Hasn't a deaf person heard of a new trend in modern fitness that quickly gained popularity and is called “Nordic Walking” - Nordic Walking. It has been proven that these activities are practically harmless and are suitable for absolutely everyone.
By exercising in the fresh air, a person strengthens his body and health, ventilates his lungs, and effectively loses weight. Moreover, this happens easily, without exhausting training. For those who do not have the opportunity to go out into nature, a Nordic walking simulator has been created for the home. Reviews confirm its effectiveness, similar to training with sticks on the street.
Advantages and disadvantages of a mini stepper
First of all, the mini stepper is slightly superior in terms of calorie consumption. A 90-minute walk at a brisk pace in a person weighing 75 kg allows you to consume about 560 kcal or a little more. A “hike” of the same duration on a mini-stepper is already 860 kcal. In principle, the difference is significant. This makes the mini stepper a better choice for shorter workouts. In half an hour, the “consumption” will be about 280-300 kcal, if you walk fast enough.
In addition, you will be able to study at home at a convenient time, regardless of the weather, traffic jams and other problems. They say that the advanced part of humanity carries such machines to the office and “steps” while working. Unfortunately, in our conditions this is usually not applicable. But, excuse me, you are watching the news. Or some movie, show, series? Most people do watch. This is a reason to get off the couch and add a little benefit to your nightly leisure time in front of the TV.
Mini-steppers also have disadvantages. You quickly “grow out” of them in terms of increasing the load. Some models, when heated, emit a not-so-pleasant “rubber-machine” smell. And finally, the workout itself may seem boring to many people. Well, this problem is easily solved by a not-too-intelligent movie or TV show. But reading a book during cardio is still unnecessary. It has been noticed that most people who like to read in exercise machines do not gain even half the intensity required for burning fat.
As for price, you can find mini steppers for $50 or less these days. So, naturally, you should choose out of your own convenience. Or you can not choose at all, but alternate different types of load.
Elena Selivanova
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Useful and not boring as a substitute for morning jogging
Running is a cardiovascular workout, an effective way to combat stress, strengthen the immune system and lose extra pounds.
However, it is not always possible to start every morning with a run. We've rounded up three fun alternatives to running that deliver great results. How to replace morning jogging: cycling
Health improvement, muscle training, weight loss, prevention of depression - all these points can be achieved by acquiring a bicycle. Firstly, cycling strengthens the leg muscles, since you have to pedal all the time. Secondly, the vestibular apparatus and coordination are trained.
Thirdly, cycling has a beneficial effect on the nervous and respiratory systems, especially if cycling is done in the company of friends in a park or in the forest. In addition, by rotating the pedals, you stimulate blood circulation, which will protect you from varicose veins or vegetative-vascular dystonia.
And if you choose hilly terrain for such walks or ride a bike for at least half an hour, you can burn a lot of calories.
How to replace morning jogging: jumping rope
Jumping rope is an excellent analogue to morning jogging. Like running, jumping is considered an anaerobic exercise that has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
If you jump fast enough (130 rotations per hour), you can get the same load on the muscles as when running at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour. Scientists have calculated that a 1.5-kilometer run can be compensated for by 10 minutes of jumping rope.
In addition, when jumping rope, your arms are not relaxed, as when jogging, but rotate in the shoulder joints. This makes your wellness workouts even more intense and rewarding.
An absolute minus is that when jumping in an apartment, your body does not receive the same amount of oxygen as, for example, while jogging in the park. On the other hand, this option is less traumatic. Plus, you save a lot of time while burning the same amount of calories.
How to replace morning jogging: swimming pool
Swimming is considered the safest sport: the chances of getting injured are minimal. During swimming, all muscle groups are involved. You won't be able to burn the same number of calories as running, but you will get the opportunity to relieve tension from your back and shoulder muscles. This is especially true for those who have a sedentary job. In addition, swimming has virtually no contraindications.
This sport can be an excellent alternative to running during pregnancy and cardiovascular diseases. Swimming has a healing effect on the respiratory and nervous systems. So, although an hour-long workout will not solve your life problems, it will relieve tension, headaches, and help relieve stress.
How to practice on a stepper at home?
