Wednesday, February 19, 2014

How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 3: Treadmill Buying Tips

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best treadmills for home you can buy


Here are links to the complete guide:


Treadmills are a great way for people to get cardio exercise with the convenience of working out at home.When it comes to buying a treadmill, there are some things to consider. Here are some buying tips to help you find the best treadmill for home


how-to-buy-a-treadmill



Treadmill Buying Tips: Assessing Yourself


Know Your Needs


Sometimes you tend to be too aggressive and eager to buy something that is hot in the market. That is why you need to assess yourself. Why do you want to buy a treadmill machine? Is it to lose weight, stay in shape, tone up, or rehabilitate? How badly do you need it? Have you tried one before? Have you tried alternatives like outdoor walking and running? Now, if you have answered all these, you must have assessed the level of your needs and can decide whether to buy one or not.


Know Your Financial Capacity


You must know your capacity to pay and your financial limitations. If you have determined your need, you must now determine your budget and the maximum amount you can spend for a treadmill machine.


Who, Where and How


Talk with your family who will be using the machine, how many of you will use it. Talk about the maximum time for each user. Then, the minimum and maximum weight of each one. Where will you place it? Do you have enough space for a treadmill? And lastly is how will you use it? Is it for light or intense workout or just an alternative for walking or outdoor activities?


Know Your Running Stride Size, Width and Length


You want to make sure the belt is long enough for your stride length. If you like to swing your arms when you run, you’ll want to forgo the manual treadmill for a motorized treadmill.


If you like having room to swing your arms, a wide treadmill will be better so that you don’t feel confined by close handrails. However, if you want the handrails closer for safety and that you are willing to feel more “confined”, then you will want a more narrow treadmill.


Treadmill Buying Tips: Choosing The Best Treadmill For Home


In addition to the factors given above, smart shoppers will really look for other information about the product that they want to buy. It is really important that if you buy machines, it will last for many years. There are many resources now that you can use to evaluate which brand or model you can afford. Before rushing into the stores consider the shortlisted things below.


Reputation of the Manufacturer


There are many products now that are sold in the market that does not give much of your expectation. It is much better to rely on manufacturers that have been in the industry for decades than opting into a lesser price but oftentimes results to waste of money.


Recommendations


Discuss with your friends or family which type of treadmill works best for them, what brand and model lasts longer and where to find ones that gives greater savings. By this you can be oriented on the reputation of the product that is tested and proven by the ones that you know.


Also we will post our own bestseller lists and and recommendations as well (make sure to check out How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 4: Our Recommendations.


Search on the Internet


Internet is now the most convenient way to check a product. You can check on websites for the product you wants, their features, product descriptions and photos. You can also read reviews of that product. Websites also offers discounts and free shipping that is good as well.


Run a Sample


You can go to stores near you and test a machine that you would like to purchase. Test the smoothness of the ride and the noise. Look around the machine and look for possible problem each product may give.


Don’t be shy or think you look foolish. Give it a real good run through like you would normally run.


Now, the decision depends on you, but, with these guides listed above, you may be able to weigh advantages and disadvantages of a certain treadmill machine easily. You just have to keep in mind that every machine has positive and negative sides that are sometimes bearable and easy to handle. So good luck and make sure to choose the right one that suits your needs.


That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide


Now that you’ve gone through our first three parts, you are ready for our recommendations so lookout for How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 4: Our Recommendations


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to best treadmills for home

How To Buy A Rowing Machine Part 4: Recommended Models And Brands

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best rowing machines for you to buy.


Here are links to the complete guide:


You have read through the buying guides to find out about rowing machine benefits, types of rowing machines, and various rowing machine features. Now it’s time to give you our recommended models and brand names.


Let’s find out!


recommended-rowing-machines



Recommended Manufacturers


Considering the fitness niche is so popular, there are always new manufacturers and brand names on the market. There are always new innovations with making rowing machines feel smoother and more natural and more fun to use as part of your exercise regimen. Rowing machines themselves have a wide variety of quality and prices.


Here are a few of our recommendations for the top rated rowing machines for home.


The manufacturers we would recommend:


1. Stamina Products Rowing Machines


stamina-products


Stamina Products (official site) was founded in 1987. Since its inception, it has always desired to be a top name in exercise machines and is our recommendation as a top rowing machine. Stamina customers get cutting edge innovation and quality inexpensive exercise equipment for home use.


