Albuquerque Experts Dispel Stair Stepper Myths
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Albuquerque Experts Dispel Stair Stepper Myths

Albuquerque Experts Dispel Stair Stepper Myths

A stair stepper (or stair climber) machine offers numerous benefits. It’s easy to use, maximizes your workouts, and strengthens your lower body all in one. Unfortunately, myths surrounding this equipment keep some people from using it.

The experts at The Fitness Superstore in Albuquerque want to dispel these stair stepper myths. We hope our insights make you more confident about this machine’s safety and benefits.

Myth: The stair stepper is the only lower body workout you need.

A stair stepper tones and exercises many muscle groups:

  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Quads
  • Calves
  • Core

Despite providing a total lower body workout, the stair stepper must be supplemented with resistance training. Resistance training helps you build strength and supports lean muscle.

Try incorporating running, cycling, or swimming into your routine to complete your lower-body workout.

Myth: The stair stepper doesn’t provide a good cardio workout.

Stair steppers provide strength training and cardio workout benefits all in one machine.

At a minimum, they offer a low-impact cardio workout just by using the machine. To increase your cardio workout on a stair stepper, try varying the speed and intensity during your workout. This can help improve your stamina and cardiovascular strength.

Myth: The stair stepper makes your leg muscles look too big.

The stair stepper can actually do the opposite. This machine can be used to tone your muscles and make your legs look leaner.

After using a stair climber, your legs may feel bigger. That’s because your body rushes blood and oxygen to the muscles used. As your muscles recover, that feeling goes away.

If your goal is to build larger leg muscles, add weight resistance to your workout regime.

Myth: The stair stepper is hard on your knees.

If you already have knee pain and damage to your knee joints, then a stair stepper won’t be a good workout machine for you. It may increase the pain or further injure your joints.

For those without preexisting knee issues, a stair stepper won’t create knee problems when used correctly. In fact, a stair climber is easier on your knees because you’re only climbing up. Climbing down stairs puts more strain on your knees than climbing up.

When using any equipment for the first time, it’s essential to take it slow. This helps you focus on the proper form required to perform the exercise correctly.

Using the correct form on the stair stepper enables you to avoid injury:

  • Focus on using your hamstrings and glutes, not just your calves.
  • Press your heels down so they touch the stairs when you’re stepping down.
  • Keep the stairs from raising or lowering completely to keep your knees from locking or overextending.

Myth: The stair stepper doesn’t work the entire body.

When correctly using the stair stepper, it provides a full-body workout.

You may already know that it engages every muscle in your lower body, but it also works your core muscles. Your core engages to help you balance, while your lower abs activate when lifting your legs.

Furthermore, if you’re swinging your arms instead of leaning on the rails, you’re also using your upper body.

Not only does a stair stepper provide strength training, but it also provides cardio. This helps you burn calories throughout your body.

Myth: The stair stepper is boring.

Any exercise regime is susceptible to becoming boring. It signals that something needs to change in your routine to reengage your muscles and reinvigorate your workout.

Many stair steppers come with preset programs. Try using one of those programs, or try using a new one.

If you’re looking to advance your stair-stepping regime, try implementing high-intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT uses periods of high-intensity movements followed by short periods of low-intensity movements. To incorporate this into a stair-stepping routine, try using a combination of different movements:

  • Slow steps
  • Side steps
  • Double steps
  • Sprints
  • Reverse steps

HIIT brings the excitement back to your stair-stepping routine and provides the benefits of a longer workout in a shorter amount of time.

Also, look at the resistance training exercises you use to supplement your stair stepping. It may be time to switch those up as well. Instead of running, try swimming or cycling.

The Fitness Superstore Has the Perfect Stair Stepper Machine for You!

If you feel motivated to try stair stepping but hate going to the gym, check out The Fitness Superstore. We offer the largest selection of stair steppers in Albuquerque. We also guarantee that we have the lowest prices for stair steppers in the industry.

Stop by our store today to find your new stair stepper!

Dumbbell and Free Weight Exercises Every Albuquerque Gym Newbie Should Know
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Dumbbell and Free Weight Exercises Every Albuquerque Gym Newbie Should Know

Dumbbell and Free Weight Exercises Every Albuquerque Gym Newbie Should Know

As a gym newbie, the free weight section can look intimidating. Watching people pumping iron as if they’ve been doing it their whole lives keeps many newbies from approaching this area.

One option includes overcoming your fears of being judged and hiring a trainer, learning from observation, or just figuring it out on your own.

The next and less unnerving option is to create your own home gym. When looking for dumbbells and free weights in Albuquerque, check out The Fitness Superstore. We carry the most extensive inventory with a low-price guarantee.

Before You Begin, Avoid This Common Mistake

One of the most common mistakes when people begin weightlifting is using heavier weights than they should be.

Start with a weight that allows you to comfortably perform exercises without losing your form. With each passing week, slowly – and manageably – increase the amount of weight you lift.

This will help you avoid injuries as you become acquainted with your new exercise regime.

Dumbbell and Free Weight Exercises

Dumbbell Row

First, choose a light dumbbell from the rack to help you become accustomed to this exercise.

Second, stand next to a bench, and while keeping your back straight, bend over so that your torso is parallel to the ground.

Next, use your free hand to balance yourself on the bench and place the leg closest to the bench on top. The leg on the bench should be bent like you’re kneeling.

Then, tighten your core and bring the weight back, retracting your shoulder blades up and down to avoid injury. This motion should look like you’re starting a lawn mower.

Make sure you aren’t creating a straight up and down motion. The line for this movement should be more angular.

Barbell Bench Press

The barbell bench press is a great chest exercise. If the barbell is too heavy, try this exercise using dumbbells instead.

First, lay down on the bench, belly facing up. Next, hold the bar up by retracting your shoulder blades. This keeps your shoulders in a safe position while ensuring your chest muscles are contracting.

Keep your elbows at a 45-degree angle as you bring the weight down. Stop when your elbows are close to being parallel to the floor.

Lastly, bring the weight back up to complete the rep.

Squats

Before using weights for this exercise, practice squatting without weights to correctly execute the form. Perfecting your form will help you avoid injury once you begin adding weights. You can also use a bench to practice your squat depth.

First, spread your feet apart to about shoulder width. Next, keep your heels on the ground and sit back like you’re going into a chair until your neck and back are in a neutral position.

With your torso tightened, keep bending your knees without lifting your heels from the ground or falling forward.

Finally, stand back up to complete the rep.

Deadlift

It’s essential to begin with light weights to become used to the form required on this lift. The deadlift strengthens the glutes, hips, hamstrings, and lower back.

First, begin with the bar on the ground and slowly roll it towards you until it’s close to your shins.

Next, tighten your core and raise the bar – keeping it parallel to your shins – by tightening your glutes, thrusting your hips forward, and sending your torso back to stand straight up. Don’t lift the weight with your arms – your legs should do all the work. Think of pushing your feet through the ground as you lift.

Seated Shoulder Press

To begin this exercise, sit on a back-supporting bench and bring your shoulder blades together and down. This helps to avoid becoming injured during this exercise.

Next, raise the dumbbells and twist your wrists so that the palms of your hands are facing outward/forward. Your elbows should be bent at a 90-degree angle with your triceps parallel to the floor.

While exhaling, push the dumbbells up without locking your elbows.

Remember to keep contracting your muscles even as your lower the dumbbells. Your final arm position to complete the rep is the elbows at the 90-degree angle with your upper arms parallel to the floor.

Bicep Curl

With the dumbbells at your sides, bring your elbows close to your torso. When you raise the weights, your arms should act as a hinge. Your upper arms should remain stationary while your lower arms and elbows do the work.

Curl the dumbbell about ¾ of the way up without hitting your shoulders. Remember, keep contracting your muscles as you bring the weights back down to complete the rep.

Let Us Help You Find the Best Dumbbells and Free Weights in the Albuquerque Area!

As with anything new, it takes practice, but with practice, you’ll be lifting weights like a pro in no time.

Our specialists at The Fitness Superstore can help you find the best dumbbells and free weights in Albuquerque to begin your weightlifting journey.

We carry the largest selection of quality weights with one of the best low-price guarantees in the industry. Contact us today to find the perfect weight set for your fitness goals.

The Importance of Equipment Maintenance.
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The Importance of Equipment Maintenance

The Importance of Equipment Maintenance.

It is important to maintain your fitness equipment to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Regularly cleaning and inspecting your equipment can prevent small problems from becoming larger, more expensive ones. Additionally, maintaining your fitness equipment will help you get the most out of your workout by ensuring it is working properly.

The Fitness Superstore in Albuquerque offers a wide variety of fitness accessories to help you maintain your equipment. From cleaning solutions to replacement parts, we have everything you need to keep your fitness equipment in top condition. We also offer used and refurbished exercise equipment, so you can get the gear you need at a fraction of the cost. Stop by today to check out our selection!

Tips for Upkeeping Your Fitness Equipment

Regular maintenance of your fitness equipment is crucial to keep it in good working condition and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips on how to take care of your gym equipment:

Read the manual

Each fitness machine comes with a manual. Be sure to read it after purchasing a machine, as it will have instructions on how often maintenance should be scheduled. You can also create a schedule for your staff to take care of maintenance regularly.

Keep it clean

Always make it a point to keep your gym equipment and fitness accessories clean. Not everyone wipes down the equipment after use, which can lead to prematurely damaged equipment. In addition to removing germs, wiping sweat off equipment will help prevent rusting and damage to any steel components of your machines. Also be sure to wipe all machines down with mild soap and water to prevent the spread of germs. Note that disinfectants can be harsh and damage grips and screens on fitness equipment, so we advise sticking to gentle cleaners such as Simple Green.

Avoid overuse

The overuse of fitness machines could also lead to a breakdown of machines. Observe equipment for signs of wear and tear and have them repaired or replaced as needed. Regular maintenance will help keep your gym in good shape and keep users happy and healthy!

How to Properly Maintain Your Fitness Equipment

If you want to prolong the life of your fitness equipment and keep it in good working order, here are a few tips on how to properly care for it:

– Clean your fitness equipment after every use. Wipe down machines and equipment with a clean cloth or mild cleaning products like Simple Green to prevent the spread of germs and rusting of steel components.
– Inspect your fitness equipment regularly. Check for loose bolts, tears in upholstery, and worn-out parts.
– Replace fitness equipment that is worn out or no longer functioning properly.
– Store fitness equipment in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Following these simple tips can help keep your fitness equipment in top shape for years to come.

The Benefits of Regular Equipment Maintenance for Your Fitness Accessories in Albuquerque

Taking care of your fitness equipment is important to keep it operating properly and safely, in addition to extending the life of your equipment.

Here are some benefits of regularly maintaining your fitness equipment:

1.  Safety – fitness equipment that is not properly maintained can pose a serious safety hazard. Regular maintenance can help to identify and fix potential safety issues before they cause an accident.

2. Performance – fitness equipment that is not properly maintained will not perform as well as it should. Regular maintenance can help to keep your equipment operating at peak performance and help you get the most out of your workouts.

3. Extended Life – fitness equipment that is properly maintained will last longer than equipment that is not. Regular maintenance can help to identify and fix potential problems before they cause major or irreversible damage to your equipment.

Visit The Fitness Superstore for Your New, Used, and Refurbished Fitness Accessories in Albuquerque

Overall, it is very important to take care of your fitness equipment. Luckily for you, The Fitness Superstore has a team of experienced and certified technicians who can perform a variety of maintenance and repair services. We also offer a wide selection of fitness equipment in Albuquerque, including new, used, and refurbished exercise equipment.

In addition to our huge selection, The Fitness Superstore also has the best-low-price guarantee in the industry for fitness equipment in Albuquerque. For more information about our fitness accessories in Albuquerque or to schedule a service appointment, contact us today!

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We Know All About Home Gyms in Albuquerque

Are you an Albuquerque resident looking to transform your fitness routine? At The Fitness Superstore, we have a massive selection of home gym exercise equipment in Albuquerque perfect for anyone looking to get fit in the comfort of their home. Our exercise equipment store has the best low-price guarantee in the industry, with the best exercise equipment in town!

Here, we’ll explain why every Albuquerque resident should have a home gym, how to set up the best home gym possible for your space, and explore the best home gym equipment.

What are the benefits of workout machines for homes?

Having an at-home gym comes with many benefits. 

Convenience

One of the primary advantages of having home gym equipment is convenience. You can exercise whenever you want without being limited by gym hours or commuting time. You don’t have to wait for someone to get off a machine or feel pressured to move on. 

This flexibility and comfort can lead to a more consistent workout routine.

Time and Cost Savings

While the initial cost might be high, buying home workout equipment will be more cost-effective than a gym membership, especially considering membership fees and transportation costs. You also save time by not having to commute back and forth.

Privacy

Some people prefer the privacy of working out at home, away from the potential judgment of others. This can make trying new exercises and pushing yourself feel more comfortable without worrying about feeling self-conscious during your workout.

Customization

You have complete control over the gym equipment you choose to include in your home gym. This allows you to tailor your gym’s setup to your fitness goals and preferences without re-adjusting it every time you use your workout equipment.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

You have control over the cleanliness of your home gym, which can be reassuring in times of health concerns. Since you’re likely not sharing gym equipment with others, you’ll also reduce the risk of exposure to germs.

What is the best basic home gym equipment to start with?

One of the main issues with home gyms is the amount of space your home has available. The best exercise equipment for home gyms is compact and versatile. 

Below are some examples of ideal home equipment for fitness.

Gym Floor Mat

A gym floor mat is a home gym essential. Gym floor mats provide a protective layer between your exercise equipment and the floor. They prevent scratches, dents, and other damage when heavy equipment is placed directly on the floor. 

These mats also help stabilize heavy equipment, such as weight benches, treadmills, and squat racks. This prevents equipment from shifting during use, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries. 

Before placing any equipment, getting a gym floor mat is highly recommended.

Cardio Equipment

A small space cardio machine is an excellent addition to any home gym. Ellipticals and stationary bikes are exceptionally cost-effective and space-efficient equipment options. You also can’t go wrong with a compact, classic treadmill. 

If you’re in search of a cardio machine to add to your home gym, The Fitness Superstore offers the best small-space workout machines for sale in Albuquerque!

Strength Equipment

If you’re interested in adding weights to your home gym, a dumbbell set is excellent to start with. Dumbbells are incredibly versatile and can be used for various strength training exercises targeting different muscle groups. Compact racks and benches can also help to save space. 

How to set up a home gym? 

Setting up a home gym is relatively painless. Below are some factors you’ll want to consider when setting up your gym.

Choosing A Suitable Space

Selecting the ideal workout space is essential for your home gym. It’s all about finding an area with ample room and good ventilation—think spare bedrooms, basements, garages, or even a dedicated corner. Make sure the flooring can handle the weight and stress of your equipment without a hitch. 

Determining Your Budget

Creating a budget is another vital step in establishing your home gym. Determine your investment limit for equipment, flooring, and accessories, aligning it with your fitness goals. A well-defined budget should guide your purchases and prevent overspending.

Prioritizing Safety

For a safe workout environment, invest in proper flooring to minimize injury risk and equipment damage. Secure your gym equipment to prevent accidents, keep a first-aid kit and emergency contact nearby, and regularly inspect your home gym equipment for wear and tear.

