Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Friday, November 25, 2011

Elliptical Trainer Review: Smooth Fitness

!±8± Elliptical Trainer Review: Smooth Fitness

When it comes to elliptical trainers there is no one player who dominates the entire price range of models. There are different manufacturers who excel at different prices. For example, Icon Fitness rules the sub ,000 price range through their various subsidiaries, including ProForm, Image, Weslo, Reebok and Nordic Track. The high-end is dominated by companies like Life Fitness and Precor.

In the mid-range category you have a number of contenders, but one company that is worth noting is Smooth Fitness. They are building quality elliptical trainers at a price that makes them a good value.

Selling Direct to the Consumer

For those unfamiliar with Smooth Fitness, they predominantly sell on the Internet. In fact, you cannot find their elliptical trainers at any stores. Their value proposition is to sell direct, thus cutting out the expenditure of the middleman.

Think about the expenses that are incurred when a company sells fitness equipment in a retail store. Besides the cost of the space, you also have to factor in the commissions paid to the salespeople. Selling online not only saves on retail costs, but also avoids the addition charge of local taxes. That can add up.

It should be noted that Smooth Fitness makes some exagerated claims regarding the reduction in price. That is typical marketing hype. And although you may not be saving over 40% on an elliptical trainer, you could be saving 5%-15% in comparison to purchasing through a retail store.

Smooth Fitness was one of the first businesses to sell high-end fitness equipment online. Initially they private labeled other brands like Spirit, Keys and Kettler. Approximately 5 years ago they started designing and manufacturing their own fitness equipment. In ten years they went from minor player to their recent inclusion in the Internet Retailer's Top 500 Guide, 2006-07 Edition. SmoothFitness.com came in at number 277 on the overall list, and was ranked the 15th largest e-tailer in the Sporting Goods category.

Smooth Elliptical Trainers Offer Value

The line-up of Smooth elliptical trainers is a perfect example why they have become a major player in the fitness equipment industry in such a short period of time. Their machines are engineered to be durable and yet provide a rewarding workout. For example, the Smooth CE 3.2 offers one of the better values in the ,500+ price range. It is designed with a rear drive, which many find preferable, and claim it provides a smoother motion.

The machine itself weighs a hefty 175 lbs, adding to the stability. You get ergonomic pivoting foot pedals, that further reduce strain and impact. It comes standard with wireless heart rate control, for those who like to control and optimize their workout through their heart rate. You get a lifetime warranty on the frame and electromagnetic brake system, in addition to a 2 year parts and 1 year labor warranty.

One feature I particularly like is the built-in heart rate sensors in the upper handlebars. You will find that most elliptical trainers have heart rate monitors, but they are built into stationary handlebars. In order to get your heart rate you have to discontinue the upper body workout and hold onto the stationary handles, which defeats the purpose of the dual action workout.

Smooth Fitness currently has three elliptical trainers that are priced from ,300-,000, they are the Smooth CE 2.1, 3.2 and 7.4. All their prices include shipping. Like other fitness equipment companies, the standard delivery is to your curbside. You may want to pay the extra few dollars to have their turnkey service, which includes inside delivery and set-up.

There is no question that there are better built elliptical trainers on the market. For example, Precor makes commercial grade elliptical trainers for the home. But they come with a commercial grade price, which is more than twice the cost of the Smooth Ellipticals. Of course, there are cheaper machines, but they are built with cheap components, which is reflected in a very limited warranty. The coverage is often 90 days parts and labor.

Combining quality and a moderate price, the Smooth elliptical trainers are one of the better values in the ,000 - ,000 price range.


Elliptical Trainer Review: Smooth Fitness

Price Frye Boots Harness 12r New Yo Gabba Gabba Muno Costume Good Chain Saws

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Exercise Bike Benefits - 5 Advantages For You

!±8± Exercise Bike Benefits - 5 Advantages For You

Exercise bike benefits are clear once you use a bike for just a short time. Most of us need a serious fitness program. Many health problems result from simple lack of physical activity. It is a great tool to use in your fitness program.

