Concept 2 Model E
The Best rowing machine ever made just got a makeover!
For a start it looks stylish with a sleek light metallic gray finish, accented with dark blue. But don’t let its style belie the toughness and stability of the Concept 2. Air resistant, it sits 20 inches off the floor for ease of access – of essential importance to anyone with back or mobility problems. It also is fully enclosed and incorporates a stainless steel track and nickel plated chain and effectively emulates the smooth sensation of rowing on water.
Another great thing about the Concept 2 is that it comes with a wireless compatible PM4 performance monitor, featuring Suunto heart rate technology that can be easily reached on the extended console arm. With automatic operation and an easy menu operation you can accurately monitor your heart rate, track distance, speed, pace, calories and watts with five display options. Several motivational features are available including an option of rowing against a virtual rower so you can learn about techniques, rowing challenges and a training forum. It’s also possible to pre set workouts and review past ones with a multiple language facility available.
But in case you’re worried about fitting all this technology into your house, the Concept 2 Model E Rowing Machine only requires an area of 9×4 feet with a 500 lb capacity. It’s easily assembled and can be separated into two parts should you want to store it or transport it anywhere, plus caster wheels make it fully mobile. It has a fully rechargeable battery pack and increased memory capacity If you’re going to buy one rowing machine in your life, make sure it’s this one.
Wii Balance Board
If you want to lose weight, tone up or simply have some fun, the Wii Balance Board will help you achieve your aim.
More than just a gimmick or a fitness game, the Wii it also helps with posture and balance as well as providing the full range of interactive aerobic activities including step dance, jogging, skiing slalom and hula hoops.
Shaped like bathroom scales, the board contains multiple pressure sensors that measure factors like the user’s centre of balance, weight and mass, supporting weights of up to 330 pounds.
There’s more incentive to go for a run with a whole host of animated character who’ll wave at you, overtake you and even chase you. If you’ve always wanted a personal trainer but have been inhibited by the price, a virtual trainer will offer advice and a tailored training programme and give feedback. To cool off why not try one of the six new strength and yoga or one of the 15 balance exercises; the board is so sensitive, it ensures the correct technique.
Where to get it >>
Nike + iPod Sports Kit
Question: What happens when the sports giant Nike and computer giant Apple get together? Answer: A computerised sports kit that tells you exactly how fast you’re running and how many calories you’ve used up.
It’s achieved by a tiny sensor that is fitted into a pocket under the sole of the trainers and information is transmitted via a small receiver that plugs into your iPod nano. Then with a blast of your motivational running song and with the help of your magic Nike sports shoes, your legs will be pumping up and down faster than a piston. As you run, your iPod will give you feedback about your performance and when your run is finished, you can access information of distance covered, calories burned, time, distance and pace.
Once home, you can upload the info onto your PC or Mac and compare your progress on nikeplus.com with other runners from all over the world. This should be an incentive to do better next time if ever there was one or maybe you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re a world class performer.