作者: Hasen Chat China

If you’re buying a treadmill, chances are you’ll want to research before you buy. Everyone wants to get the best deal for a discount price. They also want to find the best treadmill to suit their workout needs.

So you’ll probably be interested in looking at various treadmill ratings or reviews. But why are there so many different ratings and which one is the most accurate? Here’s a few things most buyers don’t know about treadmill ratings.

There are really 2 types of treadmill ratings:

1) Consumer Ratings

2) Expert Ratings

User Treadmill Ratings:

Consumer treadmill ratings are done by the layperson who has bought and used the specific treadmill. Many websites allow anyone to go online and post a review of their treadmill.

Customer reviews and ratings can be very valuable when searching for a treadmill – however keep in mind several things:

#1) No treadmill has a 100% perfect track record. Even the BEST treadmill manufacturers sometimes make a dud.

And it’s usually the people that have had BAD experiences that leave negative reviews of their treadmills, not the many that have had good experiences with the same treadmill.

They have every right to do this and hopefully the treadmill manufacturers read these reviews and do something about them. Just remember that one bad review doesn’t prove it’s a low quality brand.

#2) The treadmill industry is growing more competitive each year. And marketing is a huge portion of the treadmill industry since treadmill manufacturers KNOW you’re going to research treadmill ratings before you buy.

So while I’m not making any accusations, I have read ‘customer reviews’ that are clearly NOT written by the average buyer. They sound like they’re written by somebody working for the competition – someone well versed in the art of sales psychology and who knows more about treadmills than the average person. Again, not making any accusations here – just keep this in mind when reading user ratings online.

Rule of Thumb: Use common sense. If it sounds like it’s written by a treadmill salesperson, take the treadmill review with a grain of salt.

Expert Treadmill Ratings:

There are also expert treadmill ratings. These are the ratings written by the experts in the fitness industry. People like Consumer Reports, Runner’s World, Consumer Guide, Men’s Health, Prevention Magzine are just a few out there. These people rate and review various treadmills at various times in the year.

While these ratings are much less likely to be tainted by biased reviewers, here are a few cautions to keep in mind while reading them:

#1) Each rater has a different rating system and may rate treadmills on such factors as price, cushioning, stability, quietness, belt area, warranty, console, electronics, programs, incline and quality of parts.

So while one reviewer may put more emphasis on cushioning the other may put more emphasis on warranty. It’s nothing to get confused over – just understand that different experts value different features. They’ll usually have an area where they list exactly how they rated the treadmills and which features they valued highly in their review.

#2) Expert ratings also usually don’t have time to look at EVERY treadmill brand on the market. Nobody does. We’ve been reviewing treadmills for over 3 years and we still haven’t covered all the brands.

So just because a certain brand isn’t in the ratings, doesn’t make it a poor quality brand. Try to find other reviews on a brand if you can’t find it in your favorite expert ratings list.

One last thing: Many treadmill ratings are also based on comparison to other similarly priced treadmills on the market.

So if you have a $1000 treadmill that gets 5 stars – that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s better than a $2000 treadmill that gets 4 stars. It means that compared to other $1000 treadmills it is one of the best values.

By remembering these things when sifting through treadmill ratings, you’re less likely to be confused. And it will be easier to choose the best quality treadmill for your needs.

So, you’ve spent the weeks you needed to research, try out, choose and purchase your brand new treadmill. You’ve gotten it assembled and begun your daily workouts…so what now? Well, even the highest end commercial treadmills need a bit of love and affection to keep them purring like a kitten. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to keep your treadmill in tip top shape.

Tip #1
The first thing you are going to want to do is get a good treadmill mat to go underneath your unit. Despite what you think, a treadmill mat isn’t as much for protecting your floor as for protecting your treadmill. You see, a treadmill’s motor builds up a huge static charge as you work out. The charge will suck dust, lint and debris into your motor, causing it to clog and run inefficiently. The more gunk in your motor the worse it will run and the shorter its lifespan will be. Sliding a nice treadmill mat underneath your equipment will help reduce that static and the amount of stuff getting sucked up in it. As a bonus, you’ll also be protecting your floor and carpet. Watch out for cheap mats, tho. If you pick up a budget treadmill mat you run the risk of having it stain your hardwood floor or stick to your carpet. Supermat is a great brand of treadmill mat and can be purchased for as low as $35.

Tip #2
Sticking with dust and dirt, make sure to dust/clean your treadmill once every other week. Take special care with the belt area as any build up should be cleaned off right away or you’ll risk reduced performance.

Tip #3
I know it’s going to sound over obvious, but make sure to keep your power cord well away from the base of the unit and the incline mechanism. You have no idea how many cords we end up replacing on our service calls.

Tip #4
If you find your belt slipping, it may be because the belt tracking is off. You can adjust your tracking the same way you make sure the belt is properly aligned, with the alignment screws at the rear of your treadmill. An allen wrench is all you need. A quick quarter clockwise turn should tighten everything back up. Make sure never to turn either side more than a quarter turn at any given time because you the adjustments levels are very fine. Keeping your belt aligned will reduce the load on you treadbelt and belt guides. Check out your owner’s manual for more information.

Tip #5
A lot of times the cause of miss aligned on a treadbelt is from the unit not being level. Make sure to get your treadmill level.

Tip #6
Unless specifically isntructed by your owner’s manual, do not use silicone or oils to lubricate your treadmill’s deck. A clean, dry, dust-free bed and belt combination is ideal for a long-lasting treadmill. If your manual recommends the use of a silicone spray for lubrication, make sure to precisely follow application and scheduling instructions. Some treadmill decks may require initial waxing to help reduce friction with the belt. Do not wax a deck unless recommended by the manufacturer. Lubrication to pretreated wax decks may interfere with the wax.

Tip #7
The lowest level of friction between your belt and deck is desired. If the amount of friction is too high, you’ll end up with damage and wear to both your motor and your year. The best way to judge a low friction belt is that it will slide when the power is off and you can manually walk the belt when the treadmill is powered down. Improper lubrication can lead to overworking your motor.

Tip #8
One of the main problems on most treadmills (home and commercial) is in the control board. As with any computer, the treadmill’s control board is subject to power surges, improper grounding and so on. The best way to protect your treadmill’s computer brain is to unplug it when not in use and use a grounded plug when powered on.

Tip #9
Read your user’s manual. I know, I know…”who really reads those darn things?” Well, you should. Just about everything you need to know will be found in that little book that came with your treadmill. Pop it open while you’re in the bathroom for a good read.

Tip #10
Never operate your treadmill while wet. Bad idea for so many reasons.

Tip #11
Last but not least, if you are having trouble with your treadmill and need it fixed…then call the Treadmill Sensei! That’s what we do! (Ok, so it’s a shameless plug…but it’s my website so nyah).

Anyway, a few simple steps and you’ll be able to take care of your treadmill so it can continue to help take care of you for years to come

-The Treadmill Sensei

Treadmill machines are a great way to exercise. They are one of the best ways to have cardio vascular workouts. It helps to lose weight considerable as well as tone up muscles. Whether its raining outside or sunny outside, one can easily get on the treadmill machine and have a go. The best pat is one can listen to music and even read a book while on the treadmill. While on a cross trainer or a fitness rower, its no possible to do the same. Manual as well as powered treadmills is also available. The manual treadmills are much cheaper than the powered treadmills.

The various companies, which make a variety of treadmills, are Proform Weslo, Reebok, and Johnson. They make treadmills to suit every budget and workout. Beginners as well as those who want an advanced workout can use treadmills. The prices of treadmill machines start from $300 and these treadmill machines can even cost as much as $3000. Of course the more expensive treadmill machines offer a variety of functions and are meant more for gym use rather than home use. The treadmills, which are meant for home use, can even be folded away. The running belt wraps around the console and thus it can be stowed away.

The more expensive versions of the treadmill machines have a variety of functions. They also have a console, which offers many resistance levels. The incline of the treadmill can also be adjusted. Therefore the treadmill can simulate the action of walking uphill. Those who want an advanced workout should opt for treadmill machine, which will help them in their workout, thus treadmill machines offer a variety of advantages for the runner. The control panel on the treadmill machine also gives the reading for the heart rate; pulse rate, the miles covered and speed can be adjusted as per convenience.

Buying a treadmill? You’ll probably be making several treadmill comparisons when doing your research.

Here are 3 things you must know when making treadmill comparisons in order to find the best one for you.

#1 Compare Apples To Apples

Don’t compare prices between treadmills online and treadmills sold at a store. They are two different marketplaces, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

When I was selling a Proform treadmill many years ago, the gentleman buying it had gone online and seen the same model for less. I had to explain to him that this price was an online price only. Buying a treadmill online can sometimes be considerably cheaper, depending on the manufacturer, sales, closeouts, etc.

So when comparing treadmill prices side by side, make sure you compare online treadmills to online treadmills and store treadmills to store treadmills.

Also make sure you’re comparing the same models. It sounds obvious but some treadmill brands have so many similar sounding treadmills in their line-up it’s easy to get confused!

#2 Know the Key Ingredients to a Quality Treadmill

Make sure you know the top 4 key ingredients to a quality treadmill:

– Motor Power
– Stability
– Warranty
– Cushioning

Your motor is the heart of your treadmill and adequate motor power is extremely important. Most experts recommend at least a 1.5 HP motor although I prefer a 2.0 HP or higher to ensure you don’t burn the motor out (and then have to pay costly repair fees).

Stability ensures that your treadmill will not shake or wobble when you start to run on it.

Your warranty will protect your investment and quality treadmills will include a warranty. (You shouldn’t have to pay extra for a treadmill warranty – unless you want to, of course!)

Cushioning is the ability of the treadmill to absorb the force of your step. Higher cushioning means lower impact on your joints and ligaments. Cushioning is extremely important as poor cushioning can cause injury and muscle strain

#3) Know What YOU Need When Reviewing Treadmills

Many people get sold on all of the ‘neat’ features of the treadmill – but don’t ever consider if they’ll really use them.

For example we’d all love to own a commercial-grade, luxury treadmill – but for many people, it’s MORE than they need. On the other hand, a serious runner might actually need that kind of stability and cushioning in a treadmill.

If you don’t really care about 30 workout programs, why pay extra for them? If you know your 6’2″ son will be running on the treadmill, remember to look for one with a longer running area and adequate user weight capacity.

By knowing what you you need before comparing treadmills, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and frustration.

So there you have it – keep these 3 points in mind when making treadmill comparisons and you’ll be well on your way to making an excellent treadmill purchase! Enjoy and have fun!

Treadmills are a large investment financially and in your fitness, therefore much thought and preparation should go into the purchase of your new treadmill.

Having your treadmill motor blow up or your belt warp severely after only a few months use is not something you want, so here are a few basic treadmill buying tips.

Warranty – Any treadmill brand worth its weight will offer a nice warranty on their product. Usually the motor, parts, and labor will be covered under different warranties. Make sure you get at least a 5 year warranty on you motor. After the treadmill purchase make sure you abide by the warranty and send in any user registrations if required.

