The Tiny Gym
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Since I haven't hit the fitness club in awhile, I need to do more cardio at home. I've got a small room (11x12) I was using as my office, that I just redid.
Given the fact that I'm an old man, have limited space and cardio is more important than strength training, what equipment would you buy for my room?
Just remember, I don't have Jon's budget.
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I have an elliptical and a treadmill (my 3rd treadmill).
I used to use both a lot, almost every day for about 20 years. Both are good quality and each cost about $2K. I don't know what the market looks like today.
My AM workout is now golf so I don't get on the machines as much as I used to.
I think the treadmill makes both a high or low intensity workout a little easier. The problem I occasionally had with the treadmill was impact - on the hips or knees. I think the elliptical is generally lower impact.
Of course the best equipment is something that will get used.
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People think of a treadmill as ideal for running but if you put a steep grade on it - walking will get you a great workout without the pounding of running. Treadmills are usually pretty easy to find - though a real pain to move - ditto for elipticals. You have to be very careful in identifying an eliptical that works for you. Some can actually hurt you if they can't be adjusted to your body dimensions.
Nordic ski machines were pretty popular back in the day - not so much anymore. You can usually find one for less than $100 - and if in good shape - they provide a good workout without the pounding of running or the possibility of injuring yourself of an eliptical.
I have friends who love Peloton as it is interactive - but it does have a monthly fee associated with it to provide ongoing classes. I did in person classes for a few years but haven't bit the bullet on Peloton just yet.
Lastly, there are cardio youtube videos you might try. I've not used them - but have friends who have. Still you're in a land where you can walk outside without freezing - and a brisk walk with some hills or what passes for hills can be a good alternative.
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For cardio I use an exercise bike. No damage to the knees, and you can go as low energy or high energy as you like.
I used to have a treadmill as well, but after the great flood of 2017 I was told I could replace one, but not both. I opted for the bike as I can always walk outside.
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I use this, mostly with my arms, and it is a fantastic piece of equipment for $150. There's nothing worse than equipment that fights you and this does not. You can get your heart rate up fine using your arms. Smooth as silk, extremely well built. Hard to find right now.
We have OlarHike resistance bands for strength training. No space at all. At our age you are probably not wanting to bulk up, just to keep some tone and muscular endurance.
I have an eliptical and an Airdyne bike downstairs, but the basement is not usable right now.
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Personally I would prioritize a treadmill. If you aren’t a runner, no problem, walking on those things is just fine. Just go fast enough to get your heart rate where you want it.
I say that as a guy with a stationary bike and no treadmill. I would much rather have the latter. I chose the bike mostly because it takes less space and it sits in my office.
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Do you like bike riding?
Buy a new "smart trainer" like the Wahoo Kickr Core, hook up your bike, and get on Zwift.
You can do all kinds of structured training, racing, ... . Some "gamification" provides additional incentives.
It's pretty well done. I use it at least 5-6 hours per week. There's a monthly fee, though. .In comparison, a treadmill or stationary bike gets a little boring after a while. Also, biking is less of a strain on the joints.
Also, you can race me
If you want to learn a little about what Zwift is:
Link to video -
My household uses a treadmill ($999) and do low impact cardio exercises online with Team Body Project ($100/year). Since there's four of us, we figured it was a good deal.
If you don't want to spend any money, there are plenty of online stuff you can do for free. Just look for the ones that you like best.
These days home equipment might be hard to find, or may be expensive. We tried to buy weights, and were shocked to see that they were going for $2 a pound.
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I don’t have a Peleton but know many who do and at times I feel left out. I have never witnessed such universal passion for an exercise devise, it borders on cult. Never heard one person who bought one who regretted it. Of course these are all people who have exercise discipline down already, but are former outdoor exclusive exercisers.
Peleton is a safe bet and you pay for that. The secret sauce is engagement with the online trainers. People have their favorites and literally gush over them.
Zwift might be great but you ought to know exactly why you chose it.
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Treadmill is by far the safest choice. Get a TV in front of it or podcast away.
There is nothing like exercise for mental health. The 30-60 minutes may not be so great but there is nothing subtle about the feeling after and it can last all day.
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I added a recumbent Bike the to the Treadmill and Elliptical
The Treadmill and Elliptical live in the garage and make noise
With this cold weather I need something inside that is quiet.
This works, it is quiet (practically silent), comfortable and didn't break the bank
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What we are using is this small unit, while the basement is torn up it works really well- excellent smoothness. Very high quality piece, especially for the money. I use it with arms and am getting my heart rate up around 130-140 for half an hour a day.
MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V53KD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_8Q7ZYTE8Q06KERKSH4PW
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I looked at rowing machines while I was shopping for the recumbent bike.
I really liked the idea that you get more of a workout on the rowing machine.
I picked the bike because I wanted something very quiet. I also thought the rowing machines were expensive and some of the high-end rowing machines were overpriced.
