Showing posts with label Sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sports. Show all posts

5/30/2010

Safety Enclosure For 13-FootTrampoline (Trampoline not included) Review

We were very disappointed with this style trampoline enclosure.As it only attaches to 4 of the eight legs, it essentially reduces your round trampoline to a much smaller square.We were constantly trying to find ways to pull it away from the jumping area as it sort of "caves in".We finally gave up and purchased a new one that attaches on the OUTSIDE of the poles that attach to all eight legs.

Product Description
This 13-foot trampoline enclosure provides extra peace of mind and a level ofsecurity for jumpers of all ages. It provides a larger jumping area by enclosing the entiretrampoline.Trampoline not included.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Safety Enclosure For 13-FootTrampoline (Trampoline not included)

4/03/2010

Stamina 38" 4-Way Folding Mini Tramp - 35-1650 Review

While this is a good, solid workout trampoline, the word "Folding" is misleading -- hence the three stars.Based on the product description stating "Folds for easy storage", I assumed the legs folded under for flat storage.Not so.The trampoline itself folds in half, but to do that you have to unscrew the legs, then have two people do the folding (for safety, because it snaps shut like a bear trap).Basically, to fold for storage you have to reverse the assembly steps.Again, a good trampoline, but you won't easily slide it under your bed.

Product Description
Add a little spring to your step and bounce to your workout with this folding mini tramp by Stamina. The heavy-duty rebounding surface uses spring resistance to send your bouncing body through periods of weightlessness for a unique workout. The 6 rubber tipped legs detach and the unit folds for compact storage and portability. Imported. 8-3/4Hx38-3/4" dia.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Stamina 38" 4-Way Folding Mini Tramp - 35-1650

3/27/2010

GoFit Chin-Up Bar Review

I wanted a chin up bar that would work well, and conserve some space. At first I looked at the overhanging bars, but something about using weight distribution alone didn't seem safe. So far this mid priced option of "screw in door bars" has worked fine. It came with all the necessary pieces and has held my weight (180ibs) without ripping the wood out n/p. Depending on how large a door frame you have it is also possible to install the end pieces onto a frame still with a door, the pieces are only about 2.5 inches in diameter. The only negative thing I can say is that while the instillation is obvious and took minuets it wasn't perfect. The screws were easily stripped by the electric drill (and yes I was doing everything correctly), and refused to enter all the way into what is relatively soft wood. One of the screws even broke in two. My hope is that despite their poor quality and dull points, the fact the screws are fairly long, and six (total) are used to hold the supports, that this will not be a problem.

Product Description
Great addition to a home training program use for chin-ups & also a foot anchor for sit-ups & crunches adjusts to fit most standard doors (28 - 36) includes mounting hardware weight capacity: 250 lbs

Click Here to see more reviews about: GoFit Chin-Up Bar

3/21/2010

Century Deluxe Chin-Up/Sit-Up Bar Review

Great price, does the job but it could have been better. You have to hard mount it to a doorway, not what I had expected. Also, the threads screw in the same direction which makes tightening a pain. If it was counter done, you could have used your weight to make the bar tighten against the doorframe. It makes so much sense that it frustrates me when people get the easy things wrong.

Product Description
IDEAL FOR USE IN HOME, GYM, SCHOOL, FITNESS CENTERS
Target your key areas! Build a powerful physique with the tried-and-true cornerstone exercises of fitness. Use your body s own resistance to create maximum impact where it counts.

