Most of us have some exercise equipment hidden away in a closet or storage space somewhere that we used several times and then stored away. This problem might have been avoided had we thought about the purchase carefully before spending our hard earned cash on exercise equipment we couldn’t use. It pays to be well educated with well defined fitness goals before making a purchase of exercise equipment. After all, do you really want to look at that abandoned exercise bike every time you open your closet door? Let’s find out what you need to consider before purchasing your next piece of exercise equipment.
Establish Your Exercise Goals
This should always be our first priority. Exercise goals should be clearly thought out before even considering purchasing any type of equipment. Is your goal to get better cardiovascular health or is it to build or tone muscle? If cardiovascular health is your primary goal, a treadmill, stairclimber, or exercise bike might be the best option. If you want to tone or build muscle, chose a machine that allows you to do resistance training preferably with weights.
Consider Less Expensive Options When Appropriate
No one says you have to have the fanciest equipment in order to meet you fitness goals. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you have lots of available options. A few sets of dumbbells may be all you need to build and tone muscle and something as simple as a jump rope can give you an excellent cardiovascular workout.Don’t underestimate these simple solutions. You may want to give them a try before investing in expensive equipment that takes up space. After all, who wants to spend money on elaborate equipment when there’s a simpler alternative?
Take Into Account How Much Space You Have Available
Obviously, if you live in a small apartment, you’re not going to want a large, multigym unit. You need a small space conserving unit that will get the job done. Fortunately, there are pieces of fitness equipment available that you can fold into small units and easiily store in a closet or small space. If you’re pressed for space, these can be an excellent alternative to bulky equipment.
Consider Buying Used Equipment
With so many people purchasing exercise equipment that they don’t use, the market is full of used equipment in excellent condition. Try checking your local newspaper for individuals selling the equipment, yard sales, and estate sales. You can also find some real bargains via online sources such as online classifieds and Ebay. Many areas also have second hand sporting goods stores that sell used fitness equipment. Why not pay them a visit and see what they have to offer? The savings can be significant and you’ll have some extra cash available to buy clothes for your new, buff body!
Don’t Buy on the Basis of Emotion
We’ve all seen the glossy infomercials where models with buff bodies demonstrate the latest fitness contraption. Don’t fall victim to their sales pitches! What’s right for them, may not be the right piece of exercise equipment for you to meet your fitness goals. Do your research before purchasing regardless of how compelling the T.V. ads sound.
Finally, make sure to use your new equipment once you make your final purchase! After all, exercise equipment doesn’t work unless you take the time to use it. Make sure you set those goals and let your equipment work its magic. You’ll be rewarded with cardiovascular health and a body you can be proud to show the world!
