HealthyLife Articles

Tag: equipment

  • Create A Home Gym

    BE FIT

    Workout equipment for the home.

    Going to the gym can be expensive in terms of both money and time. Instead of spending all that money on a membership, why not invest in equipment you can use for years without having to leave your house?

    You don’t need fancy machines to create a functional home gym. And you don’t even need much space. These items can fit anywhere and will challenge your body to get stronger and healthier.

    Resistance bands:Get a set that offers low, medium, and high resistance for a variety of challenges.

    Kettlebells:Choose a 6 kg (13 pounds) kettlebell for women or an 8 kg (18 pounds) kettlebell for men.

    Step platform or box:A step platform or box will allow you to do step-ups, jump-ups, and other types of movements that get you in the cardio zone.

    Exercise ball:This inflatable ball adds variety to your workouts and is easy to store.

    Jump rope:If jumping is safe for you, a jump rope is an ideal piece of cardio equipment.

    Source: National Library of Medicine

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Tips For Joining A Gym

    BE FIT

    Older adults using dumb bells in fitness class.

    A gym can be a great option if you like to work out indoors, but out of your house. And they can help you beat boredom if they offer classes and a variety of equipment. Before you join a gym, keep these things in mind:

    Ask the right questions

    The gym staff should allow people to visit and check it out before signing a contract. See if the equipment is clean and well-maintained. You should also ask:

    *  Do you have a membership limit? If they allow unlimited members, the gym could get very crowded at peak times. This could mean waiting in line to use equipment or full classes.

    *  Do classes cost extra? Some gyms include classes. Others charge a fee.

    *  Who are your instructors? Ask if the gym staff, teachers and trainers have fitness backgrounds.

    Pricing it out

    Many gyms have you sign a monthly or yearly contract. Think about how many times per week you will go to the gym. Then divide it up and see how much you will pay each time you work out.

    Find out if you are locked into a long-term contract. What is their cancellation policy?

    Good health is worth the cost of the gym – but only if you use it!

    YMCAs  often have discounted programs for seniors that may be covered as a Medicare benefit at no cost.

    Check out reviews

    Before signing up, search reviews of the gym on the Internet. See what others have to say about the gym’s staff, facilities and equipment.

    This is a good way to get some insider information before you move forward. And don’t let them pressure you into joining before you’re ready. Tell them, “I need to think about it” if you’re not sure yet. Then sleep on it for a day or two and check reviews – before you decide.

    Source: Federal Trade Commission

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Avoid Injury

    Healthylife® Weigh

    Part 5

    Senior couple streching before workout.

    Learn how to do an exercise before you try it. Watch someone demonstrate it, either in person or in a video. If possible, do the exercise with someone who can correct poor form.

    Warm up before moderate or intense exercise. Start slowly. You should gradually start breathing harder and feel your heart rate increasing.

    Cool down after moderate or intense exercise. Cool down slowly. Do the activity that you were doing (e.g., walking, biking), but more slowly.

    Possible Cool Down

    *  Brisk walking: Walk around slowly

    *  Swimming: Walk in shallow end of pool

    *  Cycling: Cycle slowly on flat surface or walk

    *  Aerobics: Walk or stretch slowly

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Beware Of Exercise Gimmicks

    BE FIT

    Image of man running outside.

    Let’s face it: working out is, well, work. It takes time and commitment to exercise regularly, and sticking to it can be tough.

    Exercise gimmicks and fads target the millions of people who want the benefits of exercise but may be looking for a quicker solution. Some products may claim to “spot reduce,” or slim one area of the body, such as the tummy or legs. Others may claim to give you the benefits of a long workout in just a few minutes.

    Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether something is an effective piece of equipment or a scam. Before purchasing, ask yourself if the product:

    *  Promises amazing results without any work or “sweat”

    *  Focuses on just one area of the body, saying you can trim this problem area

    *  Advertises that you can lose many inches or pounds in just a few days or weeks

    *  Doesn’t provide a clear cost for the equipment or only offers monthly payment plans

    Unfortunately, many of these products don’t do what they claim, and some may not work at all. But, you don’t need a device or special equipment to reap the benefits of exercise. You can lose weight and get healthier with just 30 minutes a day of activity. Walking, gardening, dancing and biking are possible options. Pick something you enjoy so you’ll stick with it. If you don’t have 30 minutes in your day, break it up into three 10-minute chunks.

    Instead of worrying about the latest fitness gimmick, stick to the activities listed above. Your health and fitness level will improve, and you can save your money for fitness rewards, such as a new pair of walking shoes or exercise clothes.

    Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine