Smart & Wired: Well-Oiled Machines
July 1, 2007
Since Harris already had cardio equipment, she didn’t need to buy anything to augment her Power Plate workout, but Clay says he’s suggesting another new piece of machinery for clients who do: the Precor EFX576i elliptical machine.
The EFX576i, Precor’s top-of-the-line commercial model, is the
only total-body elliptical machine with an adjustable ramp; users can modify
both the resistance and the ramp angle, which ranges from 13 to 40 degrees. For
the Total Body option, users can incorporate movable arm levers to increase
cardio and engage upper-body muscles. This combination of features lets you work
different parts of your body—including your quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings and
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The sleek Power Plate pro5 AIR uses vibration technology to tone
muscles. (Click image to enlarge)
Both the Power Plate and the EFX576i are perfect for the home
gym, but for business travelers who find themselves in hotels more often
than they are home, the portable Travel Trainer (which Clay calls "the perfect
exercise companion for the business traveler who wants to stay in shape") is
a worthwhile addition to your luggage. Sold through Blue Clay, it includes an
inflatable fitness ball and pump, two training bands and an interactive fitness
CD—all of which fit in a lightweight bag designed to conform with today’s
carry-on limitations.
Once you’ve chosen your equipment, you can make sure it, along with any other equipment and furniture, fits in your home or office using another Precor offering: a space planner on the company’s website that lets you design your exercise room using drag-and-drop functionality. You can create a room that looks exactly like your space, and place your exercise equipment in to see if it gels.
Because ultimately, unless your equipment fits both your lifestyle and surroundings, you’re not going to use them, says Bryan Green, president and CEO of Advantage Fitness Products, which distributes the Precor and Power Plate machines, and designs, supplies and cares for all-inclusive "wellness environments" throughout the world. (Among their list of clients is the Los Angeles Lakers, the San Francisco 49ers, the Troon Country Club and the Four Seasons hotels.)
"You really want to choose equipment that can be used by everyone in the home—male or female, and all different age ranges," says Green. "In an ideal world you’ll have equipment that answers all your fitness needs, so you see results and stick with your program." Adds Clay: "No matter what you choose, you’re going to get the best results out of equipment that provides variety; something that keeps your workouts exciting."
Advantage Fitness Products, 888.895.0547, www.afproducts.com
Blue Clay Fitness, 866.587.2583,
www.blueclayfitness.com
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