Top 5 Fitness Equipment to Help you Run
Most well-rounded marathon training programs will advise you to cross-train as much as possible. What that means is to do other fitness related exercises in addition or to replace running. That way your body doesn’t get used to or burnt out from running too long and too hard. I don’t really follow any specific training program anymore, I just go out and do whatever activity I’m in the mood for or have time to do. For example, biking in the morning would take too long, so I prefer to just go for a quick 5k run and either bike to work that morning or go for a long ride on the weekend. I’ve tried going to the gym at different times of the day, either during lunch or after work. Both have their pros and cons. I don’t mind skipping lunch (or taking a shortened one), but sometimes I’m just super busy that I can’t stop to get food or go to the gym. The same goes with after work. But going to the gym is a nice change of pace to running (both are hard in their own ways, but running can get monotonous at times..)
Argos offers a great range of treadmills and gym equipment perfect for any home. Here is my list of the top 5 fitness equipment to help you run faster for your next race or marathon.
Treadmill
The treadmill is a great way to get a cardio workout indoors if the weather is too harsh outside (or you just want to watch your favorite TV show to pass the time). Since you’re technically bouncing off a continuous plastic belt, it takes a lot less effort to run on a treadmill versus outdoors on the road. While running on a treadmill is a bit easier than running outside, you can increase the difficulty by pushing your incline up slightly. You can also run different works like intervals and hill training, which is convenient. The belt is a little bit softer so it can be a little bit easier on the knees or any other ailing joints in your body.
Elliptical Jogger
Elliptical machines offer a lower-impact way to condition your legs and also to maintain your aerobic fitness. Elliptical machines are not as effective as treadmills at simulating the act of running, but the elliptical jogger is a lower-impact alternative to pounding away on a treadmill’s belt.
Stair Climber
The stair climber is the best indoor device for exercising the muscles needed for running hills, and it can provide an excellent aerobic workout as well. To get a better workout, try not to hold onto the railings! Runners who set the resistance too high, then hold onto the rails, are losing out on the full benefit of the workout.
Indoor Cycling
Spinning and stationary bicycles offer one of the lowest-impact ways to maintain aerobic fitness indoors. Because the bike seat supports your weight, you can work your leg muscles without abusing your joints. Plus, group cycling classes make indoor exercise more fun. Just be sure to get help properly adjusting your seat position before you start riding.
Dumbbells – Squats/Lunges
Squat exercises develop the gluteals, hamstrings and quads. These are the muscles responsible for powering you up a hill and control you as you run down a hill. Forward lunging works the gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, inner and outer thigh. You get a lot of bang for the buck out of these exercises that you don’t get from weight machines. Unlike quad machines, the lunge mimics the work the muscle does in real life.
