Last Updated Dec 2012
Mini-trampolines, abdominal contraptions for ripped abs, weights that a make a noise like a maraca, wild-looking shoes that “tone” the legs. What exercise equipment will they think of next?
Some of these fitness fads are more gimmicky than they are worthwhile. Here are my top three favorites that I predict will stand the test of time and be as useful as they are good conversation pieces.
- Bosu®. Shaped like an exercise ball cut in two, the Bosu® offers two planes of instability—the round top and the flat bottom. These two surfaces can accommodate standing on one leg or two and offer the user a great bouncing surface for plyometric training and stability training for both the upper and lower body muscles. It is also great for strengthening the core muscles of the back and abdominals. About $100 dollars, the Bosu® is a great investment for anyone desiring to stay in shape. Hey parents: the Bosu® is also a great exercise equipment for kids since they won't be able to resist jumping on it!
The fitness ball. My all-time favorite strength training tool is the fitness ball because it allows for endless opportunities to strength train multiple muscles at once. This is perfect for impatient exercisers like me. For example, performing dumbbell flies while your head and neck rests on the ball will work your chest muscles while also working your core muscles as your body works to keep a bridge position. Look for a good quality ball that is burst-resistant up to 500 pounds or more because they hold air longer and will resist punctures which is good for peace of mind. If you are 5’-5’7” tall, a 55cm ball may be your size, and 5’8”-6’2” people may prefer the 65cm ball. This varies a little depending on leg length. Hey parents: kids love this one, too! Exercise balls are great for their balance and are plain old fun! With a burst-resistant ball, you can be assured the ball will withstand almost any abuse.
- Bands or tubing. Resistance tubing can be used to exercise the entire body; chest, back, shoulders, arms, legs and core. Easy on the joints and easy to transport, tubing is perfect for rehabilitation or travel. I recommend
tubing with handles for a comfortable grip. Tubing comes in light, medium and heavy resistances and anywhere in between. They are also easy to store. Tubing reference guides, found at any book store, can offer you endless ideas for exercises.
Any exercise equipment that keeps you motivated to be active, however, is worth its weight in gold. Don’t be afraid to invest in the latest fitness gadget, but keep in mind the limits of the equipment before you buy it. You may end up using it to hang your clothes on instead of making you fit, or it may end up in the next garage sale pile.
About the Author: Alice Burron is an affiliate spokesperson and highly successful personal trainer for the American Council on Exercise. She earned a master’s in physical education with an emphasis in exercise physiology from the University of Wyoming and is a leading national fitness and wellness program expert.
Check out Alice's new book Four Weeks to Fabulous, created to empower the average working woman who is busy with her family, career, and wants to take control of her weight - and health. Four Weeks to Fabulous is available at www.2BFIT.net, or can be purchased on Amazon.
Click here for more articles by Alice Burron.
Did you like this article? Share it!