Ten Ways to Accessorize Your Workout
(Without Going
Broke)
From
BODi Fitness & Health
What do you really need? It's hard to
turn on the TV without being prodded to buy some type of "essential" gizmo
that's a guaranteed fitness-model makeover. From the ThighMaster to the Gazelle
to Bowflex, there's an endless array of options, and many require more
commitment from your bank account than from your cardiovascular system. Here
are 10 sensible fitness accessories that won't require you to scrap your kids'
college fund.
- Polar Heart Rate
Monitor ($60–$160). From entry level to models designed specifically
for weight control, the Polar heart rate monitor is the most cost effective way
to know the right intensity for your workout and to get positive feedback from
your workout.
- Athletic shoes
($50–$100). We don't all need a pair of Air Jordan's, but shoes
matter, a lot. Bad footwear can lead to injury, and working out while injured
is not only counterproductive, but miserable. Have your gait analyzed at a
reputable store and spend a bit extra for your shoes. It can change your
life.
- Exercise bands
($20–$30). Even if you use weights, elastic or rubber exercise bands
enable you to work out anytime and anywhere. Call 'em excuse eliminators.
- Jump rope
($10–$50). Probably the single most effective fitness movement, good
ol' jumping rope can be used almost anywhere, and in 20 minutes you'll be
gassed.
- Push-up stands
($20–$40). They take the strain off of your wrists, the most common
excuse for skipping push-ups. Plus, you can drop deeper, making the exercise
more effective and versatile.
- George Foreman Grill
($40–$80). Especially if you're not too savvy in the kitchen, this
simple device makes healthy cooking a snap. And nothing revamps your figure as
quickly as your diet.
- DVDs
($15–$65). Whether you use Rocky, Blue Crush, Enter
the Dragon, or Pretty Woman, motivation is an essential part of
reaching your goals. And not much inspires as well as good ol' Hollywood.
- CDs (about $20).
Unless, of course, it's music. The right music can turn a listless aerobic
session into a turbo-charged sweatfest.
- New workout clothes
(under $100). You can't argue with the motivational intangible provided by
wearing something new. If you think you look good, you do look good.
- Annual park and/or
recreation pass ($20–$65). No matter where you live, there's a place
nearby offering scenic beauty and myriad recreational opportunities. Purchasing
an annual pass will motivate you to actually use it. Then just try and sit
inside on a perfect summer afternoon. Being outdoors is addictive.
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