I Used to Think Treadmills Were the Best Home Workout, But These 6 Tools Are Better

As the new year starts, many people are still trying to stick to their resolutions. For many, the goal is to exercise more often, build muscle, and lose weight. We all want to know the best way to exercise so we can achieve the greatest results. If you're like me, then your go-to is the treadmill. There's nothing like getting on there, going for a long run, and watching the LED screen tell you how many calories you've burned. However, over time, I have started to realize that it's not the best home workout you can get.

Through my research and discussions with fitness professionals, I have learned that there are many other tools that are better at helping me to achieve my exercise goals. From electronic devices like the stair mill and elliptical to other more traditional methods, like lifting weights or using a punching bag, there's a lot out there to discover. Read on for some other effective workout tools to consider.

If you're looking for the best home workout and you have the space, then a stair mill may be just what you need. Similar to a treadmill, the stair mill offers constant movement. Only, you're going upstairs at your desired pace. There's a reason why medical experts recommend taking the stairs instead of the elevator. It gets the blood flowing and accelerates weight loss.

Before you purchase a stair mill, it's good to know how to use it to maximize your workouts. Really, it comes down to programming. During an average session, set it to speed-builder intervals, which will include an easy climb for a warm-up, two minutes of increased speed, and then a cool down. You can also do a mix of moves, including stepping up, left, and right.

Another incredible workout apparatus is the rowing machine. If you only get one machine, this is it because it offers a full-body workout. The original idea behind this machine was to make a device that would strengthen people who row boats. But, even if you don't, it's a great machine to have around the house. Invest 10 minutes a day into a rowing machine, and you'll burn some serious calories. You'll also challenge your body in new ways.

There are only so many movements you can perform on a rowing machine, but the key is to use it right. The idea is to engage in movement that includes pushing hard with your heels, engaging your core the entire time, and moving your legs just right. Also, avoid common rowing machine mistakes, like forgetting to check the damper setting, which modifies the resistance. Also, never hunch your back during your stroke.

One of the more affordable machines that will give you a great workout is the traditional spin bike. You see these in stores or in classes at the gym. Bike riding is one of the best ways to lose calories, but instead of riding your bike out on the street and hoping you find a hill, you can adjust the resistance and level of difficulty on a spin bike. An hour on this device, and you'll feel like a new person.

There's a reason why many consider the spin bike to be the best home workout. There are only so many bells and whistles on a traditional spin bike. Many only have a resistance knob. However, make sure that you use it. Taking a casual bike ride won't burn a lot of calories, but adding resistance while mixing in standing sprints and intervals will make all the difference. You can also get a Peloton bike with built-in classes.

Another more traditional fitness machine that's better than a treadmill is the elliptical machine. The elliptical is a great device to use if you want a serious workout or if you're nursing an injury because it's a low-impact option that won't hurt you along the way. Use your arms and legs to give your body a full workout. You'll be covered in sweat by the end, and you'll feel great.

Like the spin bike, the best way to get the maximum burn on an elliptical machine is to use it properly. Use the settings and resistance levels to your advantage. Start off easy as you warm up, and then kick it into high gear as you go along. Many people like to walk on the elliptical without holding on to the moving handles. However, the best way to work your upper body is to have constant movement, so take it seriously.

You can skip the electronics and still get the best home workout by getting a workout bench and lifting weights. You don't have to lift 100-pound weights to see results. Start small and increase the weight over time to a level that's comfortable. Lifting weights strengthens your bones, builds muscle, and aids in weight loss. It also helps to improve metabolism and heart health.

Exercising and lifting just about any level of weight will benefit you. However, if you lift weights incorrectly, you could do more harm than good. To get the most out of your exercise, warm up first with some cardio. Then, make sure to use your abs as you lift, and don't forget to breathe throughout. Take a break between weight-lifting days and steadily increase the weight over time.

One of the best workout tools you may not have thought of before is a punching bag. Find a secure place to hang the bag and then go to work. There are many health benefits to boxing. The constant movement will improve your heart health, boost your endurance, and help you to stay balanced. Plus, when you punch correctly, you're essentially using all of your body, so it's a full workout.

Once you have your punching bag, look online to find different exercise routines. The point here is to give it your all so you get the best results, but don't wear yourself out. Throw punches for 45 seconds at a time and then take a break. Try to do several rounds over a five-minute period. Alternate between arms and move around the bag as you punch. You'll work your arms and core and burn a lot of calories.