Thickest gauge steel of any chin up bar on the market.
High visibility chrome plating.
Comfortable, adjustable neoprene grips.
Position at top or bottom of door frame for upper body or abdominal workouts.
Specialized for conditioning
Great upper body workout
Do chin-ups, push-ups, and sit-ups with a single product!
Maximizes upper-body definition!
Quick and simple assembly.
Excellent results!
Position at top or bottom of door frame for upper body or abdominal workouts
Easily adjustable 3-piece bar fit doors from 26to 36
Comfortable handles for secure grip, and high visibility chrome plating.
Tested to hold up to 400 Lbs.
Workout instructions included

Weight: 5 Lbs

Click Here to see more reviews about: Century Deluxe Chin-Up/Sit-Up Bar

3/19/2010

Suzanne Somers Toning System Review

I recently had knee replacement surgery and when offered an opportunity to attend rehab classes at the hospital gym, I gladly accepted. Imagine my surprise when the physical therapist handed me a Suzanne Somers Thighmaster and the Toning apparatus to use to strengthen my leg muscles following the surgery.I decided that I would purchase my own Toning System in order to continue the exercises I need to regain full use of my leg. The nice thing is this system is portable, so when I travel, I take it with me. Never miss a session, and am walking without a limp nor do I need a cane. I began bowling again 12 weeks after surgery due to maintaining my exercise program.

Product Description
As Seen on TV. It doesn't take a personal trainer or fancy health club to get you looking and feeling great. The Suzanne Somers Toning System offers a customized workout-helping you focus on getting the specific results you want. This system has been proven to tone buttocks and outer thighs. Imported.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Suzanne Somers Toning System

3/18/2010

Stamina 35-1400 ATS Air Rower Review

I purchased my Stamina ATS Air Rowing Machine from Mercantila. When my stamina arrived, it was quite a workout just putting it together. I was rather disappointed, as I thought I'd be receiving better quality for 300.00. The components were obviously very cheap. Nonetheless, I was optimistically hoping to get a great workout on the machine.

I did get a great workout on the machine...for 3 weeks. Then one day I was using it, and the chain just exploded. The handle flew up in the air, and there were little pieces of metal all over the floor. Now, I'm not some Hercules or amazon. This was certainly not due to excessive force exerted on the machine. I'm just an out of shape 5' 5" woman. Mercantila was fabulous about it though. They paid to have it returned, and quickly refunded my money.

Supposing the "explosion" of my machine was a fluke, I still wouldn't recommend the Stamina ATS Air Rowing Machine. It was not very sturdy. After I'd been using it about 1.5 weeks, one of the bolts came off and hit the floor in the middle of a workout. When I tightened the bolt back on, it bent the metal. The machine has a pronounced "check" which bothered my shoulders (ironic, since I chose as air rower because it's supposed to be easier on a woman's shoulders than a piston rower) The seat was wobbly. The foot straps had to be tightened repeatedly throughout a workout. Oh, and the most ANNOYING part: every workout, within 5 minutes, one of the grips had slipped off the handle!!! And of course it would take 2-3 minutes to get it back on.

Bottom line: It's not a comfortable machine, and I think it could be downright dangerous for any kind of athlete. I'm a 5 foot 5 inch woman who's out of shape -- I can't imagine a muscular athlete using this thing without extreme irritation in the least, and possibly injury (due to the lack of sturdiness) at the most.

Product Description
Rowing is widely acknowledged as one of the best all-around fitnessactivities, and this super-sturdy air rowing machine from Stamina makes it morecomfortable and enjoyable than ever. The Stamina ATS is equipped with an oversizedchrome seat rail and metal pull-chain for extra strength and durability, along with amolded seat that's especially comfortable during long workouts. The rower is also easyto store, with a foldable steel frame and built-in casters that let you wheel it effortlesslyinto a closet or corner of the room. The rest of the time, the rower provides an efficientand effective low-impact workout that improves cardiovascular fitness while working allthe major muscle groups, including the back, legs, arms, abdominals, and buttocks.Rowing is particularly renowned for building a strong back, and is considered one of themost effective low-impact aerobic exercises for increasing your metabolism.

Other details include a multifunction monitor that keeps you motivated and informedduring the workout, with such display features as distance, calories burned, speed, time,number of strokes, and strokes per minute; an efficient, smooth wind-fan resistancesystem; and an attractive chrome finish. The ATS rower measures 78 by 31.5 by 19.75inches (W x H x D) when fully assembled and 57.5 by 33.5 by 19.75 inches whenfolded. Weighing in at 80 pounds, the rower is also backed by a three-year warranty onthe frame and a 90-day warranty on all other parts.



