Going to the gym for those who are unsure of what to do with the equipment can be a little overwhelming. There are so many different sizes and functions, not to mention some gyms are full of people taking turns with the equipment. Nine times out of ten, if you have the desire to learn how some gym equipment works, you shy away from doing so because you don’t want to be in the way. If that scenario doesn’t describe you or your gym, then here are a few more reasons why you might overlook some fitness equipment:
- Intimidation and unfamiliar factor
- Difficult or confusing instructions
- Challenging exercises
- Seems ineffective as a result of using them wrong
- Pro’s ONLY myth
I can definitely understand the apprehension and hope to have you feeling more comfortable using what I believe to be, the most overlooked AND beneficial equipment:
Plyometric Box
Explosive Movements-Butt/Thigh Sculptor. A lot can be accomplished on this seemingly simply square peg. The box is excellent for targeting legs with Jump Squats, Step-Ups & Single Leg Lunges.
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Jump Rope
Cardio & Heart Rate Booster. Single most exhausting yet easily totable tool for breaking a sweat & toning your arms, legs, shoulders, back & core! Now you know why you never see boxers without one.
Glute Kickback
Butt Toner. Just as the name describes this machine requires you to place one foot on the lower bar (kicking back for a full extension) while the other is foot is planted & firmly holding on to the handles.
Hyperextension
Lower Back/Waistline Definer. Can be performed using your own body weight or for added intensity hold a plate, sandbag or bar.
StairMaster
Amazing fat burner. This piece of cardio equipment in notorious for individual’s inability to stay on for extended periods of time. Most people are over it after 10-20 minutes and drenching with sweat from the workout it creates. It takes guts to get on the StairMaster; but you won’t be sorry. It does a body good.
Rack
Where all the magic happens. Muscle Builder/Strength Creating/Fullbody Workouts. Excellent for Squats, Deadlifts, Shoulder Press, Back Rows, Lunges and more.
Aside from the details and reasons provided above, here are five reasons these pieces of equipment are beneficial:
- Work multiple muscle groups
- Guaranteed results with commitment
- Maximize your gym time w/intensity
- Switch up monotony
- Pros ONLY myth suggests effectiveness
Next time you visit the gym, be sure to try out some or all of these. If you are worried about getting in the way of others, visit the gym at a time when it isn’t as busy. This will help lower your anxiety about taking your time. Trying anything new is intimidating to most people, so make sure to proceed with an open mind and positive attitude.
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I have learned sometimes less is more and there is nothing wrong with switching things up to increase effectiveness of a workout routine. There is also nothing wrong with trying new equipment if you are not getting the results you want. For me, my gym membership is just something to keep me moving and accountable for the need that I should be trying to stay toned, healthy and mobile. Having it reminds me that I need to continue to be active. Right now I am only using the treadmill and the elliptical machine and palates bands at home. I like the results I am getting.