This guide aims to give a basic outline to fitness equipment in a straightforward and informal manner. The author aims to give you accessible and easy to understand information to help you on the road to becoming fit and healthy.

Statistics at the time of writing indicated that over two thirds of the UK population are overweight (slightly more in America). The media and the Governments are pushing fitness and healthy lifestyles but what exactly should you do if you want to make the switch? I believe the first step that you have to take is a mental one; there is no point in trying to get into shape for all the wrong reasons. Wanting a good physique may be the push behind media attention but there are many other advantages to using your body to its full potential such as a longer life and general feeling of well being. If you have made the decision to read this article I am assuming that you have also made the decision that you want to get a little fitter. Hopefully you can use this information to complete your goal.

We should look at the basics first. Before you do any exercise you need to make the decision of whether you will attend a gym or buy your own fitness equipment. Expense wise there is really no advantage one way or another since prices and membership fees are always changing. I recommend that you shop around yourselves if you are really going to get into fitness but if you are a new starter and want something to get you going, picking up a cheaper, but good quality piece of equipment may be the best step before you go splashing out on a years gym membership. There are lots of types of fitness equipment out there so I will give you a helpful rundown of what each machine could do for you.

Rowing Machine

Rowing machines are a great choice for all round results. They help increase cardio strength, burn fat and add tone/definition. Rowers are also great for strengthening knee, hip and ankle joints as this is where the load is placed during exercise. Modern rowers incorporate resistance adjustment so that you can create a workout specifically for your level of fitness. Rowing machines tend to come in the low to average fitness equipment cost, you will probably find a good quality rower for between £100-200 with very high quality home ones reaching around £600 giving it another quality for being a ‘basic’ piece of fitness equipment for you to get started on. Rowing machines are one of the best pieces of fitness equipment for a smaller how as they have folding options. This massively reduces the storage space needed and means you won’t loose too much room when you’re not using it.

Elliptical Cross Trainers

Elliptical trainers come in many shapes and sizes but all; essentially, work your body in the same way. By using an elliptical trainer you will benefit from cardiovascular and strength training, specifically targeting the lower body and arms. The elliptical movement will also assist in improving balance and co-ordination making it a great choice for both new and experienced users. Elliptical training is also a great low impact calorie burning exercise and would be perfect for people trying to loose weight in between a hectic lifestyle. One downside of the elliptical trainer category is that they do tend to need plenty of room to be used correctly.A beginner’s guide to fitness equipment.

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