Walking Surface – How big is the surface you actually walk or run on? My first treadmill had a 16 inch width that seemed fine in the store, however after further usage I found myself always aware of where the sides were and extra careful not to “step off the edge”. Make sure the width of your treadmill will be comfortable for everyone in your household (I prefer 20 inch widths) and also the length is long enough for the long legged members of your family.

Weight Limit – Most treadmills have a weight limit. Too much weight can put a strain on the frame, belt, and especially motor of the treadmill. Make sure your potential treadmill has a weight limit to accommodate all of its potential users to avoid putting undue wear and tear on your new treadmill.

Test Things Out – Get on your treadmill and give it a test drive. Does everything work as the advertisement states? Try the heart monitor if it’s a feature, does it appear to be working properly? Is the treadmill quiet to your liking, or will it be an annoyance when home? Are the displays big enough for you to see easily?

Safety – Make sure your new treadmill has an emergency stop mechanism. This can help prevent serious injuries during malfunction or accidents.

Additional Features – Treadmills come in many shapes and sizes with various features. Some additional features you may look for are a water bottle holder, calorie counter, book stand, incline, and preset and programmable workout routines.

Once you’ve made your final treadmill buying decision, make sure you shop around for the best price for your new treadmill. Getting all the features you want at the price you want makes for happy treadmilling!

Trampolines are a great way to play and enjoy the outdoors while getting good exercise and burning away all those extra calories. Enjoyed by kids and adults alike, trampolines are recommended not just for play parks or recreational areas for kids, but for the home backyard as well. A great time can be spent together with family and friends in jumping away on a trampoline.

Jump Away For Work And Play

Trampolines give those of us not into exercise so much the chance to work and play. Jumping up and down on the trampoline is not only fun, but a good way to burn away calories and remain in great shape. A trampoline that has been set up outdoors in the lawn or play area can be great fun for the entire family or just for friends who drop in for a workout. Even adults find jumping on the trampoline great fun and some are quite nostalgic about the games one can have on the trampoline.

Trampolines – What Are They Made Of?

Most trampolines have steel frames for support and have synthetic fiber that can resist the heavy weight of a person jumping on them. Made up of triangular pieces of fiber, the trampoline material is made up of high quality, which is designed to withstand great pressure. The steel frame is also weatherproofed and is generally not known to warp or bend. Firm stitching in place ensures the material does not tear, even when kids use it in a rough manner. They can be easily installed for outdoor use and can withstand most rough weather conditions. Some trampolines are even known to have survived hurricanes when left outside the homes in bad weather.

Health Benefits Of Using A Trampoline

Some of the health benefits of using a trampoline include lower risk of illness and increased agility amongst children. Small children learn to coordinate faster and become better at balancing themselves as they learn to jump up and down on the trampoline. Growing children attain greater flexibility and even adults will find that trampoline jumping is a surefire way to burn away all those extra calories. Besides these benefits, the trampoline is a good excuse to take the kids away from the television and into the outdoors.

If you’re looking for a new way to add some fun to your backyard activities this season, why not consider a trampoline? Not only are trampolines a lot of fun, but they are also good exercise for you and the kids. And of course, they get the family out of the house, away from the TV, computer and video games and into the fresh air!

Trampolines are good exercise you say? Well yes, they are. Jumping up and down on the elasticized surface is great for strengthening the cardio-vascular system and it is also an excellent workout for almost every muscle and organ in your body. The rebounding action that happens when someone jumps on a trampoline is similar to a low-impact workout, but is easier on the back and joints because you are bouncing on the rubberized mat instead of landing on a hard surface. Jogging on a trampoline instead of the ground is better for you or the kids as well, for the same reason. Exercising on a trampoline can also be very helpful for adults and children because it helps to improve reflexes, flexibility, balance and coordination.

For those who might be concerned about safety issues, there is no longer a need for worry about things like accidentally landing on the ground instead of the trampoline surface either. If you are thinking about purchasing a trampoline, you can also buy a webbed, nylon safety net which fits around the entire circumference of the trampoline to keep all the happy jumpers right where they are supposed to be – on the trampoline. Depending on the size of the trampoline, you can get an appropriately sized safety net which attaches to poles that wrap around its entire perimeter. Then, if a jumper bumps into the net, it pushes them right back onto the trampoline instead having them landing on the ground! No worries!

There’s also all kind of accessories you can use to add even more hours of fun to your trampoline activities. How about a basketball hoop that is specially manufactured to attach to the safety net frame? Think about how much fun the kids will have with their friends or siblings bouncing up and down, dunking the ball into the net. Kids love adventure so why not a tent that fits on top of the trampoline? Make it the setting for their next sleep over party. You can set the tent up on the trampoline surface and you’ve got another safe and fun way to satisfy their quest for excitement. There are even party kits you can purchase that come with all kinds of games that are specially designed for the trampoline. The packs come with things like jump ropes and specially-made, washable chalk for drawing pictures or an oversized tic-tac-toe game on the mat. Or draw a hopscotch board on the mat as another amusing game idea. Imagine the laughter coming from the kids as they hop around the board – priceless.

Trampolines are a fun, safe and healthy new way to entertain yourself and the kids. And you won’t have to worry about where they are either because they’ll be having a blast, right in your view, right in your own backyard!

A trampoline is a device used by gymnasts, and is also used for recreational sport. It consists of a taut sheet made mostly of canvas that has coiled springs attached to a metal frame. The springs provide the rebounding force which propels the jumper high into the air. Trampolines are becoming very popular these days; everybody loves them! Athletes use them to enhance their motor skills and to bring refinement in their aerial moves. Skiers, skaters, divers and gymnasts – everybody uses them extensively. Kids love to spring and tumble on them, as it is a great fun filled pass time for them. Even grown ups use them for exercising.

Types of Trampolines:

There are outdoor trampolines as well as indoor trampolines. Outdoor trampolines are more convenient as you can place them anywhere, and the kids can also play anytime they want without creating chaos in the house. It is better to get zinc coated trampolines as you can leave them outside all the year round without any worry about them getting rusted. Trampolines usually come in three basic shapes: square, round, and rectangular. They also come in different sizes and different heights; usually ten, twelve, fourteen and fifteen feet. Gymnasts prefer rectangular shaped trampolines than round shaped as they can orientate themselves better on a rectangular trampoline.

Always buy good quality trampolines:

You should only buy good quality trampolines to avoid any unnecessary accidents. Make sure you check the springs, jumping mats, frame pads and frames. Always buy quality frame pads for better protection. You also should check the width, thickness and the quality of materials that have been used in making the frame pad.

The next thing that you must check is the jumping mat. Check if the stitches are made properly and if it is capable of withstanding the weight of an adult. Always buy a good quality jumping mat for long durability. The spring is also another part that you should check. The longer the spring is, the better the bounce would be. The frame is also an important part. It needs to be strong enough to withstand the weight of more than one person, as kids like to play in groups. The frame of a good trampoline should never bend, or bow when set up, nor should it flex when in use. It is advisable to buy your trampoline only from a trusted manufacturer and supplier.

Tips to avoid accidents:

Though trampolines are fun, you should always be careful as there are risks involved. Here are some tips to keep in mind to avoid accidents:

• Avoid keeping outdoor trampolines indoors, as there are always risks of hitting your head on the ceiling or the light fittings. When you keep the trampoline outside keep it in an empty space free away from clotheslines, tree limbs, fences, furniture, and other objects that may cause injuries if you fall off.

• If possible set the legs/supports of the trampoline down into the ground to reduce the distance of a fall.

• Always wear comfortable clothing so that you are free to move, and avoid wearing really long or loose pants as there are chances that limbs may get entangled in extra folds.

• Remove all jewelry before getting on. Do not keep any contents in your pocket. Wear only trampoline footwear – if you do not have it, go barefoot, or in socks.

• Never attempt to do any complicated tumbling without getting proper training. If you land in an incorrect position you may get seriously injured.

• Those learning to use a trampoline for the first time must do so under adult supervision. There should be someone to instruct them in simple maneuvers, and also who is well versed in first aid for injuries.

These days you can find trampolines in gyms as well. Organized clubs and gyms usually have spotters placed at each corner of the trampoline to assist and to break the fall of any athlete who loses control and falls. Having some training in a gym may be beneficial before bringing one home.

Using a trampoline can be a great way to get fit with an added touch of fun you might not find in more traditional exercise pursuits. Activities like jogging and participating in sports might be ideal for those who love to zone out while exercising, or for those with that competitive edge, but for those who like to break a sweat while they break out in giggles, trampolining might just be the best path to fitness.

You might think trampolines are best left in the school gym, but these fitness tools are ideally situated in your home or garden. Available in a variety of sizes, from the mini trampolines that can be used indoors, to the larger variety more suitable for outdoor use, a short search should find you the right trampoline to meet your needs. And whether you are a fitness guru or just taking those first, tentative steps upon a healthier path, a trampoline can provide you with a great workout that will leave you energised and ready for anything.

Trampolines provide the exerciser with a repetitive, rhythmic movement that is ideal for even beginning fitness fanatics. Not only does the bouncing motion offered by the trampoline allow either a tantalising jump to new heights or a slower, more relaxing movement, but the exertion required to either hold yourself to rights or recover from all kinds of bouncy impacts utilizes a wide range of muscles, providing a workout that is easily as effective as it is fun.

Trampolines are as good for the mind as they are for the body. The new perspective offered by the trampoline and the fun and excitement it can provide are fantastic stress busters, rekindling in even the most overworked and overburdened nine to fiver a sense of fun and frolic that hasn’t been experienced in years! As experts recommend exercise for these stress releasing effects as much as for the physical fitness it affords, it’s clear that thirty minutes spent on the trampoline is as good as it gets!

Trampolining is a wonderful way to reach your healthy lifestyle goals. Combining exercise with good, clean fun, trampolining can help you bounce your way to a healthier you. So what are you waiting for? Jump to it!

Trampolining is a fun activity, while offering a good exercise for the entire family. Once you develop the love for the trampoline in the minds of the family, they will get out of the house and break the sedentary habits of watching TV, sitting on computer and playing video games. So if you are looking for purchasing a trampoline, here are some useful guidelines to help you in buying the right trampoline.

What should I look for before buying a trampoline?
Trampolines are available in various shapes and sizes. But the one you buy should fit well within the open space available to you. You should consider the number of people who will be using the trampoline. This is very crucial from the safety point of view. After deciding on these issues, go for a trampoline that agrees completely with your style of living.

Where should I buy the trampoline?
It is very easy to buy a right trampoline. Many websites providing the necessary information have sprung up. They answer all your questions about trampoline styles, parts, safety issues and health benefits. They have a shopping section from where you can buy the entire set and get it at your doorstep without leaving the house.

Should I buy from Fun Spot?
Fun Spot is a popular website, offering a range of trampolines and their accessories. They provide free shipping. You can pick a mat of any color from their site. Their webbing is sturdy and UV protected and is stitched on the edges of the mat to double the lifespan of the stitches. This ensures the durability of the mat, thus saving time and money. Their prices are the lowest and you can get a trampoline within your budget. They provide technical support over the phone via an 800 number.