Selecting Equipment

Optimizing your home gym equipment selection begins with aligning your choices with your fitness goals and workout preferences. To make the most of your space and resources, prioritize versatile home gym exercise equipment options.

The most critical thing to know about setting up a home gym is where to get your equipment. It’s highly recommended that you get your equipment from a specialty store over a box store. A specialty store focuses on specific product categories, while a box store is a large retail establishment focusing on many goods.

Specialty stores also tend to carry higher quality products than box stores and have a more extensive selection of the products you’re looking for. While pricing may be cheaper at big box stores, the quality is often sacrificed.

Specialty stores typically have a more knowledgeable staff to help you find the right equipment. Specialty stores also offer better service, both before and after the sale. They want to ensure that you’re happy with your purchase and will often provide more personalized service.

The Fitness Superstore is Albuquerque’s top specialty store for exercise equipment. We offer quality workout equipment for sale and can provide expert tips on setting up your home gym.

Shop With Us for the Best Home Gym Exercise Equipment in Albuquerque

Here at The Fitness Superstore, we offer everything you need to start your fitness journey. Not only that, but we offer Albuquerque residents the best home gym equipment for sale at affordable prices. From treadmills to dumbbells, our friendly staff can recommend the ideal exercise equipment for your lifestyle, space, and budget.

Stop by our store today to check out our extensive inventory of home gym exercise equipment in Albuquerque!

A Guide to Purchasing Home Fitness Equipment.
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A Guide to Purchasing Home Fitness Equipment

A Guide to Purchasing Home Fitness Equipment.

There is a lot of fitness equipment on the market these days, and it can be hard to know where to start when you are looking to purchase some for your home. The following is a guide to help you make the best decision for your fitness needs and budget.

Steps To Follow

Goals

First, establish your goals. Do you want to lose weight, build muscle, or just get in better shape? Once you know what you hope to achieve, you can start looking at different types of fitness accessories and equipment that will help you reach your goals.

Types of Equipment & Fitness Accessories

Second, consider what type of fitness equipment you need. If you are looking to get a complete workout, you will need some type of cardio machine like a treadmill or elliptical trainer. You may also want to consider adding some strength training equipment to your home gym.

Budget

Next, think about your budget. Fitness accessories and equipment can be quite expensive, so it is important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. Once you know how much you can afford to spend, you can narrow down your options and make a more informed decision.

Research

With so many options on the market, it is important to do your research before making a final decision. It is best to get on and try out machines that you are interested in purchasing. Some review sites are made by fitness manufacturers and are there to help promote the specific products they make. Reading reviews can help you get an idea of which products are high quality and which ones may not be worth your money; however, everyone moves differently, and it is best to make sure that the piece of equipment you are interested in fits you well.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to find the perfect fitness equipment for your home gym. Remember to take your time, set a budget, read multiple reviews, and try out pieces in-person to ensure you are getting the best possible value for your money.

Common Types of Exercise Equipment and What They’re Used For

Some basic fitness equipment that most people need for a home gym includes:

Treadmill or elliptical machine

These are great for cardiovascular fitness and can be used for walking, running, or even HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts.

Free weights

A must-have for any fitness enthusiast, free weights can be used for a variety of strength-training exercises.

Exercise mat

An exercise mat is perfect for yoga, Pilates, or any floor-based exercises.

Foam roller

A foam roller is a great way to massage your muscles after a workout and help with recovery.

The Fitness Superstore Is Your One-Stop Shop for All Fitness Accessories in Albuquerque

If you’re looking for fitness accessories in Albuquerque, look no further than The Fitness Superstore. We carry a huge selection of fitness accessories to help you reach your fitness goals, including dumbbells, weight plates, fitness mats, resistance bands, and more. We also offer the best low-price guarantee in the industry, so you can be sure you’re getting the best equipment for the best value.

Visit us today and let us help you get started on your fitness journey!