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Best Multi Gym Options

Building your home fitness gym can be an investment. So many people I talked to ended up not doing enough research and ending up with inferior products or with equipment that wasn’t versatile enough. If you look hard and do enough research, you can find a multi gym that is absolutely perfect for you and does just enough.  If you aren’t going to use the extra features that your multi gym equipment offers, why pay for it?

Weider X-Factor Plus Gym

Here are some amazing multi gym options that perform a variety of workouts.  I have placed them starting with the simpler and more cost effective and moving into the more elaborate and pricey.

One of the most compact, yet highly effective home multi gyms you can get is the Weider X-Factor Plus Gym. Besides being extremely efficient, it looks pretty cool as well.  I could definitely see Batman or one of the X-Men training on a device like this.  The X-Factor smartly doesn’t use weights, but instead relies of resistance technology and your own weight vs. gravity to help you get in shape. It features upper and lower pulleys to work a variety of muscle groups as well as a pull up bar and a fold away dip station.  An item like this is perfect for somebody either just starting out or who doesn’t want to bulk up as much as just get toned and fit.  Efficient, stylish and affordable!

Best Fitness Sportsmans Gym

The Best Fitness Sportsmans Gym is quite affordable and performs a lot of different exercises that target dozens of muscles. It is extremely compact and very easy to use. The fiberglass pulleys that lift the weights use aircraft quality cables, so you can trust that it will not break easily. The additional wide grip lat bar and low row bar make the price that much more awesome.

The chest press attachment on the Best Fitness Sportsmans Gym also turns into a pec fly exercise, serving the dual purpose of providing two fantastic exercises.  The leg piece can enable you to perform seated leg extensions and standing leg curls.  The overhead bar allows you to replicate cable exercises that you would normally have to perform at the gym.  The versatility of this machine for its price is really impressive.

Powerline BSG10X Home Gym

The Powerline BSG10X Home Gym is a bit more expensive, but it is even better quality. Of all the home multi gyms, this one is the most like a gym machine you would find at the gym, but is built to be an extremely compact 6 feet tall and only 4 feet wide.

Powerline Home Gym

The maker also offers a whopping ten year warranty to insure that you get your moneys worth from this gym equipment. It is quite easy to assemble and performs over 30 different exercises. Of all the multi gyms, this is a great one to start anybody’s home fitness gyms.

Depending on your needs, any of these multi gyms will work extremely well to get you closer to your fitness goals. All three are versatile, compact and well designed. While they are very helpful, don’t forget things like adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands or a dumbbell rack. Before you know it, you will have everything you need for a complete home fitness gym.


Ankle Weights Advice

Ankle weights are quite literally weights that are worn around the ankle.  Their purpose can range from helping in physical therapy to training for a race or game.  When used in conjunction with your normal exercises, ankle weights can push your workout further.  While you can grab a dumbbell with your hands, it isn’t possible to do so with your feet, so strapping on ankle weights can be a fantastic way to work your legs harder in many different ways.

Thera-Band Comfort Fit Ankle Weight Sets

A great starter ankle weight would be the Thera-Band Comfort Fit Ankle Weight Sets.  They are simple ankle weights that can add just a little bit of weight to your exercises.  A good way to think about the effectiveness of wearing a pair of ankle weights is to compare it to the incline setting on a treadmill.  When you put the incline up just a small amount, you can barely notice a difference, but you will witness your calorie burn count going higher.  Wearing ankle weights is very similar.  Lighter weights are not that noticeable, but will exercise your legs more and increase the calories you burn during a walk or jog.  But like all additions to an exercise, it is careful to not push yourself too far by wearing weights that are too heavy.

Many athletes will use ankle weights as a training tool.  The thought process is that if you train with weights on your ankles, you will be incredibly fast when you run without the weights.  Your legs will be able to move quicker once the weights are not there.  Swimmers also use them as a way to replicate the resistance of water when they can’t get to the pool.

TKO 10 lb Pair Ankle Weights

For someone who is looking for a product that has more options, you should consider purchasing adjustable ankle weights.  Unlike other weights, these allow you to change weight in half pound increments.  A hugely popular variety is the TKO 10 lb Pair Ankle Weights.  First off, it is extremely comfortable.  Its made of an ultra-soft gel foam padding and is lined with cotton terry.  Something that many adjustable ankle weights have issue with is keeping the small weights in place, but the TKO ankle weight has an easy to use closure that ensures the weights stay put while you are exercising or jogging.  As a really cool side feature, it also has a build in pocket for your key so that you dont have to have it bouncing around in your pocket.

For those that are going through physical therapy for wide variety of reasons, there are many ankle weights benefits to consider.  If you need to strengthen your lower body, having access to ankle weights can greatly help in rebuilding muscles.  Depending on which exercise you perform, there are a variety of muscle groups in your lower body that can be exercised.

All Pro 20 Lb Adjustable Ankle Weight

However, if you are looking to use ankle weights during your workout, you may want something a bit heavier.  The All Pro 20 Lb Adjustable Ankle Weight is heavy duty and made to build muscles.  This type is not made for walking or jogging, but in the gym it is amazing.  Having one at home can be a great way to improve the strength and look of your legs.  This particular model goes up to twenty pounds in one pound increments.

When used properly, ankle weights can be a fantastic way to improve your results from exercise.  Another helpful item to consider are wrist weights.  When used together, wrist and ankle weights can be an even more successful combination that can increase the output you get from simple activities.  Good luck and be safe!


Wrist Weights Benefits

For someone who is constantly on the go it can be hard to find any time to exercise.  Turning everyday activities into exercises seems impossible, but with the help of wrist weights, it becomes a reality.  With the addition of wrist weights, many exercises can easily be enhanced and normal activities start burning more calories without you even noticing.

Reebock Thumblock 2 lb. Wrist Weights

Reebock Thumblock 4 lb. Wrist Weights

A highly popular brand of wrist weights comes from Reebok with their Thumblock line.  The addition of their Comfort Lock technology allows for comfort while not letting the weights slip around.  Pictured left is the two pound set which is one pound for each wrist weight.  Pictured right is the four pound set which is two pounds for each wrist weight. The effect is similar to that of the incline setting on a treadmill.  Each small increment is barely noticeable, but you will see your calories being burnt increase and muscle will start developing sooner.

Valeo Adjustable Wrist Weight

There are many benefits to using wrist weights instead of dumbbells for certain activities.  Walking though the park is a great exercise, but wearing light wrist weights turns the exercise into more of a workout.  Your arm muscles will get subtly used with each swing of your arm as you walk.  Wrist weights benefits are most apparent for exercises that would make using dumbbells impractical, but using wrist weights can help to tone and shape your arms without you even realize you are working out.  It is also a wonderful way to exercise your forearms which can be neglected.

Wrist weights can also be used by fitness enthusiasts of many different skill levels.  If you are just starting out, but want something that will be able to grow with you as you get stronger, consider getting adjustable wrist weights.  As pictured at left is the Valeo Adjustable Wrist Weight weight which can be changed by simply removing or adding one of the smaller weights, giving your wrist weight more versatility and allowing you to use it for a variety of workouts.

Arm Weights

Others may be looking for lightweight wrist weights that can be hidden easily under clothes to make every single day time activity more of an exercise.  The Arm Weights pictured right are perfect for hiding under clothing.  Unlike most wrist weights which are bulky and thick, these are designed to be thinner and spread out over your forearm instead of just the wrist.  Imagine you are an office worker typing on a computer all day.  Wearing these weights under your shirt and simply holding your hands over a keyboard while typing turns into an exercise.  You won’t see crazy results overnight, but it will slowly shape and sculpt your arms.

Using wrist weights in conjunction with ankle weights is a phenomenal combination.  Ankle and wrist weights used in tandem are a perfect pair.  All cardio exercises become increased and you will work your muscles a lot more than just performing the cardio exercise on its own.

With all new additions to your exercise regime, it is important to think about consulting a doctor or a physical trainer so you don’t hurt or over extend yourself with new workout techniques.


Read A Guide Before Buying A Machine

Exercise has really become a part of a lot of people’s life. There are some people who can’t go through a day without exercising. They have become fitness buffs where they spend most of their free time in gyms. In response to growing number of people interested in exercise, gyms and fitness centers keep popping up in every corner. You can now see that there are a lot of places where you can exercise. Also gym machines have become more complicated and bigger. There are now so many machines that you can’t keep track of all of them. This is a gym machines guide comes in handy. You can read the different specs and features of different machines there. It gives you an idea on what machines are out there in the market.

A weighted vest is exercise equipment that is most often used by runners. They used a weighted vest for resistance training while running. The added weight can help them speed up when it comes to running in meets and marathons. If you want to start using a vest then you should start with a 2-pound vest. Don’t use a vest that is more than 10% of your body weight. Just gradually increase the weight of your vest. Don’t overexert yourself when it comes to training.