I have heard about Jumpsport. Tell me about it.
Jumpsport is a website that is a member of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Product Safety Circle. It has been awarded the Family Choice Gold Award. The site offers free shipping on all trampolines. They offer useful hints on assembling the trampoline once it reaches you. There are links providing information about their products, spares and accessories. You can also access the detailed safety and health page from the home page.

If you’re looking for a new way to add some fun to your backyard activities this season, why not consider buying a trampoline? Not only are trampolines a lot of fun, but they are also good exercise for you and the kids. And of course, they get the family out of the house, away from the TV, computer and video games and into the fresh air!

There are a couple of things you will want to keep in mind before buying a trampoline. They come in different sizes and shapes to meet your jumping needs, but you will want to buy a trampoline that is in proportion with the outdoor space you have available. You also want to keep in mind how many individuals will be utilizing the trampoline for not only size, but safety reasons also. Once you’ve got those numbers, you can begin looking for a trampoline that fits your lifestyle and maybe even some accessories to further enhance the fun factor.

Buying a trampoline is easy as there are many websites available that offer helpful buying and overall, general information about trampolines. You can find answers to any questions you might have regarding styles of trampolines, parts, safety concerns and even health benefits. Using the web, you can buy the entire set up online and have it shipped directly to your door!

One good source of information is a company called Fun Spot. They have a wide variety of trampolines and accessories and offer free shipping. Did you know that you can choose different colors for your trampoline’s mat? Well Fun Spot lets you pick from four different colored fabrics. They also offer a UV protectant, heavy-duty webbing that is sewn onto the perimeter of the mat and doubles the life of stitching. That’s great for saving time and money in consideration of not having to purchase replacement parts as often. Fun Spot claims to have the lowest prices and a trampoline to fit every budget. They also provide you with an 800 number for technical support over the phone. Their website is very informative with lots to see and you can visit them online at www.funspot.com.

Jumpsport.com is another great website if you decide to look into buying a trampoline. This company is an invited member of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Product Safety Circle as well as a recipient of the Family Choice Gold Award. Jump Sport also offers free shipping and they even have a page for assembly tips once your trampoline has arrived. Their website is very educational with links to information on all of their trampolines, parts and accessories in addition to an extensive Safety and Health page.

After doing some research and checking out all of the options, if you have decided to buy a trampoline, you and your family can look forward to having a blast bouncing your way to fun in a healthy and safe way!

Trampolines are a wonderful thing, I don’t know if you have noticed but in the last few years more and more people are getting a trampoline for their backyard. My neighbor got one a few years ago and every time his kids would come and visit the grandchildren would spend most of their time on the trampoline or in its environment.

Some people think that trampolines are mainly used by kids, that trampolines are mere toys for kids to jump around and have fun. People are beginning to discover that a trampoline can be used for physical fitness for children as well as adults. While there is a certain level of convenience associated with purchasing a special fitness trampoline, it isn’t necessary to receive the benefits of trampoline exercise. The same kind of trampoline that is used by children can be used by adults as well.

Working out on a trampoline is very different from any other traditional exercise we know, which makes it a fun activity. The workout is even a little more challenging since most adults need to learn how to master the trampoline, and from my experience, what sometimes looks like an easy task may prove to be much more difficult…

The aerobics associated with jumping on a fitness trampoline strengthens the heart in the same way as other cardio exercises like running and jumping rope. This increase in cardio rate encourages energy use and weight loss. Spending five to eight minutes doing trampoline exercise is like running a mile, only with less time and effort. Trampoline exercise tones muscles in the lower half of the body. The legs, thighs, hips, stomach, and abdomen are all used when exercising on a fitness trampoline. The trampoline workout can also be a fun activity for all the family, it is fun to watch and once you learn how to use it properly you can also contribute your opinion, and improve the workout altogether.

Trampoline jumping improves coordination many athletes and gymnasts use trampolines for this reason. Jumping on a trampoline isn’t just about bounding up and down. There is some level of skill involved in reaching a good height and landing in the right way. As I mentioned before, the mere task of getting the hang of the trampoline is a challenge, although it may take some time, once you get the trampoline basics in your blood, you will be addicted to it, and to the constant improvement in your workout. As you learn to master the trampoline, you will probably get higher and more energy efficient while on the trampoline.

A small trampoline, or rebound trampoline, is ideal for those who have knee injuries. Since smaller trampolines are not designed for high jumping, there is less pressure on the joints during exercise. Other benefits of a fitness trampoline include improvements in breathing through increased capacity of lungs, reduction in stress and tension, lowers cholesterol levels, and increases energy levels. A fitness trampoline is a good way to get exercise for people who have joint issues that keep them from jogging and running.

A trampoline is a great way of staying in shape and enjoying it, why not try to use a trampoline and see if its something you can enjoy?

Home fitness equipment is a great ment. Exercising in the privacy of your home offers both easy access and stability to your daily work out. Unfortunately, most newbie exercises make big mistakes when purchasing their first piece of fitness equipment. The first mistake fitness equipment buyers make is to purchase a machine with too many features.

First of all more features means more. In the case of fitness equipment more money does not mean better quality. Many of the electronic features fitness equipments offers are never used or used very rarely. This is because most people can not figure out how to accurately use the computer and give up. The basic fitness equipment attributes are all that you need. Just like buying a car or a piece of furniture check for building quality. Ask yourself is the equipment well put together, sturdy, durable, and stable. Good construction combined with a quiet machine are the only real qualities you need to look for in a treadmill. The same is true for all fitness equipment.

Make sure you try out the equipment before buying it. The first place to start is a gym, buy a month membership and go in and see what you like and hate. Once you find a piece of fitness equipment you are interested in then go out to several stores and try their machines. Make sure you wear your exercise clothes and exercise shoes. Most fitness machines look great just sitting them, turn it on and use for a good twenty minutes. Weight machines should be used for at least 20 repetitions. Do not be afraid to try something out of your price range. Have fun when you go out looking, see what the high end equipment offers and what features you can do without and then purchase your fitness equipment accordingly.

If you are beginner in the exercise world, do not buy something complicated or hard to use or setup. You will not use, and you have wasted your. Many of the high end fitness equipment require the coordination of upper and lower bodies which can be quite overwhelming for people who are less experienced with exercise routines. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be afraid to ask for an information sheet and inquire about all costs. Look for discounts and sales. Many fitness equipment sellers will offer to put together your new fitness equipment and deliver it for you no extra cost or a small fee – let them! For an extra hundred you will not have the headache of assembly and you will make sure the piece of equipment is put together correctly.

You have probably all seen the various fitness equipment commercials. The claims made in these commercials tend to stretch credibility to the limit. You are invited to “Get the perfect abs in 10 minutes a day” or even ” Have a sculpted body in no time.” Each machine claims to use cutting edge technology with the express purpose to get you in shape and lose pounds with a minimal effort. Oh boy! If it was only that simple.

We all desire to look great and feel healthy but you have to put some work in. This usually takes the form of a vigorous exercise schedule combined with a properly balanced diet. In order to lose weight and achieve a well toned body you will have to burn calories on a regularly basis. You don’t have to be a genius to figure that out.

There is a plethora of fitness equipment on the market and most are just fads which are fashionable for a few months then disappear never to see the light of day again. There is, however, one that is still a major player, and that is the treadmill. Torso Track, Total Gym 1000/2000, Ab Sculptor, Ab Rockers, Ab Doers, Slam Man, Thighmasters, Toning System, Door Gym, Orbitrek are the latest thing one day and then forgotten the next.

You may ask yourself why you never see treadmills sold on infomercials? The reason is simple. It is because it is not a high profit, hyped up, exercise gadget, which is more the product of clever marketing than a serious piece of exercise equipment. Most infomercial equipment is designed for just one purpose, to make as much money as soon as possible before people discover that they don’t work. Most of the price of this equipment is used in order to market it.

So who would possibly want to buy this stuff? Usually it is people who mistakenly believe that there are shortcuts to weight loss and getting in shape. Achieving your fitness goals requires that you put in some work and the results will not happen over night. No machine is going to produce the results you desire without commitment from yourself.

Have you ever seen any infomercial equipment at a health club? No, because they don’t work and they’re not built to last. What you will see, however, are a number of treadmills, often with people waiting their turn to use them.

It really boils down to this. Getting fit is really the prodcut of two things – time and effort. The more time and effort you put into exercising the more calories you are going to burn and the more weight you will lose. If you are looking for fitness equipment that will maximize your efforts, then a Treadmill is the obvious choice.

Let’s just say the first thing first about a Trotter treadmill – there is little doubt that on your treadmill comparison travels, you will find a cheaper exercise machine. With the pervasiveness of in today’s society, or rather the ubiquity of our wanting to hold on to as much of it as we can, it is easy to see why other machines might beat a Trotter treadmill in the consumer’s treadmill comparison. But while some people might make the selection from their treadmill comparison of the machine that comes with the lowest price tag, discerning consumers hold on to their and it in something that might be a little more expensive, but is definitely worth it. These canny consumers know that with a Trotter treadmill, you get more than what you pay for.

There are a number of schools of thought that inform any treadmill comparison: one runs along the lines that fitness equipment is expensive, so let’s limit our costs by purchasing the cheapest treadmill we can find. This line of thought, of course, is extremely limiting and would knock a Trotter treadmill right out the window, along with the many great features a Trotter treadmill has to offer. The canny consumer, however, appreciates that while a treadmill comparison can throw up some cheap treadmill alternatives, you really do get what you pay for, and if you’re going to, you may as well in the best. Many consumer reviews would argue that the best is a Trotter treadmill.

A Trotter treadmill is large and extremely well built, with professional runners rating the Trotter line as one of the most durable on the market. Its sturdy build means that it will require a dedicated spot in your home for its use, but a Trotter treadmill is worth every inch. With a professional grade running board that provides you with the most ergonomic exercising stance and high quality cushioning, with a Trotter treadmill you will hardly notice your exercise time fly by. This comfort is combined in a Trotter treadmill with a great range of programs and user interface, allowing you customize your workout to your own specific needs.

Any treadmill comparison will tell you that a Trotter treadmill should be high on your list, and it is usually the price tag alone that frightens people off. But the treadmill comparison of the canny consumer will illustrate how price shouldn’t necessarily be at the top of your treadmill list: in the best, in a Trotter treadmill.

Over the past few years Elliptical trainers have taken the fitness industry by storm. What was once a fad relegated to late night infomercials is now perhaps the single most dominant piece of equipment at the majority of gyms and personal training centers.

Let’s start with the guide by taking a look at the differences between a treadmill and an elliptical trainer. The most immediate thing you’re going to notice is that the elliptical is almost entirely impact free. This means you will no longer be subjected to the lower joint pain most associated with running. Even a treadmill with great shock absorbtion and an orthopedic belt, while better than running on pavement, will still abuse your knees and ankles.

On the flip side, a treadmill is much better for targeted training for joggers and runners. You can’t really train properly for a marathon on an elliptical. As close as the feel of an elliptical is to walking or running, it’s still not as good as actually running.

Now, let’s take a look at the “pain” of running. Recent studies have shown people to work out hard and longer on ellipticals because the perceived amount of effort seems to be much less. The more “comfortable” a work out, the longer and hard someone will go. This is one of the main reasons a lot of seniors and older exercisers have taken to the elliptical so readily.

