Kettlebell blaster

What is a 'kettlebell'?

A 'kettlebell' or girya (Russ.) is a traditional Russian cast iron weight that looks like a cannonball with a handle. The ultimate tool for extreme all-round fitness.

The kettlebell goes way back, it first appeared in a Russian dictionary in 1704 (Cherkikh, 1994). So popular were kettlebells in Tsarist Russia that any strongman or weightlifter was referred to as a girevik, or 'a kettlebell man'.

"Not a single sport develops our muscular strength and bodies as well as kettlebell athletics," reported Russian magazine Hercules in 1913.



The Need for Strength Training
As we age, muscle mass tends to decline, causing loss of strength. Researchers estimate we lose about a half pound of muscle every year. The best way to fight that loss, or to build stronger muscles, is through strength training.

Strength training provides more benefits than strong muscles. It helps reduce body fat and increases lean muscle mass. Muscle burns more calories than fat. So as muscle mass builds, the body burns calories faster and more efficiently. Strength training also builds strong bones, increases stamina, improves sleep, and reduces the risk of falls or other types of injury. Many people claim to have a better sense of well-being and confidence after starting strength training.

Kettlebell Training
Traditional strength training is often done with the use of weight machines, free weights, barbells, resistance bands or a stability ball. Now, an unusual piece of equipment is becoming popular. It’s called the kettlebell.

The traditional kettlebell is a cast iron weight that looks like a cannonball with a handle. It’s believed to have come from Russia, where kettlebell exercises were described more than 300 years ago. They were popular among Russian power lifters and security forces. The bells range in weight from 4 to 106 pounds.

Today, kettlebell training is becoming popular with non-athletes as well as athletes. Angela Sundberg, MS, RKC-PT, CSCS, AT is the Owner of Bodyscapes Studio in Scottsdale, AZ. She says kettlebell combines cardio and strength training for a high-impact workout in a short amount of time. It increases stamina, resilience and flexibility, and provides more free movement than a standard barbell and better balance than dumbbells.

Sundberg warns kettlebell training is an extreme form of training, so beginners should have some instruction. Experts recommend the average man start with about a 35 pound weight and progress to about 53 pounds. A woman should start out at about 18 pounds and work up to 26 poun

Gadgets no good for health, say docs

Electronic massagers or weight-loss belts are being marketed as one-stop treatment for all problems. But doctors say mechanical health gadgets are a waste of money and may do more harm than good.

You have to read the fine print carefully for health warnings, which are never prominently displayed. “These gadgets are a strict no-no for pregnant women or those with bone or nerve disorders. We never recommend any electronic gadgets to our patients,” said Dr Arun Garg, consultant neurologist at Max Healthcare.

“Normally, pain receptors respond to any external heating or mechanical stimulation. Sometimes, repeated stimulus lowers the resistance level, more specifically among the elderly or among people with muscle disorders. Whenever the tissue is sensitized, even the non-painful stimulus can cause pain.”

In malls, where these electronic products are on display for free trials, salesmen usually assure consumers that there are no side effects. This is misleading.

Sukanya Sinha (name changed) fell into this trap. She tried a foot massager that gave her leg pain severe enough for her to end up in bed for four days.

“The salesman offered a free foot massage using a gadget on display and I got tempted as I suffer from pain in my legs regularly,” said Sinha. “When the session ended, I realised I couldn’t move. I developed excruciating pain that shot up to my knee and refused to die,” she said.

Sukanya is upset that the salesman did not warn her about the possible side effects that the gadget could have on her. “Neither did the salesperson tell me anything nor was there a warning board mentioning the dos and don’ts,” she said.

Companies insist that health warnings are mentioned on the product guide and the website. “People with ailments should ask the salesman if the product is safe for them to use. Also, if the salesman notices a physical ailment, he warns customer of possible side effects,” said Raghavendra Singh, senior general manager, Osim India.

He, however, admitted that health warnings are not prominently displayed in shops. “We shall take up the issue with the management, like making warnings more visible for the benefit of the consumer,” he said.

Doctors say gadgets bring few health benefits. “Manual massage is always recommended over electronic massagers as the pressure set in the machines are usually uniform and can’t differentiate between the tender parts of the body and the stronger ones, which can withstand pressure,” said Dr Sumit Singh, associate professor in neurology department at AIIMS.

He advises patients to go for long walks and eat healthy to lose weight instead of using slimming belts. He also suggests manual massages instead of the electronic ones. “It should be mandatory for companies selling health-related electronic products to warn the buyer of their side effects before recommending them or offering them for a trial,” he said.

-Jaya Shroff , Hindustan Times

Vibrating your way to weight loss

They are the words we've all been dying to hear; "You can blast fat by just standing still. "

HealthFirst reporter Leslie Toldo is here- probably to tell us what the catch is with this theory.

You stand still, no doubt about it, on a vibrating platform, and researchers at the State University of New York say not only will you lose fat, but you may fight off osteoporosis, too.

Remember vibrating exercise machines that promised weight loss. Sounds silly, right?

Researchers are now studying the effects of vibration with surprising results.

Mice that stood on this platform for 15 minutes a day formed more bone mass and less fat.

"The funny connection between bone and fat is they all come from the same cell," Clinton Rubin, a professor in the Biomedical Engineering Department, said.

That stem cell can become muscle, bone or fat. Scientists believe the gentle vibrations cause the cell to turn into bone to tolerate the jiggling.

"So, it's a different way of thinking about why we become obese," Rubin said.

In this torso scan, the red is fat. The vibrating mouse, seen at the bottom, formed about 30 percent less fat during the study.

The platform also showed promise in humans. Postmenopausal women who stood on the vibrating plate maintained their bone mass, while those who didn't lost about three percent.

Rubin said tennis players are a good example of how shaking leads to bigger bones. They have 35 percent more bone in their playing arms.

These vibrations may one day be a simple way to fight both osteoporosis and obesity -- problems that plague millions of Americans.

Okay now, before you let your imagination run wild, vibrations don't remove fat cells. They help fewer develop. So if you already have fat to get rid of you will still need diet and exercise.

You also need to be careful. The vibrations used in this case are gentle, so filling up your watching machine with tennis shoes and sitting on top is probably not a good idea, and could actually be dangerous for you.

And that would be the catch.

-Source

Maximize weight Loss, Three simple rules

We do agree the key to permanent weight loss and true fitness is a lifetime commitment to exercise and eating right.

