How to Choose Weight Training Equipment

Weight training builds muscle and adds tone to your body. Using the wrong equipment, however, can cause severe injury.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Match Weight Training Equipment to Your Goals

1. Choose home gym equipment for bodybuilding so you can train at any time. Bodybuilding experts recommend adjustable dumbbells, a barbell set, a leg curl bench and a chin-up bar for the best results.
2. Eliminate dangerous weight training equipment when you are pregnant. Activities that put pressure on the back, such as using a bench press should be avoided. Equipment that works the abdominal muscles should not be used at all.
3. Choose lighter free weights (dumbbells and barbells) for body sculpting. Body sculpting focuses on toning the muscles rather than enlarging them. Bench presses, chin-up bars and exercise balls are preferred equipment.

Look for Quality Equipment

4. Spend the extra money for quality weight training equipment. Especially when heavy weights or strong forces are involved, faulty equipment can cause severe injury.
5. Select dumbbells with neoprene coating. Neoprene is a spongy material that allows you to maintain your grip even when your hands are sweaty.
6. Select a weight lifting bench with a high maximum capacity. Some steel framed benches can accommodate up to 600 lbs.
7. Compare different equipment brands online. Web sites such as The Weight Lifting Equipment Superstore carry a range of equipment by top manufacturers (see Resources below).

Read Equipment Reviews

8. Visit the Consumer Reports Web site to read impartial reviews of weight equipment (see Resources below.) Consumer Reports rates exercise equipment for quality, safety and value. You will be charged a fee to view the information.
9. Compare weight equipment user reviews at Epinions (see Resources below). Simply type in the name of equipment you are interested in, and read reviews left by others who bought each brand. Ratings are based on comfort, quality and durability.

Tips & Warnings

• Test weight training equipment before you buy. Be sure it fits you and is stable during use.
• Consider getting a medical check up before you begin weight training. Lifting weights puts tremendous pressure on your body which can aggravate pulled muscles.
• Always ask your equipment retailer about warranties and return shipping costs. Since weight equipment is heavy, the cost of shipping could be enormous if you don't like your purchase.

Who Can Help: