Exercise Equipment falls into two categories based on the type of exercise provided: cardio equipment or strenght training equipment. Both types of exercise, along with stretching, are essential to a balanced and effective fitness routine.

Cardiovascular, or cardio, exercise helps to keep your heart healthy and burn fat by raising the heart rate. Cardio exercise equipment includes stationary bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, and stair climbers. Regularly varying the type of cardio machine you use will help you to exercise more effectively by routinely exercising different muscle groups.

Exercise equipment for strength training is more varied. Free weights, weight machines, and balancing or resistance equipment can all be used for strength training. Weight training helps to build muscular strength and helps to maintain the results of cardio exercise.