But hey, there must be a shortcut to this goal in there somewhere?

"Yes there is," says Sammie Richards creator of Booty Camp Fitness, a program that invites women to laugh, jump, lunge, and punch their way to a great-looking body. "Just like learning to eat right step by step, we must also learn to exercise that way."

Don't waste your time, for example, on routines or

machines that fail you, she says. Instead, here are the three key principles to give you the most efficient, weight loss workout every time, courtesy of Booty-CampFitness.com:

1. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)-- Forget walking for 60 minutes every day, who has time for that? A 10-15 minute HIIT cardio workout burns more fat. If you spent 15 minutes doing HIIT on a stationary bike, for example, it would be the "calorie burning" equivalent to 60 minutes of walking.

2. Combine Resistance and Cardio Training-- Not only do you burn more calories during the workout if you combine cardio with resistance training, but it boosts your metabolism after the workout because of the resistance portion. For example, cardio alone will boost your metabolism for three to six hours, and resistance training continues to burn increased calories for 24 to 48 hours post-workout.

3. Muscle is Metabolism-- Lifting weights or body sculpting isn't enough. You need to challenge your muscles by working them harder and harder each time. Progressive strength training can be done with body weight, free weights, or machines. All that matters is that it's progressive and it's challenging enough to force the muscles to make improvements. For example, each additional pound of lean muscle mass will burn an additional 50 calories or so, per day.

-J. C. CARROLL, NEWS CANADA

WiiFit: meet the new games mistress

Can you really get fit by playing a video game in your living room? Our correspondent tries out the latest craze to hit Britain -Matt Rudd




Eight at night, it’s been a long day, and a personal trainer is taking down my particulars. How old am I? How tall? How heavy?

Like a suspected drink-driver pulled over by a Texas Ranger, I am then told to balance on one leg. Every time I wobble a bit on the incredibly sensitive high-tech balance board, an arrow on a TV screen zigzags.

When it is over, I have failed to impress. “Balance obviously wasn’t your cup of tea,” says my trainer. “Do you find yourself tripping over when you’re walking?” With a drum roll, I am then told my WiiFit age. I am 44, or 11 years older than I am in the real world.

This, says my WiiFit machine, is not good. For my trainer is not actually a person, but a video game console.

t appears that my muscles are much weaker than they should be. Tact is not the Wii’s strong point. Confusingly, it has also calculated that my body mass index is 22.18 (“ideal”, it says, so why all the doom and gloom?). It then tells me we should set a goal right away.

“Willamina,” it says because that’s the name I accidentally gave myself when I was trying to find out if Matt was an option. “Willamina, although your BMI is in the ideal range, how would you like to set a BMI of 22 as your goal?”

It has finally happened. The machines have taken over. Or they will have by the end of the month. I don’t want you to panic though, because H G Wells got it wrong: the machines don’t want to kill you – they just want to make you fitter.

Wii, Nintendo’s video games console, was already popular but in April, with the launch of its new exercise game, WiiFit, things got out of hand.

In the first two weeks of the launch, spurred on no doubt by the endorsement of the Girls Aloud superbabe Sarah Harding, Nintendo sold 338,000 (complete with that flashy balance board) in Britain and Ireland alone.

One month on, you cannot get hold of one for love nor money. Well, money, yes. The retail price is £69.99 but if you’re prepared to splash upwards of £130, eBay will oblige. That’s after you’ve already spent £180 on the Wii console you need to play it on.

According to the Office of National Statistics, booming sales of WiiFit (along with shoot-’em-up game Grand Theft Auto IV) softened the blow of the spending downturn on the high street in April. While other sectors reported declining sales, entertainment shops saw a 5.3% increase. In these dire times of credit-crunching gloom, one assumes food might be the last thing to go. It isn’t: it’s the WiiFit.

This, then, is a seriously crazy craze. And, weirdest of all, it involves us getting off our fat behinds and doing some exercise. Sort of. Anecdotal accounts of epic WiiFit weight loss are springing up across cyberspace. Suburban streets are hushed but for the swoosh of housewives Wiiing. And one hospital is even planning to use the WiiFit to treat stroke patients.

Could a computer game that claims to make exercise fun be the panacea for our sloth-like age? Will playing the WiiFit guarantee to turn you from couch potato to spring chicken? Or have we all gone stark, raving mad? FOR those of you not yet gripped by the cult of Wii, let me explain how it works. Launched in 2006, the Wii itself is a games console with one big difference. Instead of sitting on the sofa zapping things, you hold two wireless controllers and act out the game. For real. And virtually. At the same time.

In the Wii boxing game, for instance, the punches you throw are shadowed by your cartoon representation on the television screen. In golf, you take a swing and then watch the ball fly off down the virtual fairway. The console picks up your movements from the controllers and interprets them into the game. It is an astonishingly clever piece of technology.

WiiFit goes one step further. With the wireless balance board, it can sense your precise weight distribution. Along with the handheld controllers, it then perfectly recreates your movements on screen as you work your way through a variety of exercise-based games such as hula-hooping, slaloming, tightrope-walking and, less rivetingly, jogging.

You can do a yoga session, aerobics and muscle workouts (the press-ups are just as hard as ever). The more you do, the higher your score, the more levels of the game are unlocked.

Nintendo only goes so far as to describe it as “an easy, simple and enjoyable way for every member of the family to incorporate exercise into their daily routine”, although in the dialogue of the game itself the recurring, hypnotic theme is that by playing it regularly, you are improving yourself.

The government is certainly getting very excited about Wii. In January, even before the latest fitness-specific game was launched, it was considering putting Wii consoles into school gyms as a way to make games lessons fun. By inference, it has accepted that it does have health-giving properties.

There are plenty of online accounts of people using WiiFit as their main or sole fitness regime. One blog full of unsavoury then-and-now photos reports a man losing 11lb in 35 hours on the Wii, allowing him to wear a very strange tuxedo to his wedding (I’ll spare you the web link).

More academic studies are less positive. Liverpool John Moores University last year concluded that if you played Wii sports for 12.2 hours a week you could lose 27lb in 12 months. That’s not a great ratio. It also concluded that children playing Wii games burnt only 2% more energy than children wasting their lives on other games consoles.

