We are constantly being advised by health experts that our lives are becoming too sedentary and so running machines and treadmills are becoming the most popular piece of exercise equipment for the home, as they can provide an excellent cardiovascular workout and burn up lots of calories. If you’re thinking of buying one here’s some of the options to consider:

Manual or Electric Treadmills
This is the first thing to think about. Manual ones are driven by the action of the user’s feet driving the belt. They can put considerable strain on knee and hip joints and are not really recommended by most fitness professionals. Electric ones are powered by a motor attached to the belt and are the only real option for anyone thinking of keeping fit this way.

Running or Walking
Which of these you are likely to be doing, will help to determine the size and speed of machine that you should buy; If you’re planning on running then a deck of least seven feet long and three feet wide is best as anything else will be too restrictive, frustrating and potentially dangerous. If you’ll be walking then you can opt for a shorter deck although this obviously limits your options. Running needs a machine capable of speeds of between 8-12 miles per hour and walking about 5 miles per hour.

Cushioning
A really important consideration both for comfort and the safety to your joints. Machines with hard decks can damage your joints over time and will not be very comfortable to use so opt for the best cushioning that your budget will allow. Users that are overweight are especially advised to go for cushioned decks.

Weight Capacity
Check this carefully as it will often be an indicator of a machines overall robustness. If you can, choose a model that could be used by someone that is heavier than you actually are – this means that you will end up with a machine that’s sturdier and so needs less maintenance.

Motors
The quality of the motor plays a very important role in the overall strength, reliability and smoothness of the machine so is worth looking at closely.

Continuous Duty and Peak Duty Motors
Continuous Duty means how much horsepower can be delivered at all times regardless of the user’s weight, whereas Peak Duty means how much can be delivered under optimum conditions (in other words, weightless). When considering which model to buy look for those which will give at least 1.75 Continuous Duty as anything less is really only suitable for very occasional use.

Horsepower and Torque
Horsepower ratings are typically about 2-3 HP, but this in itself does not give a full picture of the machines capabilities so consider Torque also. This represents the strength of the drive train (the components which deliver power from the motor to the belt). A high horse power rating does not always mean a high torque rating; a lower rated horse power motor may develop more torque than a higher rated motor due to the unique design of the drive system. The system delivering the most torque will produce a constant, smoother and more powerful feel than a system with more HP and less torque. Once you have compared the various models around, try them out if you can, as this is the best way to judge the overall performance.

Heart Monitoring & Programs
Some running machines come with strap-on heart monitors (either wired or wireless) that can be programmed to adjust the speed and intensity of the workout or incline of the running deck, to keep the heart at a specific level throughout the duration of your fitness routine. This can be a useful option if you are working towards a specific goal, say for weight loss, when your heart rate needs to stay at a particular level (depending on your age, sex, weight etc) to burn the optimum calories. Some running machines come with pre-set programs allowing you a variety of different routines and others that you can program yourself. Machines with a huge choice of programs tend to be amongst the more expensive and may give more variables than most people will ever use.

Slope Inclination Decks
Most running machines will have the capability for a slope gradient to vary and increase the level of calories burnt in your workout. How easy the slope is to adjust varies depending on the model. Cheaper machines will have a manual adjustment meaning that you have to stop your routine to change the incline. Medium priced models will have a button on the control panel to do this. Models at the top end of the scale will have an automatic adjustment that will alter the incline in conjunction with a particular programmable routine, or adjust it according to the heart monitor readings.