If you are planning on buying a gym machine for your home, you need to make room for the machine. Clean up your basement or your storage room. Make sure that you have enough room for your machine. You also need to have a well-ventilated room to give you enough oxygen when exercising. A gym machines guide is a helpful tool when you want to buy a machine. You can also research in the internet different feedbacks and comments about exercise machines. There are some people who offer honest reviews about exercise machines they had bought. Take your time in picking a machine as they don’t come in cheap and you have to like them fro you to use them.


Are Home Gym Machines For You?

Everyone should be educated on how exercise can save a lot of lives. People with lifestyle related diseases learn to live with their conditions with the help of exercise. Diabetics and hypertensive people are advised to do cardio exercises daily. They can slowly start by doing 30-minute exercises daily. They can then add 5 minutes everyday until they reach one hour. Exercise had been proven to help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels. A lot of doctors would advise patients to start exercising.

There are a lot of debates regarding the best home fitness equipment. A lot of people swear by their own home gym machines. People have different personalities as well as interests. You can research in the internet to find the best equipment and read about the pros and cons of the recommended ones. If you have no idea on how various equipments work then you should try asking the help from experts. You can ask for some advice from fitness experts or certified trainers.

The best home fitness equipment is the one that you use often. It may differ for every person and each person probably has their own preferences. It is up to you on what king of home gym machines you need for your home. You can have a variety of equipments that you can use interchangeably.

Other people don’t bother with gym equipments anymore. Instead they go to parks to jog or run. Others exercise with friend by playing basketball or spar in boxing gyms. A lot of women also go into dancing. There are now a lot of dance sports that can help you become fitter and healthier. Other people prefer meditation, yoga or Tai-chi. They can do these exercises on their own or watch videos and follow them. There is really no limit on the ways you can exercise. Its all up to you on what you feel like doing. Just keep in mind that you need to enjoy and have fun in whatever you do.


Start Getting Fit Inside Your Home

You’ve seen the stuff on TV, you see somebody from a size 24 go to a size 6. You might be thinking that impossible. Can one really get fit from those machines sold on TV? Yes and No. no matter how much you spend in buying machines, if you don’t use them you won’t really get fit. You need to be dedicated and sure that you want to have a fitter and healthier life.

If you’re thinking of getting a home fitness machine then you should first think of your interests. Do you like running or biking? Do you want to have cardio exercises or weight lifting exercises? Do you want to perform exercises like yoga or do heart racing exercises? These are just some questions you might want to ask yourself before buying home fitness machines. Also keep in mind the available space in your home. Don’t but something that won’t fit your home.

If you like biking then you can buy a stationary bike. You will still enjoy the exercise even in your home. You can also buy treadmills if you like to jog or run. Another thing that you should take care of is your feet. You need to buy quality shoes that will cushion and support your feet. Home fitness machines are really in these days. People set-up their own home gyms and equip their home with various exercise machines.

Home fitness machine is the new way to go. There’s no need to keep having gym memberships when you know you won’t go to the gym. If can’t go to the gym then bring the gym to your home. People now often convert their garages or storage rooms to home gyms. You can save a lot of money from membership fees and you can exercise anytime you like. Take time to get fit and healthy. Your health is very important and you should never take it for granted. Try to lead a healthier lifestyle and get regular exercise.


Home Fitness Gym Space Savers

I know we all wish we had a huge room dedicated to our own personal home fitness gym, but not all of us can afford such an extravagance.  Most people have smaller areas that don’t allow for bulkier equipment, which is perfectly fine.  There are still tons of workout options available to you.

When I was in a similar situation in my first apartment, I discovered a product that helped me immensely.  The Iron Gym Total Upper Body Bar was an ideal and compact multi gym that kept me in shape when I was broke and right out of college.  It latches on to your doorway, taking advantage of that empty space.  Chin ups and pull ups can be performed in several different grips to allow you exercise your muscles more thoroughly.

At the bottom of the archway, it can assist in a variety of other workouts.  It can hold your feet in place while you are doing sit ups and crunches.  With your arms behind you, balancing on the bar, you can do dips to work your triceps and other muscles in your arms and shoulder.

Treadmill jogging is one the most popular home gym exercises people do.  Finding room for a treadmill in your home can be tricky, as they are one of the bulkiest pieces of gym equipment.  But many companies have begun to make more folding treadmills to free up more room in your gym.

It is important to keep in mind that not all space savers are the best and most long lasting products.  You get what you pay for, so if you buy a cheap folding treadmill, it may not be the best product out there.

You will have to weigh concerns of how much room you can allot against how much money you want to spend and then do some research about products in that range.  You may find that buckling down and getting a slightly more expensive and bulkier product will save you money and hassle down the line.