Another glaring difference is the crosstraining arms most ellipticals have (with a few exceptions such as the majority of the Precor elliptical units). With the addition of the crosstraining bars, the elliptical allows you an additional aspect in your work out — strength training. Almost all fitness experts agree that all proper workouts need a strength training aspect and the elliptical packages it with the cardio training quite nicely.

Let’s talk about what to look for in an elliptical trainer. First, which is better, a front wheel or rear wheel elliptical. Truth be told, they both work exactly the same. Anyone who tells you differently is just trying to see you a bill of goods. They give you the exact same workout. The only real difference is if you’re a larger person or if you’re on a lighter weight (or less sturdy) machine. In this case, the front drives will definitely feel quite a bit sturdier. This is because when you work out on an elliptical, you are throwing all of your weight forward. Having the drive and heavy flywheel up front will help to balance you out. Larger flywheels are better as they tend to last longer and give more sturdiness to a machine.

Most elliptical trainers have magnetic brakes and you don’t want to mess with anything else. The old friction based brakes tended to wear out too quickly, so stay away from any dinosaur machines that still use them.

Stride is one of the most important features on an elliptical because they have the most to do with comfort. Longer strides are better on ellipticals — unless, of course, you’re a shorter person, but for most people strides of 18″ or longer are best. Personally, I’ve find 20-21 inch strides to be the best for anyone up to about 6’4″. Anything shorter than 18″ will be uncomfortable for most people.

Footpads: make sure the unit you are looking at has articulating footpads. The reason for this is because elliptical traininers with static footpads (such as the Tunturi units) can cause your feet to start to go numb on longer work outs. This is from the lack of circulation caused by the static pedals. Looks for footpads that flex with your feet. You’ll thank the sensei for it.

Things like programs, heart rate control and personal fans are nice, but the above points are the main things to keep an eye on. Also, try out the feel of the way you mount an elliptical. There are two varieties of mounting — side mount machines (such as the Precor 546 or Star Trac Rear Drive) and rear mount machines (such as the Matrix E5x or Horizon EX44). Some people have a bit of difficulty on mounting from the side and should look at rear drive options. As with the position of the flywheel, rear-mount versus side-mount ellipticals work exactly the same way.

The best way to pick out an elliptical is to head out to either a gym or local sports retailer and give them a try. Be warned, tho, once you work out on a commercial grade elliptical, it’s hard to transition over to a residential grade one. The top of the line commercial ellipticals are by Star Trac, Matrix, Precor and Life Fitness. The top residential grade ellipticals include Horizon, New Balance and Endurance. Fitnex and Spirit / Sole are great mid range brands that do an exellent job of giving commercial quality work outs for not much more than a residential price.

Nihango!

A question I get asked a lot here at the DOJO (and by my wife’s pesky relatives) is: How the heck do I replace a damaged treadmill belt?

If you find your belt slipping, or your deck slowing down and stop, or if the edges of your treadmill belt look worn, frayed or curls up, then you may need to have your treadmill belt replaced. Luckily, replacing the belt isn’t as hard as you’d think.

The very first thing you’re going to want to do is take a look at your treadmill deck. If the deck looks to be in good shape then there is a good chance it just needs to be lubricated (or waxed). If you see signs of wear such as scratches or grooves then both the deck and belt are probably going to need to be replaced.

If the deck appears fine but your belt is torn, curling or frayed, it’s time to replace the treadmill belt. Thankfully, treadmill manufacturers have made it pretty easy to replace a belt even if you’re not the Treadmill Sensei.

Most important: Turn your treadmill off and remove the power cord! This way you don’t get shocked and you’ll guarantee the treadmill doesn’t turn on while you’re working on it. That would be bad. If your treadmill inclines (which most do), adjusting it a few degrees may make the operation a little easier for you.

You loosen the belt adjustment screws in the back of your treadmill’s deck and then slide the rear roller forward and away from the belt. Remove the front roller and then the rear roller. There will be a number of screws along the sides of the deck which attach the deck to the rest of the treadmill. Remove those and you’ll be able to remove your deck.

At this point you can slide your belt off. Now is a perfect time to go ahead and lubricate your deck as well. From there, put on your new belt and reassemble your deck.

Taking the time to wax your treadmill deck while the belt is off may be a good idea. It’ll keep you from having to do it all over again later on.

Finally, once you have it all back together you’re going to want to test the adjustment. Start your treadmill at a slow speed and walk on it firmly. If the belt stops, hesitates or changes speed then you’re going to need to adjst the rear screws. Adjust as needed until you are sure the belt isn’t slipping or changing speed.

And there you have it, how to replace a treadmill belt.

-The Treadmill Sensei

While treadmills are a great alternative to real running and complicated exercises, however, they are not without their downsides.

To start off with, treadmills can be very expensive, especially if you buy one with all the luxurious special features. By the time you add in sales taxes, delivery charges and all the rest, you’re looking at a pretty significant chunk of change. Of course, there’s nothing saying that you need to get one with absolutely every feature around – if it’s your first treadmill, you’ll be absolutely fine with a more basic model, whatever the salesman might tell you.

The next problem is that treadmills can be very large, and there might not be space in your house. Again, this problem is quite easily solved, as long as you keep your wits about you and realise exactly how big the treadmill you’re buying is, instead of just blindly choosing one that takes your fancy and hoping for the best. There are surprisingly small treadmills on the market for smaller homes – all you have to do is look for them.

Some people complain of loud motors on some cheaper treadmills, and it can be annoying if you’re not used to it. A good solution is to put on the TV or listen to some music, which also helps with the boredom that many people experience when they just run on a treadmill and do nothing else at the same time.

The final point is one that is important to people who are training for actual races. As treadmills have no wind resistance, they are quite unsuitable for training for real outdoor running – you should be getting out there and doing it on a track instead. While a treadmill can come close to simulating wind resistance if you adjust its slope gradient, it’s not good enough for serious training, and you might injure yourself if you run a race after only training on a treadmill.

Moshi Moshi!

I had planned to do a detailed review of the Landice L7 Executive treadmill today, but Mrs. Sensei has laid down the law and I only have a few minutes to post a review on this fine July 4th holiday — the DOJO itself is empty and all of the other senseis are off work and at home enjoying their families. Look for the full review tomorrow, but for today enjoy a quick rundown of the differences between the numerous models of Landice treadmills out on the market.

If you’vee spent time looking at Landice treadmills then you’ve probably noticed they have a large number of units available and the differences between them aren’t always as obvious as they should be. Here is a guide to comparing the different models, full commercial and light commercial.

At each level (L7, L8 and L9), the only difference between a Pro Sports Trainer, a Cardio Trainer and an Executive trainer is going to be the console. The Landice Pro Sports Trainer Treadmill has the lowest end, basic display, and the Landice Executive treadmills have the highest end (really spiffy, if you ask me) displays. The difference in the consoles is very obvious upon viewing.

The differences of each Landice treadmill level (L7, L8 and L9) is going to be the size of the rollers and the length of the deck. The higher the number, the heaver and larger the rollers and the longer the treadmill deck.

The LTD versus the Club style is an easy one as well. LTD means the unit is light commercial and Club means the unit is full commercial — meaning it is rated to run for a higher number of hours per week (full commercial usually means 100+ hours of use per week). The LTDs come in 110v and the Clubs in 220v or 110v. If you’re using a Landice Club treadmill in your home, make sure to request 110v or you may not be able to run it properly.

And there you go, the mystery of the Landice treadmills is solved!

-The Treadmill Sensei

Choosing great body building equipment is vital to your success in this industry. There are several things to consider when shopping for your body building equipment. It is also important to note that each piece of exercise equipment is important in its own way.

For example you will have to consider price at least somewhat when you are looking for new and better body building equipment. You only have so much money to spend on your body building equipment and unfortunately, you cannot spend what you do not have. Even wealthbuilding.co.za”>credit cards only go up so high right? Therefore, start looking for body building equipment within your budget range and you will be much better off.

It is a good idea to go into each store with a clear idea of how much money you have to spend on your body building equipment. This way you can just ask the person helping you to show you only the body building equipment that is in this price range. This will keep you from feeling bad about the great body building equipment that you cannot buy and the body building equipment that you can buy will look that much better to you as a result.

You also need to have a clear picture of what your goals are. When you are shopping in the body building equipment store ask the workers what they feel might be the best choice for what you want to achieve. They should have a good idea of what body building equipment is best for what part of the body etc.

There are many different kinds of body building equipment, there are free weights, and there are machines that are all connected as one piece. Which of these types of body building equipment should you choose for your body building needs? If your main goal is just to bulk up then you will want to choose free weights because these will be more for this type of goal. On the other hand, you will get more exercise options with a machine as your main piece of body building equipment. In addition, free weights as your main kind of body building equipment can grow to be quite the pain in the butt, as you have to take bits on and off all of the time. Ultimately, it is up to you, whichever kind of body building equipment you are most comfortable with is your best option.

Moshi Moshi!

Hello again from the Far East on the West Coast, and greetings from the DOJO. This week, before I get in to the nuts and bolts of the treadmills and the ellipticals I work on, I’m going to start with a quick guide to how to choose a treadmill — well, how to choose a residential / home grade treadmill. Choosing a commercial treadmill tends to be a bit easier — go Star Trac, Matrix, Landice or Life Fitness and, in spite of their great ellipticals, avoid Precor treadmills. Precor is a great company, they just don’t quite have treadmills down as well as the other companies. With the commercial treadmills it’s kind of like choosing between a BMW, a Mercedes and a Lexus. It’s all about bells and whistles more than performance…they’re all great machines and we’ll talk about them another time.

Home treadmills are a tough sea to navigate for most buyers — there are so many different brands and they all look alike to outsiders. Luckily, over the past 20 or so years, I’ve had to repair just about every treadmill ever made. In other words, my pain will be your salvation!

My first piece of advice is: avoid anything and everything from Icon Health and Fitness. They’re the manufacturer of the units you’ll find at places like Sears — nothing against Sears, but the treadmills they sell tend to be on the lower end of the quality scale. Their treadmills seem to have specs that are too good to be true for their cost and, truth be told, they are. The old proverb, “you get what you pay for” comes in to play with them. Small motors with high RPMs to give them a perceived higher horsepower (most of their motors should really be rated at under 1.5 HP regardless of what they tell you — a motor the size of a soda can should not be powering a full sized treadmill!), lots of plastic pieces, tiny rollers, and generally unstable machines are par for the course for the Icon brands like Proform, Weslo, Healthrider and Image. Just stay away from them! There are better treadmills even at the more affordable prices that Icon tempts the unlearned consumer with.

On with translating the arcane lore that is treadmill purchasing for the lay person.