Click Here to see more reviews about: Stamina 35-1400 ATS Air Rower

3/12/2010

GoFit Diamond Tac Wrist-Wrap Weightlifting Gloves Review

GoFit Diamond Tac Wrist-Wrap Weightlifting GlovesThese are a good, quality set of lifting gloves. They have good grip, decent padding and a nice tab at the finger to help remove them. However, the wrist support isn't as good as using a separate wrist-wrap.

Product Description
The GoFit Diamond Tac weightlifting gloves are technologically advanced gloves featuring an exclusive Diamond Tac gripping pattern that increases grip strength and helps fight hand fatigue. The ergonomically cut palm pad provides complete protection without unnecessary bulk and the synthetic leather developed for military applications provides indestructible palm construction suited to be machine washed and dried.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GoFit Diamond Tac Wrist-Wrap Weightlifting Gloves

3/10/2010

GoFit Weighted Vest Review

I am a pretty serious runner, averaging at least 40 miles a week (I've run two marathons) and I also do Hatha Yoga daily (with some unique modifications to make it more difficult).Formerly, I was a serious weightlifter.This information is provided to understand my review.

Most recommendations for first time weight vest runners is to start with about 2.5% above your weight for the vest.Clearly, this recommendation is to fend off litigous people who don't understand the increased difficulty when running with a weight vest and then have a problem and blame the manufacturer.I weigh about 150 lbs., and it is perfect for me.

I started with several easy five to six milers.During the run, I immediately noticed the effects after starting one route for my run which starts with a large incline.I would not recommend that.Rather, warm up slightly longer to get both your breathing and body used to the weight.Also, PLEASE be careful as the inevitable problems outdoor runners experience, i.e., rocks, curbs, or uneven sidewalks can be much more dangereous.Your achilles/ankle area will be very sensitive and any trip or loss of balance could be dangereous.Of course, I ran at a slower pace than I usually do, but overall found the normal run to be perfect with the weight vest.I stretched and did Yoga afterwards and I would certainly recommend you stretch afterwards, too.The next day, I did feel sore, but in a good, "long run of the week" way.I did not experience any pain.After several "normal" runs with the vest, I embarked on my twice weekly hill training session.It was AWESOME.Climbing the long hill that I normally do repeats on was intense.Going down the same hill was challenging as well.PLEASE be careful when going down a hill with the vest; you'll definitely notice a big difference on the impact on your body.

Going down hills is where I experienced my only complaint about the vest:for those who are thin, it is a little loose in the rib cage area.It doesn't bounce around on the waist at all where the straps are.It just could use an additional strap in the rib cage area.Women may notice this even more.

Overall, I absolutely love this vest.It doesn't require you to add the weights and is easy to wear.Also, the price is fantastic.

Finally, PLEASE be careful and be fit before you start running with this vest.KNOW YOUR LIMITS, please.Beginning by walking would probably be wise.

It will be a great addition to your training sessions.

Product Description
The GoFit weighted vest is perfect for adding resistance to your workout whether it be for aerobics, football, or training for the Fireman's Academy. The weighted vest is adjustable in weight and designed to fit both men and women with its unique one size fits all double closure design.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GoFit Weighted Vest

2/22/2010

Pumping Rubber Kit Review

The equipment itself is fine, but the DVD sound and image quality were poor, and the instructor was not the best in describing what she's about to do

Product Description
The Pumping Rubberkit provides you with a convenient time- efficient workout program designed to strengthen, sculpt, and tone all the major muscles of the body. The kit contains 3 SPRIXertubeproducts of varied resistance, a Door Attachment, and a 30 min Pumping RubberWorkout DVD that includes warm-up activities, Xertuberesistance exercises, abdominal exercises, and cool-down stretches.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pumping Rubber Kit

2/19/2010

Safety Enclosure for 8' Trampoline (Trampoline not included) Review

Unfortunately, what the buyer doesn't know is that this enclosure only works with the variflex line of trampolines.Not only do you not know that when you are buying it, but the directions state that you can call for special parts.When you call, you will be told that it won't fit your trampoline, because it isn't a variflex.

Product Description
Variflex has assembled this premier line of Airzone Trampolines with the latest innovative technology, quality and safety features in mind. This is easy to assemble. Safety enclosure meets or exceeds all ASTM safety standards.This safety enclosure is only meant to be used with 8 foot Trampolines. Variflex supports the Airzone Trampoline line with a solid warranty protection package for complete customer satisfaction.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Safety Enclosure for 8' Trampoline (Trampoline not included)

2/01/2010

Burst Resistance Exercise Ball with DVD Review

Burst Resistance Exercise Ball with DVDI purchased 2 GoFit Ultimate Burst Resistant Core Stability Balls w/DVD (orange 55cm and purple 65cm)over a year ago from Amazon (on sale).The ball is a very durable, good quality ball (no foul smells or sticky surfaces like some other stability balls).I haven't had any problems with the ball in over a year of constant use.I have had to occasionally add air to keep the ball at the appropriate size (but nothing out of the ordinary).

This package comes with the ball, pump and workout DVD.I didn't even attempt to use the cheap manual pump included, but opted to use my husband's automatic pump, which quickly and easily inflated the ball to the desired size without any effort.The workout DVD is that in name only.It has some good exercise ideas, but if you are looking for a stability ball workout, you will probably want to buy a separate "true" stability ball workout DVD.[...]

As a side note ...

When determining what size stability ball to purchase, leg length (not height) is what ultimately dictates the size ball you need. If you know you have shorter or longer legs for your height, then you may need to get a smaller or larger ball than the standard height charts for stability balls.

For those of you who are unsure of how much to inflate your stability ball, here are some helpful guidelines taken from the fitnesource site ... On a wall, measure 55cm, 65cm or 75cm (depending on the ball size you have) from the floor and mark it with a pencil. Then inflate the ball until it feels/looks "full", but is not hard and still has a little bit of give in it when you press on it. Put the ball close to the mark you made on the wall and then place a ruler on top of the ball so that it touches the top of the ball and the mark on the wall. This will tell you how close you are to the maximum inflation for your ball size. If this is the first time you are inflating the ball, while it might seem full, it might still measure small. If this happens, give the ball a day to "stretch out" and then add some additional air, if needed. If you don't want to do all that, they also sell tape measures specifically for measuring the diameter of stability balls. Just keep in mind, that when you sit on the ball with your feet flat on the ground and knees bent, your knees should be level with or slightly lower than your hips (a 90 degree angle).

Product Description
Get a great total-body workout with the Burst Resistance Exercise Ball. Acclaimed fitness model and personal trainer, Lynda Leene will take you through an ultimate stability ball program on her 30-minute DVD. Includes Lynda Leene DVD, resistance ball (in one of 3 sizes), air pump and workout poster.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Burst Resistance Exercise Ball with DVD

1/21/2010

Total Gym 1700 Club Review

A 44-year-old woman that doesn't enjoy exercise writes this review.I spent many years as an overworked hospital administrator that did not take the time to keep myself in top physical condition.I purchased this product after realizing that that it was used in the rehabilitation gyms in the hospital where I worked.The Physical Therapists not only used this equipment for their patients, but also worked out on the equipment themselves at lunchtime and after work.You can get a great workout on this piece of equipment.Both my husband and myself use this piece of equipment.