Still, some men in white coats are willing to give WiiFit a shot and university staff at St James’s hospital in Dublin are even optimistic it could have benefits for patients. They’re planning to use a WiiFit to treat stroke victims, suggesting it could be a sturdier, cheaper and more entertaining alternative to standard medical equipment.

Joseph Harbison, a consultant at the hospital, says: “We’re considering the WiiFit in the first instance to assess and rehabilitate patients’ balance, as trying to restore a stroke patient’s standing balance is the first stage in getting them to walk again.”

Before installing the console, the unit was trialling a medical device designed specifically to rehabilitate stroke sufferers. The equipment costs eight times the price of the WiiFit. Harbison said that as well as being more expensive, it had only a fraction of the versatility of the Wii, was less robust, less adaptable to the individual and “frankly less interesting for the patient to use”. Meaning, presumably, that it didn’t have a tightrope walk.

Boredom is the biggest complaint made by patients in the hospital’s rehab wing. The plan is that the Wii will counteract this.

Even Darren Campbell, the Olympic-gold-medal-winning sprinter, has got a blimming WiiFit. You would think he wouldn’t need to bother but he is philosophical about why he plays it with his children: “The reality is that games consoles are now part of our lives, and a console where there is a little bit of exercise is not a bad thing. For keeping fit though, I don’t think anything can substitute running on the treadmill, or swimming. I am not going to throw away my gym membership yet.”

T J Salih, chartered physiotherapist and former team physio for Tottenham Hotspur, the Premier League football club, is less enthused, describing the WiiFit as nothing more than a gimmick.

“It’s okay for people trying to relearn their balance. It’s a good visual cue. But because the main measure is the pressure from your feet, you could be doing anything with your upper body to pass the test.”

He goes on to explain that it is almost impossible for us not to cheat when our brains have visual clues. “I often get patients to close their eyes for an exercise, but you can’t do that with the Wii. So the temptation is to do the exercises wrong. I’m pretty sure I’ll be seeing people hobbling into my clinic who’ve been rocking about on their knee, ankle and hip joints for hours.”

Even before the arrival of the balance board, there have been concerns about injuries caused by excessive Wiiing. In January, a group of British osteopaths even coined a new condition, “Wii syndrome”, in response to the rising number of parents turning up at clinics with game-related neck, shoulder and elbow injuries. BACK in my front room, I’m finding that cheating pays dividends. I have become brilliant at the jogging game, mainly because I’ve worked out I can stand motionless and just waggle the control about. It’s so much easier than actually running.

Within seconds, my Mii (my virtual representation on the screen) has run ahead of the Wii pacemaker and the computer is panicking that I’ll do myself an injury. That I might sprint off through the patio doors. It has no idea I’m just standing there giving the stick a cheeky waggle.

For the next hour, I cheat ata lot of things and progress to previously unimaginable levels of sporting prowess. But after five hours, I’ve hardly brokena sweat. Wii, I’m afraid, is not the solution to everything.

Still, I’ve just been on again for another session (if nothing, it’s addictive). And it’s just told me my WiiFit age has plummeted to 38. That might be because I’ve learnt how to cheat in the balancing bit. It might also be because I have fewer clothes on.

I like to think it’s because I have become six years younger overnight. I’ve virtually convinced myself of it.

Incline Trainer -NordicTrack X10

The secret is an incredible 50% incline.

Burn fat faster, reduce impact and shape and tone your entire body. Only the Incline Trainer™ X10 from NordicTrack provides an incredible 0% to 50% incline range– and you can burn up to three times the calories just walking at a 25% incline than you can walking on a flat surface. With a 3.0 CHP Commercial Quadra Drive system, the X10 will power you through the toughest workouts. And it works your upper body with Adjustable Resistance Cardio Cables and 8 resistance settings to help tone and tighten arms, shoulders, back and abs for a total-body workout.


Product Specs:

0-12 MPH 1 Step Speed Control

    Find the speed you want at the touch of a button. The Incline Trainer™ speeds up or slows down on demand, so you can focus on your workout.
 
25 Workout Programs

    Four large LED displays track your speed, pulse, time, distance, incline, elevation, pace, calories burned and fat calories burned. The workouts adjust your speed or incline and focus on a variety of exercise goals: aerobic, weight loss, endurance or performance.
3.0 CHP Commerical Quadra Drive System

    NordicTrack's strongest, smoothest and fastest motor. Get years of reliable, powerful operation with this commercial-grade drive system. The innovative system utilizes a built-in fan that cools the internal motor components, protecting and extending the motor's overall life.

20X56 2-Ply Quiet Belt

    Take full, natural strides while walking or jogging with this quiet, non-slip tread belt. The extra-long belt is designed to reduce noise.

Quick Touch Incline

    Burn up to three times the calories with the 1-Step™ Power Incline, taking you instantly to slopes of up to 50%.

Special Features:

300 lb. Capacity Deck

    Get all the strength and support you'd expect from NordicTrack. The heavy-duty deck is designed to stand up to the toughest workouts.
Navigator Console with 37 Workout Programs

    Four large LED displays track your speed, pulse, time, distance, incline, elevation, pace, calories burned and fat calories burned. The workouts adjust your speed or incline and focus on a variety of exercise goals: aerobic, weight loss, endurance or performance.

2 CoolAire™ Workout Fans

    This built-in, two-speed fan creates air currents from 4 to 6 MPH, the ideal range for body cooling, so you'll stay comfortable and cool throughout your workout.

CardioTrack Heart Rate Monitor

    Just grip the convenient sensors built into the handlebars for an accurate pulse reading. Or use the convenient chest sensor for hands-free pulse monitoring.

iFIT® Compatible

    Instead of going to the gym, what if the workout and personal trainer came to you? iFIT.com® combines the benefits of a health club with the comfort and convenience of exercising at home. iFIT.com® provides programmed workouts via the Internet, compact discs or video that actually control the speed and intensity of your fitness equipment. You get targeted workouts, motivational personal coaching and music. Each workout is designed by a personal trainer. iFIT.com® compatible means your fitness equipment can run optional iFIT.com® workouts in addition to the workouts built-in to your console. All iFIT.com® compatible NordicTrack fitness equipment features the iFIT.com® symbol. iFIT.com® is an excellent resource for fitness. You can learn about nutrition, take the iFIT® Age test and more. Just visit workout.iFIT.com today.


    The NordicTrack Incline Trainer features a limited lifetime warranty. It offers a lifetime warranty on the motor, plus a 1-year warranty on all parts and in-home labor charges. For further coverage, extended warranties are also available.

