Different Types of Cardio Equipment

As we head into autumn and the weather starts to turn, the idea of exercising outside becomes less and less appealing. So when heading into the gym, how do you know which machine to pick to get the most out of your workout? Although we suggest mixing it up with regards to the cardio equipment that you opt for, knowing what each machine offers will hopefully enhance your exercise routine.

Cardio is such a great way to burn calories, which you’ll be consuming more of in the colder months. People very often reach for comfort food that’s high in carbs and fat during autumn and winter. Some machines are more effective for cardio than others, but at the end of the day it just comes down to personal taste and each individual’s fitness and needs. Below, we’ll break down some of our favourite picks of cardio machines.

Treadmill

This is one of the most popular cardio machines out there and remains a staple in every gym across the world. People obsessed with running might even find themselves investing in one for their homes. Treadmills have many settings and features which make them a versatile cardio machine. The user is in full control of all elements of the equipment and you can decide how much you want to push yourself in your workout. Choose how intense you want the calorie burn as well as playing around with incline and quicken the speed to amp up the intensity and burn those calories.

Stair climber

This is also referred to as a stair mill and offers a truly punishing cardiovascular workout, as well as being classified as a strength-training tool. Users use some of the largest muscles in the body such as the glutes and quads, allowing the body to burn calories quickly and more readily. This machine works well as part of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout. Stair-steppers are also good if you need your workout to be low-impact.

Exercise bike

This option is pretty old school. It will forever be one of the best types of cardio machines and for good reason. They’re very affordable, they don’t have a massive impact on joints, and they don’t take up loads of space which is important when gyms are trying to figure out where to put equipment. Exercise bikes are also good if you just want to work your legs and have time to catch up on some tv or read your book.

Elliptical trainers

Another great option for low-impact, elliptical trainers take the pressure off areas of your body such as the back, ankles and knees whilst still providing a total body workout for intense calorie burn. These stationary machines are designed to mimic walking, climbing and even running if you’re up to it! You can work your upper and lower body simultaneously.

Rowing machine

These machines have been specially designed to simulate the action of rowing on water, where the harder you row, the more resistance you create. This is another piece of cardio equipment that allows you to work the lower and upper body at the same time.

Spinning bikes

Also referred to as indoor cycling, this is a popular type of bike to incorporate into your workout. You’ll probably have heard people talking about how intense a spin class is and this is partly down to how quickly and efficiently you can burn calories. Another benefit to this machine is that it doesn’t rely on electricity to run. Unlike cycling outdoors (which is great exercise and very fun), indoor cycling can give you better control over difficulty level and the pace at which you’re going.