Best Pilates Equipment
Easy to Clean Wipes down quickly for a clean, slip-free surface and enjoyable experience. 1/2" Ultra thick mat with specially designed memory foam; Protects your knees and joints, while still allowing you to grip the floor for balance.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Both my wife and I have been using it for a couple weeks... she does yoga, I use it just as an exercise mat for crunches and general exercise. You can see in my video how the mat slips and stretches.. and it was during that pose on the very first use that the top surface of the mat ripped as well. I use the mat for crunches and general exercise that doesn't put the kind of stresses on the mat that Yoga poses do."
"I've used this cushion mat for a couple of years for physical therapy and floor exercises (not yoga)."
"I have bad knees and was looking for a thicker mat that I could bring with me to yoga classes."
"I was very pleased upon receiving this mat."
"We had a thin yoga mat but it just did not provide the comfort or support my hubby needed it."
"I bought it for my wife for Christmas."
"Wonderful yoga mats."
"I prefer this one over a thicker one that I purchased because it doesn't make impressions as easily (like of your hands or knees)."
This toning ring helps use those muscles of the inner and outer thighs to work and tone over time (similar to the thigh machines at the gym). - PREMIUM, HIGH QUALITY, STURDY MATERIALS provide an EFFECTIVE core workout as well as abdominal, thigh, leg and arm toning. The handle placement is both on the outside and inside of the ring to give your inner and outer thighs the resistance it needs to tone those areas. To tone the thighs you can either place your inner thighs on the outer foam handles (for inner thigh toning) then bring your legs together or inside the ring on the inner handles to tone your outer thighs by bringing your legs apart. Toning rings or Pilates Rings as some call them are becoming very popular in the fitness community due to their versatility, portable design and effectiveness. Nayoya's toning ring has pads on the OUTSIDE & INSIDE of the ring for a more balanced, effective workout.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I never used a pilates ring before but I have a feeling its supposed to be made better than this one."
"Pretty happy with this."
"I give it 4 stars because there's a strange click when I use it, but still does what it's supposed to."
"After recuperating from surgery, I have introduced this ring into my fitness routine to start bringing my fitness level back to where it used to be."
"And my physical therapist says my daily use is helping my IT band issue and my pain."
"SO many things you can do with this item!!"
"Love this ring."
"It would be nice if there be a little booklet with sample of exercises, but it is easy to find online and YouTube."
While other hip resistance band claim to stop your skin from pulling, you’ll want to fact check that because to date, our RIMSports Hip Band is the only one that delivers results plus uses no-slip technology. Quality Material: This hip resistance band can be used for any type of workout. Unlike many other fitness or physical therapy rehabilitation bands or physical therapy rehab bands, they can be stretched repeatedly and will hold together without concern. This circle workout bands are great for traveling or simply a great resistance bands workout at home. This hip band will keep your knees while you do air squats or weighted squats, and keep you in perfect form.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"If you're looking for a hip circle that gives you more resistance, look no further."
"I'm trying to be a positive influence on my kids to remain active and my two year old saw me using it and wanted in on it and he thinks it's the funnest thing out there."
"My 18 yr son said he loved the way it felt and didn't slid off like the cheap thin resistance bands he's had before."
"I love that folding it and repacking it in the resealable pouch it came in does not affect the quality of the product over time ."
"I have been assured by another user, it will give a little more."
"I was shocked how well this worked and improved my lower body exercise!"
"I have scoliosis, SI joint dysfunction, & my hips have the tendency to pop out of place occasionally..."
"This is awesome, and have already recommended it to two other people who have ordered it... great the get warmed up for squats, deads, etc..."
Best Pilates Chairs
The EXO Chair delivers a unique and fun, full-body workout. Dowel included with split pedal option for conversion to single pedal.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Balanced body is such quality!"
"I have worked on this chair at the Pilates studio and it is a great exercise tool."
"I love using this chair!"
"I was always active as a child, a runner as a teen and as an adult with 3 kids mostly walking 2 miles per day and chasing after my kids all day (when they were little) was a workout in itself, and using a treadmill, and a bayou fitness total trainer at home. It is very discouraging to have so many physical problems but I am trying day by day to not let it get me down. I am taking it slow but I am already after 3 weeks feeling strength in my muscles and better sense of balance too. Pro's- Assembled, and easy on muscles with different levels of resistance to meet your fitness goals from toning and strengthening muscles esp."
Best Pilates Circles
This toning ring helps use those muscles of the inner and outer thighs to work and tone over time (similar to the thigh machines at the gym). - PREMIUM, HIGH QUALITY, STURDY MATERIALS provide an EFFECTIVE core workout as well as abdominal, thigh, leg and arm toning. The handle placement is both on the outside and inside of the ring to give your inner and outer thighs the resistance it needs to tone those areas. To tone the thighs you can either place your inner thighs on the outer foam handles (for inner thigh toning) then bring your legs together or inside the ring on the inner handles to tone your outer thighs by bringing your legs apart. Toning rings or Pilates Rings as some call them are becoming very popular in the fitness community due to their versatility, portable design and effectiveness. Nayoya's toning ring has pads on the OUTSIDE & INSIDE of the ring for a more balanced, effective workout.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Pretty happy with this."
