If you are trying to build your own home gym, cardio machines are essential. They promote heart health and cardiovascular fitness. They can also help you to increase your stamina and provide a cross-training workout to supplement your weight training routine.
The type of cardio machine that you will most commonly find in a home gym is an electric treadmill. Treadmills can be used by all individuals in your family, regardless of fitness level or age. With preset and customizable workouts, speed adjustments, and incline you can vary your routine and increase the intensity at your own pace.
Cross-trainers or ellipticals are also a popular addition to your home gym. Just like a treadmill, an elliptical is made to replicate the movement of actual walking or jogging. However, an elliptical trainer will provide a lower impact, but total body workout. The movable arm handles on an elliptical allow you to target muscles in both your upper and lower body, providing an overall higher calorie burn according to some accounts. There is a long standing debate on whether a treadmill or elliptical can provide the better workout.
The final type of cardio machine that you should consider is the bike. Stationary bikes also provide heart health benefits, with a lower impact workout. Another benefit is the fact that these machines are not weight-bearing. They can be used to continue your workout routine even on your rest days or when you need a light workout to rehab and injury or muscle strain. The adjustable resistance levels allow you to workout at your own intensity level.
There are numerous places to find the right home gym machines for your home and budget. It is important for you to research your options and even try out the specific machines before making a purchase. Go to a local store to try out a piece of equipment, and then comparison shop online and in your local classifieds to find the best deal.