Space
This may be an issue as these machines can take up a lot of floor space; you may want to consider a fold-away version that can be stored away and only brought out when needed. If so, then try assembling it before you buy if possible, to make sure that the saving in space is worth the extra effort, otherwise there will be no real gain. Also, consider what your real priorities are in terms of smoothness of operation, overall comfort and reliability as not all brands manufacture a fold-away type. If space is not an issue you will have a greater choice of models over a larger price range.
Warranty
As standard, all of our products come with MINIMUM 1 years manufacturers warranty.
As more of us are coming to appreciate the benefits of keeping fit, the appeal of doing it while in the comfort of our dry, warm homes begins to sound very attractive. Rowing machines give an excellent low impact all -round workout and you can even watch TV at the same time! Rowing is a form of exercise that’s suitable for all levels of ability. If you’re considering buying one, think about the available space that you have to start with, as these machines can be about six feet long. If space is limited you could opt for a fold-up one that can be stored away when not needed. There is a wide choice of these available. Rowing machines create resistance four different ways. Here are the main choices to consider:

Hydraulic Resistance Rowers
Machines at the economy end of the scale will use this type of resistance. Compressed air or fluid within a cylinder or piston creates the resistance, which is usually adjustable. They are often fold-away types, ideal for small spaces. Make sure, however, that they offer enough leg room for you to enjoy a full range of motion as they can sometimes be a little restrictive and may not allow for a natural, flowing action.

Air (Or Flywheel) Resistance Rowers
This can be a similar feel to that of rowing outdoors. The resistance is created by the pulling action, which in turn spins a flywheel attached to a fan that generates the resistance so the harder you pull, the greater the resistance as the fan speed increases.

Magnetic Resistance Rowers
These use magnetic braking with a flywheel construction to create a very smooth, and virtually silent, rowing action. This type of resistance will be found on models in the mid to higher range and offer a very comfortable work-out.

Water Resistance Rowers
A relative newcomer and particularly useful in recreating the sensation of rowing outdoors. This is because its special water flywheel has been designed to exactly match the actions of a boat moving through water. It is almost silent in operation and is usually built within a wooden frame. They are available in a range of different frames, making them more attractive to look at and very much more expensive to buy.

General
Most rowing machines will an on-board consol. These can vary depending on the model; on cheaper ones the information will be basic; speed, distance travelled etc. The more expensive ones will also give information such as calories burned, heart rate readings (by way of sensor pads on the grips) and many will be pre-programmed with a range of work-outs to keep you motivated and challenged.
Warranty
As standard, all of our products come with a MINIMUM 1 years manufacturers warranty.

These are great way to keep in shape at home. They can provide a good workout that’s low impact and so easy on the joints. Ideal for those who want to keep fit without the hassle of going to the gym. Their price varies considerably largely based on frame size and strength, programmability and extra features. When choosing yours think about the cycling position first, as bikes are available in two main types; upright and recumbent.

Upright Cycles
This is, as the name suggests, an upright seated position on a saddle; very much like riding a regular bike. The advantages are that your arms as well as your legs can get a workout and you can tackle more difficult routines because you can stand up to pedal if necessary. The disadvantage though is that they can be quite uncomfortable if you’re not used to riding (even with their padded seats) and are not so easy on you back muscles.

Recumbent Cycles
This is a laid-back style of seating, meaning that you pedal with your legs out in front of you rather than below. It feels like cycling while in a chair. This can be a very relaxing way of exercising, easier on your butt and back although your arms will not be getting so much of a workout, so the overall experience will be less intense. These are much easier for people who are not used to riding bikes but still want to enjoy the benefits of cycling. Semi-recumbent cycles are also available which endeavour to offer the best of both worlds; what you lose in intensity of training you make up for in comfort.

Comfort
This is a crucial aspect to any piece of exercise equipment as you’re more likely to use a machine that’s comfortable. The handlebars and seating should easily adjust to suit you, so that you are not putting unnecessary strain on your body. Consider opting for the most comfortably model that you can afford as this will be money well spent. Make sure, also, that you check the maximum weight limits given on the different machines to get one that is robust enough for your weight.

Resistance
This is provided on exercise bikes by one of two ways; tensions belts or magnetic resistance. Tensions belts are usually provided in cheaper models and can be more prone to wear. Magnetic resistance tends to be on the more expensive models but can give a smoother ride for longer so may be worth considering. The tension will be adjustable my means of a button or knob, depending on the model.

Power
Many machines now are self-driven which means that they do not need mains power to operate them. These usually have an operation time of about six hours a day. While this may seem like a long time, it may prove a problem if you are going to be sharing your machine with several other people. Other models need mains power to drive them which will limit, slightly, where you can use them. This type may be better if you’re not sure that six hours a day pedalling will be enough!

Space
Most models will give dimensions of how much floor space they take up for easy comparison. You can however, if space is limited, buy fold-away versions that can be stored in a cupboard when not being used. This will limit the models that you can choose from though.

General
A good exercise bike can represent quite an investment so try out lots of machines to see which suits you best. Look for quiet, smooth operation, a sturdy frame, comfortable seating and enough programmes to keep you interested.
Warranty
As standard, all of our products come with MINIMUM 1 years manufacturers warranty.
Benches

Size
Determine how much room you have for a weight bench. Many benches fold up to economize your space.

Capacity
Different benches are designed to hold various amounts of weight depending on the exercises you need to achieve your goals. Find a bench that fits your strength-training needs. In general, most of the weight benches we sell offer sufficient weight limits for most people.
Crutches
These are the 2 supports that hold your weight bar.
Generally speaking, the wider the crutch, the more weight it can bear.
Standard size of 28" for 5- to 6-foot bars
Mid-width size of 40" for 6- to 7-foot bars
Olympic size of 48" for 7-foot bars
Movable benches
Some benches can be adjusted for an incline or decline for more options. This provides for other activities such as sit-ups to further strengthen your abdomen.
Attachments
Many benches either come with or offer add-ons for leg curls, extensions, and arm curls. These are good options to consider for extending your strength training to both your upper and lower body. Each of our weight benches has a break down of which attachments are included.

Accessories
Gloves--to avoid calluses and blisters.
Weightlifting belt--to help minimize back injuries.
Mats--to protect the floor from dropped weights.

Multi-Gyms

There are a number of factors that determine what type of home gym you should purchase.

Resistance
Cables and pulleys
The most familiar are those that use one or more weight stacks attached to cables and pulleys to provide the resistance.
These use a pin put into the stack at the preferred weight you wish to lift.
Also called "selectorized" machines.

Elastic bands
Use a variety of elastic-type bands to provide various levels of resistance.

Free weights
Used for major strength training and toning.

Amount of weight
Choose a home gym that has the right amount of weights in its stack or stacks to fit your goals.
If more than one person will be using the home gym at the same time, you may also want to select a home gym with two or more weight stacks.

Types of lifting
Your goals will help in determining the home machine that suits your needs. Different machines offer a variety of exercise options from bench presses to curls, from sit-ups to squats.
Some machines also have add-on options for leg lifts and presses.

Number of stations
If you will primarily be working out by yourself, a single-station gym with various attachments is sufficient. If more than one person wants to use the home gym, consider a model that offers multiple stations.
You can also find gyms with dual stacks to allow two users to use the gym simultaneously. Obviously, the more stations and exercise options, usually the bigger the home gym. Determine how much area you have for a home gym and buy a set that fits in that space, or folds up to store in that space.
Warranty
As standard, all of our products come with MINIMUM 1 years manufacturers warranty.
The following factors should be considered when buying an elliptical cross trainer or elliptical rider:

Resistance
Every elliptical machine has some form of adjustable resistance. The best offer electronic versus manual resistance. There's nothing worse than stopping your workout to adjust knobs and levers. With electronic resistance you simply press a button and keep going.

Incline
Various incline options come with any good elliptical trainer. Again, look for electronic incline controls so won't have to stop to make mid-workout adjustments.

Workout Feedback
To get an efficient workout, it's important to track your progress. Speed, distance, time-they're all important. Make sure your elliptical has these three at the minimum. Other displays can include pulse, resistance and even calories burned.

Upper Body
Many elliptical machines come with some form of upper-body mechanism. In order to get a total body workout, upper body exercise is essential.

Warranty
As standard, all of our products come with MINIMUM 1 years manufacturers warranty.