If you've read any of my previous posts, you know that I am very open about my consumption of chocolate, snack cakes, and ice cream as rewards for reaching a goal. I believe that life is too short to completely shut off all of the food sins that run around out there tempting you. In today's thoughts, we'll talk about one of those deadly sins known as fast food.
Fast food is everywhere. It does come in handy every once in a while if you're in a hurry, hence the name fast food, or to appease the kids when they're fighting in the back seat of the car. There are a few rules to use so you can feel comfortable picking the correct food from the shelf, the menu, or the drive thru window.
We work our way through this learning process by taking a quiz.
1. You are late getting out for lunch due to a meeting running over, and now you have only 20 minutes before your next meeting starts. Which is the best choice from the following:
a. Arby's Roast Turkey & Swiss sandwich, no honey mustard, mayo, or cheese
b. Burger King's Tendergrill Chicken sandwich, no mayo
c. Wendy's Grilled Chicken Go Wrap, no honey mustard
Recommendation: In this case it would be a. Most all fast food chains offer turkey or chicken sandwiches, and most would be fine in a pinch. Of the options listed above, Abry's sandwich has the most protein (34 grams) and tolerable grams of fat (9), and even though it's not on a whole grain bun, it does have 4 grams of fiber.
2. You're running late from the office because the boss needed to see you, and it has interfered with your dinner plans. You show up fashionably late while everyone is sharing appetizers. What should you order?
a. Salad with chicken, dressing on the side
b. Fried calamari
c. Dinner roll and shrimp cocktail
Recommendation: If you said b, then you'll need to exercise an extra 20 minutes tomorrow. If you said a, then consider yourself a good thinker. The lettuce will provide fluid as well as a fuller feeling, and the chicken is a good source of protein. Limit the amount of dressing and you'll come out ahead.
3. You make an impromptu stop at a convenience store to grab a gallon milk. While you're there, hunger ambushes you as the smell of the hot dogs rolling on the store grill fills your nostrils. Which do you buy to stave off the lion growling in your stomach?
a. Ready To Drink (RTD) protein shake and a banana
b. Beef jerky and a doughnut
c. 16 ounces of low fat chocolate milk
Recommendation: If you said a, then you get credit for honorable mention. One thing about RTDs is that they have some serious fat content, so be careful. Doughnuts are too fatty. The best choice in this situation is the low fat chocolate milk. It has a great combination of protein and carbohydrates, and you're getting 87% fluid intake.
4. You're working the late shift and you're tired. You decide it's time to take a trip to the vending machine to see what's available. Which is the best choice of these?
a. Rice Krispies Treat
b. Small bag of M&Ms
c. Small pack of chocolate chip cookies
Recommendation: Your goal should be some fast energy without gobs of fat which is what you'll get if you choose the cookies. One vending machine variety actually contains 9 grams of fat, 1.5 grams of it being trans-fat, and that's for only half the bag. The M&Ms are not much of a better choice with 34 grams of carbohydrates and 10 grams of fat. Choose the Rice Krispies Treat...it contains just 5 grams of fat, and 37 grams of carbohydrates.
5. You're standing in line at your favorite coffee shop, and you're eyeing a big, fat doughnut. Remembering that you're trying to eat healthier, what is the best selection from the other items in the food case?
a. Wheat bagel with reduced fat cream cheese
b. Ham and Swiss sandwich
c. Small strawberry-banana smoothie
Recommendation: Surprisingly it is the ham and swiss sandwich. Actually, the other two choices are not that bad, it's just that the sandwich is better. The smoothie is low on protein (7 grams) and high on carbohydrates (75 gams). The wheat bagel is high in carbohydrates (69 grams), a little low in protein (16 grams), and ends up being higher in fat than the sandwich which contains 23 grams of protein, 44 grams of carbohydrates, and 11 grams of fat.
Overall, as long as you look for snacks such as these with higher protein, mid-carbohydrates, and low fat, you can't go wrong. Good luck, and make you don't super-size it.