While Stamina has developed a variety of rowing machines, its most popular machines are its hydraulic piston rowing machines such as the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine and the Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine


Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine     Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine


2. Concept2 Rowing Machines


concept2


Concept2 (official site) is the top name in quality rowing machines. They began in 1976 in the back of a bread truck when, fresh from Olympic training, Dick and Pete Dreissigacker, started making composite racing oars. Concept2 has gone on to become rowing experts with quality oars and rowing machines.


Concept2 Rowing Machines are by far the most popular Air Rowers on the market. Their two most popular machines are the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine (left) and the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine. (right)


Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine     Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine


3. Kettler Rowing Machines


kettlersport


Kettler USA (official site) prides itself on affordable quality rowing machines. Kettler offers well-balanced and well-designed rowing machines. Whether you are a novice or personal trainer, young or old, Kettler rowers offer the perfect workout suitable for all ages and skill levels.


Kettler provides a bit nicer quality smoothness in their hydraulic piston rowing machines, but at a bit of a higher price. They are also known for their outrigger style rowing machines such as the Kettler Kadett Outrigger Rower seen below.


Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine


Recommended Models


Here are some recommended individual models. Not surprisingly, all of them are already mentioned above.


1. Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine


Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine


  • 4 out of 5 stars

  • Inexpensively priced

  • Hydraulic Piston Resistance on Ball-Bearing Roller System

  • Adjustable gas-shock resistance

  • Reasonably compact for storage

  • Multi-Function fitness monitor

2. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing MachineConcept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine


  • 4.5 out of 5 stars

  • Expensive

  • Air Resistance Rowing Machine

  • Performance monitor

  • Quiet flywheel for smooth and realistic motion

  • Adjustable intensity

3. Stamina Air Rower Rowing Machine


Stamina Air Rower Rowing Machine

  • 4.5 out of 5 stars

  • Moderately Expensive

  • Air Resistance Rowing Machine

  • Multi-function performance monitor

  • Comfortable grips, seats, and large footplates

  • Inexpensive for an air rower

While Stamina makes quality affordable piston rowing machines, they also make many other models including this air rower model. Not as smooth as the Concept2, however the Stamina air rower is also less than half the cost of the Concept2.


4. Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower


Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine


  • 4.5 out of 5 stars

  • Moderately Expensive

  • Hydraulic Piston Resistance

  • Fantastic ergonomic outrigger design

  • Very well designed and engineered – feels great

  • Does not weigh much, is portable

5. HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger Scull Rower


HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger Scull Rowing Machine pic


  • 4.5 out of 5 stars

  • Moderately Expensive

  • Hydraulic Piston Resistance, 12 adjustable levels

  • Easy to read LCD training display

  • Solidly built and easy to put together

  • Portable

That Concludes Our “How To Buy A Rowing Machine” 4-part Buying Guide


We hope that this “How to Buy a Rowing Machine” buying guide has provided you with a lot of good tips and information to help you research through various rowing machine reviews and testimonials to find the best rowing exercise machine for your fitness program.


Good luck!


References:


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to buy rowing machine online

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

How To Buy A Rowing Machine Part 3: Rowing Machine Features

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best rowing machines for you to buy.


Here are links to the complete guide:


Now that you are familiar with rowing machine benefits and the different rowing machine types we bring you now to the different features rowing machines have so you can become familiar with them. As you go through this guide, think about your own situation and what might work for you.


confusionclipart



Features To Consider When You Buy A Rowing Machine


Resistance Type


Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing MachineAs we covered in How To Buy A Rowing Machine Part 2, there are four main different resistance types. The more natural feeling is also the more expensive. In order from least expensive to most expensive: hydraulic piston resistance, air resistance, magnetic resistance, and water resistance.


Shown to the right is the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050, the most popular hydraulic rowing machine on the market.


Size


Since rowing machines models vary from having a conveniently compact design to having a non-foldable property, you should consider the appropriate size of the equipment which can be rightfully accommodated at your home. If you do not have much space to permanently allot to this machine, it is best that you consider a lightweight and compact model to allow easy storage when it is not in use.


On the other hand, if you have enough room to allocate for a rowing machine, then heavy and non-foldable models should not be a problem for you.


Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing MachineAgain there is a some direct correlation between size and how natural the rowing machine feels. The smallest, most compact rowing machines are all hydraulic piston resistance. Both the magnetic rowers and water rowers are pretty fair in size, but are not popular for home rowing machines for a few reasons (which we covered in detail in How To Buy A Rowing Machine Part 2).


That leaves us with the air rowing machines which are very popular rowing machines for home. They are also quite large. The benefit is that it gives you a very nice long natural feeling range of motion. The downside: not portable, not easily movable to storage.


Shown to the right is the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine, the most popular air rowing machine on the market.


Resistance Change


flywheel-and-damperHow easy is it to change the workout activity? Many times that is just a manner of turning the resistance up. Most hydraulic rowers have a tension dial you can turn to adjust the resistance up or down.


The air rowers use what’s called a damper/flywheel/drag system (shown right on the Concept2 Model D Rower) to control airflow through the flywheel in an effort to change resistance. This gives you quite a flexibility in how you row and how you create more intense workouts.


Here’s a quick video we found which explains the flywheel/damper/drag system, how it works, why it works, and how to change it on a Concept2






Price


This is already implied. Price directly relates to the quality of the rowing machine and usually the resistance type. It is not directly affected by how compact and portable a rowing machine is though the correlation is similar.


It is expected that the cost of rowing machines is among the top priorities that potential buyers highly consider in the process of his survey. Knowledge of your working budget will help in narrowing down your search among the brands and models you can choose from. Quality rowing machines are usually offered at $600-800, while the high-end ones usually sell for as much as $2000 or more.


It may be a good idea to invest some extra cash to ensure a durable and a more comfortable machine. But it is also very crucial to understand that it is not necessary to spend a tremendous amount of money just so you can get the best benefits from rowing machines because it is your fitness goals and preferences which will ultimately decide this factor.


So when it comes to price, it really all boils down to your budget, some may want to buy high end rowing machines but doesn’t have the budget to do so hence ending up buying something less expensive.


User Profile


Of course, it is appropriate to consider the person who will be using the machine prior to making your purchase. Apart from his fitness goals, it is also important to note the requirements they may specifically need from rowing machines. For example, tall people should best acquire a model with a seat rail that is long and, if possible, is set higher off the ground.


Similarly, small people may feel better comfort to get a rower with a small seat rail. It is also advisable that professional healthcare consultation is done by those with special medical condition before they undertake new fitness regime. There are people with certain health conditions that though they want to buy a rowing machine, their health condition doesn’t permit them, so users profile is a big factor.


Progress Tracker and Control Panel


Performance monitor of rowing machines usually comes as a LCD screen which provides digital readout about user’s useful routine information, such as rowing speed and distance travelled.


These parameters may also be modified according to which you are most interested to track through its console controls. By keeping you accordingly updated with your workout progress, this machine provides considerable amount of motivation in staying focused on your fitness goals.


If this feature is particularly important to you, you must carefully review the parameters tracked by the unit you consider to purchase since this function varies among different brands and models. Of course, you must also consider the allowable user info the machine can store.


There are rowing machines that can only store one user info so if another person uses the machine, you may need to reset everything when you use it again. So check for this feature, some allows up to 4 user info to be stored on the training computer of a rowing machine.


Below is an example of a rowing machine display. This one belongs to the Kettler Favorit Rowing Machine


kettler-favorit-rowing-machine-oversized-display


Another example: the very detailed training computer of the Proteus Par 5500 Club Series Rowing Machine


proteus-par-5500-commercial-club-series-rowing-machine-display


Warranty/Reputation


It is definitely recommended that you check the warranties offered by the models you consider purchasing, especially when the unit you intend to buy is high-end and expensive. Most rowing machines provide at least a year of warranty to parts and labor, while higher quality machines offer two three years. Usually, top manufacturers offer generous warranties to their durable equipment.


Not surprisingly, the two companies that put out the most popular rowing machine, Concept2 also have reputable customer service.


As another example, Kettler has good days and bad days. And Proteus seems to be responsive, but distant (and they have no US-based support, only from overseas).


