Healthy Home
There’s nothing like good old-fashioned sweat and exercise to get into shape, especially after hearing the National Institute of Health claim that the average American gained more than 1 pound between Thanksgiving and the start of the new year. And now, after those two months of "pass the stuffing please," "sure, I’ll have another eggnog," or "that’s the best fruitcake I’ve every eaten. I’ll have another slice and this time put some whipped cream on it," it’s time to consider going to the gym. No, not the gym with a membership fee, but the gym you will put together in your home after purchasing home fitness equipment.
Sean Barrack at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Henderson said an effective home workout routine can begin with basic fitness equipment like stability balls, yoga mats, light weights and resistance bands. Once the program is under way, more exercise equipment such as treadmills, something elliptical (Stairmaster) and abdominal exerciser can be purchased.
"Everything works together," he said. "Anyone who wants to run and get a good cardio workout will use the treadmill or Stairmaster. Then, to take care of the core section or stomach, move to the Ab Lounge for sit-ups and other exercises to tone and strengthen abs and the back."
Barrack said the equipment can be easily assembled and some treadmills can be taken directly from the box, unfolded and be ready immediately. The same unit can then be unplugged and folded to be put away until the next workout.
Shoes and clothing are just as important as the equipment, according to Amy Cafazzo of Marshalls department store, which sells workout clothing. She said starting an exercise program to lose weight or improve one’s fitness is the first step in making a lasting lifestyle change that is both physically and mentally positive.
"First of all, exercise feels good and regular exercise can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and is a key ingredient for losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight," she said. "One of the best ways to begin is with new workout gear. Treat yourself to a pair of designer yoga pants that will stretch and move with you or a pair of shorts with a splash of color to stay motivated. And don’t underestimate the importance of proper shoes. For any type of cardio work, buy shoes with strong ankle support and shock-resisting materials. Those old sneakers you wear to the grocery store are not good for those old joints."
Once decisions have been made to create a home fitness center, one of the best rules to follow is to buy high quality, yet affordable equipment. Treadmills and ellipticals on the lower end of the price scale are not designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use as more expensive models.
Barrack said treadmills begin at $400 and move into the thousands, while abdominal exercisers start at around $120.
"Some of the more expensive treadmills calculate how far you run, elevate the platform to take you up and down hills, take your heart rate, pulse and blood pressure, measure how many calories are burned, and even have fans that gently cool you while running or walking," he said. "Others have small television screens and are MP3 ready for your iPod. But if used regularly, they are well-worth the investment when you start feeling better and people notice your weight loss."
Equipment not always necessary If you want to prepare yourself before investing in home fitness equipment, or just don’t have space for a treadmill in a one-bedroom apartment, here are several tips for bringing exercise into your everyday life. • Park your car a little further from the mall or store. It may not seem like much, but over weeks and months, these minutes of exercise add up. • Whenever possible, use stairs instead of elevators and escalators. • Make it fun! Try a new sport like tennis or rollerblading. The more you enjoy exercise the more likely you are to stick to it. • Make it social. Walk with a friend, spouse or family member in the morning or evening. • Keep an exercise log. It makes you more accountable. • Take a 20-minute walk during your lunch hour.
