People decide to do cardio workouts for different reasons. Some want to lose weight, some want to strengthen some muscles and joints while others may just want to improve their cardiovascular functions. But in any case, you don't just go to the gym and start getting on whatever equipment you think serves your purpose. The key is to have a cardio workout plan, and part of this plan is choosing the right equipment.
Many new cardio machines have been released in the market, but you can start by getting to know the following three most commonly used equipment in a typical cardio workout plan:
Treadmill
The treadmill is obviously a favorite pick among those who want to sweat it out low-impact. You just get on it, push the right buttons and start moving your legs. Most treadmills today come with a TV screen, but you'd have to use a headset to be able to hear the audio. A treadmill is good for any cardio workout plan because it does exercise your heart, improve circulation and pump good energy. What's great is that you can set the intensity that you want by increasing or decreasing pressure, virtual distance covered and time. This is good if you're planning to lose some weight but can't imagine yourself going farther than your gym.
Elliptical Trainer
Also known as a cross-trainer, an elliptical is another stationary machine that simulates various physical activities such as climbing, running and walking, while increasing protection for your joints against pressure and injury. This is also perfect if you want more challenge than a treadmill provides for toning your legs, thighs and buttocks. Controls are available for customizing speed and intensity according to your requirements.
Stationary Bike
As its name indicates, a stationary bike is one that stays in place while you pedal continuously for a good cardio workout. Speed and pressure controls are available, but compared to the treadmill and elliptical trainer, you may find this machine more favorable if you have back, hip and knee problems. There is little to zero chance of injury as you can just relax on the seat while working out your leg muscles according to the intensity you set. Because you can get very comfortable and even bored on a stationary bike, you'll want to put it in front of the tv so you can just watch your favorite shows, or in a place where there's good lighting so you can enjoy a good book or magazine while pedaling.
There are many other types of equipment that could be perfect for your cardio workout plan such as rowers, stair climbers, motion trainers, arc trainer, etc. But because it's easy to get bored when you stick to just one of them, it may be good to try every cardio equipment in your gym and decide which one is best. Just remember that boredom is the number one reason people don't stay long on their cardio workouts, so make it a point to find a way to excite yourself from time to time.
Many new cardio machines have been released in the market, but you can start by getting to know the following three most commonly used equipment in a typical cardio workout plan:
Treadmill
The treadmill is obviously a favorite pick among those who want to sweat it out low-impact. You just get on it, push the right buttons and start moving your legs. Most treadmills today come with a TV screen, but you'd have to use a headset to be able to hear the audio. A treadmill is good for any cardio workout plan because it does exercise your heart, improve circulation and pump good energy. What's great is that you can set the intensity that you want by increasing or decreasing pressure, virtual distance covered and time. This is good if you're planning to lose some weight but can't imagine yourself going farther than your gym.
Elliptical Trainer
Also known as a cross-trainer, an elliptical is another stationary machine that simulates various physical activities such as climbing, running and walking, while increasing protection for your joints against pressure and injury. This is also perfect if you want more challenge than a treadmill provides for toning your legs, thighs and buttocks. Controls are available for customizing speed and intensity according to your requirements.
Stationary Bike
As its name indicates, a stationary bike is one that stays in place while you pedal continuously for a good cardio workout. Speed and pressure controls are available, but compared to the treadmill and elliptical trainer, you may find this machine more favorable if you have back, hip and knee problems. There is little to zero chance of injury as you can just relax on the seat while working out your leg muscles according to the intensity you set. Because you can get very comfortable and even bored on a stationary bike, you'll want to put it in front of the tv so you can just watch your favorite shows, or in a place where there's good lighting so you can enjoy a good book or magazine while pedaling.
There are many other types of equipment that could be perfect for your cardio workout plan such as rowers, stair climbers, motion trainers, arc trainer, etc. But because it's easy to get bored when you stick to just one of them, it may be good to try every cardio equipment in your gym and decide which one is best. Just remember that boredom is the number one reason people don't stay long on their cardio workouts, so make it a point to find a way to excite yourself from time to time.
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