Five ways to keep it fun
Think fitness, and treadmills, free weights and elliptical trainers come to mind. But each year, flying below the radar, are dozens of products that can help make exercise more efficient and fun. This week we look at my five favorites of 2003.
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A versatile pair of quick-change dumbbells
Nautilus SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells: Best of the popular instant-change dumbbells.
Likes: An entire set of dumbbells compressed into a 15-by-15-inch space. Simple to use, works perfectly, feels secure. Turn dials on each side of the dumbbell to marked numbers that reflect desired weight. The 5- to 52-pound weight range handle is suitable for men and women. Form-fitted chrome and rubber handle feels comfortable and balanced. Handsome design. Plastic-covered steel weights don’t rattle or rust.
Dislikes: More expensive than similar instant-adjust dumbbells.
Price: $299 a pair. (800) 782-4799; www.nautilusgroup.com.
Good for running
when weather isn’t ideal
Montrail Susitna XCR trail-running shoe: The ultimate wet-weather running shoe.
Likes: Foot stays dry and warm even in a winter downpour because of a snap-on waterproof ankle gaiter and the use of Gore-Tex on the outside of the shoe. Zip-up exterior looks sleek and keeps laces hidden and mud-free. Grippy, low-profile bottom is suitable for running on trails or streets.
Dislikes: Too warm for warm-weather running.
Price: $125. (206) 625-5000; www. montrail.com.
Only three wheels
are necessary
Trikke Chopper: High-rise version of the self-propelled, three-wheel scooter.
Likes: The motion -- skiing-like, side-to-side S-turns that propel the scooter at speeds up to 15 mph -- is an addictive blend of form and fitness. Good aerobic and all-body toning workout. Taller handlebars than those on the original Trikke provide better leverage and a more upright, comfortable position for cruising. Tons of positive reinforcement; you will attract thumbs-up gestures from observers of all ages.
Dislikes: Requires a wide strip of concrete. Very difficult to use on a beach bike path in heavy traffic.
Price: $199 for Trikke 8, plus $69 for Chopper handlebar kit www.trikke.com.
Listen to music
while you do your laps
Swimman Underwater MP3 Player: World’s first waterproof sound device.
Likes: Let’s face it, many people find swim workouts boring. This device lets you play slow songs to warm up, fast ones to get you moving. You can even listen to books on tape. Simple two-button operation. Sealed unit holds up to four hours of audio. It’s small even for an MP3 and, of course, can be used on land too.
Dislikes: Swimming with earplugs, an armband and a 3-foot wire is irritating at first.
Price: $249. (800) 794-6626; www.swimman.com.
Shake your way into shape
The Bodyblade: A former rehabilitation device, this 5-foot ski-like beam flaps like a set of wings when you shake it, working arm, shoulder and core muscles.
Likes: A surprisingly challenging toning and strength workout from the waist up. Your muscles must strain to stabilize the blades’ G-forces. Seems easy for the first 10 seconds or so, but becomes more difficult. Superb way to augment regular workouts, and you can use it while watching TV or walking the dog. Useful video workout included.
Dislikes: Five-foot-long model may be too difficult for some; smaller sizes are easier.
Price: $204 for Bodyblade Pro model; other models cost $49 to $99. (800) 772-5233; www.bodyblade.com.
-- Roy M. Wallack