Words: Jonathan Wells
Shall we tell you what we don’t miss about the gym? Because that is a long, long list. We don’t miss the heart-thumping, bass-pumping techno. We don’t miss the sitting in sweat when puffed-up circuit trainers ‘forgot’ to wipe down equipment. And we certainly don’t miss that one guy with the plunging neckline vest…
But we do miss the equipment. From treadmills to cross trainers, there are some muscle-making machines that we simply haven’t been able to replicate at home. The tracking metrics of a good exercise bike, for example — or the virtual classes offered by the best rowing machines. So we’ve scoured the fitness equipment market for the best, most luxurious and tasteful fitness machines available to buy — perfect for any workout-from-home converts…
A top-of-the-line treadmill is better than a brisk winter run
Usually, we’d be the first to tell you to step off the treadmill and go for a run in the park. The air is fresher, the terrain more challenging and it’ll get you out of the house. But it’s been dark, icy and generally demotivating outside of late, and we’ve moved our morning runs onto deluxe running machines instead.
Just look at this handsome ‘SprintBok’ treadmill from WaterRower. With woods from walnut to oak to ash available, it’s as much a work of art as it is a workout. TechnoGym’s pricy ‘Run Personal’ is designed by Antonio Citterio and features a silent motor, shock absorbers and a 21.5-inch wide touch-screen display. Or, if you opt for Sole’s ‘TT8’ model, you’ll both benefit from incline and decline features and feel like you’re captaining a starship.
An upscale exercise bike offers a swifter exercise experience
The same goes for cycling. We’re up for a Sunday ride as much as the next lycra-clad enthusiast — but sometimes it’s easier to hop-on, hop-off and get back to work at home when you’re having a busy day. And that’s where these exercise bikes come in; equipped with every bell, pedal and whistle you could want…
Wattbike’s new ‘Atom’ uses precision magnetic resistant to keep noise levels down — while maintaining that ‘real ride’ feel. From Ciclotte, this avant-garde upright bike is crafted from carbon fibre, and uses Kinomap to create street simulations during your rides. And the compact, ergonomic Apex ‘Rides’ is fitted with Shimano 50/50 pedals, so you can slip on your cleats in the comfort of your own home.
An elite rowing machine will give you a full-body workout
Now here’s a workout you could never do outside of the gym — unless you actually own a boat, and live near a body of water big enough to row it on. No, this is much easier. Invest in the best rowing machine money can buy and you’ll give yourself a full body workout without the threat of falling into a murky British river. It’s a win-win.
You’ll feel particularly triumphant if you buy a Hydrow Rower. Newly-launched in Britain, this American brand has re-engineered the rowing machine with patented technology, a 22-inch touchscreen display and smooth 10-roller system seat. NordicTrack’s ‘RW900’ is similarly sophisticated; with a 22-inch HD coaching touchscreen and 26 resistance levels. Or, if you really want to push the boat out (as it were), plump for WaterRower’s ‘Performance Ergometer’. Handmade from solid Appalachian Oak, this sleek bit of kit works in tandem with the SmartRow app to track your exercise data, personal records and fitness-variables.
These ergonomic ellipticals will turn you into a cross-trainer convert
We were never the first gym-goers on the cross-trainers or elliptical machines. But, if you’re looking to build a new gym at home, these do-it-all options offer impressively thorough exercise sessions. Targeted muscle groups include those in the arms, shoulders, back, thighs, calves and abdominals. It’s your one-stop workout shop.
TechnoGym, once more, offer the gold standard in fitness equipment. Or should that be ‘chrome standard’? With the high-shine side of the brand’s ‘Cross Personal’, this is an ergonomic elliptical you’ll want to have on show all day long. Bowflex’s burly take on the trainer adds in the functionality of a stepper for some hamstring-honing goodness — and ProForm’s HIIT trainer innovatively measures your heart rate through your hands.
Looking to add even more tech to your workouts? These are the best health apps to download today…
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