According to the Sports Goods Manufacturers Association, treadmills are the #1 home-fitness item, outdistancing stair-climbers, stationery bicycles, rowing machines and cross-country skiers. In fact, some surveys indicate that nearly 40 million Americans run on treadmills.
Marathoners use treadmills, so do collegiate runners, soccer moms, lunchtime joggers and legions of senior citizens who are eager to get in shape and keep in shape. And according to the research firm American Sports Data, women, forever dedicated to self-improvement, are purchasing 75% of the new home treadmills being sold. It's easy for women to incorporate a home treadmill into an existing exercise program as an alternative to outdoor running. Or, a treadmill can easily be the centerpiece of a fitness plan, providing excellent cardio-vascular benefits all by itself.
The "smart money" knows that an investment in a good home treadmill will pay off with big dividends in a variety of areas:
IT'S A SURE THING
It doesn't matter if you're weathering a snowstorm in Nome, Alaska or a heat wave in Tallahassee, Florida, your treadmill is always ready to take you a few miles closer to good health. Let the mailman worry about snow, or rain or dark of night, with a treadmill, you can run whenever you like.
THE CALL OF THE WILD
There's no doubt that a run on a forest trail or in an urban park is a wonderful experience that brings out our spirit of adventure. But, in many areas, a run in nature may expose you to wild animals, unfriendly pets and even unsavory human beings. Far too many women in large cities and small towns have been victimized while out for a morning or afternoon run. A treadmill is always in a safe place ? your house. And you can bring the outdoors in for you run by setting up your machine near a window so you can enjoy the view during your workout.
SLIPPERY WHEN WET
After a heavy snowfall, plows often heap white mountains onto the sidewalk, forcing runners into the streets, where ice and cars present dangerous obstacles to making it home alive.
STEP LIGHTLY
Running on a treadmill is much easier on your legs, feet, and joints than running on rock-hard concrete and asphalt, and special low-impact treadmills are available which claim to reduce the impact of running by 40%. How? The running belt on the treadmill gives more than outdoor surfaces, and the inner workings of the treadmill help to disperse the shock waves that occur when your foot strikes a surface.
YOU'VE GOT HEART
Want to know how many calories you've burned? Your heart rate? How fast you're running? The distance you've run to the hundredth of a mile? A wide range of built-in monitors is standard equipment on many treadmills. Monitors help you get the most out of your workout by approaching it scientifically and focusing on things like keeping your heart rate at a good level.
In fact, some treadmills even offer a special function that regulates the speed of the treadmill based on your heart rate ? the ultimate custom-tailored workout.
FORM IS THE FUNCTION
It's tough to develop a good running form when you're skipping to avoid tree roots or jumping on and off sidewalk curbs. And good form is integral to getting the most from your run. With a treadmill, you have the dual advantage of a smooth running surface and a steady pace, so you can concentrate on things like lengthening your stride, pumping your arms, etc. Any progress you make on the treadmill will easily be translated to your outdoor running.
TV ? YES! COUCH POTATO ? NO!
If you love to watch television, your time on the treadmill is a perfect opportunity for guilt-free multi-tasking. In the gyms of Wall Street in NYC, captains of industry watch CNN and get the market news while they're getting their morning dose of endorphins. At home, with a VCR, you can watch whatever you like ? cartoons, Regis and Kelly, soap operas, even tapes of your favorite marathon! (Hey, maybe you'll pick up some running "style tips.")
FINDING THE ZONE
Because home treadmills eliminate a variety of distractions and stressors ? dogs, traffic, uneven roads, etc. ? they allow you to really clear your mind and easily enter a relaxed, meditative state while running.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Treadmill Reviews - Top 3 Things to Keep in Mind When Reading Treadmill Reviews
So you're excited about buying a treadmill. You're looking forward to having a premium piece of fat-burning equipment available to you 24-7 at your convenience.
Rain, snow, sleet or hail, it doesn't matter because you'll be able to workout anyway!
But wait a minute - there's so many treadmill brands to choose from!
And why are there so many differences of opinion?
If you've read many treadmill reviews in your search for the best treadmill you may have ended up a little confused:
One person swears by their Proform treadmill; another says it's a piece of junk. One expert loves Nordic Track; another expert wouldn't touch it with a 10 foot pole.
How are you supposed to make a smart decision with so many conflicting opinions?
To help you out, here are the top 3 things to keep in mind when reading treadmill reviews:
#1) Consider this: It's just ONE PERSON'S opinion.
People have different opinions on everything from movies to ice cream to cars to cities. Someone prefers Honda to General Motors. Another person prefers Dell over IBM.
That doesn't mean that one thing is necessarily better than another, it just means somebody has a preference for it.
So just because you really want to buy a Landice and one person may not agree with you doesn't make it a bad buy for you.
Keeping an open mind is always a good thing and listening to other's peoples' reasoning behind their decision can help you with your purchase.
But in the end it's your choice and it's YOUR opinion that matters.
Just because somebody doesn't like what you like, that doesn't mean you are going to make a bad decision. If your treadmill has everything YOU need, then that's what's important.
#2) Consider this: Who's writing the review?I've read so many 'user reviews' on treadmill websites that are clearly NOT written by a normal treadmill buyer.
The lingo smacks of a treadmill salesperson. And while I'm not making any accusations here, when a treadmill buyer writes something like:
"Let's look at the features of the ABC treadmill and see what they mean to you..."
or
"The XYZ treadmill offers an Optical Speed Sensor used in combination with the PWM motor controller to produce the smoothest speed changes. The optical eye actually counts the revolutions of the motor directly at the axle..."
I get just a little bit suspicious.
If the review sounds a little too much like a treadmill brochure, take it with a grain of salt.
(That doesn't mean that the quality of the treadmill is bad or good, mind you. Just make sure you don't base your decision on those reviews alone.)
#3) Consider this: Flukes DO happen.
Even the BEST treadmill manufacturers sometimes make a dud. Nobody has a 100% customer satisfaction rate ALL the time.
And unfortunately, it's usually those people that have had BAD experiences that leave nasty reviews of their treadmills.
They have every right to do this of course. Hopefully the treadmill manufacturers read these reviews and do something about them.
But keep in mind that one bad review doesn't prove it's a low quality brand just as one stellar review doesn't prove it's a high quality brand.
Rain, snow, sleet or hail, it doesn't matter because you'll be able to workout anyway!
But wait a minute - there's so many treadmill brands to choose from!
And why are there so many differences of opinion?
If you've read many treadmill reviews in your search for the best treadmill you may have ended up a little confused:
One person swears by their Proform treadmill; another says it's a piece of junk. One expert loves Nordic Track; another expert wouldn't touch it with a 10 foot pole.
How are you supposed to make a smart decision with so many conflicting opinions?
To help you out, here are the top 3 things to keep in mind when reading treadmill reviews:
#1) Consider this: It's just ONE PERSON'S opinion.
People have different opinions on everything from movies to ice cream to cars to cities. Someone prefers Honda to General Motors. Another person prefers Dell over IBM.
That doesn't mean that one thing is necessarily better than another, it just means somebody has a preference for it.
So just because you really want to buy a Landice and one person may not agree with you doesn't make it a bad buy for you.
Keeping an open mind is always a good thing and listening to other's peoples' reasoning behind their decision can help you with your purchase.
But in the end it's your choice and it's YOUR opinion that matters.
Just because somebody doesn't like what you like, that doesn't mean you are going to make a bad decision. If your treadmill has everything YOU need, then that's what's important.
#2) Consider this: Who's writing the review?I've read so many 'user reviews' on treadmill websites that are clearly NOT written by a normal treadmill buyer.
The lingo smacks of a treadmill salesperson. And while I'm not making any accusations here, when a treadmill buyer writes something like:
"Let's look at the features of the ABC treadmill and see what they mean to you..."
or
"The XYZ treadmill offers an Optical Speed Sensor used in combination with the PWM motor controller to produce the smoothest speed changes. The optical eye actually counts the revolutions of the motor directly at the axle..."
I get just a little bit suspicious.
If the review sounds a little too much like a treadmill brochure, take it with a grain of salt.
(That doesn't mean that the quality of the treadmill is bad or good, mind you. Just make sure you don't base your decision on those reviews alone.)
#3) Consider this: Flukes DO happen.
Even the BEST treadmill manufacturers sometimes make a dud. Nobody has a 100% customer satisfaction rate ALL the time.
And unfortunately, it's usually those people that have had BAD experiences that leave nasty reviews of their treadmills.
They have every right to do this of course. Hopefully the treadmill manufacturers read these reviews and do something about them.
But keep in mind that one bad review doesn't prove it's a low quality brand just as one stellar review doesn't prove it's a high quality brand.
Top Treadmills Reviewed - A Comparison of Price And Performance
A treadmill can be an excellent exercise machine, providing a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to stay fit. But with over a dozen different manufacturers out there, each with a collection of different styles of equipment, it can be difficult to know which treadmill is best for you.
How much you can spend and what type of exercise you plan to do will help determine which price range and manufacturers are right for you. It is important to research the specific features you need based on whether you plan to walk, jog or do all out running training. But a good place to start is often to get an overview of the manufacturers out there and the cost of a treadmill. Below is an overview of ten of the most popular treadmill models and their general ratings in the industry.
A company called Icon Health and Fitness is perhaps the largest and most well known treadmill manufacturer in the world. They also make other types of exercise equipment. In the treadmill realm, they produce Reebok, NordicTrack, Weslo, Proform and Image brands. All five of these rank among the most popular and offer consumers a range or prices and options.
Weslo
Of all the Icon brands, Weslo treadmills are the least expensive, and in fact are typically the lowest priced of any treadmill regardless of manufacturer. They are entry-level machines intended for use by beginners and walkers that do not engage in a more demanding workout. They lack the power of more expensive brands and are built with smaller running areas. And warranties are typically no longer than 90 days.
In the Weslo line, the Weslo 400 CS treadmill sells for under $400. It is consistently picked as one of the top budget treadmill models.
For those interested in a bit more advanced treadmill, the Weslo EX18 sells for $500 but can be hard to find. It is worth the search though as it is perhaps the best Weslo model and will provide a good machine for the beginner or walker on a budget.
Image
Image is another brand of treadmill produced by Icon Fitness. This line is slightly more expensive than Weslo, but is still considered a budget machine, typically selling for under $1000. Many experts feel that Image treadmills offer the best value for the average person. The only drawback is the warranty, which is only 90 days on many Image models.
The Image 1200 treadmill has a 2.0 hp continuous duty motor that provides a maximum speed of 10 mph. The platform can adjust to inclines from 0-10%. It is a great choice for those runners on a bit of a budget and for those who want to spend $1000 or less. The Image 10.6QL was ranked among the top five treadmills by U.S. Consumer Reports. It has six programmable workouts and also allows you to determine your speed and incline based on a heart rate monitor. It is IFIT compatible, which means you can connect to the Internet to access online workouts. It costs around $1400 and is folding for convenient storage.
Proform
Proform treadmills by Icon provide shoppers with perhaps the most comprehensive options in exercise equipment. Budget models start at $400 and the overwhelming selection continues up the spectrum to several mid priced models that fall in the $1000 to $2000 range. The Proform 795SL treadmill sells for under $1000 and is often a top pick among consumers and fitness experts. The LX 660 sells for under $600 and has plenty of features for a budget treadmill. Like many of the budget treadmills, Proforms often have a less than stellar warranty, typically 90 days.
NordicTrack
There are literally dozens of different NordicTrack treadmill models produced by Icon. They range in price from around $800 for a NordicTrack C1800 to $2000 for a 7500R model. Many fitness experts feel that consumers spend a bit more for the name brand when they purchase a Nordictrack treadmill. The machines often look very nice but may not always offer the best buy as some people have experienced problems with reliability. All models typically come with a heart rate monitor, but some of the less expensive models offer a 1.5 hp motor and a smaller platform, often around 50".
On the plus side, NordicTrack treadmills often offer good cushioning for those who don't want to replicate the uneven, jolting conditions of a true road workout. Their 3-2-1 warranty covers the motor for three years, the frame and other parts for two years and all labor charges for one year.
The NordicTrack Teton, which sells for just under $1500 and is a great choice for incline training and hiking. The Apex 5100i, which sells for around $1700 is also a popular choice.
Reebok
Reebok treadmills also depend on name recognition to help attract buyers. Models often look nice and have plenty of features but have been known to be less durable than other brands. It is important to note that Reebok home treadmills are not made by the same company as the commercial models found in fitness clubs.
A plus side of the Reebok treadmills is the warranty. On most models the frame is covered for a lifetime, the belt and deck and all electrical and mechanical components for 2 years, and labor for 12 months. The motor typically has a 2-3 year guarantee. One of the most popular Reebok models is the ACD4, which sells for around $1700.
Smooth
Another treadmill manufacturer that is making a name for itself recently is Smooth. This company's biggest marketing appeal is that they sell their treadmills direct to the consumer over the Internet on their company website. They claim this allows them to reduce prices, and in fact, many models run less than comparative treadmills offered by other manufacturers.
All Smooth treadmills have a 10-year warranty on the motor and 12-month labor warranty. Other parts such as the belt, deck and electronic components it typically covered from 2 to 5 years. This protection makes Smooth treadmills an appealing buy to those who have had problems with previous equipment or simply don't like to be stuck fixing things.
Smooth treadmills often rank at the top of their respective price band listings. Many experts choose them for their excellent features and reasonable price. The Smooth 5.0P has a 2.5 hp motor and 9 preset programs. It has been called the best treadmill on the market for overall value. At just under $2000, the Smooth 7.1HR is a popular model for those who require a bit more advanced model. Both units fold for storage.
Trimline
Trimline is another popular brand of home treadmills. They are often compared to Smooth equipment and have a longer warranty but a higher price tag. In some instances, experts feel the expense is justified, while in other models it is not. Trimline offers six folding models and three non-folding. The Trimline 1610, which sells for around $1000 has been recommended as a good starter machine. And the Trimline 7200 remains a top seller despite the price increase that puts it over $2000.
