This rower is an alternative to the popular but considerably more expensive piston resistance Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine. It’s priced between the Kettler and the orbital style piston resistance Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine, among the most affordable and bestselling models on the market.

Rowing machines provide an excellent aerobic workout while developing the core, back, shoulders, arms, and to a lesser degree, the legs. Rowing is a highly efficient form of exercise for building strength, developing cardiovascular fitness and losing weight.

The HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger has a solid and stable foundation that produces very little wobble during a workout. The resistance is smooth and even throughout each rep.

There are 12 levels of hydraulic resistance, adjustable by turning a knob on each piston. The downside to this design is that knob adjustment and setting the resistance evenly on both sides can be tedious. Other adjustment features include angle of seat incline and chassis length to accommodate a wide range of user heights.

The computer monitor has limited capabilities but does provide basic stats on stroke count, time, calories burned and includes two workout programs based on strokes and calories.

One of the most attractive features of this rower is the folding feature that reduces the size to just 11″ x 39″ x 20″ for easy storage when not in use.

The unit comes mostly assembled and can be fully setup and ready to row within 15 minutes.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• HCI Fitness Sprint Outrigger Scull Rowing Machine
• See all bestselling Rowing Machines on Amazon
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The base unit uses an online system to track statistics for those who prefer to see progress only once per day. This monitor gives users minute-to-minute access to their data.

The GoWear fit Lifestyle and Calorie Management System is an armband with a small computer that  measures an array of physical characteristics, including motion, steps, galvanic skin response, skin temperature, and heat flux. It’s the only multi-sensor monitor that can accurately track calorie burn, physical activity, sleep duration and sleep efficiency.

This monitor easily syncs to the Gowear fit armband and can be worn as a watch or clipped onto a bag or clothing.

We’d like to see the manufacturer offer the monitor as an option with purchase of the base system. For now, users will need to purchase them separately at full price.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here for the GoWear fit Display Device
• See the GoWear fit Lifestyle and Calorie Management System

Video Demonstration

This set of bands from Spree is similar to others from Bodylastics (top rated), Ripcords and GoFit. They all serve the same purpose but differ in the quality of materials, quantity and strength of bands, and design of the attachment devices. Each offers the benefits of toning, building muscle mass and burning fat without the need for a full set of dumbbells. Resistance band training is an excellent choice for those with limited space and budget.

The SPRI Advanced Traveling Trainer includes three Xertubes (light, medium, and heavy resistance) one hand strap, an exercise video, training workout program, diner’s guide and durable, lightweight black nylon travel bag.

Unlike many resistance band sets this low-priced package does NOT include a door attachment.

This is one of several resistance band packages being used for the P90X Workout and EA Sports Active for the Nintendo Wii.

For a step up in quality and number of components see the Bodylastics Basic Tension Set and Ripcords Black Sniper Edition Six Pack.

More Info & Price Comparison

• Find the SPRI Advanced Traveling Trainer on Amazon
• Compare to other bestselling Resistance Bands

The CycleOps Climbing Block is a simple but effective accessory for use with any bicycle trainer. It stabilizes and elevates the front end to simulate varied riding terrains.

The block can be adjusted to three settings, leveling or slightly elevating the front end, depending on the height of rear-mounted bicycle trainer. Two blocks can be stacked for a more challenging climb.

The Cycleops Stackable Climbing Block requires no tools or assembly and makes indoor bicycle riding more stable, comfortable and productive.

Cycleops Stackable Climbing Block Product Details

• Creates a stable, safe ride when used with any rear-mounted bicycle trainer
• Three-level design lets you adjust difficulty
• Stack two blocks to simulate steeper climbs
• 2 blocks create 12 different adjustment levels
• Durable Injection-molded construction

More Info & Price Comparisons

• CycleOps Stackable Climbing Block for Indoor Bicycle Trainers
• See Indoor Bicycle Trainers for use with this product
• See more Indoor Bicycle Trainers on eBay

The bar can be mounted on a solid wall or wood beam for maximum safety and support. The non-slip powder coating and comfort grips on the cross bars provide additional security.

The overall design and mounting brackets lend a more attractive aesthetic than some of the joist mount pull up bars that use long brackets with protruding hardware.

The nonslip coating on the horizonal bar is nice for sustaining a grip but would benefit from soft grip handles. Some users wear training gloves or wrap the handles with towels or other padding to avoid hand irritation.

This bar can also be used as a dip station but requires a high enough ceiling and a ladder or other method to access the bar in a dipping position.

Pull ups are among the most effective and efficient of upper body workouts. They involve compound movements, using multiple joints, muscle groups and auxiliary muscles.

Wall mounted chin up bars let you workout spontaneously without the need to install in a doorway each time you’re ready to knock out a set.

Compare to the Joist Mount Chin Up Bar. For the bestselling no screw, doorway models, see the P90X Chin-Up Bar or Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Click here for the Maximum Muscle Trainer Wall-Mounted Pull Up Chin Up Bar
• See all chin up/pull up bars on Amazon
• The Maximum Muscle Trainer Pull Up Bar 0n eBay
  

Google and Dell have installed SurfShelfs into all of their fitness facilities. Jason Chen, Editor of Gizmodo.com called it “one of my favorite inventions ever.”

The SurfShelf securely attaches any laptop or portable DVD player to your treadmill, elliptical trainer, exercise bike or stairmaster. It fits 99% of existing stationary exercise machine models. It also works great as a book holder.

