Gym Equipment: Useful vs. Useless

Innovation is just as essential as motivation in the fitness industry. Even the most dedicated individuals can sometimes grow tired of repetitive equipment and routines.

To keep things fresh, the fitness world constantly introduces new trends and equipment.

Lately, we've seen the emergence of innovations like continuous blood glucose monitors and connected exercise bikes, such as the Peloton, offering on-demand workouts.

However, not every piece of new fitness equipment is a game changer. Some prove extremely effective, while others are practically useless.

I reached out to fitness coaches and experts to get their opinions on the best and worst fitness equipment on the market.

Useless Equipment

Arora, a running enthusiast who organizes several yearly running camps, considers the Twister machine one of the worst fitness inventions.

This device features a rotating plate on which users twist their torsos while holding onto a handle, hoping to burn belly fat. “I hate it so much that I’ve never even used it.

All it does is pivot your body from side to side without improving strength, endurance, flexibility, or mobility,” she says. Overusing the machine can also put repetitive stress on your spine.

Useful Equipment

Arora’s favorite, however, is the assisted pull-ups and parallel bar dips machine.

These machines replicate highly effective movements that many—even active individuals—struggle to perform. “If used correctly, this machine can significantly enhance core functionality and upper body strength,” Arora explains.

Useless Equipment

Abhinav, the strength and conditioning coach for the Tripura cricket team, strongly dislikes the Airbike.

“I despise the Airbike so much that I removed all of them from my gyms when the pandemic started,” he shares.

He finds the Airbike dull because it offers a single repetitive motion with no variety. “It’s bulky, awkward, and blows air into your face, which is especially unpleasant if dust has collected on it—it’s just not appealing,” he adds.

Useful Equipment

For Abhinav, there’s no match for the classic barbell. “When it comes to building strength and power, the barbell is unmatched,” he says.

Its versatility even allows it to be used for endurance-building—it’s as simple as using an empty bar to do higher repetitions for endurance training.

Useless Equipment

Sachdev, winner of the reality TV show India’s Biggest Loser, avoids recumbent bikes at all costs. This equipment consists of a comfortable seat with pedals in front, allowing for leisurely pedaling.

“This is the laziest piece of equipment I’ve ever seen. If you’re serious about results, steer clear of a recumbent bike as soon as you spot one,” he advises.

Useful Equipment

Sachdev’s top pick is the treadmill, specifically the Techno Gym treadmill. His preference makes sense, as his weight-loss success during India’s Biggest Loser was tied to using the treadmill.

Even though he transitioned to road running during the pandemic, Sachdev remains a treadmill loyalist. “After the treadmill, my second favorite is the rowing machine,” he adds.

Useless Equipment

Parameswaran, a fan of handstands, is not a fan of the Smith machine, frequently used for exercises like squats and bench presses.

“It restricts natural angles of movement and positioning. Prolonged use for exercises like squats or shoulder presses can cause joint pain and inhibit natural movement paths,” he warns.

Useful Equipment

Parameswaran’s favorite machine is the Glute Hamstring Developer (GHD). This device is versatile and supports exercises like GHD sit-ups and hamstring raises.

“The GHD specifically targets the glutes, hamstrings, and core. It’s challenging but genuinely enjoyable,” he notes.

Ultimately, while fitness equipment can vary greatly in both value and effectiveness, identifying tools that align with your goals is key to achieving the best results.

Source: livemint

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.