Dave Tupniak




The use of exercise and fitness equipment often results in injury because of the high impact associated with using it. There are, however, various types of low impact exercise and fitness equipment available in the market. The three main types of low impact exercise equipment that you might consider buying are elliptical trainers, exercise bikes, and rowing machines. If you have enough space, then you should consider getting one of these low impact exercise machines for your home.

The first and most common low impact exercise and fitness machine is the exercise bike. Exercise bikes come in two forms – the upright form and the recumbent form. The upright form of exercise bike is similar to a normal bicycle in that the rider sits up straight while pedaling. The recumbent form allows the rider to recline while using the machine, thus reducing strain on the back while using the machine. The recumbent bike, while good for endurance training, does not provide a workout of the same intensity as an upright bike can. The standard bike mainly works the leg muscles. Both forms of exercise bike can be fairly affordable, with models available for as little as six hundred dollars.

The rowing machine is another type of low impact exercise and fitness equipment that you may wish to consider. It simulates the action of rowing a boat, helping to improve your cardiovascular health and strengthen the muscles in the upper body. The machine makes use of magnetism, air, hydraulics and water to create four different ways in which you can pull the machine. The rowing machine relies on a spinning fan to create air resistance when you pull on the mechanism. This simulates the actual experience of rowing. While a less expensive model can cost less than two hundred dollars, a more expensive model that is more durable and magnetic-based can cost thousands of dollars. No matter what model you choose to buy, however, you will still find it a fantastic option for exercising.

The last type of low impact exercise and fitness equipment that you might consider is the elliptical trainer. Using this machine involves standing on a pair of pedals and moving them around a wheel, making it resemble a hybrid between a regular treadmill and a stationary bike. Some elliptical trainers also include cross-training bars, allowing users to strengthen their arm muscles as well as their leg muscles. Elliptical trainers use two different types of brakes – friction brakes and magnetic brakes. Friction brakes tend to wear out easily so a machine that uses magnetic brakes would be the better choice. The width of your stride should also affect your choice of machines, as you should look for one that does not place your feet too far apart. A guideline for suitable stride width would be twenty inches. The cost of an elliptical trainer can range from less than five hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

If you are thinking of buying exercise and fitness equipment, you should consider these three types of low impact exercise and fitness equipment. Low impact exercise equipment is excellent for regular exercise and helps to reduce the strain and injury from using regular high impact exercise equipment.

Jim Kesel




According to Horizon the fluid motion of a horizon elliptical trainer is tied to its front located flywheel. If you are a new to elliptical trainers you may find the motion sometimes described as running in air, unusual. Horizon ellipticals are designed to be used in the home and are found in most big box retail stores such as Sears. The parent company Johnson manufactures Horizon elliptical trainers as well as its premier line called the elite series which is sold in high end fitness outlets. The only major difference between the two lines of ellipticals is in the consol electronics and the standard exercise routine programs.

Horizon elliptical trainers are very popular with people who use their equipment a couple of times a week. Horizon elliptical trainers are considered low to medium priced exercise equipment. This does not mean that they do not perform well if used in the home on a casual basis. However, if you are going to use your elliptical trainer 3 or more days a week using intensive exercise routine you may want to consider a higher end elliptical trainer.

Problems noted by Horizon elliptical trainer owners include problems with the braking system as well as frequent failure of many of the plastic parts. The Horizon EX 75 Dual Action Elliptical Trainer has a fairly good reputation and following among the in home elliptical trainer users. Comments included stable platform and easy to adjust resistance levels. This Horizon elliptical trainer model retails for about $1000.00. When considering any elliptical trainer we recommend that you spend at least $1000.00 and preferably $1200.00 to assure that you will get a good durable elliptical trainer. The Horizons EX 75 and CSE 4.6 elliptical trainer models meet this criteria.

The more expensive Horizon elliptical trainer models are popular and are considered a good buy. Prior to purchasing any piece of exercise equipment you should take the time to take the model you are considering for a test ride. This can be done at some of the fitness retail outlets. Make sure you spend at least thirty minutes on the machine while observing noise levels, stability and ease of operation. Also check out the exercise programs to see if they meet your exercise routine goals. It appears that the Horizon elliptical trainer comes with a one year warranty which we find insufficient. Spending the money for an extended warranty is recommended. Horizon elliptical trainers should be able to meet your in home exercise program.

