The tension on the pedals can be adjusted to provide additional strength training. Patients can move the equipment so they can use it conveniently while sitting anywhere in their home and with any chair.
Other Types
Free weights are easy to use and come in a wide range of sizes and weights. Muscles burn excess calories and are important in an overall weight control program. Handheld dumbbells, stretchy rubber bands and exercise balls are inexpensive and can be used anywhere. Obese patients can easily incorporate strength training and muscle-building routines at home as part of their overall exercise regimen.
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