Treadmill
The original cardio machine, this is what people picture as a staple at most gyms. And for good reason. Humans were built for running long distances and a treadmill provides just that.
Modifying speed, incline, and setting programs makes running on a treadmill a gold standard for cardio workouts. It may not be for everyone though. The movement can be rough on the knees. If that’s the case, there are plenty of exercises that avoid pounding movements.
Elliptical
The elliptical is another commonly used piece of equipment. One of the reasons for this is that it’s easy on the joints and feels like a full body workout.
While it does get your whole body moving, the movement isn’t the most functional. And it’s difficult to burn more than a few calories unless you’re on a high resistance setting.
But for warming up or easing into the gym, the elliptical is a machine that’s easy to use. And it’s pretty hard to do it wrong and hurt yourself.
Bikes
Bikes are another great option for anyone with rough knees, but keep in mind that some styles of bike are more effective than others.
Spin bikes (or indoor bikes) are great for getting your heart rate up and keeping it in the perfect zone. They’re a popular machine because most people are comfortable with the movement and aren’t afraid to jump on.
Upright bikes are similar to spin bikes, but while spin bikes have you shifted forward, upright bikes are close to the position you’d be on a classical bicycle. You won’t burn so many calories as a spin bike, but you might be more comfortable.
Recumbent bikes are the least intense of all the bikes as you can lean back and almost relax as your legs pedal away. While you’ll get the most support, recumbent bikes will take more time to burn those calories, making it a better cool down or relaxing (i.e., read a book or watch some tv) machine.
Rowing Machine
Rowing machines are one of the absolute best cardio machines in a gym. Although many gyms don’t have them, rowing should be a part of most workouts. The challenge is that many don’t know the proper form to really get the most out of this workout.
It’s a full body workout, from your legs and core to your arms and shoulders. The movement can be difficult to get used to, but get the technique down and you’ll have a new favourite machine.
Sprints
It’s hard to beat good ol’ fashioned boots to the ground. The challenge is finding the right space for it. Many gyms will have open space for sprints, but a big trend is to have indoor turf space. Simulating real grass, turf provides you with the friction and cushion of running on grass, without the uneven imperfections that could create injury.
Turf sprints are a perfect exercise to get that respiration rate up and makes a really good warm-up for the rest of your workout.
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At Guelph Performance we have all of these, so the best way to figure out what’s best for your workout is to try out each one! Brand new for 2019, we also have a 30-yard turf track for sprints, burpies, lunges, sled pulls… possibilities are endless.
And if you’re looking for tips on your technique for the rowing machines, be sure to ask Alana. She was actually on a varsity rowing team, so she can help you get the proper form down.
