8 must have fitness tools

With thousands of exercise equipment options to choose from, here are 8 that make it to the top of the list!

1. TRX

What is it?

A suspension training contraption that can fit in any doorway or outdoors on trees, lampposts or jungle gyms.

Why is it great?

Versatile: Can use indoors and outdoors, can be mildly to extremely challenging depending on your position and the exercise. Convenient: able to get a full body workout, strengthen your core and balance and it’s light weight, small size and easy setup make it very portable.

2. Foam roller

What is it?

A cylinder made of foam. Different colors represent different densities (white is least dense, black is most dense).

Why is it great?

Variety of uses: stretching tight muscles & self-myofascial release, posture improvement tool, and core stability work.

3. Stability ball

What is it?

A large inflated ball made to support the body during exercise & act as an unstable exercise medium to increase the effort of your core.

Why is it great?

Core stability & multipurpose (can be used as a full body exercise tool, office chair, or instead of an exercise bench for free weight exercises).

4. Floor 

What is it?

Your constant exercise opportunity.

Why is it great?

Like your best friend, its always there. You can get a full body workout with just you and the floor/ground. No muss, no fuss. Need some ideas? Here are a few.

5. Rebounder trampoline

What is it?

A one-person trampoline intended for exercise.

Why is it great?

Terrific, low impact cardiovascular exercise. It’s also the best exercise for detoxification…and it’s fun!

6. Jump rope

What is it?

A rope with handles, usually made of nylon.

Why is it great?

Gets your heart rate up quickly, can burn up to 700 calories/hour (but really, who can jump that long?!) inexpensive and convenient to travel with. Contrary to popular belief, jump roping may be better for your knees than some running styles since the impact is absorbed by the balls of the feet, not the heels). Ten minutes of jump roping is said to be equivalent to running an 8-minute mile. Quick jumping and double under jumps are perfect for burst training intervals!

7. Exercise mat

What is it?

Something to give you padding during your workout session. There are many styles to choose from.

Why is it great?

Gives you some protection when doing floor exercises and stretches, especially good for non-carpeted floors. Mats are also useful if you need extra grip while exercising on slippery floors.

8. Kettlebell 

What is it?

A metal ball with a handle on top that you lift and swing during exercise.

Why is it great?

Ketlebells offer variety, intensity, and are effective for both aerobic and strength training.

Places to buy fitness tools in the Bay Area

Play It Again Sports, Big 5 Sports, Jerry’s, Outdoor World, and 360 Fitness Superstore.

Comments are welcome! Share your favorite fitness tools and why you love them.
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