Pros:
1.Well made piece of equipment, smooth movement during exercise
2.Can be used by both males and females
3.Weight limit of 350 pounds
4.Ability to add 75 pounds of additional weight to the bar for added resistance
5.Challenges muscles, young and old (you will know that you have exercised the next day)
6.Allows you to move quickly and easily through different exercises
7.Excellent Pilates reformer stand in
8.Easy to collapse to storage
9.Folds into a reasonably small size for storage (will slide under a bed or into a closet)

Cons:
1.It is a little heavy if you plan to move it very far.Mine is now permanently set up to encourage exercise.
2.Purchase an additional Pilates reformer exercise routine (check Amazon for options) if that is your primary reason for this purchase.

If you are seriously considering this piece of equipment I would recommend finding a friend with one and working out on it a few times before making the decision to buy this.My husband and I have discussed upgrading to the next model up (about twice the price) when this one bites the bullet.Overall we are very happy with this purchase and would recommend this product, or the more expensive models.

Product Description
Want to tone your entire body without buying a complete home gym? Check out the Total Gym 1700 Club, which helps you strengthen and sculpt every major muscle group in your body using a single glide board and a few handy attachments. The Total Gym 1700 Club works by making you lift a percentage of your body weight against gravity, making the resistance smooth and fluid. As your strength and conditioning improves, you increase the total resistance by boosting the incline, thus increasing the body weight lifted in the exercise. The Total Gym 1700 Club thus not only works your upper body, but also your lower body, abdominals, and even your cardiovascular system. And by reducing body fat and increasing the proportion of lean muscle mass in your body, the strength training effectively turns up the thermostat so that your body burns calories constantly.

The Total Gym 1700 Club also offers several handy attachments that add a new dimension to your workout: a Pilates bar that helps you improve your range of motion and balance; a weight bar that lets you add up to 75 pounds of additional free weights to intensify your workouts (weights sold separately); dip bars and press-up bars; and an exercise mat to help protect your floor. All it takes to get in great shape is 15 to 20 minutes per day, three to four times a week.

Key Features:

  • Pilates Bar to add a new dimension to your workout by helping you improve your range of motion and balance
  • Dip Bars and Press Up Bars add exercise versatility
  • Exercise mat protects your floor
  • A larger glideboard for workout comfort
  • Wider tower for added stability
  • Auto-lock height adjustment
  • Exercise flip chart for easy reference while exercising



Click Here to see more reviews about: Total Gym 1700 Club

1/13/2010

GoFit Quilted Aerobic Exercise Mat Review

It is really lightweight and portable. It's a man's yoga mat. The singular problem is that dirt transfers from the back to the top when rolling it up, but it is easy to clean.

Product Description
The GoFit quilted aerobic exercise mat is perfect for floor exercises such as sit ups, crunches, leg lifts, or any exercise or floor routines in which you may be on your knees or back. Mat has 1" open-cell foam padding is sandwiched between the nonporous surfaces for added comfort. It folds for easy storage and has convenient carrying handles for easy transport. Clean with a damp towel.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GoFit Quilted Aerobic Exercise Mat

1/11/2010

Total Body Works 5000 Review

I've been looking for quite a while for an "all-in-one" home gym, to replace several pieces of gym equipment that I've been using regularly for several years: a Weider 8510 pulley-type machine, a Roman crunch bench; a Body by Jake; and free weights.

I looked at the "Total Gym" machine (the one pushed by Christie Brinkley and Chuck Norris). I went to their website and requested their free video; a few days later, I got a phone call from them, telling me that if I bought it that very day, I could save $100. "I want the video", I said. I never got the video. That sent up "red flags" in my head for the Total Gym people. I resent being hustled.

Then I found this item, the Total Body Works 5000. I could not find a single negative review for it, anywhere.

I bought it. I love it. Even though I've been working out for years, I am impressed. It will help free up a lot of space in my basement!

Product Description
The Weider Total Body Works 500 Bench features a telescoping design, incline adjustment and rolling seat for a convenient and versatile workout. The space-saving Weider Total Body Works also includes additional weight resistance to give you a more complete and effective exercise session.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Total Body Works 5000

1/08/2010

GoFit Pro Gym-in-a-Bag Review

A note about operation of the ankle straps: you have to open them up and turn them so the scratchy Velcro is on the outside away from your skin...place the ring where you want it, wrap the remaining strap around your leg and then thread the strap through the ring and pull snug before securing the Velcro.

