Workout tools don’t have to be fancy. Some have the ability to help keep us motivated while others are considered almost a necessity for exercising. Here is our list of top 5 must-have workout tools.
iPod
There have been numerous studies that have confirmed what you probably already know. Listening to music can help keep you motivated to workout longer. A study from the University of British Columbia found that listening to music is one of the best ways to enhance performance.
The researchers say that listening to up-tempo beats may be the only way to fool one into moving faster without noticing a significant increase in effort. It’s hard not to keep moving when you hear your favorite song; in fact, your brain actually uses movement to help you understand what you’re listening to.
Gymboss
The Gymboss just might put you through one of the most intense workouts you’ve ever experienced, without all that high-priced fitness equipment. It can be a very challenging trainer, allowing you to perform all of the same exercises in the gym using time instead of reps.
For example, instead of performing 12 to 15 repetitions of an exercise you’ll set the Gymboss interval timer for 45 seconds of work followed by 15 seconds of recovery. It can take any workout to a whole new level.
Yoga mat
Yoga mats are great for yoga on the go or as a floor mat for core work. Being able to perform yoga poses and other workouts wherever you might be is a great way to conveniently get some exercise in while on the road. A good mat will keep you stable during your poses and provide comfort between your body and the floor.
Dry wick clothing
Dry Wick is a style of clothing construction designed to move moisture away from the body to help keep you dry. It draws sweat off the skin to the inside of the fabric. An uncomfortable workout means you’ll probably end your session sooner than you’d like to.
A cotton t-shirt may be comfortable for lounging around, but wearing it for exercise will leave you in a sweaty mess because cotton absorbs sweat, making you wet, cold and even chafed after your workout.
Exercise tops and pants made of polypropylene fabrics such as Dri-FIT, can help “wick” the sweat away from you, allowing moisture to evaporate more quickly, keeping your body cooler and drier throughout your routine. Look for wicking material in all layers of your workout clothes.
Pedometer
A pedometer is a tool that everyone seeking to maintain or achieve fitness should own. Having this gadget makes goal-setting and tracking progress much easier. Research out of Stanford Medical School found that people who use a pedometer walk a mile more every day than those who don’t. The more you walk, the more cardio you’re getting which is essential for losing weight, keeping your heart healthy and achieving a slim waistline.
What are your favorite workout tools?
-The Alternative Daily
