The most popular and well known type of Pilates machine is the Pilates reformer. The device features a flat sliding base that a person supports their body on while sliding forward and backward into Pilates positions. Compared to Pilates chairs, arcs, and cadillacs, a Pilates reformer is the best Pilates machine for both versatility and functionality. A reformer can be purchased in a wide variety of styles, and can be customized based on personal preferences and a person’s fitness level. Using a Pilates reformer will bump up a floor routine to a whole new level, and offer new challenges with each workout due to the variety of Pilates moves it can support.

There are several major brands to choose from when purchasing Pilates equipment, such as Stamina, Balanced Body, Stott, Peak, and Gratz Pilates. All of them offer reliable products, but Balanced Body offers the best customization options while Stott Pilates and Gratz Pilates products lead the competition with their quality. Peak and Stamina products are by far the most economical, and can be found for bargain prices on retail sites such as Amazon.com. When looking to purchase the right Pilates machine, consider the following factors:

• The setting it will be used in, i.e. home or gym
• The level of experience the person or persons using it will have with Pilates
• The amount of money available to spend on the product
• Whether the machine will be used for strength training, relaxation, or rehabilitation
• Comfort, style, height, and color preferences
• Quality and craftsmanship needs

A Pilates Machine for the Gym

There is usually a big difference between a Pilates reformer used for casual home use and a reformer being purchased for a gym or studio. Gym reformers need a greater level of durability, as they are used around the clock by a variety of patrons. They need to be above all functional and easy to clean, so that each person using the machine can easily wipe it down after each use.

Need space? Look for a reformer that can be stacked one on top of the other easily for better utilization of studio space such as the Group SPX Max Reformer by Stott Pilates, or Balanced Body’s Allegro Sport Reformer. These pieces of equipment are a great addition to any gym because of their functionality and affordability, and their focus on strength training.

A Pilates reformer for a gym needs to be able to withstand a greater level of wear, tear, and frankly, carelessness, as a personal machine will receive more loving care than the machine beat up at a gym. The gym reformer should also be adjustable to accommodate people of different heights.

Some gyms or Pilates studios will be interested in maintaining a touch of class and style by using attractive wood bases and custom upholstery. Before customizing, consider the cost trade offs of functionality and style, and whether the fabric and base material will stand the test of time.

A Pilates Machine for the Home

A Pilates reformer used for the home usually will be made of lighter material and often can be folded under a bed or wheeled into a closet space, such as the Balanced Body Pilates IQ® Reformer. These types of reformers can be found for much less expense than a standard gym reformer because it is less heavy and professional looking. It needs to be sturdy, but it doesn’t need to be as durable as a gym reformer because it will only have one or two people using it, usually no more than once a day.

For the middle range of experience, the Stamina XP 686 AeroPilates Pro Reformer is a great product for a reasonable price. For the more serious trainer, or a person buying a piece of equipment for a comprehensive home gym, there are a wide range of handsome Pilates reformers in polished wood styles, with beautiful upholstery options available from Balanced Body. Because these machines are high end products, they cost much more than the standard home Pilates device.

Choosing the Right Price

An important factor to consider before purchasing a Pilates machine for the home is whether it is worth the expense, because most Pilates machines are thousands of dollars. A machine under $1000 is usually not very sturdy or attractive, but generally compact. A $1000-$2000 machine can be purchased for much better results. The top end machines range from $3000 to $6000, and are usually more expensive because of the materials used to build them, and the customization options available. Clinical and rehab reformers fall into this last category, and will have the most functionality to offset the price. Many machines also include warranties to insure a safe investment.

Level of Experience

A Pilates reformer also requires experience to use, while other equipment—such as a Pilates resistance band, chair, or ball—do not require much training to master. The beginner should steer clear of purchasing a Pilates reformer until gaining some level of experience using the equipment at a gym. Spending upwards of $5000 for a machine also would make no sense for the beginner, but a high end device is the perfect purchase for a gym looking for class and durability.

Functionality Versus Style

There are some differences between a reformer used for strength training, and a machine used for relaxation or rehabilitation. For rehabilitation, a clinical reformer should be sought out, which will be flexible to patient needs, with features such as adjustable height. Clinical reformers are usually more expensive, such as the V2 Max Plus Rehab Reformer by Stott Pilates that is over $6000. However, such a device is long lasting and a wonderful addition to any comprehensive gym.

Peak Pilates offers a PPS Deluxe Reformer, Cadillac and Mat that combines a reformer with a caddilac device. This will add more options to the workout routine, although it is less compact than a reformer alone.

Comfort, style, height, and color preferences are an important consideration, as most reformers from major brands such as Stotts, Gratz, Balanced Body, and Stamina can be ordered customized to these preferences.

Craftsmanship

Quality and craftsmanship are the most important factors to consider when seeking the best Pilates machine to buy. A reformer will take a lot of wear and tear over the course of its life due to the intensity of Pilates workouts, so a more expensive machine, such as the Gratz Pilates Classic reformer, is well worth the extra money over the long run. To bump up the style, a Gratz reformer can be purchased as a Designer model, or Portable model for the studio looking to maximize space.

It is always a good idea to try out the Pilates machine before making such a large investment, so when making that final purchase, test the machine for:

• smoothness—transitioning parts should glide effortlessly from one position to the next
• sturdiness—there should be no shaking or wobbling
• comfort—look for a comfortable but firm sliding seat, and slip resistant handles

A Pilates machine is a beautiful addition to any home, a wonderful way to relax and improve flexibility, and a necessity in any comprehensive gym environment. By following the guidelines above, the best Pilates machine for a person’s needs shouldn’t be hard to find.

Your abs, actually called abdominals, are made up of six muscles that run from your ribs to your pelvis. They make up what is often called the core of your body. This is the part of your body that provides postural support and keeps your spine aligned correctly. The abdominal muscles are used to flex the spine forward in a bending motion. Strong ab muscles help you maintain a strong and healthy spine so they are an extremely important muscle group to focus on in your workouts.

Muscles that Make Up Your Abs:

• Rectus abdominis – These muscles are the ones most often targeted to achieve the six-pack effect.
• Transverse abdominis – This is the deepest ab muscle group, wrapping around your entire torso.
• Internal and External Obliques – They are located on the side of your torso and are used when you bend to the side.

With so many muscles making up your core, it is vital that you find an ab machine that works all of the muscles in your abdominals.

Factors to Consider:

• Is the ab machine comfortable when you use it? If it is uncomfortable, it will ultimately be useless to you since you are not likely to continue using something that hurts or causes you pain or discomfort.
• Is it adjustable to your specific body shape and size? This goes hand and hand with comfort. A machine that does not adjust to fit your body will not only be uncomfortable but could also potentially cause injuries.
• Is the machine well designed and constructed out of quality materials? You want to find an ab machine that withstand your workout and will last.
• How much do you want to spend and is it worth the price? Investing in a higher quality machine can save you cash over the long run if it outlasts a cheaper machine. Most ab machines range from $30 to $100. You can find a high quality machine for around $50 if you shop around.

Types of Ab Machines:

Ab machines come in a huge selection of styles from sitting, kneeling, and reclining to sliding and gliding. The ab machines listed are some of the top brands in their particular style.

• Ab Away Pro – This rocking machine provides great support as you work your abs but may not be suitable for taller people as the back rest does not lengthen.
• Ab Circle Pro – This machine helps you twist your way to firmer abs. While it is easy to use, people with knee problems may experience pain from the kneeling position.
• Ab Coaster Pro – Kneeling on this machine gives you a great ab workout with little to no strain on your back. It may not be the best choice for someone with knee problems.
• Ab Doer – This seated ab machine has a variety of twisting and crunching exercises but requires extremely precise movements to get results.
• Ab Lounge Sport – This workout chair features a jackknife design to give you a full range of motion while providing support to your head and neck.
• Ab Rocket Abdominal Trainer – This machine guides you through a crunching motion while providing support and a gentle massage with its cushioned rollers.
• Ab Roller – This rolling machine helps you to maintain proper form while performing a crunch. It is great for beginners.
• Ab Scissors – Utilizing a double crunch movement, this machine is easy to use but does not have much in the way of neck and back support.
• Ab Slide – This machine is a compact, rolling machine that delivers great results when used correctly. It is easy on your joints as well.
• Ab Straps – These arm straps are hung from a bar and deliver great results with off the floor crunches.
• Ab Swing – This reclining machine can also give you a leg workout as you target your abs.
• Marcy SB-410 Crunch Board – This unique bench can either be positioned flat or at a decline for a variety of ab exercises. It can also be used as a small weight bench.

Alternative Equipment:

Ab machines aren’t the only pieces of equipment that can work your abs. Exercise balls, also called stability balls, are a great cost-effective and comfortable alternative. There are countless exercises to do on an exercise ball and you can choose the exact size to fit your body. Additionally, ab components can be added to almost any exercise from lunges to push ups and with a variety of equipment such as dumb bells, kettle bells, medicine balls, and resistance bands. However, if you do not have experience with these various pieces of equipment, an ab machine is a great way to guarantee that you are targeting your abdominal muscles.

Where’s the Six-Pack?

One more factor to keep in mind, ab machines are designed to specifically target and build your abdominal muscles. Spot reduction is a myth. No matter how many repetitions of an abdominal exercise that you perform, you will not see your rippling muscles unless you combine your ab exercises with cardiovascular exercises and a healthy diet. Ab machines do not burn away that fat that may be on top of your abs. Ab machines will develop your abdominal muscles, but you must also do high intensity cardio exercises to get rid of the fat and reveal your chiseled abs.

Before you Buy:

Read reviews of various ab machines. If you workout at a gym, talk to the trainers to get recommendations. Try out various machines at sporting good stores in order to compare. Remember that no ab machine will give you instant results. If an ab machine claims things that sound too good to be true, they probably are.

So many machines are “as seen on TV” with endless hype, but anything that works will require some work

Ultimately, the best ab machine is one that you will use. No matter how fancy or advanced your ab machine is, if you don’t use it, it is completely worthless. Find one that you’re comfortable with that offers you a challenging workout and stick with it!

The best stationary exercise bikes in terms of cost, quality and consumer satisfaction rating can be found right here, along with other tips on buying the right one to fit your home space and particular needs. Read on, and discover for yourself the top brands of home exercise bikes, from the most expensive ones built of the most durable material, to the more affordable ones that will still give you years of workout satisfaction. The going rate for exercise bikes is currently from between $149 and $3,300. More important than price, however, is ergonomics and functionality. Compare different models by trying them out when shopping around for stationary bikes, as it is tantamount to your overall enjoyment of it. Choose the model that you feel most comfortable on, even if that means paying substantially more or less money for your exercise bike.

Let’s start with NordicTrack, a leader in exercise equipment. Their best stationary exercise bikes include recumbent and upright models, and one with interactive features. Their New 2010 C2 SI Upright model will currently run you only $399 (normally $699), and has interactive fitness games, 16 personal trainer workouts, and is iFiT compatible. Next up, their Free Motion c7.7 Upright offers 20 levels of resistance and 350 lbs. weight capacity, and is on sale for $1,699 (normally $2,599). In terms of recumbent models (recommended for better ergonomic fit), the C3 si currently fetches $999, and features a 300 lb. capacity, is iFiT compatible, and gives you 20 personal trainer workouts. Another recumbent model, the Commercial 400 gives you 30 personal trainer workouts, a compact recumbent frame, a CoolAire workout fan, and a 350 lb. user capacity, retailing for only $699, sale price (normally $1,299). Rounding out the NordicTrack stationary bikes is the CR3 Interactive bike, which retails at $499, sale price ($699 normally). This bike features interactive GameFit fitness games, iFit workout card technology, and touch-screen display.

The PreCor C846R has many enjoyable features for those looking for comfort, durability and intelligent design options when searching for the best stationary exercise bikes on the market. The R stands for recumbent, which has become the choice for those looking to avoid back and joint pain. It’s current sale price is $1,395, and it features a powder-coated steel frame that’s rust resistant, and foam-coated hand grips that stay dry. The PreCor C846 Upright exercise bike offers 5 programmed courses, a customizable seat, is self-powered, cordless, and carries a back-up battery. It has 20 resistance settings. At 152 lbs., it’s relatively lightweight, and relatively compact at 56″L x 24″W x 48″H.

The Stamina Products Magnetic Fusion 7100 exercise bike from Sports Unlimited, Inc. combines the traditional feel of an upright with the ergonomic “correctness” of a recumbent. It sells for $299, and represents perhaps the best value out there. The Schwinn 240 Recumbent bike is a great value as well, at only $449. It has many attractive features, including multi-level workouts, 18 preset workout programs, 10 adjustment levels, and 16 levels of resistance. The Pro Form 480 CSX is also a remarkable value at $479 from Mercantila.com. This stationary exercise bike features an interactive iFit workout card, and adjustable seat. Each workout card is designed by a Certified personal trainer and plugs directly into your console. Your speed is automatically adjusted, while the voice of a personal trainer guides you through each workout.

A good middle-range fitness bike, the familiar Diamondback name in mountain bikes brings us the Light Commercial 1000 HR Walk Through model for $997. Highlights include quiet drive and pedal system, a high consumer rating (4.6 out of 5 stars), water bottle holder, adjustable seat, and advanced console features.

The Star Trac Spinner Pro 6800 is a select model stationary exercise bike, featuring micro-adjustable seat slider, ergonomic saddle with flexible seat base, anatomical cut-out comfort, reinforced bearing, crank and axle strength, no-slip grip handlebars, and one motion emergency stop feature. This bike retails for $1,025 (normally $1,225) on the iFitness Direct website. It also has fixed-gear drive train, wide stabilizers and a heavy duty steel frame for maximum user satisfaction and low maintenance.

Top of the line exercise bikes

At the higher end of the exercise bike spectrum, there’s the NEXT Bike Life Fitness 9500RHRNG Recumbent, retailing at $3,301.25 at the Exercise Bike Superstore. This price includes inside delivery and a $25 rebate coupon. This is the Rolls Royce of stationary bikes, and includes every conceivable amenity, including:

• An ergonomically optimum seat and frame
• Smooth Poly V belt drive system
• Advanced biomechanic design
• Lifepulse contact heart rate and Polar telemetry
• HeartSync heart rate controlled workouts
• Interval and sport training
• Customized workout programs

The top fitness clubs in the world feature this bike and those similar to it.

Another Life Fitness stationary model which normally retails at the higher end of things is the C1 Upright Lifecycle ($1,399 – on sale for $1,199 through iFitnessDirect.com). This exercise machine features an advanced console with contact heart rate hand sensors, 20 resistance levels, 14 positions, deluxe cushioning, quick start mode, HeartSync and fat burn workouts. It also features an oversized dual accessory tray and built-in reading rack, and ergonomically-designed racing style handlebars.

The SPIRIT XBR25 XR895 and XR425 represent a nice line of recumbent stationary exercise bikes at affordable prices. The XBR25 is on sale for $1,099 (normally $1,499) features easy-access design, 20 levels of resistance, 24 lb. flywheel, oversized foot pedals with natural-feel inward slant, and contact and telemetry heart monitoring. It also features cooling fans and a water bottle holder. The XR895 ($1,300 on sale) has a built-in generator that makes the unit cordless. The XR425 is highly compact while still ergonomically friendly. It has a breathable mesh seat back and Polar heart rate control, 6 programs and 20 resistance levels, and is on sale for $950 (normally $1,099).

Cheap, yet high functioning…best exercise bikes “for the money”

Conversely, the Weslo Pursuit CT3.8 Recumbent exercise bike is one of the lowest priced bikes out there, at $175.99 (list price $228.79), featured on Hayneedleshopping.com. This is a good, standard choice, and will “do the trick”, for those not looking for anything too fancy. That said, it has such higher-end features as:

• Multiple workout programs with varied intensity
• Thumb pulse and RPM meter for heart rate monitoring
• Adjustable magnetic resistance for smoother workouts
• Low-impact design for extra comfort
• Monitors speed, time, distance, calories and fat calories burned
• Sturdy, ergonomically-designed frame

The Weslo 360 Recumbent is the least expensive stationary exercise bike found in this research, at $149. Its features include low-impact frame design, smooth, frictionless resistance system, and silent magnetic resistance (SMR) technology, which allows you to switch between high and low resistance seamlessly. The large LCD display tracks time, distance, calories burned, pulse, and more. This unit sells and is shipped through the Walgreens website. This bike is a terrific bargain if you’re short on cash, yet looking for a fitness machine that’ll do you right.

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent exercise bike goes for $399 ($464 with shipping cost) on Mercantila.com, The Fitness Equipment Superstore and the Exercise Bike Superstore. This bike features a walk-through design that’s ergonomically friendly, as well as a full range of workout modes, such as Manual, Profile, Calorie Goal, BMI Measurement, Recovery Test, Results mode, and Quick Start. The BioFit comfort-wide seat boasts a dual position lumbar support, as well as back and side bolsters.

The final word

Another important tip when shopping for stationary exercise bikes is to be mindful of the space you have available in your home for the unit. No matter the quality of workout machine, if your new home exercise bike is a poor fit, this will greatly decrease the ergonomic quality and your personal enjoyment of it. Also be sure to supervise children under 12 years old, as some moving parts can be a danger to smaller children. The bottom line with the lesser and best stationary exercise bikes is to try out each and every one you have your eye on, if possible, and if not, speak with customer service reps and ask all the questions you need to in order to get the full picture of that particular fitness machine prior to purchasing.