There are some universal tips that apply not only to stepper, but also to any other active sport:
- Before starting exercise, the muscles need to be warmed up. Many novice amateur athletes neglect warming up, which is a mistake, since it is an independent set of special exercises that mobilize the body, prepare for upcoming loads, and warm up muscles, ligaments and joints. As a rule, it is the warm-up that determines the result of the workout, and also prevents consequences such as pain and injury;
- Unprepared people at the beginning of their sports journey should not get too carried away. For beginners, 15-20 minutes of activity will be enough during the first two weeks. The load should be increased gradually, focusing on your own capabilities and well-being;
- The effectiveness of training largely depends on maintaining the correct body position. There are models of steppers on the market, both with and without handrails. In the first case, it is important not to transfer body weight to your arms - they should be relaxed. And in the second, you need to stand straight, without arching your back, leaning forward slightly and not bringing your knees too close. The feet should be fully on the pedals and not hanging down, as this puts a lot of stress on the joints, which can cause their deformation;
- At the beginning of training, you should not immediately take on a fast pace. It is better to start with a combination of slow walking with a deep step, and then speed up and alternate sports modes and slowly slow down by the end of the session;
- To lose weight and tone your body, exercise should be regular. The best time for fat burning is in the morning after waking up, for strengthening the heart muscle - in the afternoon and evening, two hours after the last meal, which should be light and mostly protein;
- At the end of the workout, you need to do some stretching.
Advantages and disadvantages of walking for weight loss
Most people don't need to buy anything at all to start walking to lose weight. As a rule, everyone has comfortable shoes. As well as clothing for the weather. The pedometer can be installed in absolutely any modern smartphone. Those who really want to can buy a heart monitor, and this is a good purchase. Those who really want to save money at first can focus on the “talk test”. During proper health walking, you should be able to carry on a conversation in short phrases, but not burst into full sentences.
In general, you can walk anywhere and anytime, and even during lunch breaks or simply taking a break from your usual activities. You can take walks around the city, find some company, or just listen to all the interesting audiobooks while you train.
The disadvantage of walking is not the walking itself, but the way we are used to doing it:
- a modern city dweller will definitely try to avoid walking in the rain and slush, and there is nothing to be done about it - we love comfort;
- I also don’t particularly want to go out and walk in the cold, especially considering what kind of shoes we wear, mostly women. In “this” you can freeze, just running from the car to the entrance, not to mention walking far. And for normal walks you already need trekking winter boots, which, in their normal form, cost more than a mini-stepper;
- and, finally, in the heat, you are more likely to move sluggishly in search of shade, rather than walk with full-fledged race walking;
- plus when walking a person is more distracted, slows down the pace and cannot always maintain the intensity of the workout
Duration of training
If a stepper exercise is performed after strength training, then the duration of walking can be limited to 20 minutes. The fact is that the body is already warmed up, which means aerobic exercise will immediately begin to affect subcutaneous fat.
If a cardio session on a stepper is performed separately from other activities, it should last 1 hour. During the first 40 minutes, the body will warm up and accelerate metabolic processes, and the next 20 will begin to burn through the fat layer.
“Entering” and “exiting” into a cardio session on a stepper should be smooth. Without a gradual increase and decrease in load, the body will perceive the training as stress, which means that the burning of subcutaneous fat will not start.
As a rule, one intense activity can burn up to 500 kcal. But for weight loss to be effective, the device should be used at least 4-5 times a week. It is recommended to combine walking on a stepper with strength training and low-carbohydrate nutrition.
How to spin a hula hoop video correctly
A wasp waist is the dream of any lady, because it so attracts men’s gaze! The best way to get closer to the ideal is to use a massage hoop or, as it is also called, a hula hoop for weight loss. With regular use, it helps to tone many muscles in the waist area and gradually forms an elegant figure.
Hula hoop for weight loss - how to twist it correctly
To understand how to spin a hula hoop correctly. You will have to spend a little time understanding the principle by which you need to move your body to ensure the rotation of the hoop. Here we have provided an example of a video that will help you quickly learn how to hula hoop.
After a full lunch, at least two hours should pass before hula hooping. However, if you limit yourself to a light snack, you can start exercising after an hour. Start with light loads.