Resistance Band Guide

For creating a home fitness gym on a very limited budget, there is one inexpensive item that is essential: a resistance band.  While you could get a few of resistance bands of varying elasticity that replicate more weight in the resistance, one can do the trick to start.

There is a plethora of exercises that you can replicate using the resistance band.  For starters, stand with each end of the band in your hands and place the middle under your feet.  This starting position can lead to dozens of exercises.


Resistance Band

For an ab/core workout, simply lean back and forth isolating the muscles in your abdomen.  The band’s resistance helps to get rid of your love handles.

With your elbows at your side, you can replicate the bicep curls you would normally do with an adjustable dumbbell.  I like to connect the bicep curl with a shoulder press to combine workouts and save time.  With a door attachment, you can also use your resistance band to replicate any cable pulley exercises and chest presses.

To perform one of my favorite exercises, sit down and extend your legs.  Place the resistance band around your feet and pull back to perform a row exercise which is great for your upper back and shoulders.  From there, lay on your back while keeping the band on your feet.  While holding the resistance band firmly, press your legs up to do a great leg press exercise.

Another wonderful thing about the resistance band is its compact size.  You can literally bring it anywhere you want with ease.  Bring it to work for a quick exercise on your lunch break. If you are going on vacation or taking a trip for work you should definitely bring it with you to make sure you can get a workout into your schedule no matter what happens.

All in all, this piece of equipment is essential.  It is a great start to a home fitness gym and something that you will be able to use down the line no matter what.  As you become stronger and need something like an adjustable dumbbell, you can always use your resistance band to aid in stretching.


Deluxe Home Fitness Gyms

Some home gyms are built because people are tired of spending money on a gym, while other people decide to construct home fitness gyms because they have a lot of money and want to build one.  For a person with money to burn, there are some extremely awesome options.

BodyCraft X4 Home Gym

One of the most impressive models out there is the BodyCraft X4 Home Gym.  Its four sided design allows several people to work out together.  If you have a family or group of friends that you want to get in shape with, the X4 is great.  Each side has a massive 200 pounds of weight plates and combined together you can perform literally any exercise that you would normally use a gym machine or free weight to perform.  It is, of course, pricey.  But it is top of the line and a great investment in years of healthy living.  It does take up a considerable amount of space though.  If space is an issue for you, you may want to consider the next option.

Body Solid EXM4000S Triple Stack Home Gym

The Body Solid EXM4000S Triple Stack Home Gym is a three sided home gym machine.  This helps to be able to set it up against a wall instead of having it be away from a wall on all four sides.  However, the fourth side is available as an add on.  The missing side is a leg press/calf press station.  A great thing about Body Solid is that they offer a lifetime warranty, so you know that your financial investment will be safe.

Multisports MS-3200

If you want a three sided station but still want the ability to perform the leg press exercise there is the Multisports MS-3200 Home Gym.  This model is also better for one person as the three sides share the same stack of weights, thus preventing simultaneous use of all three sides.  If you are looking for a great deluxe machine for fitness home gyms that you would mostly use on your own, this is a fantastic choice.

All three of these models are in the higher echelon of home gym equipment.  Having one of them would do wonderful things for your home fitness regime.


Personalize Your Home Fitness Gym

The great thing about have a gym at home is that you can personalize it to whatever your specifications are.  When you belong to a gym, you end up paying for so many services that you don’t even use.  Your home gym can be catered to exactly what you need.

The important thing is to really assess what you are looking to focus on.  If you just want to tone and keep in shape, some simple lighter items such as resistance bands, balance balls, and light dumbbells may be all you need.

But, on the other hand, if you are looking to lose a lot of weight, a cardio machine is what you need most.  There are several options ranging from a treadmill to a stair climber to an elliptical machine to name a few.  Or if you already have a bicycle, you could just get a bike trainer, which locks your bike in place and allows you to use it indoors.

If bulk is what you are after, you need to invest in bigger weights and a large barbell to go with your dumbbells.  Along with the exercise bar, you should also make sure your bench has an attachment to hold the barbell, allowing you to perform bench presses.

Now, if you are thinking of going even bigger than that, you have to worry about working out at home, alone and without a spotter.  Heavier weights become extremely dangerous, so if you the room you should buy some helpful workout equipment like a power rack or something like a smith machine to make sure you are being as safe as you possibly can.

There are also fantastic multi gyms out there if you have the money and room for one.  But it is more important to start small.   I have had so many friends feel momentarily inspired and spend thousands of dollars on home fitness gyms but then not use it at all.  By starting small and seeing how you feel when you work out home, you can judge better when you may want to expand down the line.  And if worse comes to worse, you can always sell our used home fitness gym equipment in the newspaper or on craigslist.com.


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