For more information in fitness and nutrition, visit http://www.seniorskeepingfit.com/.
Cartoon
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
New Guidelines for Fluid Consumption
In previous posts, I've spoken about the amount of water you should drink each day. I just came across some new guidelines that provide additional information.
Many of us grew up thinking, me included, that each person needed to drink eight eight ounce glasses of water per day to remain healthy. The latest recommendations say that this is no longer a viable way to measure since it was not based on any scientific survey data.
Studies consistently show that water is the beverage of choice for its clean, calorie free and hydrating effect. The new study suggests that you can be just as hydrated with coffee, tea, or soft drinks.
In 2002, a study concluded that the 64 ounce requirement for water was not based on on scientific surveys, and the author cited that normal, healthy adults should drink when they are thirsty. There are a few exceptions for people who require more fluids due a medical condition, athletes, and those that live in extreme conditions.
In 2004, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) agreed with the study, and removed the 64 ounce requirement, and replaced it with a statement saying that healthy adults should determine their need for fluids based on their thirst.
So how much do you have to drink? The IOM did not specify any specific requirements for water, but looked at it from a general fluid intake perspective. The recommended amount of total fluids is 91 ounces for women, and 125 ounces for men, which include all fluids from what we eat and drink.
Approximately 80% of our fluid intake is from what we drink, and the remaining 20% comes from the food we eat. Using these percentages as a base, the recommended fluid intake for women is 9 cups, and 12.5 cups for men.
While 20% of fluid seems a bit much to get from food, many of the common items we eat are full of water. For example:
Lettuce: 95%
Watermelon: 92%
Broccoli: 91%
Milk: 89%
Carrot: 87%
Yogurt: 85%
Apple: 84%
There are times when you need more fluids. Physical activity, heat, and humidity all increase the need for more fluids, so keep them handy. Also anytime you are losing fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea, push the fluids. Your goal should be not to get dehydrated.
If you follow your thirst, you won't go wrong. Prehistoric man didn't run around with a water bottle in his hand sipping on it during the day. A dry mouth told him (or her) that it was time to find a stream for a drink.
Feeling thirsty?
For more information on health and fitness, see our website http://www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Many of us grew up thinking, me included, that each person needed to drink eight eight ounce glasses of water per day to remain healthy. The latest recommendations say that this is no longer a viable way to measure since it was not based on any scientific survey data.
Studies consistently show that water is the beverage of choice for its clean, calorie free and hydrating effect. The new study suggests that you can be just as hydrated with coffee, tea, or soft drinks.
In 2002, a study concluded that the 64 ounce requirement for water was not based on on scientific surveys, and the author cited that normal, healthy adults should drink when they are thirsty. There are a few exceptions for people who require more fluids due a medical condition, athletes, and those that live in extreme conditions.
In 2004, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) agreed with the study, and removed the 64 ounce requirement, and replaced it with a statement saying that healthy adults should determine their need for fluids based on their thirst.
So how much do you have to drink? The IOM did not specify any specific requirements for water, but looked at it from a general fluid intake perspective. The recommended amount of total fluids is 91 ounces for women, and 125 ounces for men, which include all fluids from what we eat and drink.
Approximately 80% of our fluid intake is from what we drink, and the remaining 20% comes from the food we eat. Using these percentages as a base, the recommended fluid intake for women is 9 cups, and 12.5 cups for men.
While 20% of fluid seems a bit much to get from food, many of the common items we eat are full of water. For example:
Lettuce: 95%
Watermelon: 92%
Broccoli: 91%
Milk: 89%
Carrot: 87%
Yogurt: 85%
Apple: 84%
There are times when you need more fluids. Physical activity, heat, and humidity all increase the need for more fluids, so keep them handy. Also anytime you are losing fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea, push the fluids. Your goal should be not to get dehydrated.
If you follow your thirst, you won't go wrong. Prehistoric man didn't run around with a water bottle in his hand sipping on it during the day. A dry mouth told him (or her) that it was time to find a stream for a drink.
Feeling thirsty?
For more information on health and fitness, see our website http://www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Keys To A Healthy Diet - Continued
Ok, let's finish up the post on the keys to a healthy diet.
Maintain a moderate protein intake. The typical American diet is rich in protein, unfortunately it comes mostly from animal products which are high in fat and cholesterol. Choose non-fat milk and yogurt, or legumes (beans) as alternate souces of low fat protein.
Limit sugary foods. Sugary foods are high in fat and calories, and usually not much else. However, I know I need one every once in a while, so use it as a reward once you reach a goal.
Reduce your sodium intake to less than 2400mg daily. This is the equivalent of one teaspoon of salt. Higher levels of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and water retention. Cut back on salty foods such as canned soups, cheese, and pickles. Also watch your salt use at the table.
Consume enough calcium. Calcium is the building block of strong bones and bone density and strength. This is especially important for women whose bone density begins to dramatically decline at menopause. Choose low fat yogurt, cheese, and oatmeal. Try for at least 1000mg per day, and up to 1500mg daily if you're over 65.
Get vitamins and minerals from food, not supplements. If you're eating a well-balanced diet, you probably don't need to take vitamin supplements. And if you're not eating correctly, vitamin supplements won't compensate. The only vitamin supplements you might want to consider are vitamin C (500mg), and vitamin E (400IU), but talk with your doctor before starting them.
Drink plenty of fluids. Under normal conditions, the average body loses 2-3 quarts of fluid daily through perspiration, exhaled moisture, and excretion. The rule of thumb of eight 8 ounce glasses of water still applies. Other sources of fluid such as juices, milk, and soups also count towards this total.
Use alcohol in moderation. Studies have consistently shown that 4 ounces of wine on a daily basis is protective against heart attacks. Higher levels of alcohol can actually lead to a variety of health problems and negate any protective benefit. If you're a non-drinker, there are very few doctors who would suggest you start. Use common sense with alcohol.
Today's fast-paced lifestyle makes it difficult to stick to a well-balanced diet everyday. Use these basics as the foundation for your meals, even if you eat out often. Make it an important part of your day.
For more information on nutrition and fitness, visit http://www.seniorskeepingfit.com/.
Maintain a moderate protein intake. The typical American diet is rich in protein, unfortunately it comes mostly from animal products which are high in fat and cholesterol. Choose non-fat milk and yogurt, or legumes (beans) as alternate souces of low fat protein.
Limit sugary foods. Sugary foods are high in fat and calories, and usually not much else. However, I know I need one every once in a while, so use it as a reward once you reach a goal.
Reduce your sodium intake to less than 2400mg daily. This is the equivalent of one teaspoon of salt. Higher levels of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and water retention. Cut back on salty foods such as canned soups, cheese, and pickles. Also watch your salt use at the table.
Consume enough calcium. Calcium is the building block of strong bones and bone density and strength. This is especially important for women whose bone density begins to dramatically decline at menopause. Choose low fat yogurt, cheese, and oatmeal. Try for at least 1000mg per day, and up to 1500mg daily if you're over 65.
Get vitamins and minerals from food, not supplements. If you're eating a well-balanced diet, you probably don't need to take vitamin supplements. And if you're not eating correctly, vitamin supplements won't compensate. The only vitamin supplements you might want to consider are vitamin C (500mg), and vitamin E (400IU), but talk with your doctor before starting them.
Drink plenty of fluids. Under normal conditions, the average body loses 2-3 quarts of fluid daily through perspiration, exhaled moisture, and excretion. The rule of thumb of eight 8 ounce glasses of water still applies. Other sources of fluid such as juices, milk, and soups also count towards this total.
Use alcohol in moderation. Studies have consistently shown that 4 ounces of wine on a daily basis is protective against heart attacks. Higher levels of alcohol can actually lead to a variety of health problems and negate any protective benefit. If you're a non-drinker, there are very few doctors who would suggest you start. Use common sense with alcohol.
Today's fast-paced lifestyle makes it difficult to stick to a well-balanced diet everyday. Use these basics as the foundation for your meals, even if you eat out often. Make it an important part of your day.
For more information on nutrition and fitness, visit http://www.seniorskeepingfit.com/.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Keys To A Healthy Diet
Studies over the last couple of decades have shown that healthy diets - those associated with lower rates of cancer, heart disease, and other ailments - all share common characteristics. These diets all contain lots of fruits, grains, and vegetables, with low amounts of meat and fish. Basically you're looking at a semi-vegetarian diet.
Many of the rice-based diets, most notably in China and Japan, are the most obvious examples. The traditional Japanese diet, with its rice and noodles, is accompanied with vegetables, seafood, and a wide variety of soy food. The Japanese have the lowest rate of heart disease in the world. The Japanses island of Okinawa - where the average person eats 5-7 servings of vegetables each day - boasts the highest number of residents that live beyond the 100 year mark.
The Mediterranean diet, which has been popular in recent years, contains a large portion of unsaturated fats such as olive oil or canola oil, along with wine consumed in moderation at meals. Many studies have lauded the health benefits of the antioxidants contained in the grapes used in wine making.
All of these diets are healthier than the typical American diet which includes far too many calories from saturated fat, meats, and dairy products.
Many of the items that are used in dieting are the same strategies that can be used in a healthy diet.
Eat a varied diet - Emphasize fruits, vegetables, and grains that are high in complex carbohydrates. These should make up most of your daily intake. Eat five or more servings of vegetables and fruits, and six or more servings of grain.
Limit fat intake - No more than 25% of your daily calories should come from fat. Choose the leanest meats, chicken breast without the skin, fish, and low or no fat dairy products. Cut back on salad dressing, mayonnaise, and chips.
Reduce saturated fat - The types of fat you consume are as important as the amounts. Choose oils that are monunsaturated or polyunsaturated fats such as peanut, canola, olive, or corn oil. Limit saturated fats that come from meats, whole milk and butter, and cheese.
Limit cholesterol - Cholesterol is found only in animal products such as meats, poultry, dairy products, and egg yolks. Limit your intake to 200 milligrams or less per day. For example, one large egg yolk contains approximately 215 milligrams of cholesterol.
Include multi-colored vegetables - Foods such as broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, canteloupes, and citrus fruits contain high levels of antioxidants which help protect the body against cancer and heart disease.
In the interest of space, I'll continue the remaining keys for a healthy diet in my next post.
For more information on dieting and exercise, please see www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Many of the rice-based diets, most notably in China and Japan, are the most obvious examples. The traditional Japanese diet, with its rice and noodles, is accompanied with vegetables, seafood, and a wide variety of soy food. The Japanese have the lowest rate of heart disease in the world. The Japanses island of Okinawa - where the average person eats 5-7 servings of vegetables each day - boasts the highest number of residents that live beyond the 100 year mark.
The Mediterranean diet, which has been popular in recent years, contains a large portion of unsaturated fats such as olive oil or canola oil, along with wine consumed in moderation at meals. Many studies have lauded the health benefits of the antioxidants contained in the grapes used in wine making.
All of these diets are healthier than the typical American diet which includes far too many calories from saturated fat, meats, and dairy products.
Many of the items that are used in dieting are the same strategies that can be used in a healthy diet.
Eat a varied diet - Emphasize fruits, vegetables, and grains that are high in complex carbohydrates. These should make up most of your daily intake. Eat five or more servings of vegetables and fruits, and six or more servings of grain.
Limit fat intake - No more than 25% of your daily calories should come from fat. Choose the leanest meats, chicken breast without the skin, fish, and low or no fat dairy products. Cut back on salad dressing, mayonnaise, and chips.
Reduce saturated fat - The types of fat you consume are as important as the amounts. Choose oils that are monunsaturated or polyunsaturated fats such as peanut, canola, olive, or corn oil. Limit saturated fats that come from meats, whole milk and butter, and cheese.
Limit cholesterol - Cholesterol is found only in animal products such as meats, poultry, dairy products, and egg yolks. Limit your intake to 200 milligrams or less per day. For example, one large egg yolk contains approximately 215 milligrams of cholesterol.
Include multi-colored vegetables - Foods such as broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, canteloupes, and citrus fruits contain high levels of antioxidants which help protect the body against cancer and heart disease.
In the interest of space, I'll continue the remaining keys for a healthy diet in my next post.
For more information on dieting and exercise, please see www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Weight Loss Maintenance
You did it! You lost those pounds that have been plaguing you for some time now. You can now fit into those jeans that you haven’t tried on in years. You feel like you have more energy…you’re loving life. And then a searing question races through your mind: now what do I do to keep my weight here?
Not to worry. Many of the strategies you used to lose the weight are the same to keep it off. Here are some tips and advice to maintain the weight loss that you’ve worked so hard to get.
You still gotta exercise. Exercise was a main part of helping to get the weight off, so you need to continue to do it. Sessions of 30-60 minutes of moderately intense physical activity on a daily basis will help to maintain your weight loss.
Hold yourself accountable. You’ve worked hard to lose those pounds by developing good eating habits, and discovering what situations trigger you to overeat. Stick to your lifestyle and routine even on holidays and in restaurants.
Weigh yourself regularly. People who weigh themselves on a regular basis (weekly) have a much higher success rate than those who don’t. Small weight fluctuations are normal, but don’t let them lull you into a false sense of security.
Start/Continue your food diary. Most people who succeed at keeping the weight off keep a food record to hold themselves accountable. It will help you to identify high risk situations such as eating when stressed, or "cleaning your plate."
Plan your meals. Keeping the weight off is a lot of work which is why prior planning is very helpful. Eat only at meal times; choose foods with low calories and high nutrition such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grain; choose a wide variety of foods; and drink lots of water to help you feel full.
Get some support. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a trained professional, get some friendly support for your efforts. Many times this can be the difference between success and failure.
The best way to lose weight and keep it off is focusing on a lifestyle change. The good news is that the longer you keep the weight off, the more chances you have at success. After all, isn’t your goal seeing less of you?
For more information on weight loss and fitness, visit www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Not to worry. Many of the strategies you used to lose the weight are the same to keep it off. Here are some tips and advice to maintain the weight loss that you’ve worked so hard to get.
You still gotta exercise. Exercise was a main part of helping to get the weight off, so you need to continue to do it. Sessions of 30-60 minutes of moderately intense physical activity on a daily basis will help to maintain your weight loss.
Hold yourself accountable. You’ve worked hard to lose those pounds by developing good eating habits, and discovering what situations trigger you to overeat. Stick to your lifestyle and routine even on holidays and in restaurants.
Weigh yourself regularly. People who weigh themselves on a regular basis (weekly) have a much higher success rate than those who don’t. Small weight fluctuations are normal, but don’t let them lull you into a false sense of security.
Start/Continue your food diary. Most people who succeed at keeping the weight off keep a food record to hold themselves accountable. It will help you to identify high risk situations such as eating when stressed, or "cleaning your plate."
Plan your meals. Keeping the weight off is a lot of work which is why prior planning is very helpful. Eat only at meal times; choose foods with low calories and high nutrition such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grain; choose a wide variety of foods; and drink lots of water to help you feel full.
Get some support. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a trained professional, get some friendly support for your efforts. Many times this can be the difference between success and failure.
The best way to lose weight and keep it off is focusing on a lifestyle change. The good news is that the longer you keep the weight off, the more chances you have at success. After all, isn’t your goal seeing less of you?
For more information on weight loss and fitness, visit www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Weight Loss and Candybars
I do my best to eat a healthy diet...I limit my fat intake, I try to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and yes, I even try to drink as much water as I can. But you know, there's just those times when I want a candybar, or a HoHo, or a big bowl of ice cream drenched in chocolate syrup. We all have our crosses to bear....
You can give in to your temptations every once in a while. Life's too short not to have chocolate syrup drippings on your chin. You can do this if you eat well the remainder of the day. Here are some tips for things you can do to eat healthy so you won't feel as guilty as you enjoy that delicious snack cake.
Eat the correct calories. In a previous post, I wrote about setting up a weight loss program by maintaining the calories that you eat now, just increase your physical activity. Summer is just around the corner, so you have a motivation.
Drink water. Our bodies are made up of mostly water, and you need to replenish it or you can begin to have problems with dehydration which can lead to a host of other health issues. A good way to do this is track the number of ounces you drink daily. I measure it by the number of 20 oz bottles of water I drink. Water helps you to feel full.
Normal size portions. Serving sizes have exploded over the last decade. Everything seems to be supersized. To keep a good perspective, eat a salad before dinner. This will reduce the hunger pangs, and will help fill you before the entree arrives. Another strategy is to eat only half of your meal, and take the rest home.
Lighten up. Sweets and "forbidden foods" are ok in moderation. Just make sure you get out and engage in some activities to burn the extra calories.
Load up with fruits and vegetables. These are low in calories, contain complex carbohydrates, and will make you feel fuller longer. Subsitute a banana or apple once a day for a snack instead of a Ho Ho.
Reduce sugary foods. This is a tough one for me. I love a chocolate snack cake after supper, but I've committed to keeping them to a minimum. Set a goal, and once you reach it, reward yourself.
Get moving. It's the old "calories in versus calories out" equation. By taking a 20 minute walk 3-5 times a week, you can burn more than 25,000 extra calories in a year. That's worth a bowl of ice cream!
Many people who have a sincere desire to lose weight keep a diary and eat breakfast everyday. Keeping a diary makes you consciously think about what you're eating which comes as a big surprise to most people. Eating breakfast jumpstarts your body to begin burning calories after a full night of fasting.
To learn more about weight loss, visit our website at www.seniorskeepingfit.com
You can give in to your temptations every once in a while. Life's too short not to have chocolate syrup drippings on your chin. You can do this if you eat well the remainder of the day. Here are some tips for things you can do to eat healthy so you won't feel as guilty as you enjoy that delicious snack cake.
Eat the correct calories. In a previous post, I wrote about setting up a weight loss program by maintaining the calories that you eat now, just increase your physical activity. Summer is just around the corner, so you have a motivation.
Drink water. Our bodies are made up of mostly water, and you need to replenish it or you can begin to have problems with dehydration which can lead to a host of other health issues. A good way to do this is track the number of ounces you drink daily. I measure it by the number of 20 oz bottles of water I drink. Water helps you to feel full.
Normal size portions. Serving sizes have exploded over the last decade. Everything seems to be supersized. To keep a good perspective, eat a salad before dinner. This will reduce the hunger pangs, and will help fill you before the entree arrives. Another strategy is to eat only half of your meal, and take the rest home.
Lighten up. Sweets and "forbidden foods" are ok in moderation. Just make sure you get out and engage in some activities to burn the extra calories.
Load up with fruits and vegetables. These are low in calories, contain complex carbohydrates, and will make you feel fuller longer. Subsitute a banana or apple once a day for a snack instead of a Ho Ho.
Reduce sugary foods. This is a tough one for me. I love a chocolate snack cake after supper, but I've committed to keeping them to a minimum. Set a goal, and once you reach it, reward yourself.
Get moving. It's the old "calories in versus calories out" equation. By taking a 20 minute walk 3-5 times a week, you can burn more than 25,000 extra calories in a year. That's worth a bowl of ice cream!
Many people who have a sincere desire to lose weight keep a diary and eat breakfast everyday. Keeping a diary makes you consciously think about what you're eating which comes as a big surprise to most people. Eating breakfast jumpstarts your body to begin burning calories after a full night of fasting.
To learn more about weight loss, visit our website at www.seniorskeepingfit.com
Monday, February 23, 2009
What To Look For When Buying A Treadmill
In the era of the modern gym, the treadmill has gradually become one of the most recommended and efficient machines for an effective work out. When you consider buying a treadmill, it never hurts to check out information on what to look for so you get the most for your money.
Treadmill Motor
The treadmill motor is one of the most important elements of the treadmill because, firstly, it powers the treadmill. Secondly, it is often the most costly item to fix. Most treadmills range from 1.5 to 3.0 HP. Remember that the more strenuously you plan to use the treadmill, the more power you're going to need. So if you're planning on using the treadmill consistently, make sure you get at least a 2.0 HP motor.
Treadmill Belt
The treadmill belt area is your running area. When buying a treadmill, remember that the minimum width of the belt is 17", however average widths range from 18" to 20". The minimum length of the belt is usually around 51". However if you are taller, plan on running, or have longer legs, I'd recommend at least a 56" belt.
Treadmill Warranty
The manufacturer's warranty is very important because a good warranty protects your investment. Treadmill manufacturers offer warranties that cover different treadmill parts for varying lengths of time. For example, a quality warranty will cover the frame for at least 5 years, the motor for at least 2 years and other parts and labor for at least 1 year.
Treadmill Frame
Treadmill frames are made out of steel or aluminum. Steel is heavier than aluminum which potentially increases stability however it may also rust or corrode from sweat. Aluminum is more expensive but it doesn't rust or corrode. Treadmill frames can be welded or bolted. Welded frames provide more stability than bolted frames.
Treadmill Cushioning
Cushioning is the ability of the treadmill to absorb the force of your step. Better cushioning means less impact on your joints and ligaments. Many quality treadmills have their own form of cushioning system to protect you.
There are accessories like heart rate monitors, built-in workout programs, mp3 docks with built in speakers, workout fans, and running track displays that you can add. Remember these are the “nice to have” items, but ensure the one you select has a powerful motor, a good cushioning system, and sufficient motor warranty.
No matter what you decide to do, make sure the treadmill you select has the critical components mentioned above. This will make your workouts more enjoyable, and allow for a lasting investment.
For more advice about fitness and treadmills, visit www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
Treadmill Motor
The treadmill motor is one of the most important elements of the treadmill because, firstly, it powers the treadmill. Secondly, it is often the most costly item to fix. Most treadmills range from 1.5 to 3.0 HP. Remember that the more strenuously you plan to use the treadmill, the more power you're going to need. So if you're planning on using the treadmill consistently, make sure you get at least a 2.0 HP motor.
Treadmill Belt
The treadmill belt area is your running area. When buying a treadmill, remember that the minimum width of the belt is 17", however average widths range from 18" to 20". The minimum length of the belt is usually around 51". However if you are taller, plan on running, or have longer legs, I'd recommend at least a 56" belt.
Treadmill Warranty
The manufacturer's warranty is very important because a good warranty protects your investment. Treadmill manufacturers offer warranties that cover different treadmill parts for varying lengths of time. For example, a quality warranty will cover the frame for at least 5 years, the motor for at least 2 years and other parts and labor for at least 1 year.
Treadmill Frame
Treadmill frames are made out of steel or aluminum. Steel is heavier than aluminum which potentially increases stability however it may also rust or corrode from sweat. Aluminum is more expensive but it doesn't rust or corrode. Treadmill frames can be welded or bolted. Welded frames provide more stability than bolted frames.
Treadmill Cushioning
Cushioning is the ability of the treadmill to absorb the force of your step. Better cushioning means less impact on your joints and ligaments. Many quality treadmills have their own form of cushioning system to protect you.
There are accessories like heart rate monitors, built-in workout programs, mp3 docks with built in speakers, workout fans, and running track displays that you can add. Remember these are the “nice to have” items, but ensure the one you select has a powerful motor, a good cushioning system, and sufficient motor warranty.
No matter what you decide to do, make sure the treadmill you select has the critical components mentioned above. This will make your workouts more enjoyable, and allow for a lasting investment.
For more advice about fitness and treadmills, visit www.seniorskeepingfit.com.
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