Cardio workouts are essential to any fitness routine, as they boost heart health, burn calories quickly, and improve overall endurance. Your gym should have a variety of cardio machines to cater to different preferences and fitness levels. With this list of cardio workout machines to have at the gym, you’ll know which machines to incorporate into your fitness center.
Treadmills
Treadmills are among the most popular cardio machines for commercial and home gyms. They offer a straightforward way to engage in effective cardiovascular exercise, whether walking, jogging, or running. Below are some of the most common types of treadmills.
Manual Treadmills
Manual treadmills rely on the user’s effort rather than a motor to move the belt. This allows the user to intensify their workout by further engaging the leg muscles to make the belt move. Usually, manual treadmills are less expensive than motorized treadmills, so they can be a good option if you have a tight budget.
Motorized Treadmills
Motorized treadmills feature a powerful motor that moves the belt. Users set a speed on the control panel and then walk or run at their desired pace. These treadmills offer various speed and incline options, making them suitable for individuals at different fitness levels.
Likewise, motorized treadmills often have built-in workout programs to help people vary their exercise routines and challenge their bodies differently.
Slat Belt Treadmills
Slat belt treadmills have a distinct design with individual slats that mimic outdoor running surfaces, providing a more natural and comfortable feel. This type of treadmill is ideal for runners who want to train indoors without sacrificing the feel of outdoor running. It maintains a similar “terrain” and helps prevent injury.
Shopping Tip
TRUE’s commercial treadmills for gyms can accommodate different users’ needs and budgets. Browse our options, then contact us to find the ideal treadmill for your gym.
Stair Climbers
Stair climbers are effective for lower-body strength and cardiovascular health. These machines mimic the action of climbing stairs, working users’ glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves while also increasing their heart rates. Additionally, individuals can alter the speed and resistance according to their fitness level to create custom workouts.
Elliptical Trainers
Elliptical trainers offer a low-impact, full-body workout. Unlike treadmills, elliptical trainers put little stress on users’ joints, making them beneficial for those with knee or back injuries. Plus, ellipticals have moving handles that engage the upper body, making them a great option for a total-body workout.
There are three types of ellipticals to consider having in your gym.
Standard Ellipticals
This type of elliptical does not have moving handlebars, allowing users to focus solely on their lower body. Standard ellipticals are great for any gym, as they offer a variety of resistance levels, incline options, and workout programs.
Recumbent Elliptical
Recumbent ellipticals have a unique design that allows users to sit while exercising. Gym-goers push on the pedals with their feet and pull the handles back and forth with their arms, engaging upper- and lower-body muscles. This type of elliptical is perfect for those with limited mobility or seeking a more comfortable workout option.
Cross-Trainer Elliptical
Cross-trainer ellipticals offer a more challenging workout incorporating both forward and backward movements. This motion targets different muscle groups, making it ideal for those looking to switch up their routines and target different areas of their bodies.
Rowing Machines
Rowing machines provide a total-body workout, engaging the arms, legs, and core. They simulate the motion of rowing a boat, offering a unique and effective cardio exercise. Gym-goers can easily adjust the resistance on rowing machines to get the most out of their workouts.
Air Rowing Machines
Air rowing machines use air resistance to challenge the user, which increases as the individual rows faster. Generally, air rowers have a flywheel that rotates as the user pulls on the handle, creating resistance; the lower the resistance, the easier it is to pull, and vice versa.
Magnetic Rowing Machines
Magnetic rowing machines offer adjustable magnetic resistance, providing a quieter and smoother rowing experience. Similar to an air rower, they also have a flywheel; however, they create resistance by using magnets and the flywheel rather than air and the flywheel.
Water Rowing Machines
Water rowing machines feature large tanks filled with water. The user pulls on the handle, which rotates a paddle in the tank, making a wave of water that creates resistance. Many users love this rower because of its smooth and realistic feel.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes are a staple in any gym, offering excellent cardiovascular benefits and leg strengthening. There are two main types of stationary bikes to consider.
Upright Bikes
This type of stationary bike positions the user similarly to a traditional bicycle. Upright bikes engage the core and upper body muscles more than other types, providing a well-rounded workout.
Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes have a reclined seating position, making them more comfortable for long workouts. They are easier on the lower back and joints, making them suitable for users with mobility issues or those seeking a less intense workout.
Tips for Buying the Right Gear
When purchasing cardio machines for your gym, it’s best to have a variety of top-quality machines. This ensures everyone in your facility gets the most out of their workouts without sacrificing safety and comfort.
Have a Variety of Machines
Owning or renting several types of cardio equipment ensures you cater to your members’ diverse needs and preferences. While some people love using the treadmill, others prefer the elliptical or stationary bike. A selection of machines allows all gym-goers to use the cardio equipment that best suits their workout goals.
Moreover, people may want to change their exercise routines depending on the day or their fitness level. For example, they may want to run on the treadmill one day and use the stair climber the next, targeting different muscle groups and challenging their bodies in new ways.
Shop for Quality Equipment
Investing in top-quality cardio machines ensures durability, safety, and overall satisfaction for your gym members. Choose reputable brands and manufacturers known for their high-quality equipment, such as TRUE Fitness, and regularly maintain and update the machines as needed.
Contact TRUE Fitness
TRUE Fitness is a leading provider of high-quality cardio equipment for commercial gyms. With a variety of options, including treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, and more, we can help you create the perfect cardiovascular setup for your gym. Contact us today to learn more about our products.