Next, gradually increase the number of classes and their time; they will be most effective when you do 20-30 minutes.
The benefits of rotating a massage hoop and contraindications
However, not everyone can spin a hula hoop. There are contraindications - kidney and liver diseases. tumors and inflammatory diseases of the uterus and ovaries, pregnancy and the postpartum period, cerebral vascular malformation
True, some health problems can leave your body if you hula hoop for weight loss. So, in addition to active weight loss, you can activate the work of blood vessels and the heart, stimulate intestinal motility and improve metabolism. in addition, the skin of the waist and hips will become smoother and more elastic.
Which model should you choose?
Nowadays a huge number of hula hoops for weight loss and waist massage are sold, which makes it quite difficult to make a choice.
There are even models of hula hoops with built-in magnets. It is believed that they have an even more beneficial effect on the body.
Modern hula hoops are often made collapsible. which makes them very easy to transport.
Built-in massage elements have an intensive effect on the waist and hips.
If you want to get results faster and already know how to handle a standard massage hoop, you can use a heavy one (more than one and a half kilograms).
Whatever hula hoop for weight loss you choose, the main thing is not to give up this activity that is good for the body, devote at least a month to it, because when you see the results, you will receive an additional incentive for further exercise.
How to train on a simulator
It is important to remember the rules for using a stepper for Nordic walking:
- With a diameter of about two meters, there should be no foreign objects near the simulator so that you do not accidentally hit or hit someone.
- You should wear sneakers to protect your feet from damage, and clothing should not hang loosely so that it does not accidentally get caught in moving parts.
- Before use, check the stepper to ensure that everything is securely fastened and nothing is unscrewed.
- Before classes, be sure to warm up, including muscle stretching exercises. Initially choose a slow tempo on the stepper and gradually increase it
- Breathe correctly and rhythmically, do not hold your breath; with adequate effort, you should be able to carry on a conversation without being out of breath. Take 2 steps while inhaling, 3-5 steps while exhaling, it is best to breathe through your nose.
- It is better to eat food an hour before training, and after finishing it, also refrain from eating for an hour.
- With the correct technique - the back should be straight, the torso is tilted 5-7 degrees forward, the shoulders and arms are relaxed, when doing Nordic walking it is correct to walk in antiphase - the right hand meets the left leg and vice versa, arm movements should not only be at the elbow , but must use the shoulder.
- You need to start with short but regular training. You can start with three approaches of 3-4 minutes, and every week increase approaches to 5 minutes. It is best to practice every other day, about three approaches per week for 20-25 minutes.
- To lose weight, you can use interval acceleration, one approach at a fast pace, the rest without acceleration.
Nordic walking equipment
The most important accessory for Nordic walking is special poles (ski poles are not suitable). They come in two types: monolithic standard and telescopic with retractable elements.
The handles have built-in wrist straps that have locks and allow you to adjust the size individually. Choose sticks based on the following criteria:
- a Nordic walking cane should be made of light but durable materials - aluminum, plastic, composite alloy;
- the handle should be comfortable for your hand shape;
- the strap (lanyard) ensures a tight fit of the hand to the handle, without the need to squeeze it while moving (the fixed stick should naturally move behind the person walking);
- on the reverse end there is a spike for stopping in ice, snow and removable rubber tips;
- The minimum warranty period for the product is two years.
Training technique
Before you start exercising, do a short warm-up consisting of 3-5 exercises.
Despite the apparent simplicity of the movements, to achieve maximum effect during training, you should follow these recommendations:
- Keep your back and head straight;
- Straighten your shoulders and slightly bend your lower back;
- During the movement, “throw” one hand forward as much as possible, and press the other, drawn back, with your elbow to the body;
- Make sure your foot is firmly planted on the pedal surface;
- As you walk, focus on your midfoot;
- Regulate your breathing: inhale – 2 steps, inhale – another 2 steps.
For weight loss
To eliminate unnecessary kilograms of excess weight from your body, do home exercises every other day, exercising for 20 minutes.
During the 1st lesson, note how many steps you managed to “go through”. Add 5-10 steps to the results obtained in each subsequent workout. This way you can control the increase in intensity of the load. You will only need a month of regular exercise to see a thinner and toned body.
To give elasticity to your hips and buttocks, while walking, without changing the position of your lower back, tilt your body slightly forward, leaning on the handles of the device. This technique will allow you to emphasize the load on the muscles of the thighs and buttocks.
Interval walking on a treadmill
Walking is the safest and at the same time quite effective exercise for those who want to improve their health, but do not have the opportunity to run.
Simple walking on a treadmill is effective only with prolonged exercise (half an hour or more).
But much more effective in terms of increasing metabolism and training the cardiovascular system is interval walking on a treadmill.
Progressive interval walking option:
Progressive interval walking on a treadmill is limited to a speed of 7-8 km/h. To increase the load, you can use the elevation of the running belt.
Workouts using the treadmill belt elevation
It is best if your treadmill has an electronic incline adjustment feature. Then, along with the change in speed, it will be possible to change the inclination angle of the running belt, which will create additional load.
Programmatic use of interval training
Changing data every time after 1-2 minutes while walking along the path is completely inconvenient. It's another matter when the simulator computer does it for you. If your treadmill has built-in programs, then you will probably find interval training on it.
Another thing is whether it will suit you? Unfortunately, built-in programs cannot be edited to suit your needs.
But if your simulator’s software package has a custom program mode, then it won’t be difficult for you to create interval training to suit your needs.
Create a custom interval workout on your track
Once again, to create your own workout program, your treadmill computer must have a custom program feature. All recommendations for operating your simulator are described in the original instructions.
We will create a custom program from the instructions for the Winner/Oxygen Plasma track. You can create your own training profile in one of four custom modes:
- Press the MODE key until USER 1 – USER 4 appears;
- Specify the TIME of the workout, press ENTER;
- Next, enter the desired SPEED or INCLINE value for each profile segment using the SPEED+/SPEED- or INCLINE+/INCLINE- keys;
- To move to the next segment, press MODE to confirm.
- When you have completed entering all segment values, press START to begin your workout.
Interval training plan
Interval training gives you a lot of opportunities to change various parameters in calm and intense modes: running speed, mode time, and incline angle.
As you progress, you should gradually make the workout more difficult. For example, every 10 sessions, reduce the load time in a calm state and increase it in an intense state. The same can be done with the angle of inclination.
The main thing is to monitor your condition and increase the load gradually.
The best ministeppers
For owners of small apartments or those who do not like unnecessary items in the interior, miniature options are ideal. They can be stored in a closet, under the bed, and can be easily moved from room to room. To determine which ministepper is better, 17 options were considered, of which 3 models performed well.
Dfc SC-S038B
An extraordinary solution for the miniature model from the Dfc company is the presence of long handles, as on the classic versions. They completely convey the process of Nordic walking. To adjust them, 2 tilt angles and length changes are provided. You don't need to do anything to start the lesson. The computer, which reads calories burned and pace, is powered by batteries. The size of this bright device with green inserts is 41x46x138 cm and weight is 8 kg.
Advantages
- There are handles;
- Easy assembly;
- Appearance;
- Folding handrails.
Flaws
- It may creak.
In the reviews of the Dfc stepper you can find advice - immediately after unnecessary sounds appear, lubricate all the cracks with silicone grease and let it sit for 24 hours.
Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B
At first glance, the simulator seems very compact. This is confirmed by the dimensions 43x33x15 cm. However, the engineers gave it a weight of 7.4 kg to compensate for uneven floors and unsteadiness during walking. The low height, combined with autonomous operation, makes it possible to lose weight while doing usual things: cooking, watching TV. Calorie consumption, speed, time will be calculated.
Advantages
- Maximum load capacity – 100 kg;
- Sturdy frame;
- Stable;
- Load adjustment.
Flaws
- There may be unnecessary sounds.
Reviews of the weight loss stepper hold a confident rating of 4.5 points and the “buyer’s choice” nomination. Users share that breakdowns occur due to poor study of the instructions, which indicate the need to tighten all bolts before first use.
Starfit HT-102
The rotary stepper with expanders stands out among its competitors in that it creates a large load. Using elastic bands attached to the front of the pedals, you can control the resistance force. This adds stress to the arms and involuntary turns of the torso. This way, more muscles are used. The screen, located in the center, runs on one AAA battery and shows the number of steps, time, calories.
Advantages
- Stands confidently on the floor;
- Relief coating of the sole;
- Rubber gaskets between parts;
- Bright design.
Flaws
- It's difficult to change the pace.
The weight loss process is controlled by hydraulic pistons located under each of the pedals. To extend the life of the simulator, the mechanism needs to be lubricated from time to time.
The best rowing machines
The benefits of running on treadmills compared to regular running
A treadmill is a device with which you can improve your endurance, lose excess fat, tone your muscles, and strengthen your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Moreover, using a treadmill can improve the functioning of your nervous system, making it easier for you to endure high mental stress and stress. Many may object: “why do we even need this treadmill if you can just run outside?” But home exercise machines have several significant advantages over regular running, for example:
- You can train anytime and in any weather, even in winter;
- When running at home, you do not attract unnecessary attention from strangers;
- You don't have to wake up half an hour earlier to get ready for a run;
- Convenient load and incline adjustment (especially important for electric treadmills), which cannot be achieved during normal running even with the use of weights;
Of the benefits of running outside, only two positive aspects can be highlighted - fresh air and the availability of such activities, because you can train completely free of charge.
What brand of stepper is better to choose?
More and more brands are producing exercise equipment for home and professional use. In order to avoid encountering low-quality goods or counterfeits, it is worth knowing the features of popular companies, their focus and exclusive solutions.
- Horizon is a brand that is a branch of the large organization Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd. The factories are based in Taiwan, where a multi-stage testing and production system has been developed. Their sports equipment has received award titles more than once.
- Spirit is a manufacturer of sports cardio and strength equipment of various classes. The main production is located in Taiwan, but some parts are developed in Europe and the USA. Before being exported, goods are tested for strength and awarded with quality certificates.
- HouseFit is a Taiwanese company that has been exporting its products to Russia since 1995. Their top priority is to bring accessible sports into the home. Therefore, their exercise machines are highly ergonomic for use and storage. In addition to the main assortment, you can find accessories in the catalog: swimming goggles, tennis rackets and more.
- DFC is a supplier community dedicated to selecting and delivering sports and entertainment equipment. Over the entire period of work, the managers launched their production in Taiwan, China, and Malaysia. So, they achieved high quality at a low price.
- Body Sculpture is one of the oldest Taiwanese brands, having started its work in 1965. Having become a global brand, its range has increased significantly. Today, product categories are divided not only by type of use, but also by age segment. This allows even the adult generation to remain active.
- Starfit is an Australian brand that was purchased by Russia in 2020. In 2 years they gave a new round of production. At the same time, engineers pay attention to the anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the country's inhabitants. Functionality and ergonomics are confirmed by an extended warranty.
- Torneo is an Italian brand that develops reliable designs while maintaining affordable prices. Since 1999, they have been producing home sports equipment and accessories.
- Sport Elite is an offshoot of the Eurosport brand. The main emphasis is on safe home use. Since 2020, engineers have released a unique line of semi-professional home exercise equipment.
- GymBit is a company that produces home exercise equipment in the low price segment. Some categories are equipped with myostimulation or innovative design for faster results. Their devices are often found in online and TV stores.
- Stingray is a brand operating since 1994 in Taiwan. They comply with international quality standards, so their products are found in fitness centers, gyms and even children's and youth schools.
Shoulder injuries
Nordic walking involves active movements of the arms, during which the entire shoulder girdle is involved in the work. If there are any untreated injuries, it is better to fully recover from them first.
It should also be noted that problems with the spine and posture can be caused by incorrectly selected poles, the size of which must be given primary attention when purchasing, having first studied the rules for their selection, including taking into account height
How to lose weight with a stepper?
The Nordic Walking exercise machine for home, numerous reviews confirm this, is a very effective tool for weight loss when used correctly. This is achieved by increased burning of calories in adipose tissue formed during a sedentary lifestyle.
To achieve the greatest effectiveness from your training, you need to consider some points:
- Clearly understand what the goal is. If the goal is to quickly lose weight, then the intensity of exercise should be daily for at least an hour. After all, fat will begin to be burned only after half an hour of active muscle movements.
- When using poles on a stepper, be sure to tense your arm muscles, as if pushing off with a ski tool, and not just hold on to the machine.
- Gradually, as the muscles get used to it, increase the load.
- In order to lose weight, it is good to use interval training - alternating fifteen-minute intervals of heavy load with low load.
In addition to physical benefits, the Nordic Walking exercise machine for home, reviews eloquently testify to this, also provides psychological help: athletes stop taking antidepressants, their mental state normalizes.
The benefits of Nordic walking
Since skiing can be considered the ancestor of Finnish walking, the benefits of such activity are enormous. Here, as when moving on skis, a large number of muscles are involved. The shoulder girdle actively works, and the use of support means reduces the load on the spine and knees, which allows people with musculoskeletal problems to practice Nordic walking.
Like any time in the fresh air, Nordic walking for weight loss stimulates the cardiovascular system, stabilizes blood pressure, trains coordination and endurance. Doctors recommend Nordic walking as a means of preventing heart attacks and all cardiovascular diseases.
On top of all this, it’s a boost of energy for the whole day and an opportunity to have a pleasant and useful time, and always be in great physical shape. You can increasingly hear the expression “Nordic walking for weight loss”; indeed, this sport has proven itself well in this area. Walking for weight loss is gaining rapid popularity among all age categories.
Swedish walking training for weight loss is often used as therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation after injuries and operations. This is not to say that this is a sport for older people. Today we can observe a tendency that young people suffer from diseases such as cervical osteochondrosis, high blood pressure, and headaches. Therefore, the activities invented by Finnish athletes will be useful to everyone. But we must remember that playing any sport requires a measured and gradual load, the intensity of training should correspond to your well-being, and if you have serious health problems, the need for training, the number of approaches and duration should be discussed with your doctor.
Which simulator to choose
"GymBit"
The absolute and virtually uncontested leader in the Nordic walking equipment market is the GymBit brand exercise machine.
- The “GymBit” stepper has a multifunctional computer with an LCD display, through which you can adjust the degree of load, as well as track the distance traveled and the number of calories burned, having previously indicated your height, weight, gender and age.
- The adjustable handles of the exercise machine provide a natural load on the abdominal and back muscles, and the pedals, made of non-slip material, ensure good grip on the legs.
- In addition, the GymBit simulator has the ability to change the range of rotation angles and movements, so you can increase or decrease the intensity of the workout.
The average price of this simulator is about 5,000 rubles.
Budget option - mini stepper
A more budget-friendly option would be the Nordic Walking mini-simulator.
- Its main feature is the absence of levers.
- Some models of mini-steppers come with expanders for arm training.
The cost of such simulators generally varies in the range from 2500 to 3500 rubles.
However, mini-steppers have a smaller range of rotation angles, so they are significantly inferior in efficiency to their full-size “brothers”.
How can you replace running in cold weather at home?
I remember my army. The cold is not cold, the frost is not frost, but in the morning I got up to exercise and ran... We ran every day, no one got sick from it. Immediately after the run, for some reason, they coughed when they entered the warm room, but after half an hour everyone’s cough went away, and all the lively and healthy ones stomped into the dining room (singing).
I also remember this uniform was - No. 2. This means naked to the waist (bare torso, so called). So, in this “uniform” we ran at a temperature of only 10 degrees Celsius. If it was lower, then they wore a T-shirt.
Everyone went through the army, and this running, it seems to me, hardened us well for the rest of our lives. I still don’t get colds and I run great, even though I’m already at an advanced age.
Advice!
You can run if you want in both autumn and winter. Jogging never hurt anyone. You can also run for a while.
While running, the body warms up, you won’t feel the cold, even if you run in the snow in winter. I guarantee you this. You don’t even need to dress warmly (a hat, of course, is a must).
Or this way, if you are afraid of the cold: run out of the house, out of the entrance in a windbreaker, and then, if anything, take it off while running...
Winter is not a hindrance to running. The main thing is just not to slip...
Now I enjoy playing table tennis. This is also an option for replacing running in winter. Two hours of training, or playing with a smart partner - seven sweats. Both legs and arms work.
How to replace running For amateurs and professionals
In our sports life, sometimes there comes a time when we cannot run or do running training.
And it doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional or an amateur, this moment comes to everyone. Most often this occurs due to injuries, bad weather conditions, while not being able to run in the arena, or simply tired of running
The question arises: “What and how to replace it?”
There are many alternatives to running, let's look at them.
SKIS
In winter, skiing is the best alternative to running. Skiing perfectly trains the muscles of the arms and hips, strengthens the functioning of the lungs, increases endurance and strengthens the heart, and also perfectly tempers our body.
It’s worth noting here that 10 kilometers of skiing will not cover 10 kilometers of running. Consider that 5 kilometers of running is 10 kilometers of skiing. It's a shame, but that's how it is.
GAME SPORTS
Sports such as football and basketball are excellent substitutes for running. Excellent for training endurance, leg muscles, and improving agility.
I strongly do not recommend replacing running with this method, especially for professionals, since the risk of injury is very high.
30 minutes of football, basketball is 5 kilometers of running.
ROPE
Attention!
Great replacement for running. Jumping rope is considered an identical physical activity, since the same muscles work as when running. It should also be noted that working with a skipping rope perfectly coordinates our movements and improves posture.
POOL
This alternative can and even should be practiced. A great way to relieve leg tension. Development of all the muscles of the body, powerful breathing training, coordination, that’s what swimming is.
The pool is generally the best way to lose weight. You just need to fork out for a subscription, on average it costs 2 thousand rubles, but it’s worth it.
SQUATS
An ideal option for replacing running at home, due to a similar effect. But I don’t think that each of us will be able to squat 400-500 times, since 100 squats equals 1 kilometer. It is very difficult to replace running in this way.
Rating of quality home models for 2020
DFC SC-S038B
Manufacturer: Russia
Type: classic mini stepper
Average price – 3,500 rubles.
Home sports device with a counter for calories burned and distance traveled. Its modest size allows you to put the exercise machine under a table or in a closet after class. Interdependent pedal travel. The computer is powered by batteries (AAA). The maximum permissible load is 100 kg.
DFC SC-S038B
Advantages:
- autonomous work;
- anti-slip pedals;
- compact dimensions;
- with timer;
- with scanning mode.
Flaws:
- Moving parts must be lubricated regularly.
Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B
Manufacturer: UK
Type: classic mini stepper
Average price – 4,000 rubles.
Amateur mini-simulator for training at home. Withstands up to 100 kg load. Equipped with a display that provides information about the number of calories burned and step frequency.
Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B
Advantages:
- good build quality;
- high-quality coating of metal elements;
- adjustment of range of motion;
- autonomous work;
- compact dimensions;
- stable;
- low cost.
Flaws:
- It is necessary to tighten the nuts periodically.
DFC SC-S032
Manufacturer: Russia
Type: rotary mini stepper
Average price – 4,500 rubles.
A sports trainer belonging to the category of goods for sports and recreation. An excellent option for beginners to figure out whether this type of sports activity is suitable or not. It has a dependent pedal stroke and is also equipped with a display that displays the number of calories burned and step frequency. The maximum permissible user weight is 110 kg.
HDFC SC-S032
Advantages:
- there are expanders;
- autonomy;
- with display;
- there is a scanning mode;
- you can set the training time;
- compact;
- low cost;
- good feedback.
Flaws:
- The length of the expanders is not adjustable.
Torneo Tempo S-221
Manufacturer: Italy
Type: rotary
Average price – 5,000 rubles.
A trainer with dependent pedal stroke, designed for a maximum athlete weight of 100 kg. The device screen displays the number of calories burned and step frequency. At the front, the device is equipped with a hand support, which has height adjusters. If desired, it can be completely removed.
Torneo Tempo S-22
Advantages:
- autonomous work;
- elegant design;
- takes up minimal space;
- strong “seams”;
- affordable price.
Flaws:
- the load is not adjustable;
- The technical description for the product contains information about the need to tighten all fasteners once a week.
Sport Elite GB-5112
Manufacturer: China
Type: rotary mini stepper
Average price – 5,200 rubles.
