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Fitness equipment
There are many great pieces of fitness equipment on the market today… but there are also many fads. Here are some tips to make sure that any piece of fitness equipment that you purchase is a good piece:
• Try it out – Before buying, make sure to try out a piece of equipment. Make sure that the motions feel smooth and comfortable. Think about how often you would use such a weight machine – it won’t help you burn calories if it ends up sitting in the corner, gathering dust. Make sure that it transitions to new levels or new exercises (depending on the machine) easily. Make sure that the machine will grow with your needs – you want to be able increase the weight or resistance or speed, etc. Make sure that you can up the intensity level.
• Watch out for unrealistic claims – Watch out for manufacturers who claim that their fitness equipment will help you lose weight, burn a ton of calories, and look great with very little work. Getting fit requires work – it’s not called “working out” without reason. Also watch out for machines that claim to reduce inches in just one spot – to get the six pack that you have always wanted, for instance, it is important to first lose the fat that layers the muscles.
• Consider reviews – Ask your friends which pieces of equipment they prefer, which ones work for them. Also check out Consumer Reports, read online reviews, etc. Do not rely solely on the advertised claims. Be sure to read the fine print, too. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any negative claims made about the company or its products.
• Warranties and guarantees – Find out what sort of warranties and guarantees are associated with the product. Will you be able to return the fitness equipment easily if it breaks? If you find that you never use it? Be sure to note how much it would cost you to return the item (shipping of heavy machines can be quite pricey). Does the company have good customer support services? Also, be sure that the product comes with thorough instructions.
• Shop around – Take your time! There is not reason to buy the first machine that you see. Do not buy a machine simply because it is being offered at a great deal or because the salesman tells you that only a few are left. Make sure that the weight machine is a good fit for you!
When shopping for fitness equipment, consider that for a fully rounded workout, you need to include strength, cardiovascular, and flexibility training. There are few (if any) pieces of equipment that are effective for all three, important types of exercise.
For more tips for consumers, check out the Federal Trade Commission :
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/products/pumpfict.shtm
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