Cardiovascular exercise is an important component of fitness. The average gym offers numerous options for you to do your cardiovascular training. When you’re trying to get into better shape, it helps to be familiar with the pros and cons of each exercise so you can make the best choice.
Treadmill
One of the most popular forms of cardio is the treadmill. The average treadmill consists of a motorized belt on an inclining platform, with a console for selecting speed and incline. While running is a popular treadmill exercise, the impact may be too stressful for beginners. The American Council on Exercise discourages anyone with heart, joint or body weight issues from using running as a cardiovascular workout. If you are new to the treadmill, it may be best that you start with brisk walking.
Stationary Bike
A great machine for beginners, the stationary bike can be found with either upright or recumbent seat positions. Because you are seated on a stationary bike, there is little risk of a fall, and there is little weight bearing and no impact on your joints. Indoor cycling, a popular group fitness class, uses manual stationary bikes modeled after racing bikes. The stationary bike is suitable or both beginners and advanced exercisers.
Stepper
The stepper is one of the tougher pieces of cardio equipment. Designed to replicate stair climbing, the stepper uses two pedals that move in an up-and-down motion with variable speeds. Since your feet never leave the steps, the stepper is a zero-impact exercise. The stepper is a challenging exercises that is great for more advanced exercisers.
Elliptical Trainer
The elliptical trainer could best be described as a cross between a stepper and a stationary bike. The elliptical trainer looks like a stepper except for the fact that the pedals move in a circular motion rather than up and down. Most elliptical trainers allow you to vary the incline, letting you use a motion close to running or marching. The elliptical is great for beginner or intermediate exercisers; however, it may be too easy for many experienced users.
Group Fitness Classes
Covering a wide variety of disciplines and modalities, group fitness is a popular department in most fitness centers. Consisting of large groups of exercisers led by one or more instructors, group fitness classes take advantage of tools such as adjustable steps, stationary bikes, miniature trampolines, and martial arts equipment. Group fitness offers benefits such as motivation, camaraderie and guidance rarely found with machine training alone. Most fitness centers offer a wide variety of classes with different classes targeted to different levels of gym member.
References
- Acefitness.org: Ready to Run?
- "Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning - 3rd Edition"; National Strength and Conditioning Association; 2008
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