Regular laptop computing tasks using a mouse and keyboard are possible but awkward. The SurfShelf is best suited for watching video — either a DVD or on YouTube, Hulu etc. It’s also good for games that only use the directional keys or a game pad.

The product consists of a 100% Polycarbonate tray that will not break, nylon belts and a Velcro strap to hold everything rigidly in place. The secure mount is important because you don’t want your laptop falling to the ground during a workout.

The SurfShelf also comes with a free membership to In-Gym.com, a video entertainment site built specifically for SurfShelf users. The interface allows you to locate and launch a wide variety of online video feeds, all from one place. By using the arrow keys only and not pausing your workout you can choose from Sports, News, Hollywood Entertainment, Health & Lifestyle videos, Music videos, Online TV and Teen Stuff.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Purchase from SurfShelf.com
• Find the SurfShelf Treadmill Laptop Holder on Amazon

This is the third generation of the award-winning M3 model. This indoor cycle is extraordinarily quiet and smooth while producing the feeling of biking outdoors.

Unlike many spinning bikes the M3 includes a computer system that tracks essentials like time, distance, speed and heart rate.

Among the many premium features on the M3 are adjustable Shimano Combo Pedals, a 4-way adjustable seat, a smooth resistance shifter and an anti-slip belt with magnetic resistance.

The adjustable seat and handlebars allow for an infinite number of positions, as opposed to a spring-loaded pin design that locks into pre-drilled holes in the frame.

While the bike design is complex, assembly is easy and takes about 30-45 minutes.

The only drawback to this model is that it does not include a clutch that allows free-wheeling, but this will not be an issue for most users.

The M3 is expensive but makes a good investment for someone who is serious about indoor cycling.

Keiser M3 Indoor Cycle Product Details

• Adjustable Shimano™ Combo Pedals
• Dual Placement Comfort Handles
• Four-Way Adjustable Seat Position (Up, Down, Forward, and Backward)
• Adjustable Handlebar Height
• Anti-Slip Belt (Requires No Adjustment)
• Non Wear Magnetic Resistance
• Infinite Resistance Adjustment
• Smooth Resistance Shifter
• Computer Console
• Comfortable Saddle
• Gravity Based Water Bottle Holder
• Virtually Maintenance Free
• Easy Transport
• Whisper Quiet

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• Find the Keiser M3 Indoor Cycle on Amazon
• Compare to bestselling Spinning Bikes
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The study, published this week in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, suggests that exercise can reduce the severity of flu systoms and also clear out the virus more quickly.

In addition, exercising just before a flu infection but not regularly over the preceding months can also show some protection against severe symptoms.

The study suggests that exercise boosts “early innate antiviral defenses.” While the exact mechanisms remain unclear the results offer one more reason to engage in regular moderate exercise.

[Source: Reuters Health]

The vest is adjustable in 3 pound increments up to a 50 pounds. Upgradeable individual packets can increase the max to 60 pounds. The high quality design and material helps keep the vest snug and avoids chafing even during rigorous exercise. The “short” design allows for a full range of motion.

Weighted vests are an effective training tool for building muscle and stamina and breaking through stubborn fitness plateaus. They can be used for running, walking, pushups, pullups. situps and any other body weight exercise. Weighted vests are being used with the P90X and Insanity systems to accelerate results.

This version from MiR includes two adjustable straps and D-rings to easily vary the body length of the vest. Resistance is adjusted by removing or transferring the weights from packets that are secured with durable Velcro weight closures.

When first using a weighted vest it’s best to build up your workout time slowly to prevent joint stress and potential back injuries.

MiR 50Lbs Short Adjustable Weighted Vest Product Details

• 50 lbs total adjustable in 3 lbs increments
• 11” (shoulder width) X 15” (upper chest) with total adjustable length
• Velcro belt
• Upgradeable individual packets to hold up to 60 lbs
• Double padding and lining across body and shoulder
• Weights loaded at top body front & back for optimum performance
• Mid-chest belt for maximum hold and no bouncing or shifting of weight

More Info & Price Comparisons

• MiR 50Lbs Short Adjustable Weighted Vest
• See all Weighted Vests on Amazon
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MiR 90Lbs Short Adjustable Weighted Vest *** US $269.99 Auction Ends: Sunday Nov-08-2009 10:38:34 PST Buy this Item   | Watch this Item

MiR 80Lbs Short Adjustable Weighted Vest *** US $239.99 Auction Ends: Sunday Nov-08-2009 11:50:50 PST Buy this Item   | Watch this Item

This feels more like a sophisticated and comprehensive exercise program than a game. Gone are the cartoonish graphics from the original — replaced by rugged beaches, deep jungles and tropical vistas — and a lifelike representation of Jillian created by motion capture technology. There are no mini-games, just well-designed cardio and strength training routines and a boot camp style approach.

The new “Resolutions” mode features a customizable training calendar that lets you plan routines for up to six months. New audio recorded by Jillian guides you through each phase.

“Exercise with Jillian” gives users one-on-one time with a 3D avatar of Jillian that demonstrates pre-made or custom routines.

The game is very responsive and works well with the Wii balance board and remote. Improvements in player motion tracking create more accurate and precise on-screen exercise movements and ensure proper tempo and technique.

Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 will have to compete with hot fitness titles EA Sports Active and Wii Fit Plus this holiday season.

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• Find Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 on Amazon

Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 Video