Looking to invest in some cardio exercise equipment, but not sure which ones will let you start from a beginner level and work your way up at your own pace? If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the dozens of models of cardio workout machines on the market, here are a few effective yet easy-to-use machines you might want to start out with.
Treadmill
The treadmill makes use of the human body’s natural movements to provide an effective workout that burns more calories than most fitness equipment. Walking or running on a treadmill also places a natural impact on your joints and bones. This moderate impact helps maintain bone density, yet poses less risk of injury than aerobics or dance.
Stationary Bike
If you tend to avoid workouts because you find them boring, the stationary bike is a good option. This popular type of cardio exercise equipment lets you site and read or watch a movie while working your heart and strengthening your quads, glutes, and hamstrings (all lower body muscles). They’re also low impact, so they won’t strain your knees or ankles. Bikes are ideal if you have balance problems, too, because you’re less likely to fall than on machines that require standing.
Elliptical machine
Elliptical machines are gaining popularity mostly because they’re low impact, but also because they let you work both your lower and upper body on one machine. This not only strengthens multiple muscle groups, but also gets your heart rate up faster to give you a more efficient cardio workout. Another benefit is that the smooth, natural movements tend to be more comfortable than the jarring movements of a treadmill or bike.
Stair climber/stepper
Even when you’re in good shape, climbing a few flights of stairs can feel like a workout. Imagine then what great exercise you can get from a machine that’s essentially an endless staircase. Like treadmills, stair climbers work with your body’s natural movements, yet they put less impact on your joints than treadmills do. The drawback is that technique is critical for getting any real benefit from a stair climber. If you buy one, make sure you learn to use it correctly.
While there are numerous types of cardio exercise equipment out there, as a beginner you’ll do best with equipment that’s not overly complicated to use and lets your body move naturally.
