Cardiovascular Buying Guide

Cardiovascular training includes some of the the most common exercises, here are some bits of equipment that will help you to make the most of those exercises.

• Exercise Bikes
• Rowing Machines
• Stepping Machines
• Running Machines
• Boxing
• Skipping Ropes
  

There are a number of things to look for when purchasing an exercise bike. Firstly (and one that is often missed), make sure the bike has a comfortable seat and that the height of the seat is adjustable.

Once you are sure that its comfortable you need to look at the resistance levels and buy a bike that has adequate resistance adjustability so you can vary the difficulty of your workout.

These principles apply for all types of bike.

There are two main types of bike available upright and recumbent.

Upright bikes are just like a traditional bike where you are above the pedals. A recumbent bike allows you to sit in a more reclined position, just like in an arm chair.

An upright bike works your quadriceps (front of the thigh) whereas a recumbent bike focuses on the hamstring.

See our range of exercise bikes

Rowing machines are great for developing abs, arms, legs and back muscles from a seated position. The good thing about rowing is that you create your own resistance. For example the quicker you row the more force you need to apply.

Choosing a rowing machine is relatively simply. There are 3 main types of rowing machines available which use different ways of creating resistance.

Air rowing machines are the closest match to actual rowing and give an excellent smooth motion.

Magnetic rowing machines are generally what you will find in a gym, very smooth with variable resistance, although tend to be more expensive.

Hydraulic drum based machines use hydraulic action to generate resistance.

Of the three styles available there is no real negative points to any of the technologies. Just look for the machine of best quality in your price bracket.

See our range of rowing machines

Stepping machines are great for providing a low impact cardio workout. The advantage to this type of machine is that it is small and can fit in the bottom of your cupboard.

There are only to things thing to look for on this type of machine. The first is an analogue or digital counter as this will allow you to set yourself a challenge.

The second thing to look for is the motion. There are two types of motion available, independent or dependant motion.

Independent motion is where the steps are not linked. You move each step independently.

Dependant motion is where the steps are linked. You push down on one step and the other will rise.

See our range of stepping machines

Running machines are a popular piece of equipment. Being both simple to use and effective at burning calories. They are an ideal bit of kit.

When buying a running machine there are a number of things to take into consideration. Make sure the machine has a number of different levels of difficulty or adjustability for walking, jogging, running etc. It should ideally have a selection of programmed courses which make day to day workouts a bit more of a challenge.

Make sure the band you run on is long enough for your stride. Handgrips are essential as they help you maintain balance.

The last thing that you must check is the motor power. Ask the sales person to query the power of the motor for example, will it be manly enough for your running needs.

The other thing that you might want to think about having is an integrated heart rate monitor so you can keep an eye on your heart rate.

See our range of running machines

Boxing is a great sport, providing both cardiovascular and strength building in one. There a few bits of equipment that you will want to consider, such as punch bags, training gloves, speed balls and focus pads.

Realistically the only thing you will want to be looking for is quality as boxing equipment really does take a beating. Consider leather as it has great properties and is robust.

Punch bags come in different weights. The heavier they are the less they move from a punch. Better quality punch bags will last a lot longer and take a lot more punishment than cheaper punch bags.

Training gloves have padded front sections to protect your fingers from damage. As mentioned above try and go for leather as it is resistant to ripping and is durable.

Focus pads are for a sparring partner to adsorb their opponents blows. Consider padding here, you want something that’s going to absorb blows.

When buying speed balls consider the same things as punch bags, durability is the key here.

Remember that with both speed balls and punch bags consider how you are going to hang them and that the ceiling they are being hung from can handle the weight.

See our range of boxing equipment

Skipping provides an excellent cardio workout and is great for burning calories. There are a few different types of skipping rope available. Standard ropes and speed ropes.

Standard ropes are for normal skipping and come in a few different materials, nylon style fabrics, leather or steel wire. Leather is a more durable fabric and will last longer but all materials are suitable.

Speed ropes are designed for fast skipping and are thinner and slightly heavier than standard ropes.

Something to consider but is not essential, is a digital skipping rope which counts your skips. A nice touch.

See our range of skipping ropes