"I give it 4 stars because there's a strange click when I use it, but still does what it's supposed to."
"After recuperating from surgery, I have introduced this ring into my fitness routine to start bringing my fitness level back to where it used to be."
"And my physical therapist says my daily use is helping my IT band issue and my pain."
"SO many things you can do with this item!!"
"Love this ring."
"Does what’s it’s supposed to do but is not as sturdy as the ones used in a studio."
"It would be nice if there be a little booklet with sample of exercises, but it is easy to find online and YouTube."
Best Pilates Flexbands
Resistance levels, obtained by varying the thickness of the tubing, are color-coded in proprietary Thera-Band colors increasing in difficulty through seven levels from tan to silver. The only resistive exercise tubing endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It would be nice to have some quantitative metrics upon which to make a decision (like centimeters per kilogram), but as it seems these days most people I meet are innumerate, it might just confuse people, sadly."
"I bought the Shoulder pulley, the Handles Set and 3 different colors (weight graduations) of the tubing."
"The short one is good for one arm exorcises and the long one for two, but I would have rather cut the tubing myself to suit my own purposes instead of adapting to what someone else figured I wanted."
"My back deck has a wood arbor above it, and I can put these around a horizontal wood piece, and do a lot of exercises involving pulling down (like pullups, etc), or I can loop it around a vertical post and do other exercises, including leg exercises. I was disappointed with the customer service rep, who made promises to send email with a special offer for a future purchase for my trouble, but failed to follow up - I never got anything."
"My experience is this stuff lasts about 5 years, then you have to be very careful to be out of a danger zone in case it snaps."
"It would be nice to see the diameter and thickness; I thought this would be more challenging, and I do not consider myself strong...working to that end."
"Just as great as from the physical therapist!"
"Have to exercise good bands."
Best Pilates Floor Mats
Easy to Clean Wipes down quickly for a clean, slip-free surface and enjoyable experience. 1/2" Ultra thick mat with specially designed memory foam; Protects your knees and joints, while still allowing you to grip the floor for balance.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Both my wife and I have been using it for a couple weeks... she does yoga, I use it just as an exercise mat for crunches and general exercise. You can see in my video how the mat slips and stretches.. and it was during that pose on the very first use that the top surface of the mat ripped as well. I use the mat for crunches and general exercise that doesn't put the kind of stresses on the mat that Yoga poses do."
"I've used this cushion mat for a couple of years for physical therapy and floor exercises (not yoga)."
"Knee problems run in my family and I have sports injuries that make it hard to do certain exercises."
"I tried my new yoga mat for the first time yesterday at my gentle yoga class and it is exactly what I wanted because it is softer than the other ones which hurt my old bones when I tried to turn on my side before sitting up."
"I have bad knees and was looking for a thicker mat that I could bring with me to yoga classes."
"Do not waste your time if you need a mat that is actually a half inch thick."
"good while it lasted, fail apart when doing sit up, my butt practically punctured it after light use."
"After holding a yoga pose for some time, it lost its form and my hands sunk down to the floor."
Best Pilates Reformers
The Stamina® AeroPilates® Premier Studio gives you all the benefits of a studio Pilates workout and a cardiovascular workout at home! Stamina's AeroPilates 700 Premier gives you all the benefits of a studio Pilates workout at home, and it adds a cardiovascular workout, too. Included stand elevates the AeroPilates Premier about 10 inches to allow for more advanced exercises Larger, trapezoidal carriage and cushion for added support Curved, wider footbar (24 inches wide) Oversized patented Free-Form Cardio Rebounder (two inches taller than standard rebounder) Head and Neck Support Pillow can be attached to the headrest for additional neck support Four heavy-duty, elastic cords provide four levels of workout resistance Quiet, ultra-smooth carriage rollers and gliders Performs Pilates exercises to tone, shape, and stretch the entire body Three position adjustable headrest along with oversized high density foam shoulder pads, offer additional support and comfort Metallic gold, heavy steel frame construction Adjustable ropes, straps and hand grips to fit any user Heights up to 6' 4" Two workout DVDs: AeroPilates Level 1 Workout and AeroPilates Cardio Workout featuring Pilates expert Marjolein Brugman Warranty: 3 years on frame, 90 days on parts Dimensions: 85 x 23 x 27 (LxWxH). Dimensions assembled: 86.25 L x 20 W x 14 H inches.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I also read every single review on this site and the other stamina reformers on here as of summer of 2016 as this is such an expensive purchase. Because of this I also Bought Elle Herman's book on Pilates and take care to understand fully loaded poses on p. 31 of "Pilates Reformer" 3rd edition (AKA how not to cripple and maim yourself on the reformer as one reviewer of that book put it). You want to take some professional lessons (group classes aren't all that expensive if you can find them in your area) and learn how to breathe properly, posture correctly and avoid doing things that can hurt you or your neck / spine / or shoulders on this. Yes, this will all cost you somewhat but when my back pain was cured within a few weeks I decided to keep reading the above books and getting some additional videos, too, such as Stott Essential Reformer and Intermediate reformer videos as well as continue occasional professional lessons. Get the Classical Pilates Technique: The Complete Universal Reformer Series + Archival English & Spanish (2 DVD Set: Introductory Basic; Basic; Intermediate; Advanced; Super Advanced; Archival) video from Amazon for about $20.00. Cons: True, the padding on the carriage is lacking so I bought: "Yoga Exercise Floor Mat Of Premium Quality 1/2-Inch Extra Thick – Thicker Than Regular Mats – Slip Resistant Surface & Moisture Resistance – Lightweight & Easy To Carry Strap" right on Amazon.com and cut up a piece to fit the reformer. -Last con, the platform near the footbar is rather narrow and also made of hard plastic - so I do sometimes use it to place a foot on it for lunges, etc., but I just slip on a tennis shoe on the foot I'm placing on the footbar area (otherwise the plastic is painfully hard on the balls of my feet). You may not have that issue on a professional reformer that has a more padded and wider footrest that would allow you to stay barefooted."
"After reading about it and watching a few videos on YouTube I decided that this could be an interesting way to exercise and increase my core strength, balance, and muscle tone. After much research I finally settled on this Stamina AeroPilates 700 Premier Reformer with the stand. I debated about whether or not to get the stand and I finally decided I would for two reasons: It would be cooler in the summer to have air flowing beneath the machine as well as over the top, and because it would be easier to get on and off the machine if it was on the 10 inch stand. This fit with only a couple inches to spare and we have to step over it to get to the other side of the room. But after having it in there think it's well worth the space it takes because there are a lot of different exercises that can be done on this machine and they are actually enjoyable. Over the past year, when I stoop down to look at something on the low shelf or pick something up, I have to put a lot of concentration to standing straight up again. I'm happy to report that after using this machine for just a few days doing some of the exercises where I'm pushing the carriage that you lie on, back and forth with my feet and legs, I can now stoop down and get up again without as much effort. This machine comes with the rebounder (trampoline thing), a neck pillow and DVD's. I do work up a sweat, especially when using the rebounder which is sort of like jumping on a trampoline while lying down. I still have a few aches and pains, but i'm hoping that as I get more in shape and lose the 15 pounds that I need to get rid of, that they'll go away. Not having to go outdoors to exercise when the weather is bad and being able to use the machine in the privacy of my own home is a big plus."
"The reformer only has one type of resistance band (there are 4 total) not varied springs so anyone who is used to red, blue and yellow springs needs to adjust to working with one level of resistance and just figure out how to make the resistance comparable to a red or blue spring as they go. Everything else is working out or can be worked around with minimal hassle."
Best Pilates Spine Supporters
Enter your model number to make sure this fits.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It keeps my lower back safe while doing sit ups and the lateral stretches are awesome."
"I ordered this spine corrector for myself to see and feel the quality before equipping my new studio with them."
"Great mid size barrel at s great price."
"Very well made."
"great product, very helpful in our Pilates classes."
"Just like the ones in the Pilates Studio."
Best Yoga Equipment
BalanceFrom All-Purpose Premium exercise yoga mat is manufactured and sold exclusively by BalanceFrom Amazon store. AT A GLANCE: -1/2-inch extra thick. -Excellent non-slip traction and cushion. -A free carrying strap is included. -Light weight and portable. -2-year warranty. With high density foam material, the 1/2'' thick premium mat comfortably cushions spine, hips, knees and elbows on hard floors. With double sided non-slip surfaces, BalanceFrom all-purpose premium exercise yoga mat comes with an excellent slip resistant advantage to prevent injuries.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"After using this mat at a meditation class, I picked one up for myself."
"This mat is sufficiently thick to lay down on the cement floor and hold to the flat surface."
"It worked perfectly for that purpose and I plan to try using it instead of an inflatable sleeping pad during warm weather camping."
"The only thing I would have different if it were a couple inches longer to fit my whole body, but I knew the size when I ordered, so no complaints."
"My wife bought this yoga mat."
"When I first got this mat I liked it for the cushiness provided for my knees, but over time the rubber started breaking down."
"opened package this is how it is."
"While I thought it was great at first, the more I used it the more trouble I had with sinking into the mat while am trying to hold long and challenging poses."
Best Triathlon Equipment
FEEL GOOD - FULLY LEAK PREVENTABLE TECHNOLOGY for your comfort: The soft silicone frame and nose bridge are not only designed to be comfortable, but they create the perfect amount of vacuum to KEEP WATER OUT. Our goggles are tested by professional swimmers and instructors, but if they don’t get your seal of approval, we’ll do our best to fix the situation as soon as possible. It’s usually things like “I love this!, “Looks and feels great!”, “Ranks among the top!” or simply “Five stars”.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Then my father in law tried them he loved them so I had to buy him a pair. I'm hoping it works just as well as I hate getting my hair in chlorinated water all the time. Got on Amazon prime day for a great price."
"I chose these because I am very nervous about opening my eyes underwater, since it has been painful for me in the past. These goggles work great - they have a great vacuum seal that keeps the water out."
"They give you that "eyeballs being sucked out" feeling which means they'll hold up great to leaks in the water and stay on your face as you dive in."
"My son takes swimming lessons twice a week and one night he couldn't find his set so he grabbed these. As a mom who runs her son here there and everywhere and has to grab equipment to take having a case to keep this set in it's very handy."
"I'm an open water swimmer, and am always fighting with my goggles because they fog up."
"I know it says for men, but the goggles and cap are working fine for her!"
"This set come with a nice zippered case, which I enjoy because I can store them in the boat and not worry about the goggles getting scratched."
"I am loving these goggles and case!"
Best Running Equipment
*We. always. recommend installing LOCK LACES with your foot in the shoe to ensure a proper fit. We recommend cutting 2-3 inches below the lock to leave room for adjustment. It is very important that you align the ends of the laces with these "teeth" to ensure that the clip stays securely attached. Added compression reduces pressure points to make your feet feel better throughout the day so you can perform your best! PERFECT FOR EVERYONE: LOCK LACES are a great gift for seniors suffering from arthritis or other disabilities, autistic children, runners looking to speed their triathlon transition up, or casual users.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I got them to make my sons pants tighter around the waist and it works just great."
"It's a drag alone to have to constantly tie your shoes that are on your actual feet, but even more so tieing your shoes when it's on a prosthetic leg. Thanks to these laces I never have to tie my shoes again."
"My son is 12, has fine motor skills ranging from 3-5yrs old and is independent with these laces."
"-Each pack comes with 2 laces, 2 locks, and 2 clips for the ends, all in a nice resealable plastic bag, which I used to store my old laces just in case. (I think stretching them that much would to fit your shoes would cut off blood circulation though). -Lacing your shoes with Lock Laces is a lot like lacing with normal laces. Once you finish using all of the holes in your shoes, or the ones that you want to, squeeze the locking mechanism and put the laces' ends through the two holes. If it doesn't feel right, make adjustments to the tension on the laces until it is most comfortable."
"I'm a marathon runner and use elastic laces on all my running shoes to avoid the typical shoe laces issues."
"I wasn't sure about them, because they are elastic and with a clipless riding shoe one uses their foot to lift the pedal for extra speed and strength, but these laces do a great job holding my foot surely in my shoe as it is clipped to my pedal. I'm not sure I'd put them on a pair of combat boots, but as far as riding, running, and walking shoes, these laces are fantastic."
Best Strength Training Equipment
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Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Just over four years ago I had an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. The neurologist advised me that I had a lot of degenerative arthritis in my neck and there was nothing else they could do except send me to a pain management clinic. The doctors told me that the ibuprofen was hurting my kidneys and that my creatinine levels were too high. Then several months ago (Sept. 2016) I developed pain in my lower neck that radiated down my left shoulder blade. He didn't do an X-Ray, told me it "felt like" I had a disc out of place, gave me muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatory drugs. So in November (2016), and at my wits end, I purchased this inversion table. The pain that radiates down my left shoulder still gets sore sometimes but it's bearable and continues to get better. Can't say that I really enjoy spending 10 minutes a day doing it, but it sure beats the hell out of having excruciating pain. And when I feel some soreness in my back coming on....I go get on the inversion table."
"The thing I didn't like about the Body Max IT6000 and similar models is the table isn't padded and there is no neck/head rest. are set with very strong ball knobs and backed up with easy to insert/remove safety pins. Inversion tables can be hard on people with bad ankles. Easily adjustable height for perfect positioning of nearly any size person (see height specs for exact range). It moves slowly and easily both going back and coming up--you don't want to fly to the upside down position and you don't want to have to pull hard to get yourself back up. Instructions were good, assembly was logical and not complicated. My neck and hips are in terrible shape from years of abusing my back at work, in sports, sleeping on bad mattresses/pillows, wearing bad shoes, you name it. For me, a few minutes of inversion once or twice a day is better than thousands of dollars worth of chiropractic care. I cannot overstate the value of the decision to buy this particular inversion table, or the importance of the specific features this one provides for your safety and comfort."
Best Sports Speed & Agility Training Equipment
Grab a ball today to release tight muscles from around your butt, hamstrings, quads, feet, neck and back.Highly recommended for the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis. 100% BETTER THAN MONEY BACK GUARANTEE: Worry Free Purchasing - If you are not satisfied we will refund you and send you a new one! THE ONLY TOOL YOU WILL EVER NEED FOR PLANTAR FASCIITIS - The Master of Muscle Mauler Ball is your essential tool to help roll away those deep muscle knots in the ball of your foot, rolling away that pain so you can go harder - your feet will feel as light as a feather!
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"My physical therapist Jennifer recommended I purchase this product to help "break up the scar tissue" resulting from a Mortens Neuroma surgery last November."
"I have nerve damage in the arch of my foot from a broken ankle."
"But then I read online somewhere to take turns standing on one foot, putting a lot more of your body weight on the ball."
"Absolutely amazing for sore and tight areas."
"This is SUPER firm, and the spikes are very long and hard!"
"When I ordered this, I wasn't 100% sure how effective this would be."
"This thing is amazing on the feet!"
"It's really helping with relief from plantar fasciitis and even some other muscles along the leg that are 'tender', my issue however really requires therapy, but this is a really good extra help to have around."
Best Balance Trainers
TriggerPoint GRID foam rollers are available in three sizes and two densities. Regular density models include the original 13-inch GRID, the 26-inch GRID 2.0, and the 4-inch travel-friendly GRID Mini. Trusted foam roller of physical and massage therapists, coaches, trainers and athletes provides muscle recovery, pain relief and improved flexibility.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Here are some tips to spot knock-offs: - fakes have no printed logo on top. - no patent label on the inside. - no packaging (which contains the exercises and instructions). - strong chemical smell upon unboxing. - the fake was also way harder than the real one."
"I sometimes have a sore back from sitting in my home office for hours at a time, and being able to roll out my back or sore muscles with this product is excellent!"
"I have mild back pain from work, so I decided to buy one of these to keep at my house and I read online that Trigger Point was the best brand to buy for at home use. Basically I get home, take a really hot shower, and use the foam roller on my lower back and any areas that I worked out recently. I then take the Thermachill and rub it on all of the areas that I just used the foam roller on, and this amazing warming sensation takes over and then cools down, completely alleviating any pain."
"I was deciding between a cheap $10 foam roller and the GRID and ultimately chose the GRID. I've been using this everyday since I bought it for $35 and feel like it's definitely been worth the 25 dollar price difference over the cheap foam."
"She did warn me when I first got this it would hurt very very bad, but would help release some pain and tensions in my leg. First day using this it hurt SO bad, after time I learned to be patient and calm and hit those trigger areas that hurt in my shins and calves."
"Had one once before but it was a two for one (one fit inside the other love it, my sone was have back problems so I gave it to him after a while I was needing to use it again couldn't find the two for one on here so I got this one great quality but still would like the smaller inner foam roller ...I'm a small female and dont always want the large ring ."
Best Fitness Technology
Make every beat count with Fitbit Charge 2—the all-new heart rate and fitness wristband built for all-day, workouts and beyond. PurePulse continuous, automatic wrist-based heart rate tracking to better measure calorie burn all day.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I found the Fitbit to be an incredible fitness device compared to the Apple watch. The fitbit can also track sleep, and give you an estimate of your cardio fitness score (V02 Max). Other features: Clearly the fitbit is not a smart watch, but the text and call notifications are great when you're working out and don't have quick access to your phone. Accuracy: Tie. I have no idea what the negative reviews are talking about (Maybe they received a defective device or have exceptionally hairy arms?). The apple watch is slightly more accurate when it comes to distance, and probably more suited for someone who runs at a competitive pace. I love watching my cardio fitness score change and keeping an eye on my resting heart rate overnight. Apple has a ton of 3rd party apps which are great, but it lacks the complete integration of the fitbit. I haven't decided which one I will be keeping yet, but if I were basing my decision on fitness alone, at a non competitive level, I would choose the fitbit hands down. There are other useful features that make the Apple watch appealing in my line of work, so I'll have to weigh those into my decision. The apple watch doesn't have the same coolness factor with regard to fitness, and really doesn't motivate me to workout anymore than my iPhone would. It is perfect for someone who doesn't care about tracking fitness goals, but wants to leave their phone at home during a workout. The ability to stream music, track distance with a built in GPS, and respond to text messages are wonderful. I have a 7 inch wrist and the large band fits me on the last 2-4 holes (keep it loose when not working out)."
