When you're at the gym these days, it's not just bikes and treadmills
anymore. Find out how to choose the right machine for your kind of
workout.
"We have both kinds of machines-treadmills and
stationary bikes." Not anymore. Options abound these days. Choose the
right machine for your kind of workout.
Cardio machines have come a long way since the treadmill, stationary
bike and stairclimber. These days, you're just as likely to find all
kinds of unique machines next to those old standbys: elliptical
trainers, VersaClimbers, high-tech rowing machines and more. The range
of choices might lead you to wonder whether one is better than another.
Depending on the type of workout you're looking for, it just might be.
Burning calories
This
is one area where you can really expect to reap what you sow-on any
machine. Don't expect to blast calories by the dozens if you lollygag
through your workout while humming "Girl From Ipanema." The harder you
work out, the more calories you'll burn. The exact number of spent
calories will also depend on your weight. To burn the most calories,
head for a machine that works your arms as well as your legs. The more
muscle groups you use, the more calories you burn. Try a VersaClimber,
a ski machine or an elliptical trainer with poles you push and pull.
Improving your rear view
The
stairclimber seems the logical choice for targeting your tush, and it's
not a bad one. If you really want to get at your glutes, however, try
fast walking on a treadmill set on an incline. A 5 to 7 percent grade
is a good incline. It's a safe level, high enough to make you step
higher and take longer strides. Try not to lean on the machine.
Standing up straight and squeezing your glutes will work them even
more.
Best overall workout
They aren't called cardio
machines for nothing. Still, you can give more than just your heart and
lungs a workout. Head back to the elliptical trainer or ski machine. At
the same time your legs are working, pushing and pulling those poles
builds endurance throughout your upper body-chest, back, shoulders,
biceps and triceps. Even your abs and lower back come into play,
because they hold you up while you push and pull." Of course, you're
also strengthening your most important muscle of all: your heart.
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