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Creating a home fitness plan is fairly simple -- remaining dedicated, on the other hand, presents a different proposition entirely. After the honeymoon phase fades, shiny, new exercise equipment often becomes an additional place to hang clothes and collect dust. However, there is hope for creating a home regimen that you’ll commit to; the key is developing a plan that blends into everyday living spaces, affords flexibility for a variety of physical activity and meets your personal fitness needs. With a moderate investment and some thoughtful planning, you can create a comprehensive program at home that you’ll stick with.
A Sustainable Program Begins with the Right Equipment
Since cardio is at the heart of every fitness regimen, choosing the right machine often determines the success -- or failure -- of each program. While aerobic activity may conjure up images of jogging exhausting distances on outdoor tracks, the variety of cutting-edge equipment in the marketplace offers alternatives to the sweat and toil of running. Elliptical trainers, hybrids of cross-country skiers and treadmills, optimize time spent working out and minimize stress to the joints. These low-impact machines provide a workout that equals running, while toning the arms, legs and abdominals. Keys Fitness recently introduced a machine that enhances safety and workout comfort. With patented center-drive technology, the centerG allows users to maintain proper spine alignment and better posture. According to Coach Hammer, a nationally-recognized fitness authority and owner of HammerBodies Custom Fitness, the centerG’s fluid, comfortable motion is an important element of a fitness routine and allows users to minimize their risk of injury. “With upright posture,” says Coach Hammer, “the hips are better stabilized and are able to cycle much more efficiently and correctly.”
In addition to safety features and performance, also consider the number of programming options when selecting a machine. Most elliptical trainers offer workouts that range from a leisurely walk in the park to a vigorous mountain trek, keeping each session fresh. Also, varying levels of intensity cater to fluctuating energy levels -- which is important to keep you working out even on ‘lazy’ days.
Location, Location, Location
Another tip to sticking with your home health regimen and remaining energized is strategically placing equipment in a location that encourages regular workouts. Rather than arranging a machine in the corner or against a blank wall, maintain interesting workouts by incorporating exercise equipment into everyday living spaces. Positioning equipment near a television in the living room or by a window with an enticing view will help distract you from the “work” of working out.
Mobility -- it’s a Weighty Issue
Once the cardio equipment is situated, add to the foundation of any health regimen by including strength training into your weekly workout routine. Instead of purchasing a static, space-hogging weight machine, consider buying a combination of strength-building apparatus such as dumbbells, medicine balls, core balance balls, ankle weights and resistance bands. From Pilates to traditional weight-lifting, these free-standing strength trainers offer the ability to perform a wide variety of moves that tone and define muscles. In addition, free weights and resistance bands are easily stored and provide the mobility to exercise nearly anywhere -- allowing for ‘no excuses’ during an overly hectic week.
Reward Your Mind, Body and Soul
Finally, remain motivated to sustain your health regimen by rewarding yourself after each session. Whether it’s soaking in a hot bubble bath or indulging in a movie-watching marathon, having something to look forward to helps reinforce positive behavior. One great way to treat your mind, body and soul all at once is by decompressing in a sauna. Different from traditional steam and dry-heat saunas, infrared saunas employ the same technology used by hospitals for newborn incubators. While available at salons and spas, Keys Backyard has made it easy to enjoy the relaxation of a resort-quality infrared sauna in the comfort of home. Now sold at national retailers, infrared saunas require as little electricity as a toaster and are perfectly-sized for usage in the bathroom, bedroom or a newly-renovated space.
Additionally, infrared saunas offer a number of health benefits including stress reduction, muscle tension relief, skin detoxification and immunity-building. An added perk -- regular sauna sessions promote weight loss and weight maintenance, with each 30-minute period burning up to 300 calories.
Longevity – The Key to Success
While it’s ideal to follow your health regimen 100 percent each week, it’s realistic to expect the unexpected. Even with a seemingly bulletproof routine, feeling under the weather occasionally, last-minute trips and all of life’s other surprises will happen. What’s most important is passing any temporary roadblocks and getting back on track.
For more information about health and fitness equipment that will keep you on track with your home health regimen, visit www.keysfitness.com or call toll free (888) 340-0482. For information regarding Keys’ infrared saunas, visit www.keysbackyard.com or call toll free (800) 408-9000. - ARA |
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