David Faulkner




Finding that perfect fitness machine that “does it all” may be more real than expected due to the fact that the latest
research supported, cardiovascular fitness machines are now available on the market. Elliptical cross trainers offer a truly beneficial yet low impact workout. They really are the fitness machine that gives that sought after total body workout.

La Crosse, a research team at the University of Wisconsin, conducted a comparison of a treadmill to an elliptical cross trainer, the NordicTrak Ellipse. Special attention was directed toward the low impact, elliptical motion of the cross trainer in contrast to the high impact walking or running required on the treadmill.

Their research demonstrated the impact level on the cross trainer minimally registered as regular walking. However, running on a treadmill was clearly the top ranking high impact workout most liable to result in pain in the knees, as well as joints. Over a period of time this would lead to joint, bone, and muscles injury, perhaps permanently. Both fitness machines were equal in the intensity of their respective workouts. There were no noteworthy differences between the two concerning calories burned, heart rate, or respiratory rate.

A more recent study was requested by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) to look closely at, and correlate the various attributes and advantages of four different elliptical cross trainers. This study, guided by Dr. Len Kravitz, was supervised at the University of Mississippi.

The four cross trainers selected for meticulous testing along with the manufacturers name and purchase price, from lowest to highest, are as follows:

Guthy-Renkers Power Train – $200

Cyclone Cross Trainer by Quantum Television – $399

Health Rider Elliptical Cross Trainer by ICON Health & Fitness, Inc. – $499

NordicTrak Ellipse – $600

The research team, supervised by Dr. Kravitz, selected seven men and seven women for a total of 14 participants to use the machines for an intense workout to test whether the machines worked differently for males or females, and to compare the calories burned, the stride rate, heart rate, and respiratory rate. All four cross trainers maintained corresponding test results. The perceived exertion ratings varied from 12.5 – 13 confirming the elliptical workouts were challenging yet comfortable . The research team also confirmed that both men and women received intense workouts and the calories burned was proportionate to that of running an 11.5 minute mile.

A survey was also conducted by the research team to gather informative responses from the 14 participants. After compiling their responses, they rated the cross trainers from the most to the least preferred. The most preferred elliptical trainer was NordicTrak’s Ellipse. The least preferred was Quantum Television’s Cyclone, with the other two, the Health Rider then the Power Train being in that order. Five women complained f hitting their knees on the center guard panel on the Cyclone, causing a disruption in stride. After approximately one hour of usage, the Health Rider’s noise level elevated drastically due to low quality parts. Some issues have recently been addressed by the Consumer Reports magazine, concerning the stability of the Ellipse. It is evidently clear that the study requested by ACE proved the Ellipse to be a reliable and beneficial addition to your workout regimen.

Dr. Kravitz made statements alluding that the Cyclone and the Power Train appeared to have been manufactured low quality to manage a competitive price. Th Health Rider received good ratings considering it was made available before the final product had been fully tested. The elliptical motion was fluid and it performed well. In comparison to the other cross trainers, the Ellipse is, by far, more durable with near effortless movement.

Both universities have substantiated NordicTrak’s Ellipse to be highly effective for an excellent cardiovascular workout. Keeping all of this in mind, you may want to compile your own research before you decide on whether an elliptical cross trainer will be productive for you.

Eddie Lomax




Basic calisthenics, you know what I mean right? Well, if you’re old enough to remember Physical Education Class (sadly, this is dying out these days), ever played a sport or been in the Military, you know exactly what I mean. Basic calisthenics are the exercise method of choice to build strong, conditioned bodies with little or no equipment.

Unfortunately, in today’s world with expensive gyms full of shiny equipment and the fitness industry marketing “quick”, “easy” fitness gimmicks, bodyweight calisthenics are often overlooked. In my opinion, this is a big mistake.

You would think bodyweight exercise would be the most widely used form of exercise because of its accessibility, versatility and effectiveness. After all, bodyweight calisthenics can be used by complete beginners all the way up to elite athletes to improve performance, heath and physique. But, many men and women have been convinced (brainwashed) that basic calisthenics pale in comparison to other forms of training.

But I insist:

Basic calisthenics should be the starting point for any physical training program, and should remain an integral part of your exercise program.

