The Equipment Locker

C Beard asked:


When many people think about New Years Resolutions the first thought that pops up after the holidays is I need to join the gym and get some equipment or start exercising more. December and January are big months for fitness equipment dealers and health clubs. We will probably all agree in the hustle and bustle of daily life getting to the gym can be difficult.

Some will opt for a new elliptical trainer or a treadmill instead and run off to the local Sports Retailer and buy a piece of equipment to get started. Some of what you may find in the retail stores may in fact be decent but most of it is just flimsy, what many consumers may not know is that you can purchase quality used commercial fitness equipment just like corporate health facilities have for a fraction of the original cost. These are brand names you typically will be familiar with such as Life Fitness, Precor, True Fitness, Body Masters, Cybex, Hammer Strength, and more. Many large gyms lease equipment and after 2-5 years replace everything. This is where you can obtain a bargain as some of the elliptical and treadmills and circuit are cleaned repaired, painted and fully reconditioned to be in like new shape.

For example consider a Life fitness Elliptical trainer when a state of the art design change comes along the manufacturers will follow suite and then the older design is phased out the Life Fitness 95Ex elliptical brand new MSRP price is $6995.00 you may pick one of these up for say $2799.00 and it will last the rest of your life. The Precor design has changed several times so you can pick up a reconditioned Precor EFX 546 that still works great for about $1700 that sold new for $5895.00 When buying refurbished equipment take it for a test drive make sure it smooth and all electronic parts are functioning.

Most of the used equipment will be out of warranty for the manufacturer but remember this equipment was designed for heavy abusive use and if it was properly refurbished with damaged or worn parts repaired or replaced then you should have many more years of enjoyment from equipment. Some of the dealers may offer you a short term temporary warranty like 30-60 days or some may even offer it as a n additional option for a fee like 3-6 months or even 1 year. Keep in mind warranties usually specify if it covers parts and or labor. The labor portion is always the shortest portion of any warranty, simply because if the time required of a certified technician should you need repairs. Bottom line is locate a company that has been in the industry a few years and seems reputable and is willing to allow you to view the equipment and try it out.

Do your homework and compare prices on used equipment but also consider the model and how old it is. If your on a budget you might opt for a cardio piece that is a little older but still in great shape. The best analogy is its like finding that old car with low miles that looks like it was garaged for most its life. Many times equipment is extracted from a facility that was not used much or was located in the corner and no one used that machine much. Use good judgment and a keen eye and you can experience a true health club workout from home with as little as 30 minutes 3 times per week buy shopping smart and finding the right deal that fits your needs, space and wallet.

The Ghost Club

Max Johnson asked:


One of the best ways to improve your golf game is to practice off the course with golf fitness equipment. Certainly, the more you play any game or sport, the more familiar and comfortable you will be with it. But any pro or experienced coach will tell you that there is much to be said for really practicing your technique off the course as well. If practice makes perfect, that means that truly motivated players are willing to put in solid exercise time in order to fine tune your body for the intricacies of the game. Golf fitness equipment helps you tone your muscles and increase flexibility in ways specifically designed to improve your game.

The core muscles are some of the most essential muscles to the game of golf, which is why so many golf fitness equipment sets focus on balance training. Balance training strengthens your core muscles all together because it requires you to use your stomach and back to maintain proper alignment. Balance balls and discs offer a variety of positions and exercises that strengthen your balance and, therefore, your core muscles, which can greatly improve the accuracy and distance your swing can achieve.

Another great way to improve your core muscles is through golf fitness equipment that provides resistance. Resistance training means that your body gets used to working against an added pressure or pull. When you get use to performing a certain action or motion with resistance, then removing that resistance makes the act far easier, and adds power to your stroke. Resistance cords help you strengthen almost all of your upper body muscles involved in your swing, including chest, back, torso, rotator cuffs, shoulders, and even hips. You may also consider using a medicine ball to achieve simple yet beneficial strengthening of the core muscles through twisting and flexibility.