"As a Blaze and original Charge HR owner, figured I'd try my hand at the newest Fitbit Charge 2. It replaces the original best selling Charge & Charge HR. Steps, Flights, Heart Rate, Calories Burned, Connected GPS (shows a little map post workout when tied to your phone, and yes, you need to bring your phone with you on walks/runs), and notifications (as of now, just texts, calendar alerts, and displays phone number of incoming calls). The Charge watch has been the workhorse of the fitbit line. Since you're familiar with the Charge already, let's go over some of the issues you may have experienced and highlights/common questions answered: 1) Build Quality: The Charge 2 is a far far superior quality than the original Charge. **If you had problems with your original Charge band bubbling, the ability to swap bands and how the tracker is connected to the bands should eliminate the issues you have experienced ** Obviously way too early to make a call on how the device will hold up, but given my experience with Blaze & Alta, this feels similar in build quality, if not better, and neither of those devices have suffered from bands falling apart on a wide scale. 5) Display is nice, 4x larger than the original Charge. The font is a bright offwhite, as opposed to the original Charge that had a soft almost blue to it. Some display day & date, and most have option to where when you tap the display it will cycle through stats (may display heart rate, date, steps taken, how far you are in your goals, your hourly movement reminders, etc). Yes, two of the watch faces are digital (numbers display, not hands) and have seconds displayed. There is no 3rd party support at this time such as facebook, instagram, etc (The Blaze watch will be offering these soon in next software upgrade, so I guess there is hope the Charge 2 will get those as well). Heart rate was spot on as it usually was with original Charge HR & my Blaze. Obviously some folks have trouble with them due to body hair and whatnot, but the sensors on Charge HR, Blaze, and now Charge 2 seem to be spot on. An issue I had with the original Charge was it getting "lost" when I hit higher cardio levels. CONS: - vibration is notably weaker than the original Charge. The Charge HR slowly scrolls texts and notifications to you, which can be annoying if you're used to the Blaze. They serve their purpose well though, and I can't ding it for this as it's a step up from the original Charge. The Blaze is their high end product at the moment, but the Charge 2 is a very close second. I'll happily answer questions as I did for when I originally reviewed the Blaze out of the gate, and edit this review to reflect common questions or any issues I face as I put the device through its paces in the coming days."
Best Cardio Training
Includes the Performance Monitor 5, giving you accurate, comparable data for every row; Adjustable monitor arm.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I transitioned to an elliptical machine, which was better, but still leaves me with some pain as there is still some weight bearing. I'd stopped exercising for the last few years, and have watched my weight balloon and my health start to decline. I'm so out of shape that housework and even climbing a flight of stair leaves me out of breath. I've talked to my doctor and orthopedist - both of which suggested swimming as an aerobic activity which won't stress my knees. Came in a strong secure box, well packed with large pieces of Styrofoam. The two main sections are joined at the middle with a hook design and then a locking mechanism. I have had some experience with rowing machines in gyms in the past, so I'm familiar with the stroke and form. A low impact rowing for 5 minutes is a great way for stretching out the major muscles. Will update my progress in a few weeks - hopefully a few pounds lighter and fitter. I saw a "deal of the day" for a cheap rowing machine this morning and started to kick myself for not waiting - "I could have saved hundreds of dollars." I've purchased cheap machines for my mother, and they usually arrive damaged because the manufacturers cut corners on the packing."
"I was comparing the following machines. * Concept2 Model D ($900). * Concept2's Model E ($1100) which is higher off the ground. and probably Concept2's strongest competitor on quality (but not price)... * BodyCraft VR500 (listed for $1900, usually on sale for $1500-1600). Also high off the ground like the Model E, and with a long monorail (both Concept2 models D and E also have an available longer monorail, for people with inseams of 38 inches/96.5cm or longer). I tested the Concept2 at my local YMCA before buying it (Concept2's website shows a listing of YMCA's with a Concept2 in your zip code). I project the very cool rowing simulator software to my 52" screen TV and compete against my own prior rows, or online with people around the world. I don't believe BodyCraft has a similar software, or even a connection that you can connect to your computer. As you connect your Concept2's PM5 to a computer with a USB A/B cable (a printer style USB cable), you can track your progress with the RowPro software, and/or with Concept2's online tracking software. The free software from Concept2 can upload data from a USB cable connection or a USB thumb drive up to online software. The free Concept2 upload software works, but is not as good as the RowPro software for $100. * Air resistance only, no magnetic resistance. Magnetic resistance is boring, constant, and creates the same force of resistance constantly throughout the row stroke. Air resistance is better because you begin your row stroke at one level of force, then momentum builds and you end your row stroke with the flywheel moving fast, making it easier to pull the last bit out of the flywheel, when your arms would get sore with magnetic resistance's constant pressure. Market research from newbie rowers probably requested magnetic resistance, but experienced rowers probably prefer the traditional Air Resistance only. The BodyCraft does have a great user manual (available free online for download) that provides great stretches for rowing. The BodyCraft appears to be the US marketed version of a German company product I found online (google "FINNLO Rudergerät / Ergometer Aquon Pro Plus" or see their product on Amazon.de, the German version of Amazon.com). A rower does an excellent job making your glut strong and firm, because your glut becomes a pivotal muscle in the process of rowing. But then you learn there is RowPro software you can connect into the Concept2, which you can project to your laptop computer and/or big screen TV, and you can join a vast rowing community all using Concept2 rowers. * Misconception #4 - "Dual Air/Magnetic Resistance is better than just Air resistance". Magenetic resistance creates an artificial feeling resistance. Novices to rowing are probably impressed with magnetic resistance because they don't know about the vast community online that competes on speed. More BodyCraft VR500 Comments: * The BodyCraft VR500 is for sure an excellent rowing machine and a strong competitor to the Concept2. Fun facts notes for anyone seriously researching the BodyCraft VR500: I also found the following rower online."
"I resisted all the black Friday deals on rowers and bought this one based on the positive reviews. Despite the positive reviews, this item exceeded my expectations. I though that the seat was hard plastic, but it's very firm rubber. I was a bit worried about noise since my machine is in a hard room."
"It was also super easy to connect it to an ANT compatible HR belt that I had from another product that I no longer use, again a cool bonus."
Best Exercise & Fitness DVDs
Get an hour's results in just 25 minutes a day. That's why trainer Shaun T experimented for the last year to design a program that delivers the same kind of results you'd expect from an hour-long program, in under 30 minutes. The result is FOCUS T25—and the name implies the intent: If you focus your intensity for 25 minutes and you do it 5 days a week, you will get results. The FOCUS T25 base kit includes 11 workouts on 9 DVDs, Quick-Start Guide, Nutrition Guide, ALPHA-BETA Workout Calendars, 5-Day Fast Track, and a B-LINES Resistance Band (15 lbs. Get an hour's results in just 25 minutes a day. That's why trainer Shaun T experimented for the last year to design a program that delivers the same kind of results you'd expect from an hour-long program, in under 30 minutes. The result is FOCUS T25-and the name implies the intent: If you focus your intensity for 25 minutes, and you do it 5 days a week, you will get results. 11 nonstop 25-minute workouts on 9 DVDs, Quick-Start Guide, Nutrition Guide, ALPHA-BETA Workout Calendars, 5-Day Fast Track, and a B-LINES Resistance Band (15 lbs.). NOTE: Quick-Start Guide, Nutrition Guide, Workout Calendars, and 5-Day Fast Track are located inside the shrink-wrapped DVD wallet. )* Quick-Start Guide to help you hit the ground running so you can achieve your best results Get It Done Nutrition Guide ALPHA-BETA Workout Calendars 5-Day Fast Track 24/7 Online Support. Get an hour's results in just 25 minutes a day with FOCUS T25.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Me: not a beach body coach, paid full price for program, not a professional fitness/sports person. I already ate pretty healthy, I try to avoid dairy and mostly eat seafood or fish for protein. I find that one good decision begets another, and I'm making healthier choices in my life overall since I feel better about my appearance and activity level."
"Although this workout is hard core it helped that there's a person doing the modified version."
"This is a good, fun workout program with the production quality you would expect from a Beachbody product (note: I am NOT a BB coach, so have nothing to sell you, I'm just giving my opinion). To be honest, most of us aren't training for a professional level sport, so this is not a problem and you get an amazing workout in just 25 minutes. And it doesn't require all of the equipment of an Asylum-type workout, just a mat and the included band or some weights if you have them. There's a Shakeology commercial before each workout, which is really annoying, but the discs are programmed so that you can fast forward through them. Tanya shows the modifications in these videos (she's not as obnoxious as in Insanity, and actually does a very nice job as the modifying fitness model). Although I didn't get injured doing Insanity or Asylum, I did have some pretty bad knee pain by the end of each program and had to take a break from working out. You can still get a pretty intense workout doing the modifications if you really put effort into it. The modifier is also nice for people who want to easy into a program or have joint issues or other problems. I really commend BB for putting this in and hope they include it in all of their future programs. If you are already in great shape, you may want to jump right to the Beta phase for the harder workouts. There may be "rest" exercises, but you will be working the whole 25 minutes, not even a water break. The first move of a progression is still quite a workout and the closes thing you will get to a break in your 25 minutes. Then there are periodic "burnouts" where you do the final movement hard and fast. The next exercise will start to flash five seconds before so you know it's time to switch. Typical Shaun T cardio, but not as high impact as some of the Insanity workouts. A faster-paced cardio work out that I would consider to be more "traditional" Shaun T. Lots of fun with really upbeat music. I think there are better stretching routines, and I think a light yoga workout might have been a nice alternative."
"Unlike boot camps, gyms, or crossfit there are no monthly expensive charges. Some boot camp and crossfit classes average from $100-$150 a month. If at any point you feel like gased out or can't keep up switch to modified version and then back. Trust me this is much better then the hour long intense and at times to much boot camps. I use to be in great shape but just like many again I let my work and personal life distract me from my health so I find myself once again battling the weight roller-coaster."
Best Exercise & Fitness Apparel
Dickies delivers the right work socks for every worker at every job. Soft Breathable Moisture Control Fibers.