Durasoft Impact Absorbtion System

    Reduce impact on your joints by up to 28%, as compared to road running, with this superior absorption system that delivers the perfect balance of exercise comfort and joint protection. Walking or running on pavement can wreak havoc to joints, often causing pain or injury. NordicTrack's DuraSoft™ Cushioning helps protect the important connective tissues of your ankles, knees and hip joints. Durable isolator cushioning absorbs impact as your foot makes contact with the treadbelt, resulting in added protection and workout comfort.

Adjustable Resistance Cardio Cables

    Strengthen your arms, shoulders, back and abs while increasing cardio workout efficiency with upper-body exercise cables featuring Digital Resistance Control. Use up to eight different cable resistance settings for a smooth, natural motion.

Yoga and Pilates - iFIT Pilates Cord Kit

Pilates Guidebook
This guidebook stores your CD workouts and acts as a portable guide for the 10 Pilates cord exercises demonstrated in the video. Use it as a convenient reference during your workout.

Pilates Instructional Video
A certified Pilates instructor demonstrates and explains 10 Pilates cord exercises, guiding you through the disciplines of each position, proper breathing techniques and correct use of your Pilates cord.

3 Pilates Cords
You'll be able to tone and strengthen your body without stressing joints. Three cords provide varying resistance levels so you always enjoy a challenging workout.

Workout CD
Your Pilates workout CD includes a 20-minute cord workout which features step-by-step guidance from a certified Pilates instructor. Relaxing music and the sounds of nature help to provide a calming workout environment.

 

Stair Stepper - NordicTrack MTN 740

The pinnacle of home fitness equipment.

There's never been a better exercise for toning and shaping buns, thighs and calves. With the NordicTrack MTN 740 stepper, you'll get a killer cardio workout, complete with adjustable resistance, CardioGrip™ Pulse Sensors, Competitor™ control panel and more. All with the comfort of a built-in CoolAire™ fan to keep you comfortable.

 Special Features:

iFIT® Compatible

    Instead of going to the gym, what if the workout and personal trainer came to you? iFIT.com® combines the benefits of a health club with the comfort and convenience of exercising at home. iFIT.com® provides programmed workouts via the Internet, compact discs or video that actually control the speed and intensity of your fitness equipment. You get targeted workouts, motivational personal coaching and music. Each workout is designed by a personal trainer. iFIT.com® compatible means your fitness equipment can run optional iFIT.com® workouts in addition to the workouts built-in to your console. All iFIT.com® compatible NordicTrack fitness equipment features the iFIT.com® symbol. iFIT.com® is an excellent resource for fitness. You can learn about nutrition, take the iFIT® Age test and more. Just visit workout.iFIT.com today.

Competitor™ Workout Console
4 Built-In Workout Programs
CoolAire™ Workout Fan

    Introducing the exercise feature that's like a breath of fresh air. With one or two onboard CoolAire fans, keeping your cool is easier than ever. Feel the CoolAire.

Ergonomic Handlebars
Adjustable SMR™ Resistance

    This smooth, frictionless resistance system allows you to adjust your workout intensity without interrupting your workout. Choose from ten intensity levels to target specific workout and conditioning goals.

CardioGrip™ Pulse Sensors

    Now you can discover how easy it is to get one of the most effective and efficient workouts possible. With the CardioGrip™ technology, all you do is grip the handrail to monitor your heart rate. It's that simple. No attachments or wires to get in the way. The built-in CardioGrip™ grip pulse sensor is one of the easiest, most-convenient methods to monitoring your heart rate. It's well known that heart-rate training makes your workout more effective. This is more popularly known as working out in your "target heart-rate zone." When you stay in this zone, you can get a more effective workout in less time. As a result, you can burn fat and speed weight loss, improve your cardiovascular health and promote athletic performance. Some NordicTrack treadmills also feature built-in "pulse-driven" programs. These programs actually respond to your heart rate while you work out, delivering another pulse training optio

Bench - NordicTrack E6900 Competition Series™

 The perfect bench for any home.

The perfect bench for any home, the NordicTrack E6900 Competition Series™ offers Olympic-level training, in a sleek, stylish design that's easy enough for anyone to use. With more customization features than you can shake a stick at, the E6900 offers a multi-position bench, a sliding, adjustable seat, a detachable curl yoke and adjustable weight crutches, and safety spotters, giving you the perfect workout environment no matter your size or fitness level. The E6900 also offers a walk-in squat station, a premium, 6-roll leg developer, a large, rolled preacher pad and weight plate storage.


 Special Features:

Olympic Multi-Position Bench

    With a built-in 90-degree range, the multi-position, this stylish bench can be adjusted to an incline, decline or level position quickly and easily.
Adjustable Weight Crutches

    Quickly change the height of the E6900s extra-durable weight crutches, keeping your weights in the perfect position for maximum workout results.

Walk-In Squat Station

    Better isolate your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves with this innovative, walk-in squat station.
Adjustable Safety Spotters

    Designed to assist you while working out, these adjustable safety spotters prevent unnecessary injury and can be moved to fit your individual workout needs.

Sliding Adjustable Seat with Chrome

    Not only can you adjust the angle of the seat, but you can slide the seat back and forth depending on what station you want to use.
6-Roll Leg Developer

    Built for comfort, this effective 6-roll leg developer helps you build and develop strong quads, hamstrings, glutes and hip-flexors.
Rolled Preacher Pad

    Better target your biceps and forearms, while ensuring proper exercise form with this preacher pad that's been rolled at the top for increased comfort.
Detachable Curl Yoke

    Attach this curl yoke to develop a stronger, more defined upper body and then quickly remove it when you're ready to switch gears and work out on the leg developer station.
Sewn Vinyl Seats

    Designed to compliment your home decor, these sewn seats are more comfortable and last longer than plain vinyl that's just been stretched and stapled on.
Exercise Chart

    Learn which exercises focus on what muscle groups and how to perform each exercise most effectively with this step-by-step exercise chart.

Bike - NordicTrack Commercial 400

Just Like Exercising At The Gym

Enjoy a gym-quality workout with this incredibly well-built bike that boasts incredibly smooth operation and commercial quality features. In addition to the commercial construction, it features the Interplay™ Music Port which allows you to plug in your iPod* or MP3 player and listen to your own music as you exercise. It also comes with 30 different workouts, all created by a Certified Personal Trainer, designed to help you burn calories, tone muscle and lose weight.