Of course, one of the best ways to achieve fitness and improve your game through golf fitness equipment is to exercise with a program specifically designed to improve the muscles and coordination through golf-specific exercises. GolfGym Powerswing Trainer is an exercise program that comes with a complete training kit and exercise guidelines specifically geared toward golf. Because which hand you use is also very important, this kit even comes in left handed or right handed versions. The guide DVD and manual offer twenty five different exercises that utilize all the equipment and work everything from your rotator cuffs and shoulders to your stomach, back, and hip muscles.

Even when it is off-season for golf, there is no excuse not to be working on your game. Golf fitness equipment lets you strengthen your entire body to prepare you for optimum performance on the course. Balance balls, balance discs, and medicine balls help strengthen your core muscles, which improve the strength and accuracy of your swing. Meanwhile, resistance cords and other upper body workouts increase the power and control of your shoulders, back, rotator cuffs, and hips. No matter where you choose to exercise, spending time with golf fitness equipment can have a great impact on your game once you get back on the course.

Vacation Hub Online

Kelly Johnson asked:


Fitness equipment can help you get into shape faster. You will look great and feel better. Exercising increases your metabolism and your energy level. They type of exercise equipment you will use depends on what you want to accomplish. Some types of equipment are for a cardio workout, others target trouble areas including the stomach, hips, and thighs. Weight lifting fitness equipment is designed to help a person build muscle and strength. Don’t be fooled by those late night infomercials offering you fitness equipment that will give you miraculous results overnight. The truth is it takes time, effort, and dedication to see great results no matter what exercise equipment you use.

Some people like to purchase their own fitness equipment. This allows them to work out in the privacy of their home or garage at any time of the day or night that suits them. This may be because they enjoy working out alone, they are embarrassed to have others see them or because they have small children they won’t have to get childcare for. In my case, I enjoy doing Taebo, but I am very uncoordinated. I only do it in the privacy of my own home where no one else can see me. I am sure my moves don’t exactly resemble those on my TV screen.

Be careful when you are selecting home fitness equipment. You don’t want to pay a great deal of money for something that is going to end up stored in your closet or shed. Take the time to read reviews on various exercise equipment. If you aren’t able to try the product before you buy it make sure it has a money back guarantee in case you aren’t happy with how the product operates. Since most of us can quickly get bored doing the same routine, choose home fitness equipment that allows you to do a variety of exercises on it.

Videos and DVD’s are popular fitness equipment that are used in the home. You can do fun cardio exercises as well as stretching and yoga by following along on these home videos and DVD’s. For best results, purchase the small hand weights, jump rope, exercise mat, and exercise ball that offer you the best overall fitness workout. For men, weights are the most common fitness equipment. They use it to get fit, lose weight, get stronger, and build their muscles. It is a good idea to purchase a weight set that is easy to adjust because as you get stronger you will be able to use more weight for your reps. A weight bench is also good for lifting and for bench pressing.

The gym or a fitness center is a great place to find all the various types of fitness equipment you want in one convenient location. Going to the gym is a great place to get into shape as well as motivate yourself. It may be the one place you go each day that is exclusively for you. If you have a spouse and children then you know exactly why that is important. The gym is also a great place to try out particular fitness equipment that you may be interested in purchasing to use at home.

All Sports Outdoors

Mike Singh asked:


When an exercise regime consists of more than just jogging, people will at some point want to invest in proper equipment. The kind of equipment they buy depends on several factors like how much they can afford to spend, the quality of the equipment and what purpose will it serve as part of their exercise program.

Fitness equipment can range anywhere between 50 to 5000 dollars. Purchasing gym equipment depends mostly on commitment to exercise, budget and what ones typical workout routine is. Some people may be satisfied by just purchasing an exercise ball while others might require a fully equipped home gym.

For those who are looking primarily to tone their body and build muscle, a set of free weights and a good quality bar is ideal. One can easily do chin and pull-ups, some floor exercises and basic weight training to get a satisfying and varied workout.