Keys
Keys Fitness is a relative newcomer to the treadmill industry, getting its start in 1997. They have shown improvements in quality and features each year and are known to offer a competitive product in the low to mid priced treadmills. They offer a 10-year warranty on their motors, 2 years parts and electronics, and 1 year on service. They are often said to be comparable to Smooth in price and features. The Keys 1200 is a nice standard treadmill that sells for just over $1000. The 8800 HR model is more heavy duty with a bigger motor and platform and a higher price of over $2000.
Spirit
Spirit is a treadmill company that has been around for over 20 years. They are usually known for leading the industry in new features. If something different or innovative comes out, chances are Spirit was the one to introduce it. Although their SL 188 is priced below $1000, and is a good buy at that price, the majority of their models are in the mid price range of $1500 up to $3000 plus. Spirit treadmills often have good warranties and solid quality.
Landice
Landice is often considered the top of the line in treadmills. The usually cost over $3000 and at this price, you get some great features, heavy duty motors, and a lifetime warranty on parts. If you have the money and are serious about your training, any of the Landice models, either in the L7 or L8 series, provide quality options.
Cybex
Cybex is another manufacturer that produces high end treadmills. Formerly known as Trotter, the treadmills produced by this company have high quality and prices to match. Again, it is more a matter of which one fits your needs because at this price you'd better be getting a good machine. The Cybex 300T, which sells for $3000 and the Trotter Elite, which costs nearly $4500 are two options.
As these comparisons show, budget will be a starting point in selecting a home treadmill, as will the way in which you plan to use the machine. While for the most part you get what you pay for, fitness experts caution that name brand treadmills aren't necessarily better than less well-known equipment. Check the warranty, check the features, and most importantly, check with people who have owned the treadmills or do repairs on fitness equipment. With so much information available, making an informed decision is easy. It's actually sticking to your exercise routine that will be the tough part.
How much you can spend and what type of exercise you plan to do will help determine which price range and manufacturers are right for you. It is important to research the specific features you need based on whether you plan to walk, jog or do all out running training. But a good place to start is often to get an overview of the manufacturers out there and the cost of a treadmill. Below is an overview of ten of the most popular treadmill models and their general ratings in the industry.
A company called Icon Health and Fitness is perhaps the largest and most well known treadmill manufacturer in the world. They also make other types of exercise equipment. In the treadmill realm, they produce Reebok, NordicTrack, Weslo, Proform and Image brands. All five of these rank among the most popular and offer consumers a range or prices and options.
Weslo
Of all the Icon brands, Weslo treadmills are the least expensive, and in fact are typically the lowest priced of any treadmill regardless of manufacturer. They are entry-level machines intended for use by beginners and walkers that do not engage in a more demanding workout. They lack the power of more expensive brands and are built with smaller running areas. And warranties are typically no longer than 90 days.
In the Weslo line, the Weslo 400 CS treadmill sells for under $400. It is consistently picked as one of the top budget treadmill models.
For those interested in a bit more advanced treadmill, the Weslo EX18 sells for $500 but can be hard to find. It is worth the search though as it is perhaps the best Weslo model and will provide a good machine for the beginner or walker on a budget.
Image
Image is another brand of treadmill produced by Icon Fitness. This line is slightly more expensive than Weslo, but is still considered a budget machine, typically selling for under $1000. Many experts feel that Image treadmills offer the best value for the average person. The only drawback is the warranty, which is only 90 days on many Image models.
The Image 1200 treadmill has a 2.0 hp continuous duty motor that provides a maximum speed of 10 mph. The platform can adjust to inclines from 0-10%. It is a great choice for those runners on a bit of a budget and for those who want to spend $1000 or less. The Image 10.6QL was ranked among the top five treadmills by U.S. Consumer Reports. It has six programmable workouts and also allows you to determine your speed and incline based on a heart rate monitor. It is IFIT compatible, which means you can connect to the Internet to access online workouts. It costs around $1400 and is folding for convenient storage.
Proform
Proform treadmills by Icon provide shoppers with perhaps the most comprehensive options in exercise equipment. Budget models start at $400 and the overwhelming selection continues up the spectrum to several mid priced models that fall in the $1000 to $2000 range. The Proform 795SL treadmill sells for under $1000 and is often a top pick among consumers and fitness experts. The LX 660 sells for under $600 and has plenty of features for a budget treadmill. Like many of the budget treadmills, Proforms often have a less than stellar warranty, typically 90 days.
NordicTrack
There are literally dozens of different NordicTrack treadmill models produced by Icon. They range in price from around $800 for a NordicTrack C1800 to $2000 for a 7500R model. Many fitness experts feel that consumers spend a bit more for the name brand when they purchase a Nordictrack treadmill. The machines often look very nice but may not always offer the best buy as some people have experienced problems with reliability. All models typically come with a heart rate monitor, but some of the less expensive models offer a 1.5 hp motor and a smaller platform, often around 50".
