Strength
You can run ten miles a day, but without a little strength training your workout's just not complete. Strength training equipment comes in two categories: Home gyms and weight benches. Which is right for you depends on your workout goals, how much space you have and of course, how much you have to spend.
HOME GYMS
Today's home gym machines are a great way to get a club-quality workout in the comfort of your own home. There are many variations including the number of different workout stations and exercises, weight stacks, even dual user capability.
Size
There's no way around it. These units take up a fair
amount of space so shop accordingly. Keep in mind, you need plenty of
room to allow for movement during your workout.
Weight Options
Different machines come with different size
weight stacks. If you're going to do some serious lifting, make sure
your stack is heavy enough. In addition, some models come with dual
weight stacks, allowing two people to work out simultaneously.
Exercise Variety
Make sure your
home gym offers a variety of
exercise stations and options. A total-body workout can't be
accomplished with one or two exercises. Plus, multiple stations help
keep your workout lively and interesting.
Warranty
It's only common sense. A good home gym should come
with a good warranty to back it up. Usually, the longer the warranty,
the higher quality the gym. That's why most dealers and manufacturers
agree two years on parts and labor is safe.
WEIGHT BENCHES
Weight benches are the old standby. And today's models are still as popular as ever. Newer versions are integrating different attachments such as leg extensions, lat towers and fly bars but the idea is still the same. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a weight bench.
Capacity
Bench capacity isn't an issue for most of us, but
for some it's very important. If you press 500 lbs. make sure your
bench can support it. Otherwise, you could have a very short weight
lifting career.
Width
Every weight bench has two crutches. These are the
metal supports that hold the weight bar. Benches come in one of three
crutch widths: standard (28 inches). Mid-width (40 inches). And Olympic
(48 inches). You'll have to purchase a bar that matches so choose
wisely.
Optional Attachments
It's possible to accomplish virtually
any exercise on a
weight bench. All you need is the right attachment.
Choose attachments that fit your workout goals and skip the ones you'll
never use. Here's just a few: leg extension, lat tower, fly bars, low
pulley, preacher curl and leg press.
Warranty
It's only common sense. A good weight bench should
come with a good warranty to back it up. Usually, the longer the
warranty, the higher quality the bench. That's why most dealers and
manufacturers agree two years on parts and labor is safe.
