I love buying workout tools and gear. I really realized this yesterday, when I made yet another trip out to Sports Authority to add to my fitness collection. Just a few weeks ago, I went out and got more air in my stability ball so I could sit on it at work instead of my regular padded chair. Last week, I went out and bought a new workout DVD to add more cardio workouts to my routine. Then just yesterday I went back there and bought my own kettleball, after writing an article about how great they are. Now, I am already thinking about what I want to by on my next trip out there. Just some on my list: a Pilates DVD, a sports bra, and a step so I can do step workouts while watching TV. Whew!
Shape.com released an article titled ‘7 Tools for Strength Training Routines.’ After reading, I have even more items to add to my fitness list! What to do, what to do? But the article was great, and I even learned about a few tools that I didn’t know existed. Here are the 7 that Shape recommends:
1. Medicine ball
price $15-$150, depending on weight
description A weighted ball, ranging from 2-25 pounds in 2- to 5-pound increments
how it works Hold in both hands to add resistance as you do strength moves or twisting exercises
2. Body Bar
price $23-$90, depending on weight
description A 2- to 6-foot-long weighted bar with padding; comes in 4, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, 30 and 36 pounds
how it works Use like a barbell in your strength training routines to do moves such as squats, upright rows and biceps curls.
3. BodyWedge21
price $119
description A foam wedge that can be used as an incline bench, step or crunch board for variety and added resistance
how it works Lie on ramp, or place one foot on top, to do moves like incline crunches, decline flies and lunges.
4. SPRI Xerdisc
price $25
description A lightweight, air-filled disc that looks like an inflated Frisbee
how it works Stand with one or both feet on the disc to challenge your balance.
5. AIREX Balance Block
price $50
description A soft foam cushion; good balance tool for beginners
how it works Stand with one or both feet on top to create instability.
6. BOSU Balance Trainer
price $130 (with pump, exercise manual and how-to video)
description An inflated half-dome on a platform (looks like a stability ball cut in half)
how it works Stand, sit, lie or kneel on the dome side, or flip over for an even bigger balance challenge.
7. Reebok Core Board
price $150 (with how-to video)
description A board on an adjustable base that tilts, rocks and swivels
how it works Do strength moves while balancing on top for a serious core workout.
February 24, 2010