On the plus side, NordicTrack treadmills often offer good cushioning for those who don't want to replicate the uneven, jolting conditions of a true road workout. Their 3-2-1 warranty covers the motor for three years, the frame and other parts for two years and all labor charges for one year.
The NordicTrack Teton, which sells for just under $1500 and is a great choice for incline training and hiking. The Apex 5100i, which sells for around $1700 is also a popular choice.
Reebok
Reebok treadmills also depend on name recognition to help attract buyers. Models often look nice and have plenty of features but have been known to be less durable than other brands. It is important to note that Reebok home treadmills are not made by the same company as the commercial models found in fitness clubs.
A plus side of the Reebok treadmills is the warranty. On most models the frame is covered for a lifetime, the belt and deck and all electrical and mechanical components for 2 years, and labor for 12 months. The motor typically has a 2-3 year guarantee. One of the most popular Reebok models is the ACD4, which sells for around $1700.
Smooth
Another treadmill manufacturer that is making a name for itself recently is Smooth. This company's biggest marketing appeal is that they sell their treadmills direct to the consumer over the Internet on their company website. They claim this allows them to reduce prices, and in fact, many models run less than comparative treadmills offered by other manufacturers.
All Smooth treadmills have a 10-year warranty on the motor and 12-month labor warranty. Other parts such as the belt, deck and electronic components it typically covered from 2 to 5 years. This protection makes Smooth treadmills an appealing buy to those who have had problems with previous equipment or simply don't like to be stuck fixing things.
Smooth treadmills often rank at the top of their respective price band listings. Many experts choose them for their excellent features and reasonable price. The Smooth 5.0P has a 2.5 hp motor and 9 preset programs. It has been called the best treadmill on the market for overall value. At just under $2000, the Smooth 7.1HR is a popular model for those who require a bit more advanced model. Both units fold for storage.
Trimline
Trimline is another popular brand of home treadmills. They are often compared to Smooth equipment and have a longer warranty but a higher price tag. In some instances, experts feel the expense is justified, while in other models it is not. Trimline offers six folding models and three non-folding. The Trimline 1610, which sells for around $1000 has been recommended as a good starter machine. And the Trimline 7200 remains a top seller despite the price increase that puts it over $2000.
Keys
Keys Fitness is a relative newcomer to the treadmill industry, getting its start in 1997. They have shown improvements in quality and features each year and are known to offer a competitive product in the low to mid priced treadmills. They offer a 10-year warranty on their motors, 2 years parts and electronics, and 1 year on service. They are often said to be comparable to Smooth in price and features. The Keys 1200 is a nice standard treadmill that sells for just over $1000. The 8800 HR model is more heavy duty with a bigger motor and platform and a higher price of over $2000.
Spirit
Spirit is a treadmill company that has been around for over 20 years. They are usually known for leading the industry in new features. If something different or innovative comes out, chances are Spirit was the one to introduce it. Although their SL 188 is priced below $1000, and is a good buy at that price, the majority of their models are in the mid price range of $1500 up to $3000 plus. Spirit treadmills often have good warranties and solid quality.
Landice
Landice is often considered the top of the line in treadmills. The usually cost over $3000 and at this price, you get some great features, heavy duty motors, and a lifetime warranty on parts. If you have the money and are serious about your training, any of the Landice models, either in the L7 or L8 series, provide quality options.
Cybex
Cybex is another manufacturer that produces high end treadmills. Formerly known as Trotter, the treadmills produced by this company have high quality and prices to match. Again, it is more a matter of which one fits your needs because at this price you'd better be getting a good machine. The Cybex 300T, which sells for $3000 and the Trotter Elite, which costs nearly $4500 are two options.
As these comparisons show, budget will be a starting point in selecting a home treadmill, as will the way in which you plan to use the machine. While for the most part you get what you pay for, fitness experts caution that name brand treadmills aren't necessarily better than less well-known equipment. Check the warranty, check the features, and most importantly, check with people who have owned the treadmills or do repairs on fitness equipment. With so much information available, making an informed decision is easy. It's actually sticking to your exercise routine that will be the tough part.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
How Treadmills Compare To Other Types Of Home Fitness Equipment
When it comes to exercise, people like to walk or run. These are natural activities for us. They can have practical applications, such as getting from one place to another. They require less gear than many other forms of exercise (although you can spend a bundle on shoes, clothes and other accessories if you really wanted). And walking or running are great forms of exercise. They burn calories, work many muscle groups and strengthen cardiovascular components in the body. Walking is one of the best or perhaps the only feasible form of exercise for people with diseases such as osteoporosis, hypertension and chronic back pain. Walking doesn't require a lot of technical know-how or instruction. We already know how to do it, and a few pointers about heart rate and breathing will at least get us on the road. In general, walking and running are easy and convenient ways to improve health and fitness and a home treadmill adds to this overall appeal.
According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, over 40 million consumers purchase treadmills each year and the number continues to grow. Treadmills account for over 1/3 of all home exercise equipment sales. So why do so many people choose treadmills and how do they compare to stair machines, stationary bikes and other home fitness equipment?
Ease and Convenience
The number one reason people use a treadmill is convenience. It allows you to exercise even when the weather is bad or the fitness center is closed. You can exercise in the early morning or after dinner or whenever the mood strikes you. You can even use your treadmill in the buff if you don't feel like washing your workout clothes.
You can read, watch TV, talk with friends, or listen to music or audiotapes while you exercise on a treadmill. You can keep an eye on your kids, wait for files to download, take care of dinner or the laundry and even meditate, think through problems or make grocery lists.
For those who need to stay in the office until five ? even when it's not busy, or who prefer to exercise in the privacy of their own homes, a treadmill is ideal. Also, in some areas and neighborhoods, walking or running exposes one to traffic, muggers or vicious dogs. These hazards are avoided by using a treadmill.
Another reason people like treadmills is because you can just hop on and walk without a great deal of preparation and even if you don't work terribly hard at it, you still accomplish something. But today's treadmills make it easy to program in workout routines that simulate hills or vary speeds to enhance the effectiveness of your workout or challenge you to work harder and improve. The control panels are typically user friendly and many machines have built in heart rate monitors.
Clearly a treadmill provides several advantages over walking or running outside. And it is often easier and less expensive than other types of home exercise equipment, but how does it compare in terms of pure cardiovascular workout and calorie burning?
A Better Burn
According to a study done by the Medical College of Wisconsin and the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, a person using a treadmill for 60 minutes burns an average of 865-705 calories. Check that against other common exercise equipment:
· stair machine 746-637 calories burned
· rowing machine 739-606 calories burned
· stationary cycle 604-5956 calories burned
· cross-country ski machine 678-595 calories burned
Treadmill vs Elliptical Machine
What about the new elliptical machines? An elliptical cross trainer with handles to work the upper body provides a workout that compares to that of a treadmill when it comes to muscles used and heart rate issues. The main difference between the two types of home exercise equipment is that and elliptical machine operates more smoothly and creates less of an impact on bones and joints. This might be good for those with recent injuries or chronic conditions, but it is the impact that helps maintain or improve bone density, which in turn strengthens bones and prevents the loss of calcium.
Most experts agree that a healthy person needs the bouncing and jarring associated with walking or running to keep bones, muscles and joints working properly. A treadmill is one of the few home fitness machines that provide this type of exercise. And most come with a cushioned platform to minimize impact or keep it at an acceptable level. As with any form of exercise, it is a good idea to check with your doctor first if you have health conditions that may make it difficult or unwise for you to participate in certain activities.
With a treadmill, the concept is basically simple. If you want to work harder, you increase the incline or the speed. Usually this is done with a push of the button. An elliptical machine can be adjusted to target certain muscle groups, but it requires some knowledge and usually must be done manually. And because elliptical machines are relatively new to the home fitness market, there are fewer models to choose from and they tend to cost a bit more than the average treadmill. Some people have commented that they feel the elliptical machines can be more difficult to use because the motions do not feel as natural as walking or running. It is a good idea to try out any piece of exercise equipment before buying to see how it feels and fits with your needs.
Many people who exercise do so because they know they should, not because they thoroughly enjoy it. Sure you feel good after you complete your workout, but sometimes getting motivated can be difficult. And if you are going to put in the time, you want to know that what you're doing is actually helping you burn calories and become more fit. Treadmills rank at the top of the list when it comes to home fitness equipment, providing one of the most effective workouts in proportion to the amount of time spent. So make your movements count. Try a treadmill.
According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, over 40 million consumers purchase treadmills each year and the number continues to grow. Treadmills account for over 1/3 of all home exercise equipment sales. So why do so many people choose treadmills and how do they compare to stair machines, stationary bikes and other home fitness equipment?
Ease and Convenience
The number one reason people use a treadmill is convenience. It allows you to exercise even when the weather is bad or the fitness center is closed. You can exercise in the early morning or after dinner or whenever the mood strikes you. You can even use your treadmill in the buff if you don't feel like washing your workout clothes.
You can read, watch TV, talk with friends, or listen to music or audiotapes while you exercise on a treadmill. You can keep an eye on your kids, wait for files to download, take care of dinner or the laundry and even meditate, think through problems or make grocery lists.
For those who need to stay in the office until five ? even when it's not busy, or who prefer to exercise in the privacy of their own homes, a treadmill is ideal. Also, in some areas and neighborhoods, walking or running exposes one to traffic, muggers or vicious dogs. These hazards are avoided by using a treadmill.