That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide


Now that we’ve explained the main types of rowing machines and the various features, we will go through some recommendations next! So be on the lookout for the next part: Part 4: Recommended Models And Brands


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to buy rowing machine online

How To Buy A Rowing Machine Part 2: Types Of Rowing Machines

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best rowing machines for you to buy.


Here are links to the complete guide:


Now that you have hopefully read Part 1 to get familiar with rowing machines, we’ll cover some different types of rowing machines here.


Types Of Rowing Machines



Types Of Rowing Machines


When it comes to fluid circular motion, technology continues to advance. Mostly famous in cycling (both stationary bikes and bike trainers), rowing machines add a new twist onto the idea of fluid motion as there are two main motions to simulate



  • Back and forth motion of the lower body
  • Circular rowing motion of the upper body

See this short video to illustrate rowing form






Standard models operate through one of the four resistance types of rowing machines:



  • Hydraulic Piston
  • Magnetic
  • Air
  • Water

Each provides varying workout intensity, so understanding them is necessary to ensure that you can get what you want to expect in the fitness device you will purchase. Of course, some types of resistance feel much better and more natural than others. And of course, those are much pricier as well.


Here are each type in more detail


Hydraulic Piston Resistance Rowing Machines


Rowing machines which work on piston resistance delivers less realistic rowing action but maintains to give excellent value for one’s money since it provides great workout for a less expensive cost.


Also known as hydraulic rowing machine, this type is a low-end option that works on piston resistance through hydraulic cylinders that are attached to the arms of the rowing machine. They offer resistance levels by manually moving these clamps or levers for adjustment.


Advantages of Piston Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Price Range: $100 – $500
  • They are offered at a more affordable cost compared to other resistance models but it does not sacrifice the quality of the workout it delivers. This is a smart choice considering the price you pay for the features you get.
  • They come in compact size, not being as large as the other models. This allows it to easily fit under beds or smaller spaces for storage. Some can even fit your closet in an upright position.
  • Resistance levels are adjustable, allowing users to workout according to their preferred intensity. This makes your work out interesting, you are in control of your own rhythm and pace.

Challenges of Piston Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Its motion will not be as smooth and natural as the other resistance types.
  • This resistance type provides more arm workout than a leg and full-body routine.

Most people who buy rowing machines for home will be these hydraulic rowing machines. The two main reasons: inexpensive price and compact design for easy storage.


Stamina Rowing Machines are the most popular on the market. Good fluidity with ball-bearing technology. Their two most popular machines are the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 (left) and the Stamina 1215 Orbital Rower (right)


Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine     Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine


Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines


Magnetic resistance type of rowing machine provides smooth and natural feel of rowing across water.


In this resistance type, powerful electromagnets provide control to the resistance of the rowing machine. They are somehow similar to the piston resistance models but offers better and more impressive operation. There are rowing machine models which combine this resistance type to air resistance model.


Advantages of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Price Range: $500 – $2000

    It delivers a much smoother flow of motion than a piston model
  • It works almost completely silent.
  • These models have adjustable resistance levels, providing better options to users in choosing preferred intensity for their routine.
  • Progress are more accurately measured through electronic components which provide a digital display about user’s routine profile in terms of distance, calories burned, scans, time, heart rate and a lot more.

Challenges of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine


  • It is not as easily stored as a piston resistance machine because it has a long main rail that cannot be folded, but if you have a decent space at home for this equipment, then this should not be a problem.
  • Not as good as Air Rowing Machines which are about the same cost.

Considering Air Resistance Rowing Machines are about the same price and are much better quality, most people looking for a quality rowing machine at this price range will opt for Air Rowing Machines instead of Magnetic Rowing Machines


Air Resistance Rowing Machines


Air resistance rowing machines are the ones most commonly used by off-season rowers.


This kind of resistance is often found in good quality rowing machines, making it the preferred type of off-season rowers. In this model, resistance is dependent on your own pace. This means that greater resistance is provided as your speed increases. It works through a finned flywheel that sucks in air when the row arm is pulled back.


Advantages of Air Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Price Range: $800 – $2000
  • With the resistance being dependent on user’s performance, it provides him good control over his workout.
  • This also means that resistance adjustment is unlimited (stepless) since more resistance can be obtained by simply rowing faster.
  • It has a longer main rail which can greatly benefit tall users.
  • Easily identified by the use of a flywheel.

Challenges of Air Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Its fan blade has the potential to get somewhat noisy.
  • Its longer main rail cannot be folded, making it not conducive to compact storage. But this should not be a significant issue if you have a good amount of space to accommodate this equipment.
  • A bit pricier

When it comes to looking for a high quality rowing machine for home, most people will opt for the Air rowing machines. Very smooth feeling and fun to use. The flywheel provides an extra element of fun as well.


Concept2 Rowing Machines are by far the most popular Air Rowers on the market. Fantastic design, well constructed flywheels, comfortable seats and grips. Concept2 is head and shoulders above the rest in this arena. Their two most popular machines are the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine (left) and the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine. (right)


Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine     Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine


Water Resistance Rowing Machines


Water resistance models provide the most authentic emulation of actually rowing on water.


This resistance type is known to deliver the most natural simulation of real outdoor rowing. It provides resistance through a stainless steel paddle placed inside a water-filled tank. Its resistance levels are adjusted in two ways: (1) through dependence on the user’s pace, with the resistance proportionally increasing with it and (2) through the addition or removal of water in the resistance tank.


Advantages of Water Resistance Rowing Machine


  • Price Range: $1000 – $5000
  • It provides two great options for resistance adjustment, allowing users to freely customize his workout.
  • Users can expect a naturally smooth and vibration-free rowing motion.
  • The soothing sound of water movement during use adds to the natural feel of rowing.

Challenges of Water Resistance Rowing Machine


  • It may produce a considerable amount of noise during operation but this is not as much as air resistance models do.
  • This model is extremely heavy, secondary to its accompanying tank which is full of water. Therefore, it is advisable to allot an ample space for this equipment which will serve as its permanent location.
  • Expensive!

Most people looking for rowing machines at home will pass this one up. For much less cost, the Air Rowing Machines provide the proper amount of natural feel for the majority of folks looking to workout at home.


That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide


Now that we’ve explained the main types of rowing machines, and that for most people the Hydraulic Resistance Rowers or the Air Rowers will be the right pick when you want to buy a rowing machine, we’ll now move on to specific features to look for when buying rowing machines.


So be on the lookout for the next part: Part 3: Rowing Machine Features


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to buy rowing machine online

How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 2: Treadmill Features

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best treadmills for home you can buy


Here are links to the complete guide:


Buying treadmills have become the wisest and hottest choice when it comes to cardiovascular workout. It is a great way for people to get cardio exercise with the convenience of working out at home. It gives runners a nice respite from running outside, especially if there is inclement weather. It also gives runners a chance to set actual pacing metrics.


But which one is the best treadmill for home to buy??


Let’s go over some features!


treadmill features



Treadmill Features To Consider


Manual Treadmill Or Motorized Treadmill


As mentioned in How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 1 the two main

types of treadmills are the Manual Treadmill and the Motorized Treadmill.


The motorized treadmills are much higher quality and much easier to work out with, but at a much higher cost.


Manual treadmills require you to use the handholds which doesn’t give you a true “running” workout. However, they are much cheaper and also much more compact.


See our previous Part 1 of our buying guide for full details.


Motor Capacity


If you are considering a motorized treadmill, the motor capacity of a treadmill is the factor that needs consideration. The motor is the most important part of a machine, without it a machine will not perform or work accordingly. There are two motors that is inside the treadmill, first is the one that drives the belt and the other is the one responsible for raising and lowering the incline. This might be confusing, especially when you don’t know important things about a motor. So, here is what you need, look for “continuous duty” motor that has at least 1.5 horsepower for light use and 2.5 to 3.0 horsepower for frequent use.


Machine’s Cost


It is always said that you get what you paid for. But not everything that costs less has less function. Buying a treadmill is a good investment; this is why you need to consider its price. Now, for those who have tight budget prices of treadmill machines ranges from $500 to $1500, for the mid-range price ranges from $1500 to $3000 and higher quality treadmills ranges from $3000 and up. Of course there are times that significant sales and discounts are offered which is something you should also consider.


Stability and Smoothness


When you want to test a treadmill machine, wear on your workout shoes and your workout clothes. The ride should be smooth, and not shaky. If it is very shaky, it is unacceptable. Test the handrails, it should be sturdy enough for support and provides ease for gripping.


Machines Workout Features


Choose a treadmill machine that has the most programmable and pre-set workouts. The machines incline speed should be easy to adjust from the console. Pulse monitor and display data should be accurate. There should be additional features like water bottle holder or book rack for a little entertainment. Some may have audio or video plug-in and Wi-Fi that may provide more comfort and of course to provide more workout routines for the user.


Space and Folding Treadmills


You need to have enough space for your treadmill. Measure up your area and look for a machine that can conveniently fit your desired space. If you have big space, you can have a non-folding treadmill or if you have a little room for it then you can opt for a folding treadmill. The noise should also be considered.


You can find both manual treadmills and motorized treadmills of a folding variety.


Below is the Phoenix 98510 Manual Folding Treadmill.


Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill


For a motorized folding treadmill, check out the popular Proform Pro 2000 Folding Motorized Treadmill


ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill Pic


Walking Belts Size


The size of the walking belt should also be an important consideration. The size of the deck of walking and running surface should be at least 3/4 thick for utmost comfort. The thicker the surface the better it is, and more comfortable for the user. Thick deck surfaces also minimize chances of injury. For running, 48” by 17” long is the ideal size of the belt. But, belts that are too thick are prone to hold in heat and increases electricity consumption. The heavier weight added to the belt also gives more stress to the roller bearings. Find a belt size that gives you more comfort.


Noise Level


If you are living in apartments then you need a treadmill that does not make a lot of noise. You might think manual treadmills might be quieter, but some manual treadmills might take a bit of a “pounding” to get the belt running which might be a more annoying noise than a consistent motorized hum.


Then again, depending on how you run, you might give a regular motorized treadmill a pounding as well.


That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide


Now that you know some features to look for when considering best treadmills for home, you are ready for Part 3: Treadmill Buying Tips


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to best treadmills for home

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Bestselling Treadmills For Home

Best Treadmills For Home – Bestselling Right Now


Cardiovascular work is healthy for your heart, and losing weight is healthy for your joints. Running is definitely considered one of the best cardio workouts you can do, and definitely helps strengthen those muscles around those joints. For that reason, treadmills are a very popular addition to the home gym for those times you want to run from the convenience of your own home. In fact, treadmills combined with elliptical machines (for when your joints need a break) pack a really nice one-two punch for cardio workouts.


Here is our list of the best treadmills for home use


Depending on your situation you may want to consider one or more of the following:


  • Comfort: What is your desired stride length?

  • Manual or Motorized: often depending on budget and space available

  • Portability: How portable? How easy to store?

  • Durability: how many miles and how much weight can you put on this thing?

  • And of course … Price!!!

Now, before we go on, we want to give you a shortcut here: For motorized treadmills, on any given day depending on which one is on sale, the number one spot might rotate between three very popular treadmill brands. As a whole, you will have a good experience with:


For those looking to manual treadmills, the Stamina Treadmills are great quality.


That being said …



Taking all these into account, the number one best treadmill for home right now is the:


ProForm Power 995c Treadmill


ProForm Power 995c Treadmill Pic


The ProForm Power 995c Treadmill is a top selling treadmill exercise machine for many reasons.


  • Very high quality $2000 treadmill often found on sale for less

  • 20″ by 60″ running belt: more than enough space for any stride length

  • Up to 15% incline

  • “Space Saver” design and “Easy Lift Assist” makes it fairly portable and easier to store

  • Very quiet motor

A few quotes from user reviews:


  • “This treadmill is solid, sturdy, strong, and I’m a pretty big guy! (250lbs – 6’2″)”

  • “Runway is super long, so it totally makes for a comfortable run”

  • “It folds up nicely and easily”

  • “Seriously feels like it is better than most gym treadmills”

  • “The extra features (fan, speakers in particular) are pretty sweet.”


Overall, this is a great option for an treadmill for home. As we mentioned before, Horizon, Lifespan, and Proform are all fantastic brands. What we believe put this as the top seller is that you can often find it on sale for even 50% off. $1000 for this treadmill is definitely a great bargain. Even at $2000 (list price), the ProForm Power 995c Treadmill delivers well on durability and smoothness. .


