Previous Project | Choosing Home Gym Equipment Next Project

		DO consult a doctor before starting any fitness program. DON’T spend money without setting out your fitness goals first.

Lose Weight, Build Muscle

1. Once you know what your fitness goals are, buying the right equipment to help you reach those goals is easier. More cardio activity? A treadmill will help? Muscle toning? A set of free weights will do the trick. Brigitte wanted a combination of both for her preparation for a role in a boxing film. She chose a PaceMaster Gold Treadmill as well as a selection of boxing equipment. (see figs. A, B & C)
   
   

   Fig. A		Fig. B

2. Think about what fitness activities you’re currently involved in. This helps you to choose equipment that you’re going to enjoy and (importantly) will continue to use. If you think that rowing a boat is drudgery, a rowing machine may not work for you. But if you love cycling, there’s an incredible selection of stationary bikes that will challenge your skills.
   
3. What equipment have you owned before? If you had a stair climber that was used only as a clothes hanger, try something different this time around.
   
4. Consider the intentions of your fitness goals. Are you training for serious competition? Or is your fitness activity more recreational? This will help to determine the right equipment. There’s no need to spend extra money on equipment that will do more than you need.
   
   

   Fig. C		Fig. D

5. Equipment should be bought with the size and weight of the user in mind. What works for a 6’ 4” football player may not be right for someone of Brigitte’s slighter stature.
   
6. Do you have any chronic injuries or physical limitations to consider? If you have back or knee problems, buy equipment that won’t aggravate your condition.
   
7. Shop around and research the features that you need. Different types of equipment offer different options. If you want to monitor your heart rate, seek out that feature. If mileage is important, make sure that the equipment you use fulfills that need.
   
8. Think about the space that you have available. Brigitte has plenty of room in her basement home fitness room but not everyone is so lucky. If you’re in a studio apartment, consider a fitness apparatus that folds up. Make sure the equipment is set up on a level surface to reduce wear on the machinery. (see fig. D)
   
9. If you find it difficult to stick with a fitness activity for the required length of time, consider adding a TV to your workout area. Or pick up a good book to read while you run.
   

Building Materials, and Sico paint BMR/Builders Warehouse 3636 Innes Rd. Orlean, ON K1C 1T1 p. 613-824-2702 Exercise equipment and location Fitness Depot 499 Industrial Ave. Ottawa, ON K1G 0Z1 p. 613-247-8888 DriCore flooring system DriCore

Previous Project | Choosing Home Gym Equipment Next Project