Another reason people like treadmills is because you can just hop on and walk without a great deal of preparation and even if you don't work terribly hard at it, you still accomplish something. But today's treadmills make it easy to program in workout routines that simulate hills or vary speeds to enhance the effectiveness of your workout or challenge you to work harder and improve. The control panels are typically user friendly and many machines have built in heart rate monitors.
Clearly a treadmill provides several advantages over walking or running outside. And it is often easier and less expensive than other types of home exercise equipment, but how does it compare in terms of pure cardiovascular workout and calorie burning?
A Better Burn
According to a study done by the Medical College of Wisconsin and the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, a person using a treadmill for 60 minutes burns an average of 865-705 calories. Check that against other common exercise equipment:
· stair machine 746-637 calories burned
· rowing machine 739-606 calories burned
· stationary cycle 604-5956 calories burned
· cross-country ski machine 678-595 calories burned
Treadmill vs Elliptical Machine
What about the new elliptical machines? An elliptical cross trainer with handles to work the upper body provides a workout that compares to that of a treadmill when it comes to muscles used and heart rate issues. The main difference between the two types of home exercise equipment is that and elliptical machine operates more smoothly and creates less of an impact on bones and joints. This might be good for those with recent injuries or chronic conditions, but it is the impact that helps maintain or improve bone density, which in turn strengthens bones and prevents the loss of calcium.
Most experts agree that a healthy person needs the bouncing and jarring associated with walking or running to keep bones, muscles and joints working properly. A treadmill is one of the few home fitness machines that provide this type of exercise. And most come with a cushioned platform to minimize impact or keep it at an acceptable level. As with any form of exercise, it is a good idea to check with your doctor first if you have health conditions that may make it difficult or unwise for you to participate in certain activities.
With a treadmill, the concept is basically simple. If you want to work harder, you increase the incline or the speed. Usually this is done with a push of the button. An elliptical machine can be adjusted to target certain muscle groups, but it requires some knowledge and usually must be done manually. And because elliptical machines are relatively new to the home fitness market, there are fewer models to choose from and they tend to cost a bit more than the average treadmill. Some people have commented that they feel the elliptical machines can be more difficult to use because the motions do not feel as natural as walking or running. It is a good idea to try out any piece of exercise equipment before buying to see how it feels and fits with your needs.
Many people who exercise do so because they know they should, not because they thoroughly enjoy it. Sure you feel good after you complete your workout, but sometimes getting motivated can be difficult. And if you are going to put in the time, you want to know that what you're doing is actually helping you burn calories and become more fit. Treadmills rank at the top of the list when it comes to home fitness equipment, providing one of the most effective workouts in proportion to the amount of time spent. So make your movements count. Try a treadmill.
Russian Kettlebell Workout
Russian Kettlebells are amazing! These kettlebell workouts may be the answer to maintaining a home gym or having an expensive club membership.
With Russian kettlebells you can develop superior gains over traditional workout methods and save lots of space in your home.
The man who teaches Russian Kettlebell training is Pavel Tsatsouline. He is a former Spetznaz trainer. For those who may not know, Spetznaz is the Russian equivalent of the CIA or special forces.
As every high-risk agent would wish for, after studying some of Pavel's books you can definitely find out how to have explosive instant power ready at all times.
But, not everyone is a spy; in fact very few of us are. So what benefits does kettlebell training have for the average woman or man?
Kettlebell training can be a great way to lose weight, tone up the body, and stay in shape once you get it there with the added benefits mentioned above.
And not only that, kettlebell workouts may be better for you than weights. In one of his books, Pavel mentions some of the fitness tests that were used to compare kettlebell training to traditional workouts.
The kettlebell trainers seemed to be in much better shape according to Pavel. And Pavel would know - You can see a picture of Pavel on his web site. The guy is well muscled and toned for someone that avoids weight training like the plague.
Speaking of muscle and tone, check out the incredible Ab muscles that Pavel can show you how to develope. Pavel, being an expert in physical training combined with his unique experience and insight is fully qualified to show you all about physical fitness.
Whether you are female or male, Pavel can show you the way to fitness. He has also collected for our benefit, what he believes to be excellent advice in nutrition.
Another thing I think that is interesting about Pavel and his work is that he brings his colorful and interesting Russian personality into play. For example, just think of the title of one of his books, Power to the People.
Me? I find that title humorous, but if I had to explain why I think it's funny, I'm not sure that I could. It might be the underlying but subtle notion that liberation is in order for someone. Come to think of it, I guess liberation is in order.
Pavel wants to show us a better way to fitness and free us from our need to spend an inordinate amount of time in the gym and spend it more wisely and effectively, so that we can have great physical fitness and time to enjoy it as well.
As you can see by glancing at his pictures, Pavel not only knows how to develop an amazing physique but he also knows how to keep himself flexible at the same time.