It is important to think long term when purchasing fitness equipment. Try to buy equipment that is reliable and which will last you more than a few years. For example if you are looking for an exercise to do some spinning and get a great cardio workout in the process, try buying a bike that is solid and which will last longer.

An important thing to keep in mind is how much space you have at home right now as well as expect to in the future to store this fitness equipment. A simple machine such as a cycle occupies only 10 square feet. However, a treadmill or a multi-station weight machine may occupy anywhere between 30 to a 100 square feet.

If you are just starting out, then it is always recommended to try out different kinds of equipment made by various manufacturers so that you can find one that suits your routine and likes. Every individual has their own unique taste even in the kind of gym equipment they purchase.

It is important to get equipment that can be adjusted to suit your size and body type. Try to get equipment that can adjusted in terms of length, weight etc. so that it can be used by more than one person at home. Adjustable equipment will also be advantageous over time if you want to increase the strength and endurance of your workout.

Knowing how to use fitness equipment safely is a must, especially in order to avoid injury. Most multi-station fitness equipment come with the appropriate safety features. Do not be swayed by what sales people commonly suggest and choose equipment that will suit you needs instead.

It is quite normal to experience mild discomfort when one is beginning or getting back to an exercise routine initially but if you continue to suffer extreme pain that means that you are either not doing something correctly or need to be guided in the proper technique of using the equipment.

One needs to feel comfortable with the equipment they use. For example tread mills should come with adjustable handle bars according to ones height. Similarly, weight machines should have comfortable handlebars and a chair so that one doesn’t strain their back or neck muscles while using them.

Do not hesitate to ask several questions or shop around till you find fitness equipment that you feel is suitable for your exercise needs.

The Big Credit Card

Denise K. Wood, Ed.D. asked:


It makes good sense to check out fitness equipment ratings posted by consumers who have already experienced the product you are interested in purchasing. Consumers can offer valuable insights about effectiveness, service, and other product qualities you may not have even considered.

Fitness equipment ratings by users, however, may swing excessively high or low for reasons unrelated to the product itself. It helps to understand the human factors that could influence the reliability of consumer reviews and to know how to extract useful information before you buy.

The Underraters

Consumers may rate a fitness product excessively low due to:

-Anger: Users who are truly dissatisfied seek to warn others about the perils of purchasing a fitness product. Their objectivity, perhaps tainted by anger, may cause them to post excessively harsh reviews as they air frustrations.

-Limited Experience: A new, inexperienced user may underrate a quality fitness product because they have not have exercised long enough to realize a training effect.

-The Promise of Fast Fitness: Users may be disappointed if they do not see immediate results because they bought into “fast fitness” marketing claims. Even the best exercise products will not produce rapid body transformations that exceed normal human capabilities for adapting to exercise.

-Competitors: Raters who are claiming poor results or scams may not be consumers at all. They may have another motive for underrating-to promote their own products.

-The Bandwagon Effect: Fitness equipment owners are sometimes influenced by having read negative reviews and they simply jump on the bandwagon.

The Overraters

There could be a bandwagon effect on the positive side, too, of course. Other psychological and emotional factors that can cause consumers to overrate fitness products include:

-Expectation: If the ads convince consumers to buy, they expect results, especially if the product is expensive. Expectations can positively influence initial perceptions of product effectiveness.

-Motivation: When consumers buy a new product, they are usually motivated to work out. Higher levels of motivation create increased effort, which produces better results even if the fitness device contributes only marginally.

-The Learning Effect: Reviewers may enthusiastically report immediate results. However, products that require novel movements or greater skill can appear to produce short-term results. Early gains are more likely due to the effect of learning than to physiological changes from exercise.

-Visible Results: Real measurable changes can occur from exercising with effective products. The excitement of making progress toward achieving one’s goals can also prompt excessively positive fitness equipment ratings.

-Affiliation: Affiliates, who may or may not have purchased a product, stand to earn a commission by posting rave reviews at multiple sites.

How to Use Consumer Ratings

1. Visit a variety of websites to access consumer reviews about the very same product you are considering.

2. As best you can, try to determine whether the website or reviewers are in some way affiliated with the product.

3. Identify raters who have exercised regularly for at least six weeks-long enough to evaluate the physical training effect, as well as the durability of the product.