Let’s start with the motor. The first thing you want to do is make sure the motor is rated with “Continuous Duty.” Any sales person or manufacturer who gives you a “Peak” rating is trying to sell you a bag of magic beans. Peak is best described as the maximum a motor will perform at before it breaks down. What’s more imporant is: how the heck is that motor going to perform when you’re actually using it? Another thing a shady salesperson might mention is that a common home circuit (120v/15amps) will only let you run about 2.5 HP and any motor larger than that is a waste of money. Technically that is true (about the amps vs. HP, not the waste of money), but the larger motors will tend to last longer as they are not running at the higher RPMs of a smaller motor. And, if nothing else, the larger the motor, the smoother the “ride.” A bigger motor will allow you to run or walk on it without slipping.

The next thing to look at is the size of a treadmill’s rollers. The bigger the rollers, the longer your belt will last and the better the running experience.

Next, and this is my favorite thing — especially when recommending cardio equipment to my in-laws — the warranty. Like anything else, the better the warranty the more piece of mind you will have. The 5 year parts warranty on Spirit treadmills, for example, is one of the best in the business. For me, the more faith a manufacturer has in its own product (i.e. the warranty), the more faith I have in that product. Of course, doing repairs I absolutely love the lower end warranties as it means more paying work for me!

What’s next? The weight and stability of the machine. There is nothing worse than getting on a treadmill and having it move back and forth, or shake, or, even worse, creak as you run on it. The heavier the unit the longer it will last. If you’re used to running on a treadmill at your local gym and then get on most home units, you’ll immediately notice the difference. You don’t want to be running around on something that feels like it is going to fall apart now do you? Don’t answer, that was a rhetorical treadmill question.

The tread and the deck are where most problems for treadmills happen. When the friction from your running builds up between the deck and the tread, the badness begins. Stick with the 4-ply belts/treads that help to reduce the amount of friction, and look at units with reversable, phenolic wax coated decks. Reversable decks let you flip over your running surface to use the opposite side when the original wears down. It’s like having a free second deck if you wear out the first one.

Programs. Don’t be fooled by this. Most people only wind up using 3-4 programs. If the treadmill has 20, that’s cool, but you’ll rarely use them. If you do heart rate training, then heart rate control is great. If not, it’s just an extra you’ll never use…like the clock you’ve never set on your VCR.

Speed and Incline are worth talking about. Most treadmills can go up to about 10 miles per hour and a 10 degree incline. Don’t let speed or incline become a deciding factor unless you’re doing a lot of high speed or high incline training. Obviously, electronically controlled speed and incline are the way to go. If those feature are manual just move on.

Finally, test out the shock absorbtion. You want to make sure you aren’t running on a hard surface. This is a “feel” thing more than a “scientific” one. If the deck is bouncy, move on. If the deck feels like running on concrete, move on. If the deck moves from side to side, move on. You want to find a deck that feels good, with just enough give and little to no lateral motion.

Beyond that fans, speakers, cup holders, magazine racks and even television sets on the treadmill’s console are all just icing on the cake. It’s better to get a good treadmill without a fan or TV and spend $50 to buy your own than to get a crappy, fully loaded treadmill which will eventually just become an expensive coat rack for dirty clothes.

Now, I know I alread typed “finally” but there is one last piece to consider: PRICE. You can only get what you can get but don’t be fooled into buying a lemon. There are decent (and some downright Great) treadmills at just about every price point. I’ll go over some of the best, at least in my experience, treadmills in the under $1000 range in the next week.

Don’t despair, there is a good treadmill out there you can actually afford!

-The Treadmill Sensei

The Bowflex has been first made popular through the media of the Infomercial, which is a 30 minute television presentation. It is now being broadcast all over the Internet in a variety of ways, including in consumer forums and consumer reviews.

If anyone wants to learn about the Bowflex machine all then have to do is search with the word “Bowflex” in a favorite Internet Web browser. A well of useful information is available to those who want to tap into the information about the latest developments about the Bowflex home gym machine.

Some websites representing the Bowflex home gym have links to review articles as well as a photo describing the attributes that make the Bowflex machine so popular. Also there are articles on this site representing the amazing capability of the Bowflex machine to withstand all kinds of pressure.

One article posted on Bowflex Equipment.com tells how that person’s household Bowflex machine survived a hurricane. The story regarding the capability of the Bowflex to withstand a hurricane was told by Sean Cuda of Orlando Florida. The hurricane that occurred in Orlando Florida where Sean lives happened at approximately 9 p.m. This hurricane had blown down a 110 pine tree on top of this family’s house and garage but the Bowflex machine remained unharmed.

The Bowflex machine was said to have saved the rest of the garage as well as the kitchen and the home office attached to the garage. The way that the Bowflex machine was stores actually kept the roof and walls from collapsing.

Those who are interested in purchasing a Bowflex home gym and want to learn more about the quality of the Bowflex machine can refer to this story. Quotes from the owner of this machine are available for use as well. This information is noted at the Bowflex website.

This is such an amazing story and is one that can help build anyone’s confidence in the Bowflex home gym system. Other user reviews of the Bowflex system are available on the Bowflex Equipment website as well.

Furthermore, you can find out specifically of what quality the Bowflex materials are made of. Likewise, you can find out online what the capabilities of the Bowflex machine really are, such as how easily adjustable the Bowflex is for any personal workout.

The type of information you will find associated with the Bowflex machine are articles on different exercise programs as well. All these articles will help you understand how to use your Bowflex machine safely for best results within a short period of time.

Those who are dedicated can make great use of the Bowflex machine. If you have any question about the machine’s capabilities all you have to do is research the machine online and find out for yourself. There are many links, forums, articles, available for those who want to learn more about the effectiveness, durability and capability of this machine.

When searching for the best treadmill for you, ask yourself a couple questions.

• How often will you use it and how much time per day?
• How much space do you have?

The most important part of treadmill is the motor. When looking at how much horsepower the motor has, think of the term “continuous duty” – that’s how long the treadmill can keep working at the rate you’re walking. If you’re a runner, then you’re probably going to want a continuous duty of 2.5. On the other hand, if you just want to use your treadmill for walking, then 1.5 should be fine.

Your height plays a role in getting the most from your treadmill. If you’re taller, look for a treadmill with a belt that’s 60 inches. You don’t want to end up with a piece of exercise equipment that doesn’t “fit”.

Give the potential treadmill a fair ride in the store if you can. Really walk or run on it for at least ten minutes. You may feel a little strange, exercising in front of other customers as they walk by, but a few minutes of discomfort is nothing compared to having to haul the equipment back for a refund.

Does the belt cushion your steps adequately? Does the treadmill hold up as you exercise on it, or is it unstable and wiggly? If it’s that way at the store, it’ll be that way and more so at home as you continue to use it.

What happens if the treadmill breaks or you find a part that doesn’t work correctly? Will someone come to your home to fix it, or do you have to lug it back to the store? These questions are important to ask before the purchase.

The treadmill should have at least a 12 month warranty. Of course, the manufacturer takes the responsibility of fixing a problem, not the store itself. So you’re going to be dealing with technicians via phone.

If your space is limited, consider a treadmill that folds. If you plan to store it under your bed between uses, make sure it will actually fit under your bed when in the folded position. If not, it’s not worth the purchase.

You may want to consider the loudness of the motor. In a large store, the treadmill won’t sound as loud as it will in your living room. So if you’re unnerved by the noise at the store, realize it won’t be any quieter at home.

Using a treadmill can be a terrific form of exercise – as long as you really have a quality piece of equipment. If you’ve never owned a treadmill before, it may be wise to purchase one second-handed -just to see if you will use it. Then, if you’re serious about working out on your treadmill, seek a higher quality one down the road.

A rebounder is simply a term used for a mini trampoline. The popularity of using this type of device has grown significantly because of all the health benefits associated with using one. People of all ages and health conditions are able to use this apparatus to improve health and fitness.

Rebounders are readily available at sporting good stores, fitness specialty stores, and can be found multiple places online. Choose a model that is sturdy enough with six legs. Models with only four legs can tend to tip over and be dangerous. Choose one where the legs can be unscrewed for easy storage under the bed or in a closet. They are also very affordable, many costing less than a month’s membership to a fitness center.

Rebounding can be done by people of all ages and physical abilities because of the low impact on joints. The springs in the system help cushion blows, reducing risks associated with traditional aerobic exercise. Exercises can be as varied as your imagination, but the important thing is to bounce for a period of time to get your heart rate up. There are also numerous videos available to give more regimented workouts by following an instructor.

Using a rebounder stimulates the metabolism, circulates oxygen, and strengthens the heart. It increases the capacity of the lungs and improves muscle tone. It also helps enhance the immune system, aiding in the prevention of illness. This is a great tool to help combat obesity by providing valuable, low impact exercise. Exercise has been shown to reduce tension brought on by everyday stress and pressures. Rebounding enhances this element by being particularly fun. From children to seniors, this type of exercise is greatly enjoyable.

Rebounding can help reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. It can also improve coordination and balance. If you have incontinence problems, rebounding can actually help with this by exercising and strengthening the cells. You can see improved bladder control in a relatively short period of time. It is also an ideal exercise routine for anyone who is recovering from illness or physical ailments such as broken bones or strained muscles. Since bouncing does not work against gravity, there is no undue strain on already damaged muscles and joints. You can help strengthen them without causing more harm.

Rebounding has become widely popular as a form of exercise. There are numerous medical benefits to this type of aerobic exercise as well as the psychological benefits from reducing stress. Because of the low impact, this type of exercise can be performed by people of all ages, weights and physical conditions. This is also one of the most fun forms of exercise. Who doesn’t like to bounce?

When we think of exercise we often think of an expensive gym filled with others. For some people they aren’t comfortable venturing to a gym and working out in front of other people. For them purchasing a piece of exercise equipment for their home is a better choice.

Although there are numerous different choices in home exercise equipment, one particular piece of equipment stands out. The treadmill is an affordable choice and with its ease of use it’s perfect for almost every member of the family.

The benefits of treadmill exercise are far reaching. Not only does it afford you the same benefits of a brisk walk but there are other elements in play as well.

One of the benefits of treadmill exercise is that engaging in exercise each day helps with sleep. If you take a few moments of your time each day to use the treadmill you’ll find that you are more tired around bedtime and you’ll sleep more soundly. The body needs to nourish itself with sleep after it’s gone through a period of exertion.

When considering the benefits of treadmill exercise people don’t often consider how the mood can be affected. Regular, daily exercise can help with feelings of depression or sadness. The time involved on the treadmill doesn’t have to be long. Even a short ten or twenty minute period each day can be very beneficial.

Some of the greatest benefits of treadmill exercise can be felt when you adjust the machine. Treadmills that are run on electricity have different speed settings. If you are just beginning an exercise regime than using the lowest speed is advisable.

Even at a low setting your body will enjoy the benefits of treadmill exercise including an increased heart rate and fat burning. As you grow more accustomed to the speed you can increase it slowly.

Changing the incline of the track can also result in increased benefits of treadmill exercise. When you feel as though you are walking uphill you are focusing on the muscles contained in your legs and buttocks. For a man or woman wanting to tone up these areas this can give great results.

Treadmills are one of the easiest pieces of exercise equipment to use. Once the machine is assembled it is as simple as getting on and walking or running. The benefits of treadmill exercise can be felt by anyone including more mature people who are looking for a safe and easy way to exercise.