This way it will stay on no matter what weight you use. I promise...I use A LOT of weight for leg training.

I have been involved in health and fitness for over 20 years as a Body Builder, Body Sculptor, Trainer, Therapist, Coach and many other positions in the field. I am currently the Director of Personal Success Now.

I bought this to check it out - to determine if it was a good option for some of my clients who do not want to go to the gym. I also travel and wanted some way to ensure I would have the ability to work out anywhere.

Finally, no more work outs with a towel for resistance!!

This little gym in a bag is great. It comes in a small bag and is very light. It comes with a poster or book demonstrating possible workouts and it comes with a DVD (or CD) that describes and demonstrates workout possibilities. You can play this CD as a "trainer" or view the exercises singly.

The DVD takes you through a very good core performance, functional workout and contains some excellent information on nutrition.

You get the aforementioned ankle straps, handles, and a door anchor. You also get a 5, 10, and 15 pound cable. The weight range is 5 to 30 pounds in 5-pound increments by combining the cables. The handles are comfortable and the cables hook and unhook very easily.

The possible weight/cable combinations look like this:
5 / 10 / 15 / 20=15+5 / 25=15+10 / 30=15+10+5

Additional cables are only $4 from the company...note: if you need more weight, you only need to get another heavy cable...because you can create any combination up to 45 pounds in 5 pound increments with only the 1 additional cable.

Combinations from 35 to 45 pounds look like this:
35=15+15+5 / 40=15+15+10 / 45=15+15+10+5

Every time you need more weight, you only need another 15-pound cable.

The weights discussed above represent the resistance for each hand. So, doing curls with the heavy cable is like curling 15 pounds in each hand.

I highly recommend this as an at-home and on the go training tool!

For safety - Always check your cables for wear before working out. Always make sure the door anchor is secure in the door and the door is closed and LOCKED before training with the door anchor. Always warm up before your workout. Always warm down and do flexibility movements after your workout.

There are down-loadable sheets for "tone and shape" and for "muscle and strength" 12-week workouts.
gofit.net/prod/progym.html

Eat right for you. Take your vitamin. Get enough sleep. Drink your water. Avoid artificial- colors, flavors, and preservatives in your diet. Laugh often...and live well!

One final note to update this review - in 5 months of using the ProGym, I have lost 10 pounds of fat and gained over 20 pounds of muscle.

Wishing you Personal Success Now!

Product Description
The GoFit Pro Gym-in-a-Bag is just the ticket to achieving your fitness goals-whether it's to build size and strength, or increasing muscle definition. The key to the Pro Gym is the ability to add or subtract resistance by adding or subtracting the resistance tubes. There are 3 levels of resistance: light, medium and heavy, and the different colors signify the various levels of resistance. By using different combinations of the 3 various resistance tubes you can achieve 7 different levels of resistance. Regardless of your fitness level, the Pro Gym will help you attain a healthier you! Includes 2 handles, 3 resistance tubes, 2 ankle straps, 1 door anchor, instruction DVD and wall chart of excercises.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GoFit Pro Gym-in-a-Bag

1/05/2010

Lateral Thigh Trainer Review

After using it 3 times, the thing began to squeek with each step. WD40 didn't help and it sure made a mess of things. Maximum resistance wasn't much at all. And here's the worst part: after using this for more than 20 minutes, I began to have patella tendon pain (just below the kneecap), as did my wife. She stopped using it altogether, but I kept using it for a few more sessions to see if the pain/soreness would eventuallysubside. It didn't.
I'm a physical therapist and I realized (albeit too late) the faulty mechanics it subjects your knees to - internally rotating your tibia (lower leg) in relation to the femur (thigh bone) with resistance, which puts a lot of shearing force on your knee - particularly the patella tendon. I have never had knee pain in my life, but I had plenty of knee pain after using the LTT only a few times. Although it cleared up after a couple hours each time, I could tell I was likely speeding up arthritic changes in my knees. No thanks. It sits in my garage now, collecting dust and taking up space.
So I highly recommend spending the money on some other piece of fitness equipment. Hope this helps.