4. Sort out comments that appear to be fair and objective from those that are emotionally charged.

5. Read at least 30 reviews by users who meet the criteria described in 1-4.

6. Rely more on consistencies and trends, rather than extremes and exceptions, to form your overall impression of the product according to consumers.

Consumer fitness equipment ratings are just one resource for deciding whether or not a product suits your needs. Temper your overall impression of user ratings with published reports from independent consumer groups, such as Consumer Reports and the Federal Trade Commission, before you make your purchase.

Pet Safe Network

Sue Jan asked:


The first thing you should do is find out what fitness equipments you need for your personal gym. Here are some fitness equipment suggestions to get you started:

- Dumbbell set: most come in 5 lbs, 8 lbs, and 12 lbs weight size. Make sure to pick a pair that has rubber handle grip. A good quality dumbbell should be inexpensive, should not roll away when placed down on the floor and should come with its own rack.

- Barbell set: this set often comes included with the dumbbells and also comes in different weight levels. Barbells are a good addition to dumbbells because as you get stronger from lifting dumbbells you want to progress on to lifting the heavier barbells to give your body a different workout. Barbells work various parts of your body such as the upper- and the mid-sections. Barbells can also increase your body stamina.

- Steps: steps are available in different height levels. They provide good aerobics and muscle-strengthening workout.

- Exercise balls. they help improve your balance and you body core strength. Exercise balls are widely used for abdominal workouts. For intermediate users the exercise ball can be used together with a weight bench to workout the stabilizer muscles while doing bench presses. Exercise balls can also be used for pushups, back extensions and lower body exercises.

- Weight lifting glove set: it helps protect your hands during weight training. It helps prevent swollen hands and rough calluses. A solid pair of weight lifting gloves is made from fabric that is comfortable and also allows sweat from the hand to evaporate so that the weights are less likely to slip out of your hands while weight training.

- Ankle weights: they are considered one of the cheaper fitness equipment. Ankle weights are commonly used for body toning and muscular endurance training so as to prevent muscle injury in the lower region.

- Exercise mat: it can be used for floor workouts. Try not to workout on your house carpet in case you slip and injure yourself. Make sure that you select a no-slip mat.

Having a gym with these fitness equipments in your house is much more economical and you’ll now have all the time in the world for workout activities.

Nutrition World Online

Ken Ericsson asked:


Starting a fitness program with the right fitness equipment is a wise decision. This is one of the steps in attaining a lifestyle that is fit and healthy. The first thing you have to concern yourself with is the selection of the type of training you want. This basically boils down into home based training versus gym based training.

If you want to keep up with the trend, you should go with home based training. These days, more people prefer to have their very own gym as opposed to enlisting membership in commercial gyms, spas, or workout clubs. This is because home gyms provide more convenience; you can workout anytime you want and without any fee. What’s more, you can assure that with a home gym, you can use the equipment without having to wait for your turn - and in private. On the other hand, commercial gyms, spas, and workout clubs can be a source of social interaction. You can meet various kinds of people and perhaps create solid and lasting relationships. They are also a great option if you want to leave your home for a change of scenery and atmosphere or just to get the feel of proper training.

Whatever type of training you choose, whether home based or gym based, the type of fitness equipment you will purchase should depend on the goal of your training. This time, your choices boil down to three: bodybuilding, weight loss, and cardiovascular training. For bodybuilding, which includes muscle building, the fitness equipment you need include weight lifting equipment, free weights sets, dumbbells, crunch machines, abdominal machines, abdominal straps, abdominal boards and rockers, and different kinds of benches. You can also use lat machines, leg press machines, calf machines, chest toners, inversion tables, arm equipment, and gym racks. For weight loss, you can use fitness equipment such as waist trimmers, support belts, thermal suits, yoga mats, and other yoga products.

