Exercise is always good not only for the body but also for the mind. It promotes physical fitness, helps lose weight, boosts one’s mood and helps cure or prevent the onset of different types of diseases including some forms of cancer.
The act is also effective in preventing or reversing depression, according to the American College of Sports Medicine’s Consumer Information Committee.
It is no wonder then that a growing number of people particularly those in their 40s, 50s and above have committed to doing a regular exercise regimen. While some prefer to do this at home, many would rather go to the gym where they can take advantage of the various equipment available.
Being at the gym or fitness center is very motivating for some people. Working out together with the other health buffs often encourages those who are still starting out and who are not comfortable doing exercise alone in their homes.
If you’re new to working out at the gym, here are some exercise equipment ideal for you to use. Fitness experts say it’s not good to overwork the body as you’re starting out so remember to take it slow.
There are two basic types of equipment that can be found in the gym. These are the free weights and the machines.
Free Weights
The free weights are called as such because they are not in any way attached to cables, pulleys, pins or weight stacks. These include the dumbbells, barbells and weight plates.
Dumbbells are actually short barbells about 10 to 15 inches in length. These days, they come in varied shapes other than the traditional one many of you know.
The tricep bar and the EZ curl bar are also other types of free weights. They are used to tone the muscles from different angles.
Exercise Machines
The machines, on the other hand, allow a person to do different forms of exercise. Some of them can workout the entire body while the others are meant to work specific muscles.
The leg press machine is considered the best for leg exercise. Normally set in a 45 degree angle, it helps people lift weights without stressing the lower back and knees.
The hack squat machine is a great equipment to use particularly for those who are into weight lifting. It exercises the outer part of the thighs.
The leg extension machine is commonly used by people to warm up their knees before moving to the squat and leg press machines.
The Bench
Another common equipment available in most gyms is the bench. This one comes in three different types – the flat, incline and decline.
There are some benches that can be adjusted to those three basic types. Some may or may not have racks on one end.
Benches are meant to exercise the lower back, hamstring and glute muscles. Certain types of benches you may see at the gym are the hyper extension bench and the preacher bench which is used in toning the bicep muscles.
About the guest author:
Adam Johnson is a professional blogger that shares tips and advice on fitness and nutrition. He writes for Fitness 19, a leading fitness center with locations nationwide.
Originally posted on June 25, 2013 @ 10:00 pm