Find Best Price at AmazonBest Exercise & Fitness Footwear
It has an attractive leather upper with stylish contrast inlays, a padded collar and tongue for additional comfort and ankle support, and a thick midsole for a completely shock-absorbed step. Sturdy lace-up sneaker featuring cushioned midsole and two-tone heel pull.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I walk 3 to 4 miles a day, and this is by far the best shoe I've ever owned."
"Comfortable and they fit perfectly - as I would expect from Skechers."
"These provide extra cushion with the memory foam insert."
"Helpful tips to those reviewing that the shoes fit too small... adjust the laces to hug the top of your foot and wear them for a bit while standing so the memory foam adjusts to your foot."
"There IS silver reflective sparkle on both sides of the back sole. Also five or six diamond like sparkles on either side below where laced, as well as reflective silver sparkle stripes on where the laces go through. As well as a silver reflective stripe up the tongue of the shoe."
"Buying second time but different color."
"This shoe is very comfortable.."
"I've been wearing these shoes for 2 weeks now, and I never had to break them in! I stand on my feet at work all day with only 1 break, and they are so comfortable."
Best Exercise & Fitness Accessories
These bands are ideal for. - Sports. - Fitness. - Injury rehabilitation. - body shaping. - weight loss. - physical therapy. The only way to achieve that is to let the latex rest for a long time in tightly controlled circumstances such as temperature and humidity before making the bands. This is also a great Christmas, Mother's and Father's day gift idea for men, women, dad or mom. Our extra light and light bands are great for beginners, while our medium, heavy and extra heavy exercise bands are targeted for more intermediate and advanced strength training. While these resistance bands are often used for sports and fitness, physical therapists love these physical therapy bands (rehab bands) to help them rehabilitate their patients. All of our exercise resistance bands are thoroughly tested before we ship them out to you. Take a look at our complimentary instruction guide and 41-page E-Book, where we include dozens of illustrated exercises that demonstrate how to use our resistance bands for legs, arms, back, shoulders, ankles, hips and stomach.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"As long as I'm walking, running errands, working, moving around I'm getting the benefits of the resistance bands. I use the when doing any exercises that lift my rear end... (Whatever...don't judge me lol!). While shopping this fitness trainer stopped me and said that I was doing a good thing."
"I've been taking my bands to the gym cuz there's never enough to go around and I just wrap it around my wrist or stick in my pocket bcuz it folds really flat."
"My favorite part is that they have "Light" "Medium" etc printed on the band so I don't have to guess or refer to a chart every time I want to grab my Medium weight band."
"The bands were packaged in a convenient storage pouch that could be carried in our gym bag or suitcase if traveling."
"Today’s workout took 15 extra minutes due to all the adjustments."
"The only one that hasn't popped was the black one."
"We’ve had to tie these bands up so that she can still exercise with them, but it feels like wasted money."
"Because they’re so cheap I’m going to keep them as backup but going to find better quality bands that won’t bunch up."
Best Exercise Machine Parts & Accessories
10-1353 Size / Color: Heavy / Blue Pictured in red Features: -Designed to improve grip strength and upper extremity function.-Available in: Light, medium and heavy. TheraBand FlexBar Green is ideal for those suffering from tennis elbow pain, looking to increase flexibility and range of motion, and to strengthen the elbow, wrist, forearm, and hand.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"My wife was ready to divorce me because I couldn't open jars or pour her coffee--although to be fair, I also was trying to use my elbow as an excuse for not doing the dishes. But a little more after the 2 week mark, doing 3 sets of 15 a day, I began to notice slowly diminishing soreness and stiffness, and now, after a little more than month, I have no pain flexing and extending my arm. Although there is, understandably, a little uncertainty about what strength to buy, and I would recommend the medium green because of that, I think there is more leeway if you are using it for therapy. But after receiving the package, and confirming the order was my mistake, I gave the blue bar a try before returning and it was fine for me, and believe me, I'm no strong man. But otherwise its simple design serves its purpose, and $15, while a little high for a ridged hunk of rubber, is worth it for the elbow relief."
"After months of trying the traditional treatment of ice, rest, and NSAIDs for lateral epicondylitis ("tennis elbow"), and finding no relief, I searched for physical therapy exercises and came across the "Tyler Twist" that uses the Thera-Band Flexbar."
"I don't do the workout class that gave me the injury in the first place, but I am able to work out 4 x a week pain free and truly am so thankful to this bar for giving me my life back so easily."
"Suddenly my elbow started bothering me (probably from overuse) because of constant Crossfit workouts and my regular lifting/strength training program. I refused to see the doctor though I visited a chiropractor to see if any upper back adjustments could be done in the event that the nerve was being pinched from all the way up there."
"I am avid weight lifter and after a week of pushing it on pull ups, I had a MINOR dull ache in my left medial epicondyle (golfers elbow)."