Building the muscles is an endeavor that must not be taken lightly. Some people use only bodybuilding equipment, but the truth is that better results await those who use cardiovascular training equipment, which both serve bodybuilding and weight loss purposes. Thus, if what you want is to build your muscles, you should buy fitness equipment that are usually used in cardiovascular training, apart from those used primarily for bodybuilding, such as treadmills, trampolines, elliptical trainers, rowing machines, exercise bikes (and teracycles, if you wish), and steppers. These pieces of equipment can be used for a wide array of cardiovascular training exercises, including walking, jogging, running, cycling, swimming, rowing, step aerobics, and a whole lot more. With cardiovascular training equipment, you can train not just your cardiovascular system but enhance the results of your bodybuilding training as well; your muscles will become more defined and noticeable.

Now you know what you have to purchase. Start building your muscles and trek the road to a fit and healthy lifestyle now by buying the fitness equipment you need. You can browse through a number of sites here on the Internet and get discounts for bulk or combo orders.

Cyber Emporia

Bob Lachinet asked:


Are you overwhelmed by all the different brands, prices and functions of home fitness equipment? This article will provide you with tips on how to find the best home fitness equipment in Arizona: what to expect, where to go and what to buy. Whether you’re looking for a basic machine or one with the latest technology has to offer, the following information will be beneficial to you.

So, you’re looking at purchasing home fitness equipment! Yet, whether you’re looking for home gym equipment for your strength training, cardio workouts, or both - finding the best equipment for your needs can be a challenge. With so many choices to be made when looking at home gym equipment, how can you be sure you’re making the best choice for you? Here are a few points to consider:

Tip 1: Before you start any exercise program, it is important for you to get checked out by your doctor. Never begin a strength training or cardio program without doing so under the supervision of a qualified physician to prevent injuries as you train.

Tip 2: For an inexpensive solution for strength training - many people start with a good set of free weights and dumbbells. Keep in mind that if you’re not familiar with using free weights, they can do more harm than good. To get the best results, it is essential that you use proper form and balance to avoid hurting yourself. So, if you choose this route, you should also invest in a good training program with a personal trainer - someone that can not only help you built a workout routine that will help you achieve your goals, but also show you the best way to use your equipment properly and avoid injury. Another way to avoid injury with strength training equipment, especially if you’re a beginner, is to choose a strength training machine, rather than free weights. Strength training machines allow you to maintain proper form as you exercise, which will help lessen your risk of injury. Plus, strength training machines don’t require a “spotter” - allowing you to work out alone.

Tip 3: Strength training machines are also a good choice if your home is “space limited”. You can achieve the same results with an “all inclusive” home gym unit, as you can with the more traditional weight stack or plates. So, don’t feel as though you need to duplicate the huge variety of machines you see at your nearby gym. Instead, look for equipment that exercises your main muscle groups effectively. Also look for equipment that offer optional attachments - with these, you can keep your initial cost down as you start out your exercise program, and then add attachments as your workout needs progress.

Tip 4: For your home cardio workouts, there are a number of choices available. Treadmills are great because they mimic an exercise that is both familiar and comfortable. Elliptical Trainers provide a low-impact cardio workout that protects your joints, and is a favorite activity for people who want a good cardio workout without a lot of pounding on the joints. Make sure when you’re looking at cardio equipment, you find a store that can help you match the proper type of equipment to your fitness needs.

Tip 5: Although your large “chain store” may offer basic home exercise equipment, a better choice is a store dedicated to helping you find the best equipment for your needs. This includes your being able to try out any piece of equipment before you buy it. Make sure that before you purchase any piece of home exercise equipment you feel comfortable with the way the equipment works.

Some Great Gifts

Tony asked:


Exercise and fitness are becoming one of the best ways for staying younger and healthier. The compact exercise machine gives you the flexibility you need for your exercise program in the comfort of your home. You need not worry about leaving home in any weather condition and lose weight or just stay in shape. 

A portable exercise bicycle is just the piece of equipment for workout at home. There are several models to choose from, and you can get all the features you need for a reasonable price. You can use the exercise bikes to workout both your lower and upper body; also can be used for aerobic exercise and toning as well as for rehabilitation.

