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!

November 17, 2022December 19, 2022

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.

August 19, 2022August 22, 2022

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!

July 15, 2022August 5, 2022

5 Differences Between Specialty and Box Stores

There are a few key differences between specialty stores and box stores when it comes to new, used, and refurbished exercise equipment:

Product knowledge

Specialty stores typically have a more knowledgeable staff that can help you find the right piece of equipment for your needs.

Product Quality

They also tend to carry higher quality products than box stores.

Product Selection

Specialty stores typically have more of a selection of products that are usually of higher quality.

Pricing

Pricing can be cheaper at big box stores, but as you know, you pay for what you get. Specialty stores offer better products as well as the resources, relationships, and trust you want to have when it comes to your exercise equipment.

Service

Specialty stores also tend to 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.

If you’re looking for exercise equipment, we recommend checking out Albuquerque’s top specialty store, The Fitness Superstore.

Used and Refurbished Exercise Equipment – What Are the Benefits?

Used and refurbished exercise equipment can be a great way to get quality equipment at a fraction of the cost of new gear. Remember, it is important to do your research before purchasing to ensure you’re getting a good deal – but with our low-price guarantee, you and your wallet are in good hands. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for used and refurbished exercise equipment:

Check the equipment’s condition. Used and refurbished exercise equipment should be in good working order. Inspect the equipment thoroughly before purchasing to ensure there is no major damage or wear and tear.

Compare prices. Used and refurbished exercise equipment can vary in price, so it’s important to compare prices from different sellers before making a purchase. Luckily for you, The Fitness Superstore offers a low-price guarantee no matter what, so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal.

Ask about warranties. Some used and refurbished exercise equipment may come with a warranty, so be sure to ask about this before committing to a purchase.

All of the equipment that The Fitness Superstore sells in the used and refurbished area have been checked out by the in-house service department. The equipment also will come with a warranty that is taken care of by The Fitness Superstore.

If you’re looking to get fit on a budget, used and refurbished exercise equipment is a great option. Here are four benefits of purchasing used and refurbished exercise equipment:

1. Save money. Used and refurbished exercise equipment is significantly cheaper than new exercise equipment. You can find gently used machines for a fraction of the cost of new ones.

2. Get a warranty. When you purchase used and refurbished exercise equipment from someone other than a specialty store, it often does not come with a warranty. If the machine breaks down or isn’t up to par, you are left to do the repairs yourself.

3. Support local businesses. Buying used and refurbished exercise equipment supports local businesses. Specialty fitness equipment stores are often family-owned and operated. By supporting them, you’re helping to keep your community strong.

4. Find high-quality machines. Just because used and refurbished exercise equipment is cheaper doesn’t mean it’s lower quality. You can often find higher-quality machines at used and refurbished stores. This is because they carefully select the products they sell.

When you’re looking for used and refurbished exercise equipment, be sure to shop at a specialty fitness equipment store. Big box stores often sell lower-quality used equipment. Specialty fitness equipment stores carefully inspect and test each piece of equipment before selling it. This ensures that you’re getting a high-quality machine that will last.

Come On into The Fitness Superstore Today!

Looking for used and refurbished exercise equipment? You’ve come to the right place! Here at The Fitness Superstore, we have a HUGE selection of new, used, and refurbished exercise equipment, perfect for anyone looking to get fit on a budget. From treadmills and ellipticals to weights and barbells, we have everything you need to get started on your fitness journey. Plus, our used and refurbished exercise equipment is always priced competitively, so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal.

So, what are you waiting for? Come on down to The Fitness Superstore today and check out our selection of used and refurbished exercise equipment! We know you won’t be disappointed.

Give us a call for more information on used and refurbished exercise equipment – we’re happy to help!

June 22, 2022August 4, 2022

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!

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