subject: Home Exercise Equipment: Tips To Create A Great Workout [print this page] Home exercise equipment is an integral component in an exercise program, and exercise is an important part of dieting. The truth is that man does not lose weight by giving up bread alone. He also has to give up being lazy in front of the TV and sitting on his butt. If you're going to lose weight, you not only need to eat less, but burn more. That means a consistent exercise program you carry through on. Consider these tips to using home exercise equipment in a successful fitness program.
Simple Can Be Effective
It doesn't take much in the way of home exercise equipment to create a program that works. A simple 30 minutes a day on a treadmill or home exercise bike really melts off the pounds. If you're using a treadmill, you should adjust the ascent after a few minutes of use to give yourself the challenge of walking uphill. On an exercise bike, you can adjust the resistance as you go so that you build more muscle mass and burn off more fat.
Remember the Aerobics
Every workout with home exercise equipment should include at least 15 minutes of aerobic exercise. This could be jogging, biking, or using an elliptical. Jumping rope is another good option. Aerobic exercises prime our breathing and get the blood flowing. It's a great way for getting the body ready for other fat burning exercises.
Try Ankle Weights
To really give yourself a workout, ankle weights make great forms of home exercise equipment that can help you build more muscle mass walking or running. This will really improve the impact of your weight loss program over time. When you later decide to go without the weights, you'll be surprised at your endurance, thanks to the increased muscle mass.
Create an Exercise Calendar
Create an exercise calendar and hang it near your home exercise equipment. Write down your exercise goals for each day, and then record how successful you were at it. Don't sweat it too much if your results differ. It's just a good idea to know how much you are actually doing, as well as to have a goal to push yourself. Remember, if you are always meeting your goals, you are probably going too easy on yourself. Set the bar high and try to get as close as you can. Leave room for improvement.
Workout with a Buddy
There's nothing more motivating than social exercise. Find a friend or partner to workout with you. It's also great to do an exercise program as an entire family. You can encourage each other to meet your goals. A little friendly competition never hurts. Exercise becomes fun when you do it with other people. Consider joining a biking or hiking club. Workout with others, and lose that gut.
Keep It Fun
One of the most important tips to using home exercise equipment is to keep it fun. Get models that feature movements you enjoy doing. Find ways to pass the time while exercising. Listening to music or watching TV can be a great motivator. Exercise isn't something we should force ourselves to do. Go for a hike. Take a bike ride. Make exercise more enjoyable, and you won't even notice you are getting a workout.