Special Features:

ClearView™ Backlit Console

    Perfectly clear and easy to read, the ClearView™ display has a large viewing angle so no matter how tall or short you are, you can always keep track of your workout progress. It displays your time, speed, distance, resistance, pulse, RPM, carbs burned and calories burned.

1-Touch Resistance™

    Instantly adjust your resistance at any time during your workout with the touch of a single button instead of having to scroll through options.
Club Design CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor

    Make the most out of every workout by monitoring your heart rate with these sensors that are built into the handlebars to ensure you are in the right training zone for your goals.
30 Personal Trainer Workouts

    The Commercial 400 comes with 30 different Personal Trainer workouts that automatically adjust the resistance of the bike to focus on aerobic, weight loss, and performance goals.

Compact Recumbent Frame

    More comfortable and easier to get on and off of, this recumbent bike provides plenty of back support.
1-Year Parts and Labor

    As if the lifetime frame warranty wasn't enough, the Commercial 400 also comes with a 1-year parts and labor warranty.

CoolAire™ Workout Fan

    To help you work out longer and more comfortably, this elliptical has a workout fan built right into the console.
350-lb. User Capacity

    This heavy-duty elliptical is capable of accommodating weights of 350 lbs.
Footprint

    18" Wide x 59" Long x 28" High

Adjustable Seat

    This plush bike seat is designed like a chair with a supportive cushioned back and bottom that can be adjusted for the perfect fit.
Interplay™ Music Port

    The Interplay™ music port allows you to connect your iPod®* (and most MP3 players) so you can listen to your own music through the built-in speakers as you exercise.

    *iPod® not included
Commercial Operation

    With a heavy-duty steel frame, traction-control pedals, balanced flywheel, incredibly strong resistance system and more, this bike gives you a commercial gym workout at an affordable home price.

Elliptical - NordicTrack ASR 1000

Special Features:

ClearView™ Backlit Console

    Perfectly clear and easy to read, the ClearView™ display has a large viewing angle so no matter how tall or short you are, you can always keep track of your workout progress. It displays your time, speed, distance, resistance, pulse and calories burned.
SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance

    This smooth, frictionless resistance system allows you to adjust your workout intensity without interrupting your workout. Choose from twenty resistance levels to target specific workout and conditioning goals.
Club Design CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor

    Make the most out of every workout by monitoring your heart rate with these sensors that are built into the handlebars to ensure you are in the right training zone for your goals.

20 Personal Trainer Workouts, 2 Weight Loss Workouts

    The ASR 1000 comes with 20 Personal Trainer workouts that automatically adjust the resistance of the elliptical to focus on aerobic, weight loss, and performance goals. It also includes 2 Weight Loss workouts that help you burn the maximum calories in the least amount of time.

iFIT® Workout Card Technology

    Lose weight, feel great and improve performance in just 8-weeks with ifit® interactive workout card technology! Each card is designed by a Certified Personal Trainer and plugs directly into the elliptical's console, automatically adjusting your speed, while the voice of a personal trainer takes you through each workout. ifit® workout cards are available in Wellness and Weight Loss categories to give you the most advanced, interactive and result-specific fitness options.
      ** ifit workout cards are sold separately.

18" Stride Length

    Really work your muscles with the long 18" stride length that gives you a fuller range of motion.
Upper-Body Workout Arms With Soft Touch Grips

    Burn more calories and add muscle tone with the upper-body arms that provide a great total-body workout and increased cardio benefits.

Interplay™ Universal iPod® Dock

    Now you can plug in, charge and play your iPod* ® or virtually any MP3 player-while listening to your favorite music through 2 premium speakers.
      * iPod is a trademark of Apple, Inc., registered in the US and other countries. iPod® not included.
300-lb. User Capacity

    This heavy-duty elliptical is capable of accommodating 300 lbs, thus demonstrating it is as strong as it looks.
Commercial Grade Construction

    Get a gym-quality workout with a commercial-gauge steel frame, traction-control pedals, enhanced flywheel and more.
Digital Resistance

    Digital resistance allows you to adjust your workout resistance for increased calorie burn and higher intensity. It also works together with the Personal Trainer™ workouts to automatically control your resistance for great results.
Footprint

    31" Wide x 76" Long x 58" High

4 Game & Train™ Interactive Video Games & Touch Screen Technology

    Add excitement to your workout with Calorie Destroyer™, Fat Blocker™, Black Jack and Texas Hold 'Em. The harder you work, the easier the game becomes.

30° StrideMax™ Power Incline™ Ramp

    Your trouble spots have met their match. Get faster, better results with this ramp that hits grades of up to 30°, allowing you improve muscle activity for better results.

Treadmill - NordicTrack Elite 7000T

Product Specs:

DuraSoft Advanced™ Adjustable Cushioning

    Reduce impact by up to 33%, as compared to road running, with this full-length, adjustable cushioning system. Now, with virtually limitless settings, it's easier than ever to select the perfect cushioning for you. Whether you want a firmer, street-running feel, a softer, beach-like feel or anywhere in between, only DuraSoft Advanced™ Adjustable Cushioning lets you choose your own cushioning level.
Polar® Wireless Heart Rate Telemetry

    Track your heart rate hands-free with Polar® wireless telemetry, providing accurate heart rate readings via contact sensors. There are also two hand-grip sensors that are conveniently built into the treadmill's handlebars.

Workout Intensity Meter

    Stay on target and reach your workout goals with this built-in intensity meter, which uses your personal information, combined with the speed and incline of your treadmill, to determine your workout's level of intensity-displaying the results in a simple, multi-colored light meter.