There is a place for calisthenics exercise in everyone’s exercise program, ranging from being the full workout program to being a part of the over-all workout plan. Your body has always been, and will always be, the greatest tool for improving fitness, burning fat and building a strong, lean, athletic body. So, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can start using basic calisthenics today!

Basic Calisthenics Make An Excellent Warm Up

Before you start any physical training, a proper warm up should be performed. And, in my opinion, there is no better warm up for every type of physical activity than bodyweight calisthenics. There is no other activity that can prepare your body for the multitude of movements of sport, work and life quite like bodyweight exercise.

Basic Calisthenics Make A Great Full Body Workout.

You can use bodyweight exercise to improve upper body, lower body and core strength and endurance. Plus, the rhythmic nature of some calisthenics makes them excellent heart and lung workouts. So you can get a true full body workout which includes all muscle groups and the cardiorespiratory systems. And the best part, you don’t need any equipment!

Mix Bodyweight Exercises With Other Forms Of Training

Just because you use some other form of training, like dumbbells, barbells and machines, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t mix in some calisthenics as well. Just think about it. The challenges of sport, work and life require moving the weight of your own body, moving other objects or moving your own bodyweight and other objects. You should train accordingly by mixing bodyweight exercise and weighted resistance.

You Can Do Bodyweight Cardio Intervals

At the end of most people’s workout, they do some “cardio”. Unfortunately, this often means zoning out on the treadmill or exercise bike while reading a magazine or watching the T.V. I suggest you pump up the intensity by throwing in some Bodyweight Intervals. Every once in a while, jump off the bike or treadmill and do some basic calisthenics. This boosts the intensity of your workout by breaking your breathing and heart rhythms, ultimately providing a better workout.

So, I’ve just given you four great ways to incorporate basic calisthenics into your workout program. Bodyweight exercise should be a part of your workout regime, or used exclusively. Start using the gym you were born with today!

Rika Susan




Life Fitness Treadmills form part of a five-star range that is used in five-star resorts, on luxury cruise ships, and in major corporate headquarters all over the world. Imagine having this quality fitness product available to you in the comfort of your own home! With a Life Fitness Treadmill, top-class performance and motivation is at your beck and call all day, every day.

The Life Fitness Treadmill range for home use, starts at the basic T30 model. The next level includes three Premier models. At the top of the range, the two Elite Home Version models, based on the popular Health Club Model, offer a luxurious treadmill experience.

The magic of an Elite Life Fitness Treadmill is that the machine is so inviting, that all the run of the mill exercise-dodging excuses just seem to peter out… You will find that you just h

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Kris Bierek




This is an article designed to help you work toward competing in a Ms. Fitness or Ms. Figure contest. If you are debating the idea of competing then don’t debate, just go for it! Almost anyone can prepare toward a Fitness/Figure contest and this information should give you a great boost toward that goal! It is nice to have the 2 classes to choose from.

When I discuss competition, there are several obstacles which seem to deter women from competing. The 4 biggest concerns I hear are:

I can’t do gymnastics I am not flexible I can’t jump I could never get that lean
I could never get that lean

These are all very simple problems to deal with and age has no bearing on anything! I have competed along side many women in their 40′s who have won or placed very high.

The Ms. Fitness routine is not judged on what “tricks” you are able to perform, but rather on how clean and polished the content is. Ms. Figure has the same focus with a bit more on physique, of course, since this is a contest where the judges want to see a body in between fitness and bodybuilding. Ms. Figure is perfect for those who are not interested in the strength, flexibility and endurance components of competition. Ms. Figure contestants should recognize that Ms. Figure does require that you to be somewhat leaner than for a Ms. Fitness competition.

Bare Basics

Planning Training & Diet

Let’s start of with planning. You want to look ahead a year to 4 months away from a contest date depending on your current level. Training and diet needs to be periodized toward your contest so that you are prepared and peaked at the right time. I always suggest doing a few contests the same year especially if there are some contests that fall a week apart so that you can get some experience and get to utilize everything you worked so hard for. Periodizing simply means you plan progressively over time so that you can:

I can’t do gymnastics I am not flexible I can’t jump I could never get that lean
Insure success

Ms. Fitness wants to concentrate on the outcome of a nice toned and moderately lean physique with out too much hardness or striations. Ms. Figure wants to get a bit leaner than Ms. Fitness with a bit more muscle density and hardness yet not as lean, striated or muscular as the bodybuilders. Achieving this balance is the trick. Even once your at your best the rest is up to who is standing beside you and how you all look in comparison.

The type of weight training/cardio and diet depends on each individual, some need more others need less but everyone needs a different combo and levels can vary so programs have to be individualized, you can’t train/eat like “everyone else” because it may not work for YOU. Mass produced competitive training/diet manuals made bulk in advance to help you prepare for a contest can work but were not made just for you, which means you are getting second best. I am very insistent on making sure all the programming is catered to each of my clients individual needs but unfortunately not all trainers do that which can result in injury or lack of preparation. You don’t want to be ‘group’ trained for contests because the chances of all participants being at the same level has a very low probability resulting in some participants not getting all the attention needed to be properly prepared.

Talent

Don’t have one? Who cares! You can put a routine together with any theme. I have put all types of routines together for Ms. Fitness, Ms. Figure and Bodybuilding that utilize all types of talents from Salsa to Martial Arts. Take what you like and enhance it. Even some ethnic backgrounds can translate into a cool routine, so be creative because that always gives you points! Here are some theme ideas used in past fitness, figure and bodybuilding routines:

avoid injury work on different aspects of training/diet progressively avoid overtraining or too many plateaus insure success
Suits, Posing and Tanning

Costumes and posing suits are also going to be judged. Even if they’re not part of the formal scoring, your outfits can make you look better or worse so keep that in mind. The color of your suit is a big factor. With Ms. Figure you have to stick with a solid color for pre-judging so you want to pick a complimentary color that will enhance your physique but not take away or distract from it. Black seems to be very popular. Now it has been okay to use a dazzled up suit for night shows in Ms. Figure and Bodybuilding. Like the Ms. Fitness women, the Ms. Figure ladies want to have 2 suits to highlight the morning and night show. Most of the judging is normally done in the morning show but there are times when ties occur and those are the occasions when you will be judged at night.

Skin tone is also normally judged and affects your look. The appearance of looking ‘tight’ is enhanced by tanning and coloring. I normally suggest tanning well in advance so that by the last few weeks prior to competing you don’t have to tan which can make some people feel drained and considering you’re already dieting and depleted you don’t need added stresses. Then you can start coloring up a few days prior to contest. For those of you not familiar, there are products sold for that extreme tanned look which is needed on stage to keep from being washed out by the stage lights. The products vary but are made especially for competition and can be found online at some bodybuilding sites. I find being tanned then using the coloring product is your best bet.

Skills

Now you have to assess your skills. For Ms. Figure most women are required to do the routine in a regulation suit and heels although some organizations have a figure that is close to Ms. Fitness in the way that they can wear a costume and do a high energy routine but without inverted movements and adding poses into the routine. Ms. Fitness uses heels for the physique and gown round so here is a skill that is needed — practice walking in 4-5 inch heals (I always suggest platform, you may think they are ugly but they look the best on stage)! Of course, open hand posing (similar to the mandatory bodybuilding poses) must be practiced for the comparison rounds in Ms. Figure. Both classes need to practice posing for the quarter turns. There is a variation of ways to pose but you don’t want to be to stiff. You want to get a balance with your arms to avoid over exaggeration but the line is fine because you do need to strain a little. You want to angle slightly but keep heels together, head high, shoulders level and back, chest out, exhale to show abs. On the side pose some judges like you to look at them and others like you to look straight ahead so keep your ears open for the cues. The side pose is when you want to hike up the hip that faces the judges and even lift your heel a tad to give a nice defined leg and glute.

Lastly on your back pose you need to bring the lats out more for Ms. Figure than Ms. Fitness but in both cases the shape has to show, and tuck up the tush for a nice tight back end.

Skills for the fitness routine are a variety of holds, push ups, splits and dance. With a minimum of these you can put together a winning routine. When girls perform ‘lacking’ routines but still win fitness contest the audience can still see for themselves who the REAL fitness girls are regardless of the placings – likewise if you see a great routine but the girl has cellulite on her rear the audience can see it! Unfortunately I have seen Champions who have won contests without so much as a push up and no flexibility whatsoever but they had unbelievable stage presence, a clean and polished routine, or a higher point grade in other rounds. I still to this day believe you should go into a contest with strength and flexibility components in your routine but you don’t have to be a gymnast to win a Ms. Fitness contest.

Dave Tupniak




Many types of exercise and fitness treadmills are available from Nordic Track and these systems are known for being reliable and requiring minimal maintenance, making them excellent additions to your workout program.

Nordic Track systems are known for their reliability, being built by ICON, one o the best manufacturers of exercise equipment in the world. Despite this, most Nordic Track systems cost less than systems by other manufacturers. A basic Nordic Track treadmill costs less than a thousand dollars, although more advanced, more expensive systems are also available.

The more technologically advanced Nordic Track systems feature iFit compatibility. iFit is a personal training program that allows users to keep track of their workouts and develop personalized training programs. The program can be installed on your computer, whereupon you will receive weight training program online. Your Nordic Track exercise and fitness machine will also keep records of statistics from your workouts, which you can then send to your computer in order to receive weekly progress reports on the effectiveness of your workout regimen. A nutrition planner will also be sent to you that will aid you in losing those extra pounds.

The Nordic Track system also features the CoolAire fan, which helps keep you cool while you Exercise on the machine. The fan operates while you are using the machine, and is sturdier than most of the fans found on other exercise equipment.

Nordic Track systems also allow you to create a customized workout regimen. You can either choose to use one of the preset training programs included with the machine, or adjust the options to your liking. Your personal health information can also be downloaded into the computer of the Nordic Track system, allowing it to generate a personalized workout to suit your needs and workout objectives. These machines also include a carbohydrate counter that will monitor the number of carbohydrates you have burned during your workout and how many more you must burn in order to meet your weight-loss goals.

You can also use a deck and mat with your Nordic Track system. A mat will be used on the belt of the system, serving to cushion the impact of your feet on the belt, thus minimizing the degree of strain placed on your feet. Not all exercise and fitness systems from Nordic Track are compatible with mats, however, so you should ensure that the system you are considering has this feature if it appeals to you.

The final advantage of getting a Nordic Track system lies in the warranty. A Nordic Track system warranty will generally cover the motor for three years and other parts, for two years. Also, any labor fees for maintenance on your system are waived for the first year. In some cases, certain systems even include a lifetime warranty covering the motor.

Nordic Track systems are excellent exercise and fitness treadmills to have in your home, allowing you to have a great and effective workout in the comfort of your own house. To purchase one, contact you local Nordic Track dealer or visit www.nordictrack.com.

Dave Tupniak




More and more people are using mini-trampolines as exercise and fitness tools, making it ever more important that people know how to use a mini-trampoline safely and without injuring themselves. While these mini-trampolines may resemble the larger ones that you may have played with as a child, it is important to understand the differences between them and the safety precautions that need to be taken when using a mini-trampoline for exercise and fitness.

One of the reasons for learning how to use a mini-trampoline safely is that this exercise and fitness equipment will allow you to make better use of it in your workout and enhance your benefit your workout. Most mini-trampolines cost anywhere from fifty to three hundred dollars, making it a fairly affordably piece of equipment. Some of the exercises that can be performed on a mini-trampoline are rebounding exercises. These exercises are excellent for strengthening the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems as well as increasing the strength of your bones. You will not be able to fully enjoy the benefits of these exercises if you do not understand safe mini-trampoline use, as it is difficult to exercise if you are injured.

The most common cause of injury when using a mini-trampoline for exercise and fitness, is falling off the trampoline. While studies conducted at the Columbus Children’s Hospital in Ohio show that the injuries sustained when falling off a mini-trampoline are not as severe as those from falling off a regular-sized one, the likelihood of falling off either is the same. Injuries that result from falling off a mini-trampoline can still be serious, and may include sprains and broken bones.

Safe mini-trampoline use can be achieved in many ways. The first thing you should do is to cover up the edges of the trampoline, including the springs on the end, thus avoiding the possibility that your feet will become caught in the springs. You should also check your mini-trampoline regularly, paying attention for any signs of tears or loose threads, as it is more likely that you will be hurt while using a used and worn mini-trampoline than while using a new or properly maintained one.

The next precaution that should be taken is that you should only use your mini-trampoline in an area with a high ceiling, away from any ceiling lights or fans.

You should also place an exercise mat beneath your mini-trampoline. This will help to cushion the impact should you happen to fall off the trampoline and will also stop the trampoline from moving around on the ground.

You can also obtain a rebound bar for your mini-trampoline, which is a bar that can be installed to aid you in keeping your balance while you use the mini-trampoline to perform exercises and jumps.

Finally, when your children are using the mini-trampoline, an adult should always be present to supervise them. Children are much more likely to fall and hurt themselves while using a mini-trampoline than adults are. You must therefore ensure that you take the proper precautions before allowing them to use the mini-trampoline for exercise and fitness.

Rika Susan




When Hoist Fitness Equipment started to flex its muscles in 1977, they also raised the bar for other manufacturers. Today this dynamic San Diego company still stands out as one of the front runners in the industry.

Not only do they offer innovative lines for gyms, but the Hoist fitness equipment range for home use, has become the number one choice of many fitness fanatics. Add to this their wheelchair-friendly line, and the KL fitness circuit for kids, and you have to conclude that Hoist is a gym equipment giant. Their bench-mark is precision building, and advanced engineering.

The wheelchair-accessible H-480 Single Stack Access Trainer is testament to the creativity and design excellence behind Hoist fitness equipment. Any upper body exercise can be done with safety and confidence. The manual included is informative and detailed.

As with other Hoist fitness equipment, all the exercises are done at the front of this space-efficient machine, enabling wall mounting. The Access offers a total body workout, yet the size of the footprint makes it one of the smallest gyms available. The Access trainer converts to able-bodied mode with one pull pin adjustment.

The Access trainer has been created by Hoist fitness equipment, as the ultimate solution to making a strength-building gym experience available to a wider spectrum of people.

There is a growing awareness of the importance of acquiring healthy habits from an early age. Childhood obesity due to inactivity, can no longer be ignored. The manufacturers of Hoist fitness equipment shared this concern, and developed the impressive KL Children’s Fitness product line.

Through careful innovative design, the range imitates the natural patterns of play and movement. The KL line capitalizes on children’s natural affinity for running, jumping, and jungle gym activities. Unique bio-mechanical motions create terrific fun, while subtly targeting muscle groups.

The nine piece Hoist fitness equipment KL circuit include an abdominal bench, hip extension press, leg press, shoulder press, squat press, seated dip, seated row, pull up, and chest press.

Discovering the V5 Multi Gym, will keep you at home, exercising! This single-stack home gym is one of the best and most varied available. This design by Hoist fitness equipment, gives you a workout that includes hard-to-reach muscle groups, often neglected with other systems.

The leg curl station can also be adjusted for leg extension exercises. The 4-D articulating press arm allows for a variety of movements. You also have access to variations such as a chest press, lat pulldown, leg press, and a chest-high cable for core strengthening exercises.

Hoist fitness equipment is known for its versatility. In this instance, you have various options, such as adding a VLP Leg Press station.

The H-4600-HS Multi Stack Gym is another versatile, commercial quality line in the Hoist Fitness Equipment range, suitable for homes and smaller outfits. The trademarked Silent Steel weight stacks, ensure smooth and quiet operation.

A variety of optional extras are available, promising even greater comfort and effectiveness. An example is the bicep curl station, with changeable handgrip positions for isolating different muscle groups. An optional weight stack enclosure, adds an element of safety.

The Hoist fitness equipment Freeweights range offers a choice of dumbbells, benches, racks, and cages.

The dumbbell line includes the Quick Change Dumbbell System, with a SGMA award behind its name. In line with the Hoist fitness equipment tradition, this is an extremely cost-effective and space-saving piece. Among the freeweight options, you have access to a Leg Extension / Leg Curl machine, or the Abdominal / Back Extension unit.

A variety of racks are available, including the HF-477 Short Vertical Dumbbell Stand, which holds 5 pairs of dumbbells. No assembly is needed. The charcoal powdercoat finish is similar to the multi stack and multi gym lines of Hoist fitness equipment.

Benches include the HF-167 Folding Flat / Incline Bench, also a hugely popular space-saving design. Another option is the HF-663 45 Degree Back Hyperextension bench. A large foot plate, and 4 adjustable positions are some of its features. The thigh brace can be adjusted to make provision for taller users.