Maybe now you can understand why I think this man has some answers to fitness that we might not be able to find anywhere else, nor all in one convenient location either.
As always, consult a primary care physician before embarking on any fitness regimen. This article is for information purposes only and is not to treat, prevent or diagnose any physical condition
Dave Snape is a health, fitness and wellness enthusiast.
With Russian kettlebells you can develop superior gains over traditional workout methods and save lots of space in your home.
The man who teaches Russian Kettlebell training is Pavel Tsatsouline. He is a former Spetznaz trainer. For those who may not know, Spetznaz is the Russian equivalent of the CIA or special forces.
As every high-risk agent would wish for, after studying some of Pavel's books you can definitely find out how to have explosive instant power ready at all times.
But, not everyone is a spy; in fact very few of us are. So what benefits does kettlebell training have for the average woman or man?
Kettlebell training can be a great way to lose weight, tone up the body, and stay in shape once you get it there with the added benefits mentioned above.
And not only that, kettlebell workouts may be better for you than weights. In one of his books, Pavel mentions some of the fitness tests that were used to compare kettlebell training to traditional workouts.
The kettlebell trainers seemed to be in much better shape according to Pavel. And Pavel would know - You can see a picture of Pavel on his web site. The guy is well muscled and toned for someone that avoids weight training like the plague.
Speaking of muscle and tone, check out the incredible Ab muscles that Pavel can show you how to develope. Pavel, being an expert in physical training combined with his unique experience and insight is fully qualified to show you all about physical fitness.
Whether you are female or male, Pavel can show you the way to fitness. He has also collected for our benefit, what he believes to be excellent advice in nutrition.
Another thing I think that is interesting about Pavel and his work is that he brings his colorful and interesting Russian personality into play. For example, just think of the title of one of his books, Power to the People.
Me? I find that title humorous, but if I had to explain why I think it's funny, I'm not sure that I could. It might be the underlying but subtle notion that liberation is in order for someone. Come to think of it, I guess liberation is in order.
Pavel wants to show us a better way to fitness and free us from our need to spend an inordinate amount of time in the gym and spend it more wisely and effectively, so that we can have great physical fitness and time to enjoy it as well.
As you can see by glancing at his pictures, Pavel not only knows how to develop an amazing physique but he also knows how to keep himself flexible at the same time.
Maybe now you can understand why I think this man has some answers to fitness that we might not be able to find anywhere else, nor all in one convenient location either.
As always, consult a primary care physician before embarking on any fitness regimen. This article is for information purposes only and is not to treat, prevent or diagnose any physical condition
Dave Snape is a health, fitness and wellness enthusiast.
Speed of Movement & the Mighty Metronome.
Tempo refers to the speed of movement and is usually represented by a 4-digit number: eccentric (negative) contraction - isometric (pause between negative and positive) contraction - concentric (positive) contraction - isometric (pause between positive and negative) contraction. For example, a tempo of 3-1-2-0 means to lower the weight for a count of 3, pause for a count of 1, raise the weight for a count of 2, and do not pause before starting the next repetition. An "X" designation denotes eXplosive, meaning to lift the weight as fast as possible.
It's not uncommon for people to race through their sets in order to get done sooner. Although this could benefit power development, hypertrophy might be sacrificed. For instance, if two individuals were to perform the same number of repetitions, but one completes the set in 6 seconds and the other takes 60 seconds, is the training effect the same? Obviously not! Tempo is a training parameter that is quite often neglected. You can calculate total time under tension (TUT) of a set simply by multiplying tempo (add all 4 digits) and the number of repetitions performed.
The problem with tempo prescription is that cadence tends to vary among individuals and also between reps and sets. (Generally, the count speeds up as you fatigue!) For this reason, I recommend that you purchase a metronome - the Robic SC-700 Sports Chronometer available at Creative Health Products is a good choice. Set the watch to 60 beats per minute so that it beeps every second and try to keep the cadence uniform throughout the entire range of motion.
It's not uncommon for people to race through their sets in order to get done sooner. Although this could benefit power development, hypertrophy might be sacrificed. For instance, if two individuals were to perform the same number of repetitions, but one completes the set in 6 seconds and the other takes 60 seconds, is the training effect the same? Obviously not! Tempo is a training parameter that is quite often neglected. You can calculate total time under tension (TUT) of a set simply by multiplying tempo (add all 4 digits) and the number of repetitions performed.
The problem with tempo prescription is that cadence tends to vary among individuals and also between reps and sets. (Generally, the count speeds up as you fatigue!) For this reason, I recommend that you purchase a metronome - the Robic SC-700 Sports Chronometer available at Creative Health Products is a good choice. Set the watch to 60 beats per minute so that it beeps every second and try to keep the cadence uniform throughout the entire range of motion.
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