Fitness Gear that Works

The health and fitness market is filled with a wide array of fitness products and equipment priced from moderate to outrageously expensive, the choices are endless. The promises are endless as well, but which products really work? And if the products work (at all) can you really get all of the amazing results they present (with their glamorous, incredibly fit models) from a single piece of equipment?

Well, if you consider the complexities of the human body and add in a little common sense, the answer to that last question is "no, you can't get all of that from a single piece of equipment!" Truly getting in shape, and looking like you stepped out of a fitness magazine involves working many parts of the body and many different muscle groups. One machine won't get that done.

Even if you don't want to look like you stepped off the cover of a fitness magazine, but merely want to be trimmer and healthier, you need a well rounded fitness routine. You'll get much better results using various pieces of fitness gear and intermingling your exercise routine with more manual methods such as free weights, fitness balls and the lowly jump rope.

Regardless of your fitness goals, you work hard for your money so when you make a commitment to your personal fitness and well being, and decide to spend some of that money, you want to invest in equipment that works!

Here are a few of the fitness products most frequently recommended by independent fitness trainers and equipment that we at Zuko.com have in our studios that we use . . . and know to work!

Cardiovascular health + Stamina + Energy + Weight loss and control =
The Elliptical Trainer

Elliptical Crosstrainers

When it comes to a great aerobic workout there's nothing that 'kicks your tail' quite like an elliptical trainer (also called a crosstrainer).

Condition on one of these for a few weeks and you will be totally amazed at your much improved stamina. You're also going to be impressed with the weight loss.

This is an outstanding piece of equipment for achieving weight loss!

An elliptical trainer is a stationary machine that simulates walking or running. One of the biggest benefits of an elliptical trainer is that they generate very low impact on joints and other body parts like hips, knees, ankles, and feet. The minimized pressure on the joints greatly reduces the risk of impact injuries. This characteristic also makes the elliptical trainer a great machine for those who have experienced and recovered from such injuries. It greatly lowers the risk of re-injury while giving that person a safer way to continue exercising.

In addition, the elliptical trainer offers a superior cardiovascular workout that can be mechanically varied from low to high intensity. The low impact of the elliptical trainer contributes to a sense that the workout is easier than other forms of aerobic activity and thus encourages longer and more vigorous workouts.

The elliptical is clearly our favorite piece of equipment. We know first hand that they work, and work well! We have two in our gym, and our hands down favorite is the Precore EFX5.17i. Our favorite feature is the computer controlled ramp that varies the walking/running resistance throughout the selected routine (there are 4 programs and 20 different resistance levels).

Admittedly, one of the good elliptical trainers will set you back a few bucks but they are well worth the investment. An elliptical trainer like this is a great all around piece of gear that produces a better workout than a treadmill, stationary bike or a stairclimber. An elliptical trainer provides the benefits of several pieces of equipment all in one package.

Strength + Muscle tone + Weight control =
Resistance Trainer

Bowflex resistance trainer

A good resistance trainer has a lot going for it in the realm of well appointed home gyms. Generally, they have all the features required to give you a pretty good full body workout.

These machines are versatile enough to be reconfigured for a variety of muscle isolating workouts to focus on lats, lower back, biceps, etc.. In addition to strength training, many resistance trainers can be configured to function as rowing machines to achieve some cardiovascular benefit.

In our gym we have a BowFlex Sport with a few add-ons. While not their top of the line model, it does work quite well. Yes, we must admit, they do advertise heavily and relentlessly but their products do really work. The much touted "BowFlex guns" can be a reality if you use the equipment on a regular basis.

In looking at a resistance trainer look for one that can be reconfigured for a variety of exercises. The BowFlex we have can be set up for over 60 exercises and it doesn't take up all that much space. Our model tops out at 210 lbs of resistance, but that seems to be more than adequate for most people.

With any resistance trainer keep in mind that you are also going to want to balance your routine. You'll want to add some free-weight work, some aerobic activity, and some core development to protect yourself from injury to the lesser muscle groups. We recommend Pilates for core muscle development..

One of the best things about a resistance trainer is its silence. Yes, that means that no moron can slam the weights to the floor. As any professional trainer will tell you, slamming the weights to the floor, is bad form and it's kinda' like loudly proclaiming "I can't handle the weight!"

by: Dr. Von Zuko 2008