Kevin in AZ, USA

Product Description
Unlike ordinary steppers, the Lateral Thigh Trainer moves in abi-directional, skating-like motion. Move your legs in, out, up, and down, all at the same time. No matter your size or fitness level, you can burn fat and tone your muscles with this system. The trainer provides a smooth and easy ride, with low impact. Its large anti-slip pedals and a health club quality steel base are built to last. The quiet compact design makes it easy to use anywhere. Made in USA.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lateral Thigh Trainer

12/25/2009

Stamina Electronic Mini-Stepper - 40-0045A Review

Pro:
1. Gives great workout; 20 minute session on this with moderate to fast pace will give you an intense, sweating, calories burning exercise.

2. Small, easy to store away.

3. good value, relatively inexpensive.


Con:

1. You need something to support your hand positions for optimum workout posture; I use a chair with high back.

2. The 2 shocks will get VERY hot (see the warning labels on the shocks); after an intense workout, I can even smell the scent of hot metal (not joking).

3. Gets creaky and slightly noisy, but tolerable.

---

Product Description
It's easy to get in step with the fitness movement with this electronic mini-stepper by Stamina. Small and compact, it's easy to store away when not in use, and pull out for a workout. Features sturdy steel construction and shock-resistant design. The display monitors your time and counts your steps. Imported. 12-1/4HX12Wx16-1/4D".

Click Here to see more reviews about: Stamina Electronic Mini-Stepper - 40-0045A

12/19/2009

SPRI YSK-R2 Yoga Starter Kit with Yoga Mat, Two 6" x 9" x 4" Foam Blocks, 6' Cotton Yoga Strap, and Yoga Postures Poster Review

I use it for P90X and it works great. Wish I bought it BEFORE i bought a pilates mat which is very comfy but not buiolt for balance postures. This kit is perfect (if you don't want a bag or carry straps).

Product Description
For beginning yoga students, this starter kit comes packed with all the necessary equipment. First and foremost is a 68-by-24-inch purple sticky mat that adheres to any floor surface. It won't shift as you move into new poses or cause feet to slide so you can turn all your attention toward your breathing. At 1/8-inch thick, the mat provides good insulation from cold studio floors, and offers a fair amount of cushion on wrists during potentially straining poses, such as downward-facing dog or plank. At just over 2-1/2 pounds, this mat is lightweight enough to carry to and from the yoga studio and rolls up for easy transportation or storage. Other props include a 4-by-6-by-9-inch lightweight foam block that provides additional support, and a 6-foot cotton strap with an adjustable cinch buckle to help deepen your stretch during reclining poses. A 10-by-28-inch color poster displays all the standard poses, and is perfect to hang up for easy reference in the area where you practice. --Cristina Vaamonde

Click Here to see more reviews about: SPRI YSK-R2 Yoga Starter Kit with Yoga Mat, Two 6" x 9" x 4" Foam Blocks, 6' Cotton Yoga Strap, and Yoga Postures Poster

12/03/2009

Weslo Inversion Flex System Review

Very sturdy design. The foot clasps work well. The only thing I would want to change is the collapse ability. When folded it's not perfectly flat, it;s about 160* instead of 180*. However I don't collapse it anyway because I use it everyday, usually more than once. I have tried one other that cost less (100$) and I was happy to spend the difference to get this one.




