Exercise Equipment Question:

[Bunny]

Does anyone have any experience with this Tony Little Gazelle workout machine? Particularly the really cheap one ($99.00)? I have a relative that wants to start a training program, and she thinks this would be a good way to start into some regular home fitness activity.

I'm concerned that the machine itself seems rather flimsy, how good can something like this be if it's only $99? She's no lightweight, she's around 200 lbs, so she needs something pretty sturdy. She thinks it's good because it's inexpensive, folds up, is low-impact, etc. She cannot afford much, and doesn't have time/money for a gym.

Has anyone tried this?

http://www.homefitnessclub.com/shopping/search/searchresultsmain.jsp?fresh=1&searchType=advanced&iMainCat=0&iSubCat=0&attribute14=0&attribute15=0&attribute16=0&RS=1&keyword=gazelle

[murielm99]

1. Check out Consumer Reports, or Fitness Magazine.

Fitness reviews home workout equipment.

[DS1]

2. I've seen the commercials too many times, and while it's a zero

impact machine, I can't see any resistance built into the motion so its effectiveness as an exercise machine is questionable in my eyes. Might as well just lay on your back and flail your arms and legs around for a bit. It's free.

[JimmyJazz]

4. I was going to post pretty much the same thing.

You need some resistance in order to develop muscle mass and see some results. I believe an elliptical would be a better choice. It's still no-impact, but does offer varying levels of resistance. I have bad knees and I'm able to use it.

[Bunny]

6. Okay - resistance is good. I hadn't even thought about that!

Thanks.

[Squatch]

3. She can save a hundred bucks by taking a walk

around the neighborhood. Or joining the YMCA, until she's ready to put down some serious coin on a serious piece of exercise equipment.

[dajoki]

5. get a stationary bike

low impact. i like the ones where the handlebars move along with the pedals. they are inexpensive.:shrug: