Tips for buying the right exercise equipment

Before you invest in any piece of equipment, remember that all you really need to get started is a pair of comfortable walking shoes and some willpower. If you do decide to buy exercise equipment, consider your exercise goals first. Other considerations include your budget and the amount of space available for using and storing the equipment. When you think you’re ready to buy, follow these guidelines:

·         Keep what you like to do in mind. If you hate taking the stairs, a stair-stepper isn’t going to change your habits. A treadmill might be a better option.

·         Because many types of equipment require a sizable outlay of money, look for the one that offers the most complete workout. If you’re setting up a home gym, a good strategy is to devote the bulk of your budget to a good quality cardiovascular machine. Supplement that with less expensive strength training pieces, such as dumbbells and resistance bands.

·         Measure the space where you plan to install the machine and carry the dimensions with you when you shop. Stair steppers, for example, are quite tall.

·         Bring a healthy skepticism about performance claims with you when you consider equipment. For example, most aerobic equipment will burn 400–600 calories an hour, not the more than 1,300 calories that some manufacturers claim. And no device is going to produce “perfect abs” in just three minutes a day.

·         Keep in mind that it’s impossible to burn fat from just one part of the body. Don’t be swayed by emphatic testimonials or dramatic before-and-after pictures.

·         Take a test drive before you buy. This means spending some real time working out on the machine in proper exercise clothes and shoes. Don’t make your decision on the basis of a few seconds of use while still in your street clothes. Also, reputable dealers will often allow you to try out the machine for 30 days and return it for a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

·         Look for well-built equipment. A sturdy frame, smooth running parts, sufficient horsepower (if motorized), and a comfortable feel are all key elements. Also, ask the dealer about warranties, return policies, repair records, and service costs.

·         Make sure you understand the full cost of the equipment. Read the fine print to see if items such as shipping and handling, sales tax, and set-up fees are included.

·         Look for features that you’ll really use. Fancy add-ons such as computer-programmed displays are nice to have, but they can inflate the bottom line. However, you may feel some extras are worthwhile — for instance, if knowing how many calories you’re burning will act as a motivator or if features such as a reading rack, water bottle holder, or seat and tension adjusters will make your workout more appealing.

·         Learn how to use your equipment properly. From stair machines to stability balls, exercise equipment can be dangerous if used incorrectly. It’s a good idea to consult a qualified fitness professional to learn how to use any new equipment you purchase. Many dealers offer a complimentary training session when you buy a large piece of equipment.

·         Be careful when buying large equipment secondhand. It is cheaper, but warranties aren’t likely to apply, and usually you cannot return the equipment. If you buy from a gym, the equipment is more likely to be heavy-duty. However, it’s also more likely to have seen heavy use.

Exercise: A program you can live with
Hundreds of studies conducted over the past 50 years show that exercise helps you feel better and live longer. Exercise: A program you can live with answers many important questions about physical activity, from how your body changes through exercise to what diseases it helps prevent. It will also help guide you through starting and maintaining an exercise program that suits your abilities and lifestyle. Throughout, you'll find advice on being a savvy consumer when it comes to fitness products, as well as useful tools and tips designed to help make exercise work for you.

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