How to Use Home Gym Equipment
Home gym equipment saves you money in the long run compared to paying for gym memberships, personal training, and aerobics classes. The convenience of having the proper equipment in your own home makes it easier to squeeze in time for working out and getting in shape. Plus, you don't have to battle the weather or darkness to run when you have a treadmill, or even something as simple and inexpensive as a jump rope to get in a little cardio.
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Instructions
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Check the equipment for safety. Most home gym equipment has pulleys, cables, and resistance bands that can break down from continued use or exposure to extreme temperatures. Prior to starting your workout, check the equipment for signs of damage or malfunction.
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Work one to three muscle groups per day. Depending on the equipment you have and your desired results, this step will vary. For strength training and muscle growth, plan on doing eight to 10 repetitions of each exercise for three to four sets using weights that range from 60 to 85 percent of the maximum weight you can lift. For muscle toning, increase the repetitions to anywhere from 10 to 100 and do four to five sets with a weight that is 40 to 60 percent of your maximum.
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Use proper form for all exercises. Before you concern yourself with lifting heavy weights, focus on using proper form with lighter weights. Once you've mastered the form that will prevent injuries, you can increase the weight. The same goes for using a treadmill or stationary bicycle: get the form right before you focus on speed!
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Utilize every aspect of your equipment. Most pieces are very versatile and allow you to adjust handles, benches, positions, resistance, and speed to target all the muscles in your body. When you use your home gym equipment for a variety of exercises, you'll be less likely to get bored with your routine.
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Stay well hydrated regardless of the types of exercise you do. When you work out, you lose fluids and sodium as you sweat, so it's important to replenish the fluids lost so you can last longer in your workouts and give your body what it needs to function properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Prolong the life of your workout equipment by keeping all of the moving parts lubricated and clean.
Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program. Read and understand all warning labels and instructions for your equipment.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit healthstylesexercise.com