Proper usage of fitness equipment burns excess calories and maintains the overall physical well being of a person. Moreover, it improves the resistance and stamina of the body. There are both commercial and residential (home) fitness equipment designed to suit all budgets. Some of the most popular fitness equipment on the market includes treadmills, elliptical trainers, exercise cycles, rowing machines, home gyms, stair-climbing machine and exercise riders.

Home gym provides flexibility and convenience of working out in the comfort of your own home. One of the best benefits of having own fitness equipment, in addition to saving time and convenience, is that you can exercise in the privacy and comfort of your own home. 

Working out from the comfort of your house allows you to be in control of your environment, where you can listen to your choice of music or your favorite television show. Ultimately, this will result in you working out more often and will help to make the attainment of your fitness goals much easier.

The best way to ensure you make the right choice is to have a plan for finding the equipment that best suits your needs. Here are some tips on the same.

Determine your fitness goals. Decide if you are looking to build strength and muscle mass, or just loose weight and firm up, as this will help you to narrow down the types of equipment you should consider. 

Assess your experience. Specialty dealers help you assess your goals and experience, and recommend the types of home fitness equipment that will best fit your fitness needs. 

Determine the space where you wish to put your equipment. 

Determine your equipment needs. 

With a good plan, you`ll better be able to find the equipment you need - at the price you can afford. So if you don`t feel like hanging out at the gym, maybe want to watch TV while you workout, just get yours one too from the number of compact exercise bikes available in the market today! 

Triumph Over Language

Pattrick Savarna asked:


Grip assistance becomes a major limiting factor when you plan to have a beautiful torso. You are forced to limit your reps as you feel imbalanced, all because of those wobbly fitness equipment meant to give you the right grip assistance.

So to get a proper grip assistance, here are some innovative fitness equipment, just brought in by your trainer. So go and use them. Now you will not have any excuse left to sweat less. Thus discover the right grip and the right shape as well.

Safe Manta Ray :

The next time you hit the gym for the barbell squat, forget placing the spongy pads or cotton sheets between your shoulder and the barbells. Place a Manta ray instead. No, I don’t mean to buy a ‘Manta Ray’ from the fish market near by. In fact, this sea animal has inspired fitness equipment manufacturers to make something which extinguishes the damage to your shoulder muscles which often happens when the bar rolls or slips off the shoulders.

The trainer might not have told you but he has just got an all time solution to it. It is a highly innovative fitness equipment. This ‘Manta Ray’ is made of plastic which has inbuilt grooves to place the bar in. The grooves replace the sponges once you kept behind the neck.

Gripping Haulin Hooks :

You enter the gym well intended for some rigorous weight training. But alas! The poor wrist wrap is not helpful enough to give you a full grip on the weights. Thus a loose grip forces you to minimize the numbers of reps. Hence you plan to return once again without getting satisfied. But wait! There is something, bought by your trainer, which may help you to train till you drop. The ‘Haulin Hooks’ are made of some durable steel hooks which are attached to a spongy foam padding and nylon straps.

The thick pads of these ‘Haulin Hooks’ save your hands from getting tired and strained. Thus you end up doing the desired numbers of reps. Definitely, a better grip is required to get the maximum result of any consumer appliance. Of course, nothing could be better than these hooks.

Powerful 1 Ton Hooks :

While doing the back training you hardly get the maximum liberty to use your whole energy. You end up training less than you could have done. Of course, the reason is simple. You run out of grip assistance but not of energy. So the next time you come across this situation, ask your trainer to give you these ‘1 Ton Hooks.’ Though it is a bizarre name, it symbolizes the power of this amazing fitness equipment quite impressively.

So the next time you go for shrugs or bent-over rows to improve your back muscles, be sure that you are not going to fall short of grip. Use these hooks to strengthen your grip. They are substantially better than the traditional wrist wraps. The steel hooks and comfortable pads of these 1 Ton Hooks give you the right strength to lift what you want to.

The Baby Line