A Shopper’s Guide to Exercise Equipment

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Treadmills, stationary bikes, trampolines, rowing machines, and cross-country ski simulators have been called dream machines because people sometimes expect belts, cogs, pulleys, and wheels to help make all their fitness dreams come true. And exercise equipment is a universal fixture in many homes as well as health clubs.

 

This “hardware for soft bodies” can provide a good workout. But you have to understand what the equipment is designed to do for you. A stationary bike, for instance, is good for burning calories, toning the lower body, and conditioning your heart. But it won’t tighten your abdominal muscles or strengthen your upper arms.

 

Once you’ve decided what type of apparatus you need, you can narrow the selection down to the best choice if you:

•  Find out if the company who makes the equipment (and the dealer who sells it) is reputable.

•  Talk to other people who own the model you’re considering (or one like it).

•  Decide if the price fits your budget.

•  Test the equipment.

•  Determine if it’s easy to assemble, install, or move, and what maintenance it requires.

•  Look for a reasonable warranty.

•  Be sure the equipment will challenge you, so you don’t “grow out of it” in a short time.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

 

The American Institute for Preventive Medicine (AIPM) is not responsible for the availability or content of external sites, nor does AIPM endorse them. Also, it is the responsibility of the user to examine the copyright and licensing restrictions of external pages and to secure all necessary permission.

 

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