If you're like me, you've probably heard that using machines (treadmill's, ellipticals, bikes etc) for cardiovascular training has it limits. True results based methods like:
- Kettle Bell training,
- Circuit training,
- Tabata's,
- Barbell Complexes
...and the like, are where the real bang for your buck are. This is accurate. These training methods mentioned above are FAR superior to machines and have a greater carry over to our daily lives whether you're a elite athlete or a house mom with children.
(side note: If you truly haven't seen or heard of any of these methods described above you are living in the dark ages and should have your pulse checked.)
But, recently I've joined a commercial gym for a few weeks because I needed a break from my gym. It also gives me a chance to freely workout without having to answer phones, greet walk-in's and other tempting work obligations that stare at me while I workout. So, being at this gym (who's name I will not mention) has allowed me to pick out pieces of cardio equipment that can give me a good challenge but are a break from the super intense kettle bell sessions we use at my gym. Not that there's anything wrong with that other stuff, I'm just finding joy in mixing it up and still getting a great workout in.
So here are my 3 favorite pieces of Commercial gym cardio equipment:
#3 - Airdyne Bike - This bike is a MONSTER! You will generally find it for use in rehab facilities or places where athletes are recovering from injury. But make no mistake, when used for cardio training it can be quite a challenge. The bike uses a unique system where a fan is used to generate motion. The user must also incorporate their arms & legs together, giving this bike the most unique characteristics of any workout bike available.
TRY THIS: 90sec sprints (RPM in the 80-90% of your max range) and rest for 1 minute. Do 5 rounds = just under15 minutes of work. This is no Prowler Sprint, but its certainly no walk in the park either!
#2 - The (VersaClimber) Mountain Climber. When you want a tail kicking workout, try climbing a few short hills with small rest intervals in between. You can add this to an existing circuit or do them alone. Mountain climbing is great working both the legs and the arms, but most importantly gives you a great variety from your average training day. Besides, if you haven't done it in a while will leave you quite sore for a few days. I love cardio pieces that force the user to work their arms and legs! Well this machine does just that. It also has settings that can make the climbing as intense as you are ready for!
TRY THIS: Climb 300ft or 3min or whatever comes 1st then rest for 90sec and repeat. Do 4-6 rounds. Less than 20 minutes and you'll feel like passing out...
TODAY I CLIMBED THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT (SETTING ON MY VERSA CLIMBER) NOT EASY BUT A GREAT WORKOUT IF YOU WANT TO TRY IT. TRY FOR 3MIN, IT'S 554 FEET HIGH!
OK READY FOR NUMBER 1??
OK DRUM ROLL PLEASE..........
NUMBER 1 IS....
The ROWER! - Or what I like to call the BEAST! This machine will kick your tail! Be sure you are adequately prepared for this machine because if not 'blaaaa' on the gym room floor! Not good. I always dread the rower because it kicks my butt no matter how good of shape i'm in.
TRY THIS: I do 500meters or 1:50 sec intervals with a full 90 sec rest. 4-6 rounds of this will leave you quite jello(ish) in the legs and little light headed. But, it's great for increasing your anaerobic threshold and burning FAT. For more intense circuits just increase the level on the fan or go for longer distances.
So there is my short list of favorites when it comes to commercial gym cardio equipment. If you ever get bored and just want a change up in routine try one of these variations. If your gym doesn't have these pieces, find a new gym! Bottom line is, get your butt OFF those treadmills, ellipticals and recumbent bikes! These alternative cardio machines will hold you over until you're either ready for more intense work or until you're ready to resume more intense work.
Hope this helps someone. Later...
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