Cardio Equipment Buying Guide- Factors and Recommendations

If you’re looking to elevate your gym facility, cardio equipment is a great option. There isn’t one cardio machine that stands out as the best; instead, it’s about finding the one that works best for you. Cardio is fantastic for losing weight and being in better shape generally, but there are many other factors to consider when selecting a suitable cardio machine.

Read below to learn more about the essential factors to consider when buying the right cardio equipment for your fitness needs. 

Cardio Equipment- A Great Tool for Improved Heart Health

Cardiovascular exercises are crucial to your fitness plan for losing weight, increasing calorie burn, strengthening muscles, and improving overall health.

Walking, running, and jogging are among the best cardio exercises because they raise the heart rate. However, these outdoor workouts might become inconvenient due to conditions like the weather. Hence, getting reliable good cardio equipment is a great investment.

Types of Cardio Equipment and Their Stand-Out Features:

Treadmills:

Treadmills are the most effective cardio machines for burning calories. They’re an excellent investment for increasing your endurance with customizable walking and running speeds. Consider your fitness objectives, available space, and budget when looking for a treadmill. Always check the weight capacity, incline settings, cushioning, exercise programs, and motor capacity. Among the best treadmills are the Life Fitness Integrity Treadmill, Zymfit CT 910, and Life Fitness CLST Integrity. 

Ellipticals:

Ellipticals offer a full-body, low-impact workout that builds muscle and boosts overall fitness. People who are prone to joint pain often find relief in elliptical trainers. The primary muscle groups that an elliptical trainer targets are the glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps. When buying an elliptical, consider weight, height, stride length, resistance system, users, and workout duration. Some of the best ellipticals include Zymfit CE810, Octane LX8000, and Precor EFX 835 with P30 Console.

Steppers and Stepmills:

A stepper has two pedals that descend in an alternating pattern when you use them. A step mill features a rotating staircase that continuously moves as you step. These machines provide a great cardiovascular workout by raising your heart rate. Their ability to engage numerous muscle groups simultaneously, like the legs and glutes, enhances weight reduction and muscle tone. A few of the best steppers and stepmills include Life Fitness Integrity Stepper, Stairmaster Gauntlet Stepmill, and Panatta Ecoclimber. 

Upright Bikes:

When you get on an upright bike, it’s more like riding a conventional outdoor bike; there’s no backrest to restrict your movement. Riding an upright bike requires using both your core and arms to maintain an upright position. Because of this, riding an upright bike is considered a better way to get full-body exercise. Those seeking a more demanding experience would benefit more from riding an upright bike. Some of the best upright bikes include Zymfit CB 610, Precor UBK835 with P30 Console, and Star Trac Pro. 

Recumbent Bikes:

The lowered seat of a recumbent bike makes them gentler on the lower back, making these a perfect option for those with joint issues. Glutes, calf muscles, tibialis anterior, quadriceps, and hamstrings will be used most on a recumbent cycle. A recumbent bike lets you rest your arms as you peddle, making it an ideal choice for first-timers. The best recumbent bikes include Life Fitness CSLR, Zymfit CB620, and Fife Fitness 95RI. 

Spin Bikes:

An indoor cycling bike, or spin bike, is an exercise machine that aims to provide the rider with an experience similar to a road bike. Usually, they feature a big flywheel that provides resistance, making it feel like you’re riding at height. Spin bikes are typically built for high-intensity, high-energy workouts and typically include adjustable resistance, saddle height, and handlebar position. Some of the top-notch spin bikes include Blitz Air 2.0, Panatta Star Bike Evolution, and Stages SC2. 

Arc Trainers:

An arc trainer is a stationary, low-impact cardio exercise machine. It strengthens the glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings with minimal impact on the ankles and knees. An arc trainer not only improves your heart health but also increases your endurance and enhances your muscular strength. The premier arc trainers include CYBEX 770AT, CYBEX 750AT, and VYBEX 630A.

AMTs:

An Adaptive Motion Trainer (AMT) combines a treadmill and an elliptical trainer. Because of this, it is considered a hybrid exercise equipment that combines elements of the elliptical, treadmill, and stepper to allow full-body exercise. Because of its resistance and range of motion, the AMT is ideal for various workouts and targets calves, hamstrings, and glutes. Some of the best AMTs include Precor AMT 835 with P30 Console and Precor AMT 1001.

Indoor Rowers:

Rowing machines offer the benefits of both cardiovascular and strength training. The rower is a great all-around exercise since it uses your arms and legs simultaneously to work out various muscles. If you are looking for a low-impact exercise, rowers are the best option since their smooth but challenging motion develops strength and stamina together. The most liked rowers are the Zymfit CS310 Commercial Ski, Zymfit RW530 Water Rower, and Panatta Eco Rower.

Things to Consider When Buying Cardio Equipment:

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right cardio equipment;

• Check the available space:

Before buying a large piece of cardio equipment, make sure you have enough room for it in your available space. Regardless of whether you are buying cardio equipment for a commercial or home gym, it is critical to plan and measure the available area precisely because the space requirement of each piece of equipment varies according to its size and mobility. 

• Try before you buy:

Each piece of cardio equipment, like treadmills and ellipticals, has a unique feel and features. Before purchasing workout equipment, it is wise to ‘try and buy’ it at a fitness store. Make sure the equipment is solid and well-made. Look at all the parts and areas that will collect perspiration. This is indicative of durability and high quality. Make sure you’re comfortable with the machine’s ergonomics by experimenting with the seat, back support, and handrails. 

• Check for warranty and installation:

If you plan to use your cardio equipment long-term, ensure it’s sturdy and comes with a solid warranty.Also, consider the installation process. Although the user can install some cardio machines, it is better to ask a qualified service professional.

• Compare costs:

Avoid falling for prices that are too good to be true. You can’t also assume better quality because you paid a premium for the equipment. You should verify the equipment’s quality before investing your hard-earned money by reading reviews, discussing with a fitness specialist, and analyzing your requirements. 

• Buy from reputable sellers:

There are some retailers with a stronger reputation than others in every market. Most respectable retailers sell high-quality exercise gear, so you know you’re getting your money’s worth when you buy from them. Furthermore, these trustworthy retailers partner with leading equipment manufacturers to offer their customers the best fitness gear.

Choose Quality Cardio Equipment that Stands the Test of Time- Buy at Keystone Fitness

Investing in cardiovascular exercise equipment is a wise choice for a healthier life. Each piece of cardio equipment provides a training experience that is unique to your needs. Before buying a cardio machine, thoroughly explore your options to familiarize yourself with each model’s features. Remember that different cardio equipment types offer different experiences and benefits.  

So, are you still confused about which equipment to buy? If you’re looking for high-quality, feature-rich, and service-oriented cardio equipment for your commercial or home gym, look no further than Keystone Fitness. Keystone Fitness allows you to examine each piece of equipment and learn about its characteristics at our physical store.

To inquire more about our fitness equipment, visit our website and contact us. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Which is the best cardio equipment for beginners?

For beginners, the elliptical is one of the best cardio machines since it offers a low-impact workout with manageable resistance. Because of its mild impact, the elliptical machine is great for those just starting, those healing from injuries, and those undergoing physical therapy.

2. Which cardio equipment is really effective?

The treadmill is among the most effective cardio machines because it allows natural body movement, unlike other exercise machines. It’s straightforward to operate; you can adjust the settings according to your fitness requirements to change the pace or difficulty.

3. How can I do cardio without going to the gym?

Running and walking are two of the best and simplest ways to do cardio without going to the gym. If you are new to the sport, begin with slow walking and progress to three or four running days weekly.