Not all treadmills are electric. There are manual versions of treadmills available. The benefits of treadmill exercise on a manual treadmill as opposed to an electric version are much the same. The only difference is that with the manual treadmill you will find yourself working a bit harder to get the belt to move. This in itself is a benefit because it requires a bit more exertion on the part of the person exercising.

Treadmills are available in many designs and in every price range. If you really want to experience the benefits of treadmill exercise, purchase a machine today.

One of the hottest trends in fitness today is Pilates. Pilates is a combination of different body movements that is designed to strengthen, stretch and balance the body.

This body conditioning routine is designed and founded by Joseph H. Pilates. He designed his exercise program by including precision, breathing, concentration, and control.

One of Pilates’ benefits is the improvement of lung capacity because the exercise incorporates deep and heavy breathing. The mind and the muscles are both coordinated in an effective Pilates workout so the strength and flexibility of the abdomen, back, and stabilizer muscles is achieved. Furthermore, the body’s posture, strength and balance are also improved. With these many benefits, overall health and well-being will surely be improved.

Many gyms, spas, and studios who offer Pilates training and equipment have sprouted everywhere. There is no doubt that it already gained a cult following.

The rich and the famous are also drawn to this mind and body exercise. Jamie Lee Curtis, Marissa Tomei, Jennifer Aniston, Julia Roberts and Rod Stewart are few of the many celebrities who are practicing and reaping the benefits Pilates. So if celebrities are paying big bucks to certified trainers in the country, then this really must be a great exercise.

Yes indeed! It is one great workout. It would not be this popular if it isn’t.

There are two ways on how you can exercise Pilates. One way is to focus on floor exercises. Most people are doing floor exercise because it is less expensive and more convenient. The only equipment you will need is a floor mat and a trainer. If you can’t afford to hire a personal trainer, there are many home videos available in the market that features instructions on how to exercise Pilates. Just make sure that you select videos from reputable instructors. Also be careful when doing the exercises and routines yourself, doing Pilates without a trainer could cause you injury if you don’t perform it cautiously.

The other way to practice Pilates is through the use of equipments that will tone and strengthen the body. Most gyms have these equipments and usually you have to pay a yearly fee to avail the use of their equipments and trainers.

During your workout it would be practical if you wear light and comfortable clothes. Tights and a tank top are a good choice.

Stay focused on the routines and exercises. Your instructor will teach you ways on how to breathe properly and combine it with the body movements. You would not be able to achieve your fitness goals if you do not stay focused and disciplined to practice the right way of making the routines.

Start from the simple routines and work your way up to the more advanced and more rewarding routines. This way your body could adjust slowly and possible injuries will be prevented.

Because Pilates focuses on strength and flexibility and new studies show that two 50-minute Pilates sessions only burn about 250 calories, it would be wise to combine it with other cardiovascular type workouts like running and step aerobics.

Lastly, don’t join the Pilates bandwagon just because you think it is the “in thing” nowadays. Stick with the program, be disciplined and stay focused. Pilates has many benefits and soon enough you’ll notice that your body is improved. It is indeed one great work out, it not only helps in enhancing your daily tasks through flexibility and improved body strength it also make your mind and spirit feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

If you are looking for an all-in-one strength training workout, Weider fitness equipment may be the answer that you have been searching for. Whether you do not have a lot of room for multiple pieces of strength training equipment or simply prefer the convenience of an all-in-one unit, there is a simple solution. Many strength training experts prefer to work out in the comfort of their own home and wish to avoid spending on a gym membership. These are just a few of the reasons that Weider strength training fitness equipment is gaining in popularity.

The Advantage by Weider is a unique product. Offering over 65 club-quality exercises is not the only quality this strength training equipment promises, but this Weider fitness product also guarantees to tone up your muscles in 6 weeks or less.

The Weider fitness equipment strength trainer is a separate unit, which is designed to increase muscle and improve the overall tone of the entire body. This 16.6 strength trainer offers an upper-body station, butterfly arms, pull-up station, high and low pulleys, 225 lbs. of weights. The entire unit is designed on a sturdy steel frame. The Weider Pro 3750 strength trainer features two full-body workout stations, which are combined into one single machine. It offers 212 lbs. of resistance and aids in building muscles throughout every part of the body. Weider offers a variety of strength training units, each of which features many of the same characteristics, but may differ slightly in resistance or other option.

If your ultimate goal is strength training, the Weider fitness equipment that you may want to consider using is called a strength station. This strength training unit allows you to work on the abdominal muscles, chest, back, triceps and arms. It features a vertical knee raise station, dip station and a pull-up and push-up station .

In addition to the aforementioned strength training units, Weider fitness equipment includes a wide variety of weight benches and weights, exercise mats and other accessories. Among the more affordable units offered by Weider fitness equipment are a step machine, a genuine leather jump rope, latex resistance bands and a sit-up bar. The sit-up bar is especially interesting because it is used as a stand alone product that attaches to any standard door while providing the user with secure foot support needed for doing sit-ups.

The contents of this strength training article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered, or used as, professional medical advice or recommendations. Before beginning any training or fitness routine, you should consult a licensed physician to learn what risks, if any, exist. He/she will be able to recommend a quality strength training exercise regimen, which will be personalized to fit your needs.

If you have decided to use a fitness facility when riding stationary bikes consider factors that can make that more enjoyable. And consider factors other than price if at all possible. Save by not eating fast food as often and use the saved to pay for a club that is better for your purposes or even to rent an apartment with a fitness center over one without. This helps you save for that fitness center membership and cuts back on the bad foods you eat. Both of which are good for those intending to use stationary bikes

Remember if you join a fitness club that is across town you’ll spend valuable time and just commuting. In the end you’ll also lose the stress busting effects of exercise when you’re caught in traffic on the way home. You may find that the light enters the room at a more appealing angle in the morning or that you can watch the stars in the evening. Maybe there are people you like to visit with at certain times of day or perhaps crowds to be avoided at other times. Whatever it is that makes you enjoy the very same stationary bike at different times is something that will keep you biking and that consistency will pay off handsomely.

Be sure to take snacks with you to the fitness center, spinning on stationary bikes can really get the appetite going and you’ll find it much easier to ignore the temptation of the smoothie bar or a fast food restaurant if you’ve brought something that is both healthier and tasty that you like. A good food item could be a pita stuffed with lettuce, and other veggies and a package of your favorite salad dressing to top it off. If you want to add a little protein take along some peanuts to eat with it. Don’t forget your water bottle.

To find a good facility with plenty of stationary bikes for its clients you can always check online for stationary bikes reviews to see what people are saying.

Although the personal trainer at the fitness club will say differently it is imperative to note that even low intensity workout on the stationary bike will produce health benefits and be less likely to produce injury. The inactive population is often led to believe that there must be sore muscles and a lot of agony associated with the daily workout but not so!

Part of the reason to exercise regularly has only glancing relation to improved muscle tone and cardiovascular improvement. Much of the reason has to do with stress reduction and improved range of motion. Flexibility and balance can be improved and maintained as well. In fact there is only one real rule to keep in mind when exercising. That is simply that you didn’t get out of shape over night and it is probably best not to try to get in shape over night.

The good news though on this topic is that measurable aerobic improvement can be obtained in about one month after beginning any aerobic activity. Think of it. Almost no other self-improvement project can be successful in so short a time as an aerobic fitness program. It is nearly instant gratification when compared to body building for instance. To achieve the competitive well defined muscles required of this sport takes approximately two years of four to six hours per day. Much of that is painful by the way.

Stationary bikes can be successfully incorporated into the more demanding athletic workout. It can provide valuable cross training benefits to any athlete. For most it is used as a stand alone workout. Few of us has the time to in a fully evolved regular workout. At least for a consistent matter it becomes a luxury.

But if cross training , weight training and triathlon are words that don’t apply to one’s fitness level don’t despair. It may be time to start stationary bikes reviews. Exercise can be fun and beneficial.

Scientific studies have shown a direct correlation between physical environment and fitness level. It’s something to keep in mind when planning where and how to use your new stationary bike. You may have already given up on the great outdoors for your cardio workout but have decided correctly that those with quick access to parks, trails, sidewalks and nice weather have an easier and more satisfying workout.

That does not mean that those who have opted for stationary bikes are to be short changed on the esthetic value of their workout time. If upon a careful stationary bikes reviews you decide to make that purchase, make similar choices about the placement and use times for that home exercise equipment. People often are so excited about the new equipment that they forget that the repetitive activity can become boring and enthusiasm soon fizzles.

Keeping that in mind, it becomes paramount to take measures from day one to facilitate the entertainment value of time spent on the stationary bikes. Consider things like other household members and their use of the space that you’ve chosen. If your quarters are limited the dining room, then dinner time may be the worst time to use the stationary bike. If you have chosen to work out in the morning maybe headphones with an extra long cord will let you watch the stock market reports while others sleep.

Consider the physical environment carefully. Are you relegated to a dank basement at exercise time? Take the time to brighten the area. A little paint and posters that inspire you can go a long way. Favorite music or videos can make the time spent on the stationary bikes the best part of the day. Without such careful planning the time spent that you used on a stationary bike review might have been as well spent for other purposes.

If there is one constant thing in life, it is the fact that we grow old. No one is exempted from this, unfortunately. In fact, you just might have an elderly family member living in your very own household right now. It is then very important to consider installing stairlifts in the household. This is especially true if your house has two or more floors. But what exactly is a stair lift?

In its most basic form, a stair lift is a device that has been designed for the purpose of assisting elderly or disabled people to reach higher floors of a household. This is also known as a chair lift, simply because the device makes use of a motorized chair that lifts people up and down the stairs of a household. With the installation of stairlifts, people can safely move up and down the stairs, significantly reducing the risks of untoward accidents occurring.

Most of these lifts, including AC stairlifts and DC stairlifts, come with armrests and footrests. These armrests and footrests are strategically positioned on tracks. Because of these safety features, stairlifts are really ideal to have for people whose abilities to move have become limited because of old age, accidents, and diseases such as arthritis, Parkinson’s, and Lou Gehrig’s disease. Most companies producing and constructing these stairlifts also make sure to include protective covers for the lifts themselves. This way, the lifts would be well-protected from potential damage.

In general, you actually have two choices when it comes to stairlifts. You can go with the AC stair lift, or the DC stair lift. What constitutes a better choice? There are actually several factors to consider here. But it would be better to determine the differences between both types first. The AC powered unit has been strongly criticized because of its stop and start motions that can be quite erratic. However, the modern AC stairlifts have been redesigned to get rid of these erratic movements.

The DC stair lift, on the other hand, has been praised because of its smoother and refined movements. In fact, more users actually prefer the DC stair lift to the AC powered unit. But then, you cannot discount the fact that DC lifts are merely powered by rechargeable batteries. And there will come a time when you will have to recharge your unit. During this time, you cannot use your stairlift. With AC stairlifts, you do not have to worry about this because they are constantly connected to your power supply. In the end, you will have to go with the stair lift that suits your needs the most. This is just about the most effective way to go about the selection process.

Check out any gym where weight training is going on and you’re likely to see a back-up at the Smith machines. These powerhouses for muscle building are favorites of serious trainers and those just starting out. With an ability to mix up a work out, this gym machine is great for commercial settings. But what about Smith machines home gyms? Are these worth to review for exercising at home? You bet!

Exercise home gym reviews written by professional trainers who are into building strength and overall fitness love Smith machines for their private gyms. This machine will enable the user to do a lot of exercises on a single piece of equipment, plus they can be reset to accommodate different users.

Some of the better manufacturers of Smith gyms produce machines with a lot of options for home use. The better features, for example, include angle changes, benches that adjust, leg extension ability and more. Review descriptions of these machines to see some of the exercises you can do at home to develop the lats, pecks, legs, arms and more with ease.

A Smith machine is appropriate for almost total body work outs. Add in just a few extra exercises and you’re covered, making these gyms perfect for private use. A well-made Smith provides counter balance and easy control. It will move with simplicity and puts less stress on the muscles than other pieces of gym equipment. Fitness equipment reviewers say the best thing about a Smith is the fact it is designed to help a person lift – a lot – without needing a spotter, which is great for a home setting.

If you want to equip a home gym right, start by reviewing all options including a Smith machine. Combining a lot of different weight training features into one solid piece of home exercise equipment, this equipment is perfect to help a person get fit and stay that way. Plus, think of the time you’ll save running to the gym!

Are you in shape for summer yet? Those sunny days are just around the corner and everyone is out browsing for their skimpy bathing suits. How will your new swimwear fit on you?

Are those legs tone and those arms fit? Have you been keeping up with your daily crunches and sit-ups? That one always gets people. Those darn ab workouts. Although they can be a little irksome at times, they’re necessary to say the least. Come on, we all want a great set of abs. Why do you think we have so much ab exercise equipment storming the fitness market at all times? Regardless if you’re male or female, the abs are imperative. Are you testing out some of the new-age ab exercise equipment?

The main question is, should you use any exercise equipment?

When it comes to ab exercise equipment, I don’t have any. I prefer to do all my exercises without loads of machines. You know, pull-ups, push-ups, leg-raises, dips, ect. Now, this is not the route for every individual who is striving to stay fit. Many people prefer some of the latest benches, treadmills, stairmasters, and ab exercise equipment on the market. This stuff is great if you can afford it. Why not take advantage of any contemporary aids if available? My wife has one of those big rubber balls. While I’m sure they have a more politically correct name, I don’t know what it is. She uses this ab exercise equipment for a variety of stomach and back workouts. I have to admit that I was rather taken-back the first time I saw it. I could certainly see how it would provide you with a strenuous workout and build your muscles. She continues to use it daily for a variety of exercises.

What ab exercise equipment do you prefer? Maybe you get your dose of ab exercise equipment at the local gym or fitness club. They typically have a variety of ab exercise equipment at your constant disposal. Regardless of what regimes you prefer, you know that your daily dose of ab workouts are mandatory for maintaining that tight tummy. If you are in need of assistance concerning ab exercise equipment or just simple routines, you can hop online and acquire anything your heart desires. From diet plans, to fitness regimes galore, you will find it all on the World-Wide-Web. Get started today and get those abs you’ve always wanted.

Buying discount exercise equipment requires a little imagination. If you’re in the market for used or cheap exercise equipment, or just bargains, the web provides a of information on cardio and weight machines, as well as equipment you shouldn’t overlook – such as hand held weights, benches, barbell racks, yoga mats, Swedish balls, yoga mats, and more.

Look for discounts in machines such as treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers, and stair climbers especially in close-out models or prior year equipment. You can also find good value in cheap, discounted, refurbished or just used equipment. And don’t be afraid to take a look at “Remanufactured” machines – these machines actually have the look and dependability of “New”!

If you are shopping for cheaper exercise machines or discounted equipment, such as refurbished, check to see if it has anything of the following done to it: Powder-coating process (not spray painted – which will lead to deterioration of the equipment over time); re-build and/or replace of all motors, rollers, hydraulics or elevation systems; re-engineer frames and handrails; replace electronics, mechanical and moving parts/components; testing and diagnostics.

If you can’t afford electronic exercise machines even at discount prices you can still build a great gym using cheap equipment. Take punching bags for example. Heavy bags are a great way to improve strength and also release aggression. If you can afford a professional one, you can get quite a workout for your ment.

You should also check out cheaper equipment such as mats, rubber tubing, and even jump ropes. Jump ropes aren’t just for children anymore, and most professional boxers routinely use them because they also build speed, agility and coordination. A good quality jump rope designed for exercise is not too expensive, and the benefits are tremendous. And yes, you can even find this type of cheap equipment at tremendous discounts for your exercises!

Treadmills are the aerobic exercise machine of choice for good reasons. They are probably the most enjoyable exercise machines, whether you typically like a slow, comfortable walk or a long run. Regardless of your age or fitness level, treadmills are suited for both intense and mild training, and therefore are one of the most effective pieces of exercise equipment you can buy. A study that compared exercisers who worked out equally hard for the same time on several different types of machines found that they generally burned the most calories on a treadmill. Consumer Reports research has shown that they’re less likely to gather dust than other types of exercise machines.
A treadmill is judged in several ways. Before you buy any treadmill, take it for a test run and check for
the following attributes. In addition, look at features, such as whether the treadmill offers preset programs, or is
capable of “memorizing” a program you’ve created for yourself. Some machines can monitor the user’s heart rate and adjust speed and incline to keep heart rate within a specified range.
The merit of some of these features, like handrails, will vary with the exerciser’s body and motion.
Durability — is evaluated by using a drum with pneumatic “feet” attached. The feet on the rotating drum pound the treadmill to simulate use by a 180-pound person jogging 500 miles — the equivalent of a year’s worth of use by a recreational runner. Then the treadmill is taken apart and examined for damage.
Ergonomics — how the treadmill fits the user — and the machine’s ease of use are also examined. You should be able to use a good treadmill intuitively, or at least without constantly referring to the owner’s manual.
A Thick Deck. The platform on which you’ll run or walk is the machine’s deck. A deck that’s at least three-quarters of an inch thick will stand up best to the impact of running. If you’re short of space, look for a
deck that folds up. Make sure you can lift the deck easily and that the latch holds it securely in place.
Wide foot rails. Foot rails are located on either side of the deck. Make sure you can stand on them while you start up the treadmill and that they’re not tilted or wobbly.
Large belt. Look for a belt that’s at least 17 inches wide and 51 inches long. A small belt increases your chances of stepping off accidentally when it’s moving.
Well-designed handrails. They should be close enough to reach if necessary, but they should not get in the way of your swinging arms. They should be cushioned if you plan to hold on while you exercise.
Motor location. Make sure the motor housing is out of kicking range as you walk or run on the treadmill. Also, look for a quiet motor.
Easy-to-use controls. Avoid slide switches or knobs that you have to fiddle with to get to a desired setting.
Stability. Be sure the treadmill doesn’t wobble or creep across the floor.
Minimum incline near zero. Models that don’t level off below 2 percent can make the workout more strenuous than you want.
Useful programs. If you plan to use preset programs, see if you like the variety and can easily select the desired program. Check how the display monitors your progress through the program.
Other Extras. Touches that may help you decide between two otherwise similar machines include trays and stands to hold reading material or a remote control, a nest to rest your water bottle, and a place to safely hang your towel.
Follow these basics and you will end up with a treadmill that will serve you well for years to come.  Here’s a toast to your improved fitness!

Who hasn’t seen an advertisement or so-called ‘infomercial’ (rather mis-informercial if you ask me) advertising a weight loss device or slimming belt that miraculously makes you lose weight without actually doing sports or changing your eating habits. Common sense alone dictates that such a thing is hardly possible. However, the advertisers are very cunning and they claim to achieve the aim of losing a lot of weight in little time with even less effort by using new, revolutionary technologies.

Now, I am not a tech freak and I cannot claim to understand all the workings of infrared light/ heat (Melt Belt and Sauna Belt, vibrations (Slimming Belt) or whatever ‘new’ technology is used to supposedly achieve weight loss. So, if I told you these devices are useless why should you believe me any more than the advertisements? It’s very simple: you don’t. Although I am an expert on the fields of nutrition and sports medicine you should not believe a single person making a claim.

However, the United States Government has realized that obesity is a rapidly growing problem and that deceitful advertisements for weight loss devices can event present a health risk for people relying on these devices to lose weight if they don’t additionally work out and change their nutrition. The Federal Trade Commission is a government agency that monitors advertisements for bogus or deceptive claims. In its brochure “Red Flag – Bogus Weight Loss Claims” (downloadable at www.ftc.org; an illustrated version of this article is available at www.beautyhealthsource.com) the agency lists 7 ways to identify false ads and products. Using those 7 indicators you can check the ads for Melt Belt, Sauna Belt, Slimming Belt and any other miracle weight loss device such as non-prescription diet drugs, dietary supplements, skin patches, creams, wraps or any other product that is worn on the body or rubbed into the skin. Instead of taking my word for it, use the FTC’s recommendations and your own common sense to check if Melt Belt, Slimming Belt or the Sauna Belt can help you lose weight – and keep it off.

You are throwing your money out the window if the product you buy claims to:

1. Cause substantial weight loss by wearing it on the body or rubbing it into the skin.

You might think of the US government what you like, but honestly: why should they publish a guideline for healthier living and protecting people from product scams if their findings were not true? Especially since these guidelines only confirm what common sense tells most of us anyways. Products like body belts, body wraps, rings, creams or lotions cannot make you lose substantial weight. Ads claiming that products from this category can make you lose as much as a pound a week are simply put: just lies.

2. Cause weight loss of two pounds or more a week for a month or more without dieting or exercise.

Even though certain advertisements wants to make us believe differently, everybody knows that in order to lose weight you have to exercise more and/or change your diet consuming fewer calories. According to the nutrition experts of the FTC any advertisement that claims otherwise is simply false. I personally agree wholeheartedly that it is not true if a product promises to make you lose weight without changing your lifestyle.

3. Cause substantial weight loss (meaning the loss of at least 1 pound/week or a total weight loss of more than 15 pounds in any time period) no matter what or how much a consumer eats

It is impossible for you to lose weight no matter how much or what you eat. As stated before, losing weight requires consuming fewer calories. Some products may claim to curb your appetite, however that also means you will want to eat less, if they work that is. But, by eating less you might deprive your body of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals it needs. Eating the right amount of healthy food is the key, not eating less of the wrong kind of food.

4. Cause permanent weight loss even if the consumer stops using the product.

You have to permanently change your lifestyle in order to lose weight and keep it off. If you stop using the product and neither change your eating habits nor exercise, you will gain weight again. Now the only question remaining is, if you want to use that specific product (especially critical with diet pills) for the rest of your life just to keep that weight off.

5. Block the absorption of fat or calories to enable consumers to lose substantial weight.

Even legitimate and prescribed fat blockers have to be used in combination with a dietary change in order to achieve significant weight loss. Pills alone won’t make you slim.

Again: you cannot achieve significant weight loss just by washing down your burger and fries with diet pills. The calories you consume cannot be miraculously neutralized by any pill. A healthier diet will also benefit your level of cholesterol and your blood pressure.

