It is important to purchase exclusively commercial equipment for your fitness facility because it is built for extended daily use by many users. Residential-grade equipment carries a greater risk of breakdown when used in a commercial setting because it is designed only for limited home use. Also, residential equipment that does not carry a commercial warranty creates a greater exposure risk if an exerciser is injured when using the piece. Liability issues aside, the lack of a commercial warranty may mean that you bear the full cost of all service calls and repairs. The major categories of cardiovascular equipment include treadmills, stationary bikes, stairclimbers and elliptical or cross-training machines.
Variety prevents boredom among exercisers, which in turn helps maintain usage rates.
Treadmills are a staple in any fitness center because they simulate walking and running and have virtually no learning curve. Beginning exercisers can walk on a treadmill at a comfortable pace, and elite athletes can use this modality for speed or hill training as well. When you have narrowed your model choice, look at equipment specifications, such as size, weight, space needed around it, and any special electrical requirements. The second most popular cardiovascular machine is the stationary bike, which tends to be the least expensive and most space-efficient. Also, many stationary bikes are self-powered, allowing you flexibility in your floor plan.