MY HEALTH AT FIRST

good home gym should invest in at least one main piece of cardio exercise equipment. Today there are many more options available than just the standard treadmill for cardio workouts. Be sure to evaluate the function, size and cost of the cardio equipment prior to making a purchase for a home gym.

Equipment Options for Cardio Workouts

Space and budget often limit most home gyms to invest in only one or two pieces of cardio equipment. Carefully evaluating available options is important to make the right choice for cardio workout routines at home.

• Treadmills. Ranging from basic models to more expensive programmable models, treadmills are a popular choice for cardio exercise equipment at home. Treadmills are excellent for running or walking for a cardio workout. The function and longevity of a treadmill is directly related to the price. In other words, “you get what you pay for”. A model with cushioning and a good motor is important. For small home gyms, a foldable treadmill will help with space constraints. Programmable features for varying pace and incline will help keep workouts challenging and motivating.
• Exercise bikes. Much like treadmills, exercise bikes (also known as recumbent or stationery bikes) vary in both function and cost. Exercise bikes offer a safe, efficient cardio workout. In addition to programmable performance levels, a comfortable seat that is wide and adjustable is a good feature in exercise bike equipment.
• Elliptical machines. Providing a smooth and low-impact cardio workout, elliptical machines are a popular choice for cardio exercise equipment. An elliptical machine with handlebars offers an entire body workout without excessive stress on the joints or muscles. Check available headroom as elliptical machines require high vertical clearance.
• Rowing machines. Rowers offer a low-impact, smooth gliding motion back and forth providing an all-over workout. Rowers are self-paced and can be adjusted for resistance levels. Many home row machines fold for storage, although larger and more expensive programmable rowers are available. One advantage to a rowing machine is that they require less headroom in a home gym.
• Steppers and stair steppers. Simulating a stair climbing motion, steppers are an inexpensive and space saving c
  • Kick boxing bags
  • Trampolines
  • Jump ropes
  • Aerobic instructional videos

  Selecting Final Cardio Exercise Equipment

  When making a final choice on home cardio exercise equipment, select equipment based on prior experience. Be sure to thoroughly review product features and test the cardio equipment in a store prior to purchase if possible. Finally, make sure that the equipment is not too large for the home gym space and there is adequate headroom and clearance for a full cardio.
  
  rdio equipment option. A basic stepper is typically very portable. A more expensive option is a stair stepper machine that simulates climbing a moving escalator and delivers a very high intensity cardio workout. Stair steppers need adequate overhead clearance and may not be the best choice for many home gyms.

Alternative Cardio Workouts

Be sure to also evaluate options for good cardio workouts other than standard cardio exercise equipment. Some less expensive and non-traditional cardio exercise equipment may prove to be more cost-effective and motivational in the long run.
Other cardio workout options may include: