The fitness industry is fiercely competitive, and gym owners constantly seek ways to provide a superior experience to clients. Offering the best machines can optimize your fitness center and give members an unmatched workout experience.
Cardio is a big part of many people’s workout routines, as it gets the heart rate up and the blood pumping. Incorporating advanced cardio machines into your gym helps members achieve their fitness goals and enhances their workout experience. This guide explains why you should upgrade your gym with the best cardio equipment and the machines to buy.
Why Cardio Equipment Is Essential for Gyms
Cardio workouts provide numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, weight management, and increased stamina. Many people have “cardio days” where they solely focus on cardiovascular exercise; likewise, some gym members do cardio before or after weight training.
If your gym lacks sufficient or diverse cardio equipment, you risk alienating a significant portion of your clientele. This means fewer membership renewals, poor reviews, and lower profits.
Providing members with high-quality cardio equipment gives your gym a competitive edge in the fitness industry. When people look for a fitness center to join, they prioritize facilities with equipment that can help them achieve their fitness goals. Investing in a diverse range of machines and tools allows your gym to cater to a broader audience, meet varying fitness needs, and attract more members.
Offering Variety
While cardio machines are necessary, you should buy various machines because people have different preferences. Some members may prefer high-intensity workouts like running, while others may prefer low-impact options like cycling. By including a variety of cardio equipment, you cater to the needs and preferences of all your members. This leads to a more satisfied and loyal customer base.
Types of Commercial Cardio Equipment
Upgrading your gym with the best commercial cardio equipment comes down to finding the right mix of quality, performance, and affordability. Here are some machines to purchase for your fitness center:
Stair Climbers
Stair climbers provide high-intensity, low-impact cardio workouts that build strength and endurance. These machines mimic stair-climbing motions and target the lower body. They’re great for users seeking calorie-burning, strength-building workouts. Users can alter speed settings to add intensity depending on their fitness level. Stair climbers also offer the added benefit of being low-impact, making them suitable for users with joint issues or injuries.
Treadmills
Treadmills are some of the most popular types of gym machines because of their versatility. When someone gets on the treadmill, they can walk, jog, or run. When you buy treadmills for your gym, compare the different types:
Incline Treadmills
Incline treadmills introduce a challenge outside of speed: slope. This simulates going up hills and allows users to burn more calories and engage different muscle groups during their workouts. TRUE’s Alpine Runner Incline Trainer has an incline range of 3–30 percent. Studies have found that the Alpine Runner is more effective at burning fat and calories than a standard treadmill.
Slat Treadmills
Slat treadmills are a next-level innovation in cardio equipment, featuring a unique slatted design that delivers a smoother, more natural running experience. Unlike traditional treadmills with a continuous belt, slat treadmills use individual slats that move with each stride, reducing impact and providing a more efficient workout. TRUE’s innovative Stryker Slat Treadmill features a running surface of vulcanized rubber slats that are durable and require little maintenance.
Ellipticals
Ellipticals are great for low-impact workouts, making them appealing to people with joint concerns. These machines simultaneously engage the upper and lower body, providing comprehensive cardiovascular and muscular benefits. Two types of elliptical include cross trainer and recumbent ellipticals.
Cross Trainer
A cross trainer elliptical features two long handles that move back and forth in sync with the foot pedals, providing upper and lower body engagement. This motion mimics the smooth, gliding movement of cross-country skiing and offers a low-impact yet effective full-body workout. It targets multiple muscle groups, including the legs, arms, and core, while improving cardiovascular fitness.
Recumbent Elliptical
A recumbent elliptical is ideal for people who find it difficult to stand for long periods. These machines have a seat and backrest similar to a recumbent bike but with the added benefit of an elliptical motion for a low-impact workout.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes are great machines for low-impact, high-intensity workouts focusing on leg muscles. Users can alter the resistance level for their workouts. Recumbent and upright bikes are the two main types.
Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes prioritize comfort, featuring reclined seating that supports the back during exercise. This design benefits users with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed cycling position.
Upright Bikes
Upright bikes have a design similar to outdoor bicycles. They feature a small seat and require users to lean forward while pedaling. This position engages the core muscles and can provide a more challenging workout.
Tips for Choosing the Best Equipment for Your Gym
Selecting the right equipment requires a strategic approach. Start by assessing your gym’s layout and available space. Measure the dimensions to know what will fit into your fitness center without making it feel cramped.
Shop for What Members Want
Understanding your clientele helps you make the right investment for your business. Consider your members’ preferences. You may prioritize low-impact options, such as recumbent bikes, if your gym serves many older adults. Equipment with high-intensity capabilities might be more appealing to younger, performance-driven members.
Pro Tip
Email a survey to ask members what cardio equipment they prefer. Provide options for the equipment you’re considering, and let them vote on their favorites.
Buy From the Right Company
All fitness equipment companies are different. You want to choose a company that values quality and durability and offers good customer service in case any issues arise. TRUE Fitness is the oldest family-owned and operated company in the industry, trusted to build the highest quality commercial exercise equipment with superior service.
Rest assured that when you purchase commercial cardio machines from TRUE Fitness, you’ll be building a lasting relationship based on trust and integrity.
Contact TRUE
TRUE Fitness offers a wide range of cardio equipment that fits perfectly into any gym. Our innovative, high-quality treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, rowers, and climbers meet the needs of gyms of all sizes. Upgrade your current setup or outfit a new facility with reliable equipment that keeps your members engaged and returning.