DurX™ 2.5 HP Commercial Drive Motor

    The commercial-grade DurX™ motor allows you to exercise for longer periods of time, while maintaining smooth, consistent operation. Employing an internal fan, this motor reduces noise as it cools internal components and extends the motor's life. It is built for and will sustain runners. Bottom line: it's a premium, powerful motor that will exceed your expectations whether you run, jog or walk.
20" x 60" Commercial Treadbelt

    This heavy-duty, 2-ply commercial-grade treadmill belt is designed to operate more quietly than a normal treadbelt-giving you commercial quality that's perfect for the home. You'll find a phenolic coating on the 3/4" running deck that helps the belt slide for a quiet smooth workout. You won't be disappointed.
0-12 MPH 1-Touch™ Speed

    With a speed range of 0-12 MPH, this treadmill feature allows you to instantly adjust your speed up or down in 1 mph increments. If you are a runner, and know that 7.6 mph is just under a 7 min. mile, you can also scroll through mph by .1 mph.
0% to 12% 1-Touch™ Incline

    Tired of running, but still want a calorie burning, intense workout? Increase your incline! By increasing your incline, you burn calories at a faster rate and also reduce impact on your joints. This treadmill has a 12% incline capability that can be adjusted instantly with the single touch of a button. You'll be amazed at the calorie burning effects of an incline workout.
2.5" Precision Rollers

    Better than the standard roller, these precision-machined rollers reduce noise and help the treadmill operate smoothly and quietly. They are heavy-duty steel rollers, not aluminum. And, being as close to perfeclty round as is possible, these rollers provide you with a smooth and quiet workout.

350 LB. Weight Capacity

    Now able to accommodate weights up to 350 lbs., this sturdy new deck is our strongest to date and can withstand the heaviest of use.

Dimensions:

    Unfolded - 77" Long x 36" Wide x 56" High
    Folded - 52" Long x 36" Wide x 56" High

Special Features:

20 Personal Training, 2 Create & Save™ Workouts

    20 personal trainer workouts automatically adjust the incline and speed of your treadmill, each focusing on an aerobic, weight-loss or performance goal. 2 Create & Save™ workouts give you the ability to create and customize a workout and then save it for future use.
ifit® Workout Card Technology

    Simply insert an iFIT card and let our personal trainers do the rest. It really is like having a personal trainer right in your home. You'll be coached by the personal trainer's voice and your treadmill will be controlled for you.

iPod® Compatible Music Port with Speakers

    Motivated by music? Listen to your iPod or mp3 player through our Interplay premium sound speakers. The port is also equipped with a shelf that is great for storing your iPod.
      *iPod is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. iPod sold separately.
Intermix Acoustics™ Sound System

    Discover the ultimate listening experience with Intermix Acoustics™. Integrated into the treadmill's console, this premium sound system combines high-end speaker and subwoofer components to give you the best in crystal-clear sound quality.

Grafixx™ Hi-Resolution Display

    Now, you can see your preferred workout information, such as calories, distance or elapsed time, at nearly 2" tall. This console can also visually display your heart beat or an animated figure walking, jogging or running through your workout with you. The Grafixx display also tracks your speed, time, distance, pulse and calories burned, plus allows you to choose which workout reading appears in the main display-giving you the information you want, when you want it.

CoolAire™ Workout Fan

    When we do customer reviews we are surprised to find out that one of the favorite features on our NordicTrack exercise equipment is the CoolAire Fan. You'll stay cool while you workout, allowing you to workout longer and reach your goals faster. It's built right into the console and has two speeds for your comfort.

Space SaverAirLight™ Shock with Self-Locking Latch

    This SpaceSaver® treadmill features an AirLight™ shock and a self-locking latch, making folding and unfolding your treadmill easier than ever before.

Converted home gyms get a workout

Four evenings a week for almost two hours, power lifter Bob Packer puts his body through a rigorous routine of strength training. There are no lines to use equipment, no monthly membership fees and no commute time.

Packer, 59, is one of a growing number of Americans choosing to work out at home. According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturing Association, between 2000 and 2006 there was about a 30 percent increase in the number of people who exercised at home, primarily due to aging baby boomers concerned about their health.

Packer converted a two- car garage into a hard-core strength-training gym when he moved to his Clovis, Calif., home a year-and-a-half ago. His $20,000 worth of equipment includes an eight-station machine with two weight stacks, 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of free weights, an assisted chin dip, bench press, squat rack and power cage. There also is carpet and a few wall mirrors. Packer trains in his gym with fellow power lifters.

"I like it because there are no distractions," says Packer, who is co-owner a fitness equipment shop in Fresno, Calif.

According to Kevin Mulligan, a partner and president of Image Homes, which builds homes in central California, rooms designed specifically for fitness have become a trend in the last five years. Image Homes offers a 15-by-15-foot bonus room option, which Mulligan says owners typically want to use for a gym or theater.

Features such as ballet barres, wall mirrors, electrical outlets closer to the ceiling for wall-mounted televisions and floor plugs for cardio machines are added to the fitness rooms.

"Bonus rooms are a huge seller in houses," Mulligan says. "The gyms are more popular than the theater room. People are into fitness."

According to the National Association of Home Builders, one-third of new and potential home buyers list a home exercise room as essential or desirable; these rank third behind offices and theaters as the most popular special-function room. Anthony Gamber, president of the Fresno Association of Realtors, says bonus rooms bump up the appeal of properties because people can choose what to use them for.

Henry Rodriguez, owner of Better Body Home Fitness in Fresno, says benefits of a home fitness room include convenience and a controlled environment.

"It's right there. There are no excuses for not working out other than being lazy," he says. "You set the air conditioning, the television and the music."

Mulligan, 53, works out four to five times a week in his home gym, a 10-by-12-foot space he added when he remodeled his tri-level Fresno home about five years ago; it sits off the garage on the lower level. Mulligan has about $4,000 worth of equipment, including a treadmill, elliptical machine, bench press, dumbbells, fitness bands and a television. Mulligan's wife, Jode, and children, Patrick, 23, Jenny, 22, and Kelly, 20, also use the room.

"It's convenient. It's quiet. It's private," says Kevin Mulligan, who belongs to gym and a country club, but prefers exercising at home. "It's my own little safe house to go to where no one bothers me."

There can be a drawback to exercising at home, says Derek Pennington, 21, who works at Busy Body Home Fitness in Fresno. "If you lack discipline, you can find ways to distract yourself," such as the couch or the refrigerator, he says.

Family also can be a distraction, Packer says, and they must understand that workout time is sacred. "This is your time. And it has to be a habit, not just something you do as a whim," he says.

Packer has seen about a 20 percent increase in the sale of home fitness equipment over the last five years.

Equipment costs vary depending on durability, warranties and options. It can be as simple as spending $25 for a jump-rope and strength-training exercise bands, Rodriguez says.