A small-sized exercise machine for training at home with a good amplitude of action and a natural trajectory of leg movement. Equipped with a screen that allows you to track calorie consumption and speed in steps. Withstands up to 100 kg of weight.
Sport Elite GB-511
Advantages:
- autonomous work;
- with expanders;
- there is a display;
- good build quality;
- convenient to study;
- Great for working out your legs and buttocks.
Flaws:
- Moving parts must be lubricated regularly.
Titan GymBit “Nordic walking” FT-GB21
Manufacturer: Germany
Type: classic mini stepper
Average price – 6,500 rubles.
Stationary exercise machine with 2 training programs, designed to keep fit. Suitable even for older people, as it is designed in such a way as to imitate Nordic walking, known for its benefits.
During Nordic walking, about 90% of the muscles are used, which burns twice as many calories as during normal walking.
The stepper has an LCD display that makes it easy to track your activity. Designed for a maximum user weight of 100 kg.
Titan GymBit “Nordic walking” FT-GB21
Advantages:
- functional;
- allows you to work out not only your arms, but also your legs;
- easy to operate;
- with scanning mode;
- there is a timer;
- stable frame;
- anti-slip pedals;
- adjustable handles;
- affordable price.
Flaws:
- small selection of programs.
Horizon Dynamic 2
Manufacturer: USA
Type: classic
Average price – 41,500 rubles.
Stepper with twelve load levels and independent pedal travel. A display with heart rate sensors mounted on the handlebars displays calorie consumption and step frequency, and also includes functional features such as activity time, number of steps taken, and total distance traveled. The maximum permissible weight is 130 kg.
Horizon Dynamic
Advantages:
- reliable design;
- ease of operation;
- fast load regulation;
- there is a display;
- withstands heavy loads;
- works autonomously;
- measures pulse;
- equipped with mechanisms that compensate for floor unevenness.
Flaws:
- high price.
Xterra RSX1500
Manufacturer: USA
Type: horizontal
Average price – 77,000 rubles.
Sports equipment with 24 load levels. Equipped with a built-in user program, as well as settings for continuous heart rate monitoring. The built-in screen displays the number of calories burned, step frequency, and pace. The heart rate sensor is mounted on the steering wheel. The built-in computer contains 21 training programs, 5 heart rate-dependent and 4 custom. The maximum permissible user weight is 120 kg.
Xterra RSX1500
Advantages:
- autonomous work;
- measures pulse;
- with multifunction display;
- there are built-in training programs;
- with the ability to connect a smartphone;
- The design is equipped with compensators for floor unevenness.
Flaws:
- high price.
SPIRIT XS895
Manufacturer: USA
Type: classic
Average price – 130,000 rubles.
Stepper with twenty levels of load and a display showing calorie consumption, step frequency and pace of movement. Cardio sensors for tracking physical indicators are mounted on the steering wheel, and on the handles there are keys for controlling the device. Floor unevenness compensators and transport wheels equipped with the structure make transportation and installation easier. 10 training programs are loaded into the built-in computer. The maximum permissible weight is 181 kg.
SPIRIT XS895
Advantages:
- reliable design;
- ease of operation;
- fast load regulation;
- there is a display;
- withstands heavy loads;
- supports Bluetooth;
- there are built-in programs (for time, constant pulse, constant effort);
- with function of changing step length;
- with heart rate measurement.
Flaws:
- high price;
- weighs a lot.
Matrix S1x
Manufacturer: USA
Type: classic
Average price – 270,000 rubles.
Reliable stepper with independent pedal travel. Provides its user with 20 load levels. Withstands the highest possible loads – up to 182 kg of weight. The built-in LED display allows you to track your calorie consumption and distance traveled. Touch heart rate sensors are mounted on the steering wheel, which gives more space for manipulation. The computer has 13 training levels and 2 heart rate-dependent programs.
Matrix S1x
Advantages:
- high functionality;
- built-in programs (time, constant effort);
- smooth pedal travel;
- grooved non-slip pedals;
- high-strength frame;
- ergonomic contoured handles;
- does not make noise;
- measures pulse;
- has a glass stand;
- safe.
Flaws:
- high price.