Product Description
Turn stress and tension upside-down with the Weslo Inversion Flex System. SAVE BIG! For thousands of years, Yoga masters have used inversion therapy to cure the aches and pains caused by day-to-day stress and body tension. Now you can experience the same thing in the comfort of your own home with this Weslo Inversion Flex System. Just strap yourself in and lean back... the padded foam easy-grip handlebars let you control your level of inversion with ease. Fully adjustable to handle most body shapes and sizes. The better Inversion System: Durable steel frame; Foam handlebars for a comfortable, easy grip; Adjustable foam ankle lock, height control and pivot bar; Safety nylon / cotton strap; Fold-away design for easy storage; Some assembly required; 48 x 27 x 78" assembled, weighs 52 lbs. Maximum weight capacity is 300 lbs. Order Today! Please Note: This is a Heavy / Bulky item. $5.00 for heavy / bulky shipping and handling will be charged in addition to regular shipping and handling. Weslo Inversion Flex System

Click Here to see more reviews about: Weslo Inversion Flex System

11/28/2009

Mini Stepper Exerciser Review

I wrote the following when my stepper was still new. Over months of use I have changed my mind on the product. First, the two most important bolts on the product were not made of galvanized steel. Both simply broke in separate events, mid-step. I replaced those bolts at great inconvenience... Eventually, the entire unit had to be replaced because the gear wheel groove wore down so that the pedals no longer came up to the top anymore, no matter how tight you screwed in the back knob. Call me stupid, but I repurchased the unit. I'll keep you posted to see if these long-term problems have been rectified.

My current evaluation: General design is excellent. Materials doubtful.

Following is my original review....
I rarely do this. Who has time to review products? But with this item, I feel the world needs to know how great it is. I can't say I know every home stepper out there, but I have been burned before. And I used to pay a lot for a health club membership, largely because it had a great step machine. My advice for now: Just buy this one. It's as good as the one I used at the health club; I mean it! You will not find anything better. And here's why. Smooth, quiet, compact, solid (well made), adjustable, and consistent. I include "consistent," because one stepper I owned was almost impossible to operate until it heated up - imagine that? But not the Mini Stepper Exerciser: Get on it, and your first step is just like your last, and I'm on the equipment for as much as an hour at a time. A long time, you say? That's nothing. Because the hardest part about exercising is finding time to do it. And a lot of people don't want to dedicate that time. And that's what's good about the Mini Stepper Exerciser. You can do it while you do something you probably already do: watch TV. Imagine working out your calves, thighs, and all the way up to your butt and even beyond while you watch Dexter. Now, just two important tips I'd like to mention about this machine. Your stepper can start to squeak. Don't put up with it; you can get it back to total quiet mode with teflon lubricant (from the bicycle shop). If you don't find the "spot," keep spraying every moving joint. Sometimes it takes overnight for the lubricant to reach the squeak. Also, read the directions about adjustment: To get to the highest, hardest step level, raise both steps at once to their highest level, then turn the knob. You may need to keep turning, even if you think you've got it all the way if you want to step high and hard. I wasn't raving about this machine until I figured out how to get it to a worthwhile level. Oh, and here's a trick for those athletic types (yes, I'm one of those): put an old pillow under the feet when you step. Really. The new thinking with exercise is, be off balance when you do it. Using the pillow this way is the equivalent of running on sand in your bare feet or doing crunches on a stability ball. Instability works the deeper, smaller muscles that simple movements, alone, don't give you. Hey, get off that couch, boys and girls. It's so important. And sure, watch the tube, but become a stepping potato from now on. This item is your answer to all your exercise dilemmas.

Product Description
Take a step towards a healthier you.This mini stepper exerciser is ideal for toning the waist, calves, hips and thighs while raising your heart rate and helping you to increase your cardiovascular fitness.Features a unique adjustable tension pulley system that makes the stepping action smoother for low impact exercise.The dual hydraulic cylinders work independently to replicate stair climbing.The built in digital computer makes it easy to track your progress by calculating elapsed time and number of steps you have taken.The non-skid feet prevent this exercise stepper from slipping, ensuring your safety.This exercise equipment has been constructed of heavy-gauge steel and the footrests are high-impact plastic composite.Two AA batteries are included. .

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