Or it can run more than $20,000 for a multistation weight machine, several pieces of cardio equipment and free weights. Rodriguez once outfitted a $36,000 room that included top-of-the-line cardio and strength training equipment, chrome dumbbells and orthopedically designed weight bars. But the average cost of equipment for a good home workout room, with a piece of cardio equipment and a weight machine, is around $2,000, Rodriguez says.

Packer recommends buying more than one piece of equipment. "Any type of exercise is better than nothing, but the fewer things you have at your convenience the more likely you are to get bored and stop doing it," he says. "Variety is a good thing when it comes to fitness."

However, there are several things to consider before buying any equipment.

"I always ask the customer: 'Who? What? Where?'" Rodriguez says.

"Who will use the equipment? What is it going to be used for? What are your goals? Are they weight loss, strength training, well-being? And where is it going to go? You need to make sure it fits in the space you have."

-dailyherald

Wii as a Weight-Loss Machine

When Publisher Tom Donnelly bought a Nintendo Wii for his – ahem – children, he and I spent an afternoon breaking it in over several competitive virtual tennis matches. Sweating in his living room, swinging the motion-sensitive controllers wildly, another co-worker filmed the duel to prove how absurd two grow men could look – or, maybe, to frame us one day. Now the company is rolling out Wii Fit, another way to trick gamers into exercising. But this time, it may not work.

Wii Fit will begin arriving in U.S. stores over the next few months. It includes a weight-and-motion sensing device called the Wii Balance Board. According to the Guardian, “Once stepped on, this board calculates a player’s bodymass index based on their weight, height and age. The player then carries out a few basic balance exercises on the board to gauge their rough level of fitness.”

Apparently, 1 million Wii Fits have already sold in Japan. But I’m leery of the device maintaining its early surge. After all, the Hawaii Chair, with the slogan, “If you sit, you can get fit” enjoyed some early popularity before being deemed the worst workout machine ever. Chuck Norris’s Total Gym also appears to be fading in popularity. Norris, understandably, has been too busy stumping for presidential candidate Mike Huckabee to plug his product.

Why the original Wii is so effective is because when you use one you forget you’re working out. In fact, when the consoles were first released, gamers – new at exerting so much energy – would throw their controllers through televisions, lamps and windows. The Wii worked because it tricked the sedentary into burning calories. The Fit is being marketed as a fitness machine.

For hardcore gamers, ignorance is bliss. And good trickery is the only way to get many of them off the couch.

-Beacon

New 2008 Europlate Vibration Exercise Machine Launched from Fitness Equipment Manufacturer VibraSlim

VibraSlim Fitness Equipment has launched their new 2008 Europlate vibration exercise fitness machine. The new Europlate has a completely new advanced design and fitness functions. The new Europlate now features surgical rubber exercise straps that greatly improve upper body training results. VibraSlim over the past four years has become the number one name in vibration exercise equipment by producing the highest quality fitness equipment and still making their units affordable. VibraSlim provides vibration plate equipment to doctors, hospitals, clinics, spas, gyms, trainers, professional athletes and everyday people.


Vibration training, which originated in Europe, has been gaining momentum and being integrated into daily routines by top universities, NFL teams, medical centers, gyms and celebrities alike for the past four years in the USA. This advanced technology allows you to burn fat and cellulite, increases Human Growth Hormone, build muscle strength, increase metabolism, build bone density, and improve flexibility. Vibration training has been adopted by users of all ages and health levels because it is a very flexible and enjoyable way to get in shape. Whether you are in top shape, haven't workout out in years or need therapy for an injury or disability, vibration exercise can help in ways traditional exercise can not.



How Does Vibrating Training Work

Whole Body Vibration uses the application of variable vibrating frequencies on the entire body's muscular, skeletal, organ, glandular and nervous systems. These vibrations range from 1 hertz to as high as 45 hertz depending on the type of vibration machine used. These vibration frequencies have various effects on body functions. Typically in Whole Body Vibration, lower frequencies are very effective for strength training, warming up and cooling down while higher frequencies are usually used for massage and increasing blood circulation to peripheral body tissues. Whole Body Vibrations are created by a mechanically vibrating platform and transmitted up the body through the feet or hands which are in contact with the vibrating plate. The body automatically adjusts to these mechanical stimuli by responding with a stretch reflex. This stretch reflex that occurs in the muscles is actually a reflexive adjustment that is occurring in the brain. Consequently, Whole Body Vibration causes the brain to train in a way that induces a neuro-regenerative effect. In other words, the brain is rejuvenated and restored to a healthier state of function.

Gazelle Exercise Equipment - Exercise Equipment Reviews

Read this article from Lisa Mills


If you watch TV at all them you have most likely seen Tony Little and the FitnessQuest Gazelle exercise equipment. Recently, a very good friend of mine bought this exercise machine and offered to let me try it out. I quickly took him up on the offer and want to give you my thoughts on the experience.

At first glance, the FitnessQuest Gazelle looks lightweight and easy to use. In fact, it weighs a little over 45 pounds and is well built. One thing I immediately noticed was that it does take up some room. Since the handle bars go forward and the foot platform goes back you need some extra room for clearance.

Since this was my friend's exercise equipment and not mine I can't say how easy or difficult it is to put together. From looking it over and listening to him tell me it took a little less than 30 minutes to assemble; I would tend to agree completely. There are full instructions included and it only requires a wrench and screwdriver to assemble.

The Gazelle also comes with a video that includes workout instructions that is put together nicely. I would definitely recommend watching it before doing anything with the equipment.

Gazelle Exercise Equipment

Now, it was time to give it the ultimate test and use the equipment myself. Getting on was simple enough for me because I have used ellipticals for years, but for someone who has never used this type of fitness equipment before, it may be a little tricky at first. But, there is no doubt that even a first-timer can quickly get the hang of it and get a good workout.

The Gazelle exercise equipment includes an onboard computer that gives you the standard information such as speed, distance, elapsed time, calorie counter, odometer and a pulse rate monitor. This is really everything you could need to monitor. This is really everything you could need to monitor your workout level and it all works quite well on the Gazelle.


Using the machine was a breeze. It lets you have an extremely low impact workout that is so easy on your joints. Unlike jogging or using a treadmill, the Gazelle puts no stress on your knees and ankles. That's a real plus for so many people who suffer with joint issues.

The other thing I noticed was how you could either give your arms a workout or you could let them rest while you exercise. By leaning forward or backward you can use more of your muscles in your arms.

The Gazelle recommends a 20 minute workout 3 times a week for optimal results. I had no trouble with putting in 20 minutes on this particular machine and I would say that even for those who are not in great shape can do 1- minutes without too much difficulty. You can then build up from there.

Pros

Low impact - About the lowest impact fitness equipment made

Easy to use - No spending hours trying to figure out how to use it

Good all-around workout

Affordable - The Gazelle is priced around $200 so it is very affordable.

Cons

Give yourself some space for it in your home

Difficult to store under some beds that sit too low

Bottom Line

The FitnessQuest Gazelle exercise equipment is very affordable, easy to use, and gives you a very low impact workout. Although it is not perfect, I would say that the overall quality, value and workout you get with it make it a very good option for anyone looking for home exercise equipment.

Cardio Exercise Equipment - How To Find The Right Equipment

Another nice article from Ricky Hussey

So, you have made the decision to begin an exercise routine and get yourself in shape by utilizing cardio exercise equipment? That is great news, but understanding some of the different types of cardio equipment and which ones are right for you can be difficult at times. Here are some tips to be aware of.

Cardio exercise is a great way to boost your heart health, while also burning off the fat by raising your heart rate.

When it comes to home cardio exercise equipment you have a lot of options to choose from including:

Treadmills

A treadmill will probably be everyone's best choice in home exercise equipment. For cardio workouts a treadmill is not only easy to use, but it gives you a great workout. You can choose your own speed and incline as well as length of time. In addition, a treadmill will also show you how many calories you have burned.

For most people, the biggest obstacle they face is knowing which kind of treadmill to buy. You see everything from a WalMart brand for $300 up to a professional machine for $10,000.

The best divorce is to set a budget and then begin to do some comparison shopping. Look for models with a 1-2 HP motor, wide belt and a good warranty. You can find some reviews of various treadmills on our website.

Treadmills are great because you can use them any time of the day or night. You are not concerned with bad weather or if the gym is open or closed.

Elliptical Trainers

An elliptical trainer is another great piece of cardio exercise equipment. Their low impact workout provides an excellent way to get your heart rate up, while also burning fat.

Like the treadmill, an elliptical trainer allows you to choose the level of workout routine that you desire.

You will find reviews of various ellipticals on our site.

Stationary Bike

This is yet another good piece of cardio exercise equipment. Although many people may think this type of fitness equipment has passed its prime, the truth is just the opposite.

Today's stationary bikes are complete with pre-programmed cardio workouts, cooling fans and even high-tech video routines. With their low impact and user friendly features, a stationary bike is an excellent way to get a good cardio workout.

Steppers or Climbing Machines

Though not as popular as treadmills or ellipticals, step machines are quite good at giving you a cardio workout. They can easily be programmed to give you a workout routine on any level.

As you can see, you have many options when it comes to cardio exercise equipment. Before you decide on purchasing one, try them out and be sure you enjoy using it. This way you will enjoy yourself and have fun during your workouts.

Strength And Stamina Exercise Equipment

Very nice article from Ricky Hussey

The best strength building and stamina exercise equipment is a little easier than cardio equipment. In many cases, strength training will help maintain cardio as well.

Strength building and stamina exercise equipment can include weight machines, Bowflex machines, free weights and a few other methods as well.

Free Weights

Free weights are arguably the best way to increase muscle mass and build strength. Weights can be used on their own or with dumbbells and barbells.

Free weights allow you to focus on building strength and stamina in separate areas of your body.

Weight Machines

Weight machines are another popular way of increasing strength. They have a few advantages over free weights in that they are much easier to use, do not require a spotter and are safer to use.

Weight machines have a pin that you place in the weight stack that allows you to select the amount of weight that is right for you.

Other Strength And Stamina Equipment

When it comes to building strength and stamina, exercise equipment is not the only way to do it. Pull up bars can build biceps and triceps as well as any piece of equipment. Even simple push ups will increase strength.

Bowflex

Resistance exercise equipment such as Bowflex is also very good at building strength. It provides a very quick, efficient workout without weights. You can read much more about Bowflex elsewhere on our website.

You will find all types of strength and stamina exercise equipment at any gym or fitness center exercise equipment at any gym or fitness center. Just make sure that you know how to use any piece of equipment first before jumping in and trying it out.

"What is the best home exercise equipment?"

Read this article..

It's easy to understand with so many different choices being available to us. This article will help you with an overview of the more common equipment options.

Before you get started searching for home exercise equipment you may want to consider a couple of important points first.

1. What is your budget for home fitness equipment?

2. What is your current fitness level and what do you want to accomplish in the future?

Why are these questions important? Well, your budget is for obvious reasons, but enjoying the home exercise equipment is very important as well. For example, let's say you are in good shape now and want to add additional muscle mass. You wouldn't want an elliptical trainer for that. A Bowflex system would be a better choice.

With that in mind, let's take a quick look at some of your options.

Treadmills

A treadmill is one of the most popular and best home exercise equipment options around. It's ideal for cardio as well as weight loss and comes in all price ranges. You can also find some great deals on used treadmills as well. Be sure any treadmill has a wide belt, an incline setting, and a good warranty.

Elliptical Trainers

The elliptical trainer is fast approaching and in many cases, surpassing the popularity of treadmills. With their low-impact workout routines it's easy to see why.

You control the intensity level and can easily adjust the levels of resistance. Like treadmills, elliptical trainers vary in price. Look for a good machine with a warranty.

Stationary Bike

Though this home exercise equipment option is not as popular as it once was, it is still a good choice.

You can find high end stationary bikes with built-in cooling fans as well as state of the art riding programs with video screens. It's like you are a part of the Tour De France.

Steppers

If you want something for cardio work, a step machine may be your best home exercise equipment option. They are also great for your lower body.

Bowflex

If building muscle mass is what you desire then you can't go wrong with a Bowflex machine. You can several different models that all offer superior resistance training and muscle building. There are also some excellent deals to be found on used Bowflex equipment as well.

Free Weights

The oldest form of home fitness and exercise there is. Free weights are an inexpensive home fitness option that will quickly build muscle mass and get you in shape. For many people, free weights and a weight bench are the single best home exercise equipment option.

Regardless of which type of exercise equipment you choose, the key to getting any kind of results will always be in using it on a regular basis. By choosing the equipment that is in your budget and that you truly enjoy using, you will get the results you're seeking and have some fun at the same time.