Your choices of an activity to improve your fitness is very important. Sadly, buying a piece of equipment or even a membership in a gym or fitness club won't get the job done! We actually have to get up and do something! Choose a machine or an activity that you will actually use is the key to success for getting in shape.

Following are five benefits to getting and using an exercise bicycle in your fitness routine.

1. Convenience

You can use a bike at a gym and enjoy the motivation of contact with others. That contact with others may motivate you to stay at a program over a long time. But an exercise bike at home is a great plus too. Exercise at any time right at home. Save travel time and expense. Even if you like to work out at a gym, an exercise bike at home is there for days you just can't make it to the gym.

2. Economical

You can get your own for an affordable price. Especially good values can be found in the 0-0 range. A good machine will last for many years with little upkeep. My Schwinn Airdyne has 7000 miles on it with virtually no maintenance. There are no fees to pay and no additional costs.

3. Good for any fitness level

Even if you have joint problems, you can use your exercise bike since your weight isn't on your joints. If you're really out of shape, you can still use your bike at a pace that's right for you. Or if you're in good shape, you can really hammer the bike and push yourself as hard as you choose to. Your bike can provide you with a great workout no matter what your fitness level.

4. Lose weight and fat

Use your bike to improve your heart and lung fitness. Burn calories and lose weight as you tone muscles and increase strength. If you have a dual-action machine that works your legs and arms, you can almost get a total body workout. It's great. Only about 12-15 minutes of vigorous pedaling are required to start burning fat.

5. Combine with other exercises

Boredom is one of the main reasons we stop exercising. If you can combine several different kinds of exercises and change routines regularly, you can beat boredom. For example try riding your bike three days a week and walk the other days. Or work out with weights on days you don't bike. Or ride your bike a few minutes, then do weight machine exercises a few minutes then back to the bike. Go back and forth from bike to weight machine for 20 to 30 minutes to complete a workout. Use your imagination to mix it up and fight boredom. Keep it interesting!

Those are five benefits to consider. Whether you use an exercise bike at a gym or at home, it's a great tool for getting fit and staying fit.


Exercise Bike Benefits - 5 Advantages For You

Latico Handbags Decide Now Order Prince Lionheart Wipes Warmer

Friday, November 18, 2011

Fitness Benefits Of Riding A Stationary Bike

!±8± Fitness Benefits Of Riding A Stationary Bike

Stationary bicycles
are a safe and effective means of exercise. They provide a means of low-impact cardiovascular exercise, are generally quiet in operation, and are efficient with their use of space.Bicycling has been around for centuries, and is still going strong! Don't let poor weather slow you down, simply cycle within the comfort and safety of your home. Low impact and affective, using a stationary bike is a great way to burn fat and get your heart pumping. provides a steady workout for your legs, hips, thighs and glutes, as well as a cardio workout to get your heart pumping and keep it there for prolonged periods of time.Stationary bikes are a great way to exercise and have fun .Stationary bikes are affordable ,and can be use in the comfort of your home . Stationary bikes can burn up to 250 calories per every 30 mins. Remember, though, that exercise has so many benefits that any amount is better than none.

Benefits of regular exercise:

Reduces your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity

Keeps joints, tendons and ligaments flexible so it's easier to move around

Reduces some of the effects of aging

Contributes to your mental well-being and helps treat depression

Helps relieve stress and anxiety

Increases your energy and endurance

Helps you sleep better

Helps you maintain a normal weight by increasing your metabolism (the rate you burn calories)

Make exercise fun. Read, listen to music or watch TV while riding a stationary bicycle.

RIDE A BIKE!


Fitness Benefits Of Riding A Stationary Bike

Black And Decker Edgers Buy Now Curbside Mailbox Best


Twitter Facebook Flickr RSS



Français Deutsch Italiano Português
Español 日本語 한국의 中国简体。







Sponsor Links