The base fundamentals of working out are to show up, do your best and strive for more. As long as you are hitting those points you are on the way to living a healthy lifestyle. However, there are certain fitness accessories that offer a competitive edge. Accessories that can easily elevate and advance fitness routines beyond the next level.
Heart Rate Monitor
Tracking your heart rate during workouts provides fantastic insight and understanding. It is easy to overestimate calories burned and misjudge distance or pace. However, using a heart rate monitor ensures accurate information which can then be used to analyze workouts. The effectiveness and difficulty level of sessions is understood using proper analysis from heart rate monitors.
There are two styles to choose from depending on personal preference. one is a simple wristwatch and the other is a chest strap that syncs to a smartphone or smartwatch. The chest straps tend to be more accurate but a little less user-friendly. They have to be fitted just right and need to be used with either water or conductive gel. What you gain in comfort with watches you slightly loose with accuracy. The variable point is rather minimal with the window of error fewer than 100 calories. Find the most reliable heart rate monitor here.
Jump Rope
One of the best forms of cardio is jumping rope. It strengthens the entire body and rapidly develops cardiovascular endurance. Jumping rope develops coordination, balance, and patience. There are many moves to learn and you’ll be surprised how fast a 15-minute session goes by.
A jump rope is light-weight, portable and can be used anywhere. This makes it a great travel option as well. Beginners should opt for a more dense rope to focus on coordination and practice rhythm. Once comfortable and confident, try a light-weight speed rope. The thin speed rope targets agility, and cranks cardio up several notches. If you are overeager this rope will make contact with your skin and leave a mark. Read more here.
Bluetooth Headphones
Headphones are a must for just about everyone who works out. Choose some music that gets you in the mood, pushes you past your comfort zone, and drowns out the muscle fatigue. Luckily, the days of getting stuck in wires from traditional headphones are over. No more accidental unplugging or knots to untie. Bluetooth headphones offer fantastic sound quality and extended battery charge.
The only dilemma will be choosing the style, color, and brand that best suits you. Over-the-ear ones are a bit bulky and best for people who go for long runs or lift weights. For people who do plyometrics or other intense jumping routines will love the security of behind-the-neck styles. For more low-impact workouts like yoga or tai chi, try wireless earbuds for weightless comfort.
Resistance Bands
A top choice for people looking to diversify their workouts is resistance bands. Yes, they can be used to plumps up booties and thighs but they can also be used for back, shoulders, arms, and stretching. When used regularly resistance bands will transform your normal routine and set fire to dormant muscles. If doing 10 push-ups is easy, try adding a resistance band to it and see how much more challenging it becomes. Bands are a great way to advance regular moves to another level.
There are several different varieties of bands with the most common being the loop band. Learn about the other types here. You can find then at just about any place fitness accessories are sold. Expect to pay less than $10 for an average set of 3. What makes bands even more customizable is that they are offered in varying resistance levels and are compact enough to always have in a gym bag.
Workout Shoes
Obviously, there needs to be something on your feet during a workout. While shoes might seem like a no-brainer the correct ones can actually majorly boost sessions. Features like shock-absorbing insoles, air-cushioned heels, arch support, ankle support, and flexible material all contribute to safe and enhanced workouts. Feeling comfortable and supported will facilitate optimal performance.
Different activities require different types of shoes. For this, it is advisable to purchase the exact type of shoe you need for your type of fitness. If running is the main exercise then focus on getting quality running shoes. Some of the best brands for running shoes include ASICS, NewBalance, Brooks, and Saucony. If weightlifting is the main exercise then get a shoe specifically designed for weightlifting. Some brands to consider are Reebok, Adidas, No Bull, and Inov-8.
How often shoes will need to be replaced depends on the type of exercise and frequency. If you run over 20 miles a week then consider buying replacements every 4 or 5 months. If your shoes only ever see the gym floor and never get put through much stress then aim for every 6-7 months. Take notice of any visual signs of wear. Even if they are your favorite shoes, just repurchase the same ones. This is a good habit to get into since worn shoes provide less support and shock absorption.
*Pro Tip* – The best time to try on shoes is in the late afternoon/evening or right after working out. This is when feet are the largest which will help to find the perfect fit.
Agility Ladder
This is the secret weapon for anyone needing to brush up on coordination and speed. The number of drill exercises that can be done using this ladder is endless. It has been a prominent training tool for football, soccer, basketball, and boxing athletes. Sessions using these ladders burn a high number of calories and are fun. You can get creative and make up a few drills of your own or follow along with any of the available routines.
Ladders boost coordination, balance and motor skills. Getting the brain to work with the body stimulates mental clarity, increases reaction times and broadens productivity. Motor skills are needed for almost every activity from writing a note to picking something up off the floor. Incorporating exercises that engage various systems in the body promotes an overall healthy state of being.