New products include the lightweight Adjustable Ab / Back Hyper Bench. This dual-purpose, robust item has self-aligning roller pads, and is comfortable to use, irrespective of your fitness level or height. It folds flat for easy storage. In the same category of Hoist fitness equipment, you will find the Flat / Incline / Decline Bench with seven adjustments, convenient wheels, and an adjustable seat.

The background of the pioneering Hoist fitness equipment team, includes experience in running a fitness center. This explains why they have such an in depth understanding of the industry, and customer preferences. With such knowledgeable support behind you, any fitness goal should be within easy reach.

Terry Sandhu




In this day and age most of us who want to get fitter, stronger, or lose weight know that in order to achieve our goals we must participate in some type of exercise program. One of the problems is that of choosing what sort of fitness equipment we should be using or buying. There are a number of choices on the market today, including elliptical trainers, rowing machines, exercise bicycles, steppers, weight machines, free weights, cable machines, and so on.

Now you have two choices when it comes to using fitness equipment. First is to purchase a piece of equipment, depending on the quality of what you want, buying can be pretty expensive. The second choice is to become a gym member. This will give you a wider of choice in the types of fitness equipment you can use, but even this option can be expensive.

Now there can be many reasons that could make it difficult for you to take advantage of either choice. Perhaps you are in a position in your life at the moment where you cannot afford to purchase any fitness equipment or afford to join a gym. You may not have any space at home to use any fitness equipment, or have the time to travel to a gym 3 or 4 times a week. You may feel uncomfortable or not have the confidence at the present time to join a gym. All these reasons will result in one thing, and that is not exercising, and not achieving the vision you may have of yourself for the future.

Now I am going to be brutally honest with you. All those reasons are just excuses not to exercise. You justify not exercising with these excuses and this makes you feel that there is some substance behind why you cannot exercise. The fact is that there is no substance behind these excuses, because when you focus on why you can’t do something your mind will come up with lots of reasons for that point of focus. However if you focus on a regular basis on why you should exercise, your mind will come up with reasons and ways for that as well. You can reach extreme levels of fitness without equipment.

The truth is that we associate great bodies with fitness equipment and we have the perception that fitness without any equipment is not something that can be achieved successfully. This is a million miles away from the truth. You don’t need any fitness equipment to become fitter, stronger, or slimmer. Your own body is one of the best pieces of fitness equipment that you have. You can reach extremely high levels of fitness using nothing but your body.

Take a look at the sport of boxing. It is only over the last few years that boxers have started using weights or weight machines to train. A few years ago 99% of their training consisted of using their own body for their training. Boxers would get up in the early hours and run the streets, not use a treadmill at lunch time. They would spend many hours a week doing push ups, sit ups, chin ups, stretching, shadow boxing, and a whole host of other body weight exercises. Boxers are warriors and they reach warrior status without any equipment. Boxers have the fittest and most durable physiques in sport.

To become a soldier is no mean feat, the training is extremely tough. The bulk of a soldiers training consists of exercising without equipment. They spend hours running over rough terrain carrying equipment and heavy backpacks. They spend months doing circuit training consisting of swimming, push ups, chin ups, sit ups, and various other exercises. Nobody can say that a soldier is not an extremely fit individual.

There is a huge choice of exercises you can use, where your body is the only piece of equipment you will need. Depending on the method of training you use, just 15 minutes a day will give you fitness levels far beyond what you have at the moment. Pick a set of exercises that hit different body parts and make a circuit out of them. Circuit training will improve your strength, fitness, and endurance. Pick your own circuit or use the one below

Free squats (30 seconds) Rest (20 seconds) Push ups (30 seconds) Rest (20seconds) Crunches (30 seconds) Rest (20 seconds) Squat thrusts (30 seconds)

This circuit last just 3 minutes and it will work your body hard. Do as many actions of each exercise in a 30 second period and do not have any more than 20 seconds rest. Try it once and see how you feel. Call this one circuit, and when your fitness improves do another circuit later in the day. There really is no limit to how far you can go on this circuit, the fitter you get the more circuits you keep adding. Just try one to begin with to get used to it and think on that one circuit is just 3 minutes out of your whole day. 3 minutes is not a lot compared to the benefits you will get from that time. Now you know that you are capable of reaching a high level of fitness without equipment.