Here is our complete list of current most popular best treadmills for home


  1. ProForm Power 995c Treadmill
    ProForm Power 995c Treadmill Pic
  2. Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill
    Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill Pic
  3. LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
    LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill Pic
  4. Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill
    Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill Pic
  5. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill
    Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill Pic
  6. Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
    Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
  7. Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill
    Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill Pic
  8. Stamina InMotion T900 Manual Treadmill
    InMotion T900 Manual Treadmill

The above list is our list of top selling affordable best treadmills for home on Amazon. They are all usually available at discount prices off of retail – you can click on any of the specific treadmill machines above to get more information.


The list above covers a nice range of motorized treadmills ranging from $350 to $2000 and manual treadmills ($100 to $150). Many common criteria include a durable motor, sizable belt, and foldable for easy storage. If you are searching for a treadmill for your home gym as a gift or for yourself, chances are high you will find one of the above listed will fit your needs perfectly.


Check out more best treadmills for home


best treadmills for home picture

How To Buy A Treadmill For Home Part 1: Types Of Treadmills

The purpose of this buying guide is to help you find the best treadmills for home you can buy


Here are links to the complete guide:


Being fit and healthy has become the biggest challenge to people all over the world. American obesity has been a growing problem for the last few years, and with it a growing advocacy for exercise and being fit. Almost everybody now considers exercising for a few minutes every day to be fit and healthy. Buying treadmills have become the wisest and hottest choice when it comes to cardiovascular workout.


But which one is the best treadmill for home to buy??


Let’s find out!


Treadmill Workout


Introduction To The Treadmill


A best treadmill for home has the benefit of being able to work out at the comfort of your homes at any given time without expensive gym fees per month. Aside from being health conscious, because of hard up advertisements showing unbelievable results of claimed treadmill users, people are lead to believe the need to purchase one.


Because of this, it caused confusions to many of the buyers. Some are too aggressive and bought without checking on the capacity of the item, and some, seek for advices. Before buying a treadmill, there are many things you should know and take into consideration. This is why you need to get a proper guide on how to buy a treadmill.


What is a Treadmill Machine?


A treadmill is a machine used as an alternative device for outdoor walking and running. It is a stationary device that provides a moving platform, has a wide conveyor belt, powered by an electric motor or flywheel.


Unlike before, non- electricity operated treadmills were designed to enable its users to harness their own strength to operate it and in return gives them good results.


A few years later, an improved treadmill machine that is for exercise was developed, but it is mainly used to diagnose heart and lung diseases in medical institutions. Eventually, because of its health benefits and the comfort of exercising in your own place and time, innovative treadmill machines were introduced in the market.


These are now more comfortable machines to use, stylish and beneficial in terms of getting fit and healthy.


Types Of Treadmills


There are a few different types of treadmills for home. Naturally those that feel more natural and give you a better more realistic experience are going to be more expensive. They will also likely have a larger stride length and be harder to store. The smaller and folding treadmills may be easy to stow, but may not give you the experience you like

Here are some types of treadmills


Manual Treadmills


This is a non-motorized treadmill. It moves through the user’s motion, the feet and legs of the user is the motor. You can run on it but it’s really difficult due to less smooth gliding nature of this machine.


Pros

It is much lighter and easier to transport than other motor operated treadmills. It is compact and can be stored easily. It is more inexpensive compared to motorized treadmills.


Cons

It is more difficult to get the belt moving because your feet and legs will work on it manually.


The Phoenix 98510 Manual Treadmill is one of the top selling manual treadmills on the market


Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill


Multi- Purpose Motorized Treadmill


This is a traditional machine and most popular so far. Continuous horsepower is most importantly needed in motorized treadmills, usually 2 to 4 horsepower. Most of the models that are motorized have digital display console that displays time, speed, calories burned, distance travelled, and other stats. Most of the models also have inclined and declined resistance via a hydraulic. Ideal for walking, jogging, sprinting, running and interval training.


Pros

It is easier to workout with. You can keep track of your time and workout status.


Cons

Horsepower needed by the machine may vary on the level of exercise you want. Some motorized treadmills make loud noises.


The Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill is one of the best motorized treadmills on the market


Horizon Fitness T101-3 Treadmill Pic


Treadles


This machine is a dual track treadmill; it has two belts that is one for each foot. Treadles are designed for walking like incline varieties. This is like an elliptical stepper and a treadmill combined together. Its tread belts are independent of each other, this means that when one foot is in advanced position the other foot is behind. This is a low-impact workout that is ideal for walking only


Pros

It has inclining function and motor operated.


Cons

It is ideal for walkers only.


Incline


This variety of treadmill is also motor-operated, its design is like a stepper incline that is different from traditional one. Some of the incline treadmills go up to 40% incline that is already very steep. It has shorter running surface that are not good for running.


Pros

It has incline motion that can add to tension resistance of your workouts


Cons

It has very short running surface that makes it impossible to run.


That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide


Now that you know a brief overview of best treadmills for home, you can think about your own situation and then be ready for Part 2: Treadmill Features


Here are links to the complete guide:


Cheers!


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to best treadmills for home

Monday, February 10, 2014

Bestselling Rowing Machines For Home

Best Rowing Machine For Home Use – Bestselling Right Now


Rowing machines are fitness machines which provide a dual benefit: a great cardiovascular workout as well as a full body resistance workout. The rowing motion is effective in improving tone of upper and lower body muscles as well as promoting blood circulation.


Here is our list of the best rowing machines to buy


Depending on your situation you may want to consider one or more of the following:


  • Resistance Type: Various resistance types provide different types of effectiveness

  • Workout Goals: Upper body workout? Lower body? or Cardio? Which are you aiming for?

  • Size: Compact size required?

  • Ease of use: Easy resistance change? Ease of tracking?
  • And of course … Price!!!


Taking all these into account, the number one most popular and best rowing machine to buy is the:


Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine


Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine


The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is a top selling rowing machine for many reasons.


  • Concept2 is well known to be the top rowing machine on the market

  • Commercial gyms also use Concept2

  • Flywheel resistance is quiet and provides high quality resistance

  • Quality programs: fast boat and slow boat

A few quotes from user reviews:


  • “Good quality machine, easy to ensemble.”

  • “It is so easy on the back and so very smooth.”

  • “Very quiet while operating. Good workout!”

  • “Great work-out, stores standing up and very easy to assemble.”

  • “Well worth the money. Heavy duty and should last a long time.”


Overall, this is one of the best options to buy a rowing machine. While on the pricey side, when it comes to rowing machines Concept2 is hands down the top brand for rowing machines on the market. Commercial gyms and home gyms alike think highly of the Concept2 rowers. The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is one of the more affordable models by Concept2 and is a high quality flywheel rowing machine that stores easily.


For many people who want a high quality rowing machine that is very fairly priced, the Concept2 Model D is one of the highest quality rowing machines on the market and it’s easy to see why it is a most popular seller on the market.


Here is our complete list of current most popular best rowing machines for home use


  1. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
    Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
  2. Stamina Air Rower Rowing Machine
    Stamina Air Rower Rowing Machine
  3. Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine
    Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine
  4. Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine
    Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine
  5. Stamina 1205 Precision Rower Rowing Machine
    Stamina 1205 Precision Rower Rowing Machine
  6. Kettler Favorit Rowing Machine
    Kettler Favorit Rowing Machine
  7. Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine
    Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine
  8. HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger Scull Rowing Machine
    HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger Scull Rowing Machine pic

The above list is our list of top selling affordable best rowing machines for home use on Amazon. They are all usually available at discount prices off of retail – you can click on any of the specific elliptical exercise workout machines above to get more information.


Also you should note that if you are looking for a “budget” model to buy a rowing machine, you should check out the Stamina line of hydraulic resistance rowing machines. While Concept2 is the bestseller when it comes to top of the line rowing machines with flywheel air resistance, the Stamina brand is the bestseller for hydraulic resistance and it’s not a coincidence both brands show up multiple times in our bestseller list.


The list above covers a nice range of rowing exercise machines with various features, various construction, and various price ranges from $200 to $1300. If you are searching for a rowing exercise machine as a gift or for yourself, chances are high you will find one of the above listed will fit your needs perfectly.


Check out more reviews, tips, and guides to buy rowing machine online


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