6. Safely enable consumers to lose more than three pounds per week for more than four weeks

If you lose more than 3 pounds per week you risk getting gallstones and are endangering your health in many other ways, too. If the product claims that no dieting is required it is false for that reason also – as was shown before.

7. Cause substantial weight loss for all users.

Every body is different, has a different metabolism, needs and abilities. It is simply not true that the same product will result in a significant weight loss for anyone using it.

Every type of medication or medical device targets a specific group of people. Within the large group of obese people there are many subcategories as people are overweight for different reasons. Hence, the same pill, lotion or device cannot guarantee to lead to a reduction in weight of any user.

The following statements are from respective ads for Sauna Belt, Melt Belt and Slimming Belt. Just read them and check if any of the FTC indicators match the ads for these products. Make up your own mind.

Sauna Belt: The Sauna Pro Deluxe advance heat systems sweats away unwanted fat, eliminate cellulite, lose weight and ease muscle pain, all while in the comfort of your own home. Just apply the Sauna Belt around the chosen body part and let the belt do all the work.

Melt Belt: Lose Inches And Pounds Without Diet Or Exercise. The secret is that you use your body’s own heat as you gently massage away unwanted bulges with this amazing ultra-thin rubber belt.

Slimming Belt: The swaying vibration with large arc will make the human body carry out sympathetic vibration and accelerate the blood circulation of the body, speed up the metabolism and achieve double effects of fat dissolving and body slimming.

Although Smooth Fitness has been selling elliptical trainers for a number of years, it is only recently that they manufactured their own models. In the past they private labeled machines from companies like Kettler. In fact, their popular Smooth CE is a Kettler built elliptical, which they have sold literally thousand.

They recently introduced three new models, the CE 2.1, CE 3.2 and CE 74, which are built at the same Taiwanese plant as their treadmills. The Smooth CE elliptical can attribute its popularity to being a solid and reliable machine. It has a very good service record. It is build with a 40 lb. flywheel and an eddy brake system. Both contribute to a fluid and smooth motion, which is what you want in an elliptical trainer.

The new Smooth ellipticals utilize the best qualities of the CE elliptical. In addition, they have improved on several important features. For example, the new models are equipped with pivotal foot pedals. The major benefit of an elliptical trainer is the low impact. The pivotal foot pedal further reduces strain and impact by aligning your feet with the elliptical motion.

Each new model has an upgraded console and display over the older CE. The programs are a vast improvement, and provide challenging workouts. They include an “Interval” program that combines higher intensity routines with alternative cool downs.

Smooth offers the advantage of selling direct and only on the Internet. They are the only fitness equipment company that sells solely online. This offers two benefits. In general, you are getting a better value. You also are dealing with a company that specializes in online sales, fulfillment and service.

Regarding the discount value, obviously there is a savings when a company does not incur retail costs and the overhead from commissioned sales staff. But don’t get caught up with the exaggerated mark downs on their web site. Because you are buying direct you are probably saving about 5%-10%, not the 30+ percentage they suggest. But you also save money from not having to pay a state sales tax (Exc. PA). When compared to buying in a fitness specialty store, the savings can be substantial.

If you are considering purchasing an elliptical trainer we suggest you spend a minimum of $1,000. Anything less will potentially have some service issues if used on a regular basis. The Smooth ellipticals offer a good value at the $1,000 – $2,000 price range.

ProForm is the largest seller of treadmills in the world. They focus on budget models and sell through mass merchants, large sporting good chains and the home shopping networks. ProForm is owned by Icon Fitness. In addition to selling ProForm fitness equipment, they also sell Weslo, Nordic Track, Reebok, Image and HealthRider. ProForm along with the other Icon brands dominate the sub $1,000 market.

We know that ProForm offers an attractive price, with treadmills selling as low as $400. The question is, are they a good value? From strictly a price perspective they are an excellent value. When you factor in durability and maintenance, their value may come into question.

Why are ProForm treadmills so popular?

When you compare the price and features, ProForm treadmills appear to be an exceptional deal. Most have numerous bells and whistle, including built-in televisions. And from an outward appearance they appear to be a substantial machine, but it is what is under the hood that is most important.

The majority of ProForm treadmills come with a 90 day parts and labor warranty. Now what does that say about their products? I find treadmill warranties very revealing. It would seem apparent that treadmill companies using inexpensive components would offer short-term warranties. In contrast, those manufacturers that build durable treadmills can afford to offer extended warranties, like 2-5 years on the parts and 1 year labor. Although it should be mentioned that ProForm is now offering a 12-15 year motor warranty on select models.

Recently I was at a fitness specialty store in Wilmington, NC, and was talking to the person in charge of servicing. Although this particular retailer did not sell ProForm, they often service them. He mentioned they were considering discontinuing service on the ProForm treadmills. The problem was once they fixed one problem often the owners would soon came back with the same problem or another service issue.

It should be noted that there are literally tens of thousands of ProForm treadmills sold every year, and the majority of owners are satisfied with their purchase (See www.epinions.com for customer reviews). Furthermore, Consumer Reports rated one of the ProForm treadmills as “Very Good” for quality. But it is a numbers game, and whereby other brands may have a minute percentage of mechanical problems, you can expect that percentage to be higher for budget treadmills. When you sell treadmills at budget prices you have to use budget components, and on average those treadmills are more likely to breakdown.

I recommend ProForm treadmills for primarily walking and moderate use. Their high-end models can probably handle light jogging. But if you plan to use the treadmill on a frequent basis, or have multiple users, you may want to consider other brands in the $1,500+ price range.

If your budget is tight, at least spend in excess of $700 for a ProForm Treadmill, and I highly recommend you put out a few extra dollars for an extended warranty. Treadmill repairs can potentially be costly.

For those that have a limited budget ProForm may be your best bet, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.”

A few days ago I testified a bit on how to properly choose a home / residential grade treadmill. This time, since it has been a quiet day at the DOJO, I am going to ramble a bit on the ins and outs of remanufactured commercial equipment. This guide can be used not only for cardio equipment like treadmills and ellipticals, but also for strength equipment…although I get more than enough of a strength workout every day lifting and moving heavy treadmills around the DOJO.

Remanufactured equipment (sometimes called refurbised or reconditioned — it all depends on which company you are dealing with) has taken off quite a bit in the last few years as gym owners and home buyers both have realized they can purchase ultra high quality commercial equipment, in great condition for a fraction of the cost. Most remanufactured equipment with sell for 30-70% off of the original price! If you’ve ever wanted to have a Precor Elliptical or Life Fitness treadmill in your home, now you can!

The single most confusing thing about remanufactured equipment is just what it means…and what the difference between a remanufactured treadmill, a refurbished treadmill and a reconditioned on is. Unfortunately for buyers and poor service techs like the Treadmill Sensei, there are no industry standard definitions for these terms and what you get will vary from company to company. If you are going to buy remanufactured (or refurbished or whatever) equipment, make sure to ask what a company’s definition of what they are selling you is because you might be surprised at the answer. Some companies will just wipe a unit down, touch up the paint and then send it out the door as “remanufactured.” Beware of these companies!

Let’s go over the life of a piece of gym equipment destined for remanufacturing…this is something I do nearly every day for my repair clients so I know of what I speak!

Most larger gym chains lease their equipment instead of buying it. This allows them to trade in their equipment every few years. Once that equipment has been returned the the manufacturer, it is then resold to a remanufacturer (or reseller who then turns the unit over for remanufacturing to someone like your Treadmill Sensei). A quality remanufacturer will then strip the unit down to the frame, sandblast it to remove any traces of rust (a number of less reputible vendors will just paint over rust) and then repaint it using the same high end paint ($250-300/gallon!) used by the manufacturers themselves. We do powder coating here at the DOJO, but the regular repaints can be almost as good. At this point, all wear items are replaced — bearings, grips, rollers and so on. Diagnostics are then run on the electronics to make sure they are up to snuff and then cleaned up or replaced. On most equipment (treadmills and ellipticals, for example) the majority of problems will, luckily, come in the form of the control board. I say “luckily” because the boards can generally be replaced for $30 or so and take almost no time to reinstall. Also, most structural problems with a treadmill or elliptical will pop up in the first 30-60 days. Once you’ve made it past that point you should be in the clear and have a fine piece of equipment on your hands.

In my personal experience, and this may be because the DOJO turns out great work, remanufactured units tend to have a much lower rate of problems or defects when done correctly. This is because the treadmills and ellipticals (or strength equipment) are gone over with such a fine tooth comb and service so completely that any defects or problems which might have been missed by the manufacturer are caught and fixed as part of the servicing.

With a little bit of research, going the remanufactured route will allow a smaller fitness facility to compete with larger chains by offering competitive fitness equipment while saving money. In fact, many fitness trainers and gyms are finding they are able to reach a profit much earlier by taking advantage of the lower cost and high reliability of remanufactured equipment.

For home buyers, remanufactured equipment lets you purchase the same high end commercial equipment you work out on at your local gyms for a fraction of the price. And, if you’ve ever tried to go from working out on a Life Fitness, Matrix, Star Trac or Landice to working out on a crappy Proform machine, you’re already familiar with the disappointment a lot of wind up experiencing when they try to make the transition. Buying remanufactured lets you stick with what you know.

A quick tip on where to buy remanufactured equipment: places like Megafitness, Big Fitness, Fitness 909 and Fit4Sale sell it, but the highest quality units seem to be coming out of Treadmills Central right now. I’ve seen a number of their Precor 544 and 546 units, as well as quite a few Life Fitness 9500 Rear Drive Ellipticals, Star Trac Treadmills, and Matrix Ellipticals at a recent Fitness Trade Show, and I’ve been impressed every time.

Good luck with your purchasing and feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions or comments. The DOJO is always open.

-The Treadmill Sensei

The world of stationary bikes and exercise equipment in general is on the verge of major revolution. This may be due in part to the overwhelming success of such interactive video games as Dance Dance Revolution. An orthopedic surgeon from Denver, Ted Parks, devised Gamebike to use with the Sony Playstation console. The players actually pedal to play the games in the same way that Dance Dance Revolution players must dance on a dance pad to interactively play those games.

XMAT produces a recumbent bike that can be used with many different home video game consoles. It is not interactive but instead provides the power for the gaming. It requires the gamer to exercise in order to play those hours of video games. While price point is a bit high at nearly $350 the average exercise equipment will set you back plenty too and won’t provide built in incentive.

There are more elaborate versions of the same concept. Stationary bikes that have lengthy scenerios which have corresponding changes in pedaling tension for various landscape changes are new to the market. The price point on these more involved stationary bikes can be as steep as the hills they simulate at a whopping $5000 plus.

But whichever system appeals to you after a careful stationary bike review, the marriage of exercise equipment and video game enthusiasm is one that is here to stay. The obvious problem of stationary bike boredom is the target of all this. But there are always the the old standbys of watching Television or reading while on the bike.

There does seem to be some advantages to the new use of video gaming in the realm of exercise bikes. That is that the activity which is already omnipresent with so many can be extended to improve health when combined with traditional stationary bikes.