After months of grueling preparation, bicycling legend Lance Armstrong has returned to competition in the 2009 Tour de France, his twelfth entry.
Armstrong can appreciate how training has gone totally high-tech since he first started competing. “Back in the day, people trained on just their feelings,” said Armstrong. “Now you have heart rate, altitude, lactic acid all measured on one unit.”
Armstrong’s killer workout routines would make him certain that he would finish on top. “I knew I was ready to win the tour,” he said. “If I stepped on the scale in the morning and it said a certain weight and the power output was where it was supposed to be when I tested at the end of the day, it was over. Nobody close.”
Now Armstrong is providing exclusive behind the scenes blog posts, videos and photos directly from the 96th Annual Tour de France bike race which runs from Saturday, July 4th until Sunday, July 26th. Click here to follow the coverage.
The daily updates will detail his ongoing progress and experiences through all 21 stages of the race. Additionally, fans will be able to see each stage using LIVESTRONG Loops, showing a detailed map of the course. They’ll also be able to impact Armstrong’s communication and coverage by participating in a daily poll.
LIVESTRONG.COM aims to be the definitive online social conversation for health, fitness and lifestyle. Through relevant and useful content, interactive tools and an engaged community, the site is designed to inspire people to change their lives, help themselves and help others.
[Source: Business Wire]
Here’s another entry in the ever-expanding field of push up devices and an inexpensive alternative to the popular infomercial brands.
The Harbinger Padded Push Up Bars adequately provide all the benefits of off-the-floor pushup products, but lack the rotating handle design featured in the Perfect Pushup and Pushup Pro.
A rotating handle lets your arms move fluidly and naturally as when using a dumbbell, engaging more muscles in the upper body.
While they do not rotate, the Harbinger handles do remove the wrist and hand stress usually associated with floor push ups. The grips on these bars are comfortable and wrapped with foam padding.
Another benefit of this design, or any raised push up bar, is the increased range of motion and ability to dip further while performing a push up.
The Harbingers don’t cost much, partially due to the all plastic construction, and look kind of cheap. The flip side of this is the extreme light weight, making them among the most portable of any fitness equipment that we would recommend.
The delta shaped base is attractive and space saving but we prefer a rounded base for added safety. Although the Harbingers can support up to 350 pounds on each bar, on rare occasions they can tip over if set too far apart or if your arms waver too much.
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The Ultimate ReboundAIR is an expensive, health club quality rebounder that distinguishes itself from cheap home trampolines in a number of important ways.
The frame supports users of over 300 lbs and incorporates the same lighter than metal composite polymers used in auto and aircraft engines.
The innovative design integrates the high caliber, wide belly springs into the frame itself. This offers added protection and eliminates the need for an additional spring cover.
The “quarter-fold” design lets you tuck in the legs and then fold the frame twice before storing in the carrying case, which then fits into the included dolly. This design offers true convenience and portability without sacrificing stability when unfolded and in use.
Rebounders are ideal for jumping or jogging in place, reducing the amount of stress on joints. With all rebounders there’s a possibility of springs becoming worn and eventually breaking. Fortunately this is covered by the manufacturer’s all-component lifetime warranty.
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When used consistency over an extended period of time, weighted vests convince the mind that the body has gained extra weight. When removed the muscles function and react as if the weight still exists, producing gains in speed, conditioning and overall strength.
The Xvest4040 includes multiple pockets to allow the even distribution of weight for better balance, comfort and safety. You can gradually increase resistance by adding more weight in one pound increments.
The torso and shoulder straps feature highly adjustable hook and loop closures to ensure a proper and snug fit. The vest material is high quality Denir Nylon treated with anti-bacterial and anti-microbial agents.
When worn snugly the Xvest4040 promotes dynamic breathing which in turn improves lung capacity. When putting on the vest it may be difficult to lift over your head when fully loaded. One option is to get into the vest with minimal weight and then add more one pound cylinders.
The Xvest4040 is appropriate for walking, running, pushups, pullups, kickboxing, rehabilitation and treadmill/elliptical training. Situps can be a bit uncomfortable because of the protruding weight pocket on the back of the vest.
The Xvest has been used by Olympians and NFL, NBA, and MLB players to help improve. This is a justifiable investment for competitors and enthusiasts looking to break through stubborn fitness plateaus.
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For those ready to move beyond situps, crunches and ab trainers of questionable value, the Body-Solid GAB60 will put you on the path to a slimmer waistline and chiseled stomach.
This ab bench is stable and solid, with a wide enough base to prevent shifting and wobbling even during the most aggressive, twisting exercises. The thick, double-stitched DuraFirm back padding and 8-inch foam rollers add security and comfort.
There are 12 adjustable positions available to help diversify your workouts and train all parts of the stomach. Incline levels range from flat to a top setting that will challenge even the most developed midsections.
In addition to strengthening the abs and core, this device builds the back muscles, improves posture and can aid in efficient breathing.
At the flat setting the GAB60 is appropriate for beginners, but this bench is best suited for enthusiasts ready to take their core fitness to the next level. It’s also ideal for weight lifters building a home gym around multiple pieces of equipment.
Body-Solid Adjustable Abdominal Bench Product Details
- Adjustable ab board for improving core stability and isolating midsection
- Sturdy telescoping 2-by-2-inch mainframe beam
- Extra wide, extra thick, double-stitched DuraFirm padding maintains proper body alignment
- 12 adjustable levels for varied, efficient exercise routines
- Oversized 8-inch foam rollers fit comfortably beneath knees and ankles
- Appropriate for home and health club use
- Assembled Dimensions: 52″ x 54″ x 24″
- 10-year frame warranty
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The EFX 5.17i is Precor’s entry level elliptical cross-trainer among those that incorporate their innovative CrossRamp technology. Although priced at the low end of the Precor spectrum, this is an expensive piece equipment. It should be considered by those ready to make a true investment in a brand with a reputation as one of the best elliptical manufacturers.
We’ve talked extensively about the benefits of elliptical trainers over treadmills and exercise bikes — fluid, low-impact cardiovascular exercise that yields significantly more lower-body activity and results. The Precor models take these benefits to another level.
The EFX 5.71i’s 19″ stride length delivers an extremely comfortable and natural motion with virtually none of the wobbly, unstable feelings you may encounter with lower end elliptical trainers.
The 5.17i CrossRamp angle adjusts from 12 to 25 degrees, varying elliptical path incline and allowing you to isolate specific lower body muscles: glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves, or work all major lower body muscle groups at once.
The sophisticated LED display includes keystroke sequencing and multiple feedback options with accompanying graphics. There are 4 programs: weight loss, heart rate, gluteal and manual, and 20 resistance levels to help keep your workouts challenging and diverse.
The primary downside to the EFX 5.17i is the lack of moving handlebars to incorporate an upper body workout. Instead, it’s outfitted with stationary ergonomically correct extended handrails that are appropriate for users of a wide range of heights.
There’s also no heart rate monitoring on this model but it is compatible with optional add-on chest-strap monitors.
Precor has built its reputation on reliability under heavy use, limiting the need for repairs and a smooth, comfortable workout experience that you don’t usually find outside of a professional gym.
Precor EFX 5.17i Adjustable Ramp Elliptical Product Details
- Health club quality elliptical crosstrainer
- Adjustable CrossRamp technology adjustable from 12 to 25 degrees
- Membrane console with large LED displays and multiple feedback options
- 4 programs and 20 resistance levels
- 19 inch stride length
- Ergonomically correct handrails
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Measures 30″ x 63″ x 75″ and weighs 197 lbs
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An upgrade to Sole’s popular S73 model, the S77 adds increased horse power and an uncommonly long running surface. This gym quality treadmill will accommodate users of all stride lengths at weights of up to 400 pounds.
The 3.5 HP continuous duty motor attains speeds of up to 12 MPH on a generous 20″ x 60 inch “Cushion Flex” deck. The S77 is the most powerful and largest treadmill in the Sole line.
Even with the high torque engine and robust performance, operation is extremely quiet and smooth. The rack and pinion gear designed incline motor reaches a maximum of 15% quickly and quietly.
Sole has chosen to not incorporate the increasingly common folding feature in this model. Although the non-folding design adds to stability and smooth operation, if space and storage are of concern, you may want to consider one of Sole’s folding treadmills.
The three color, six window display is top notch and features an innovative message board with scrolling instructions and feedback. It also tracks speed, time, distance, calories expended, pace, pulse rate and incline.
The workout programs include 6 standard, 2 custom, and 2 heart-rate control options for cardio or fat loss. In the heart-training mode the computer automatically adjusts incline to maintain your target heart-rate zone.
Like many treadmills the fan and sound system on the S77 are less than impressive, but the speaker does include an iPod/MP3 player hook up.
Setup is surprisingly easy with the detailed, well thought out instructions. However, the package is huge and heavy (280 lbs), and you’ll need help moving it into place before assembly.
Sole S77 Treadmill 2009 Model Product Features
- 3.5 horsepower continuous duty ultra high torque motor
- Cushion Flex absorption deck with a 20- by 60-inch running surface
- Speed range from 0.5 to 12 mph
- 15% incline
- Grip pulse and wireless chest strap heart rate control
- 6 standard programs, 2 user-defined programs, and 2 heart rate programs
- LED display with 6 windows tracks speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories, pulse, and pace
- Fans and speakers with MP3 jack
- Maximum user weight of 400 pounds
- Lifetime warranty on the motor, deck and frame, 5 years on electronics
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The Omron HJ-303 GoSmart is unique to the pedometer field in that it works in any position: facing up, down, at an angle or flat. It provides continues and accurate measurements with the device in your pocket, backpack, purse or on a hip clip.
The 3D Smart Sensor measures physical activity based on the body’s inertial movements using X, Y and Z planes (tri-axis), and calculates exactly when a step is taken. By contrast, standard pendulum type pedometers are not as adept at filtering out non-walking movements that can cause inaccuracies. Omron claims the precision rate of step counting to be within +/- 5%.
In addition to steps, the HJ-303 measures distance and calories burned. It also includes seven day memory, a clock and a sleep mode.
The HJ-303 is a superior device for continuous walking or running but tends to time out relatively quickly when used by fitness enthusiasts who abruptly stop and start during workouts.
Although larger than a pedometer watch the HJ-303 is sleek and light, and hardly noticeable when using the clip.
The package includes the pedometer, holder, strap & clip, lithium battery, screwdriver and instruction manual.
Omron HJ-303 GoSmart Tri-Axis Pocket Pedometer Product Details
- Tri-axis acceleration sensor counts steps when used flat, horizontally and vertically
- Superior 3D Senor Techology accurately reads X,Y Z Planes
- Works in pocket, bag or on clip
- Counts every step quietly and accurately
- Calculates calories burned
- Stores 7 days of information in memory
- Resets automatically at midnight so it’s ready to go each morning
- Includes lithium battery that lasts 6 months with normal use
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The Wavemaster Freestanding training bag is great for boxing, karate, MMA practice, or just taking out some anger and aggression. While not a replacement for a traditional hanging heavy bag, it’s portable, durable and takes up very little space.
The base can be filled with either sand or water to anchor the bag in place. Sand is preferable as it adds more weight and helps prevent the bag from shifting around during use. Depending on your size and strength the bag will shimmy considerably when filled only with water. Some users may welcome this as it incorporates footwork, lateral movement and working all sides of the bag.
While the Wavemaster doesn’t provide the resistance level of a heavy bag, the impact from the 4″ thick padding is easier on the joints.
The bag height is adjustable in 3″ increments from 47″ to 68″ using a rotating ring. Even at the highest setting it’s best suited for users under 6′ tall.
The Wavemaster weighs approximately 250 lbs when filled but has a round base making it easy to roll. When emptied of sand and water it’s very light and portable.
If planning to use this training bag extensively be sure to wear appropriate gloves or hand wraps.
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The Stott SPX is a professional grade, gym quality pilates reformer designed specifically for home use. It’s the highest quality pilates machine we’ve reviewed.
The goal of this exerciser is to develop strength without building bulk. It provides finely tuned resistance allowing precise routines that develop good alignment, core strength, and flexibility.
Using proprietary floating wheel technology the SPX delivers an ultra smooth ride on a sturdy full-length 97″ frame. It includes four 100%-tension reformer springs and an extra fifth 50%-tension spring to help customize your workout.
An adjustable foot bar and carriage-stopping system control hip and knee joint flexion, making this machine appropriate for users of widely varying heights and abilities. If you have not already used a reformer we suggest taking a class or using one at a gym before purchasing.
The package includes the SPX Pilates Reformer, Padded Platform Extender, Professional Reformer Box with Foot Strap, and a set of Double Loop Straps. You also get the At Home Reformer Workout DVD with bonus safety segment and an Easy Start exercise poster.
The package is large and heavy but comes 90% assembled and takes about 15 minutes to setup following a simple six step process.
