Home Fitness Machines: Consider Your Options Carefully

So you wanna buy a home machine? First, ask yourself why. Maybe you saw it on TV, maybe you think you'll use it, whatever the reason think hard cause most machines end up under the bed (if they fold) or end up as clothes hangers 🙂

My personal thought is that if you don't already exercise with what you have buying the best machine in the world isn't going to do much for you. It'll just sit there. But at least you'll have a conversation piece.

Watch out for machines you see on TV. They look great, and everyone is smiling and having fun. But somehow it won't seem as exciting once you get it home. Especially once the visa bill comes in.

If you do decide to buy something think about what you want to do. Do you want to walk, run, row, cycle, weights, etc? I strongly suggest you find a friend who has a similar machine and go try it out. Try it out several times to make sure you like it. Visit stores where you can try the machines. Shop around for best prices, best warranties, refund/return policies, etc. Some stores may have a rent-to-own program. Stick to simplicity. Machines which are complicated may also break down easier and may require expensive repairs.

The three most popular indoor cardio machines are treadmills, ellipticals, and cycling trainers. There are pros and cons to all of these. There are more kinds of machines, so you should do your research.

Treadmills are probably the most common cardio machine. Most people choose the electrical kind, but consider a manual treadmill. It offers more resistance, it's much cheaper, and has no motor to breakdown.

Ellipticals are much easier on your knees but don't offer quite the same intensity. For some, the movement also feels awkward. But, it's a preference.

Indoor cycling machines are also popular. You can buy something like a spin bike or just get a stand/trainer for your regular bike. Cycling is also easier on your joints compared to running.