Month: August 2023

Though many think of running as more of an outdoor activity. Exercising on the home front is equally important. Anyone who’s an avid fitness enthusiast should have a home gym. Runners included, though the contents of that gym may change based on the individual’s specific exercise needs. The needs of a runner in particular are especially unique, so to get the most out of your regular outdoor jogs. You also need to have the right equipment back at home. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important pieces of equipment require in home gym for runners. what they’re used for, and what makes them so useful.

Rowing Machine

Rowing machines are one of the most useful home workout tools for anyone to have in their arsenal, not just runners. They’re able to be used for a wide variety of strength-training exercises. Each of which will target different muscle groups. The most prominent of these muscle groups are the arms, legs, and core. The latter two of which will help you greatly in your later runs. 

In addition, it’s much easier on your joints to row than it is to do more intense exercises like running or other cardio exercises. Because of this, on days that you’re not running, hitting up the rowing machine is a great way to stay in shape. Without having to worry about damaging those delicate joints. In addition to giving you a way to keep your edge, you’ll strengthen your leg muscles. It will allow you to run with even greater strength next time.

Cross Trainer

Like the rowing machine, the cross trainer provides a more joint-friendly alternative to running. Whenever you need a break, but like a regular run, it’s also an excellent source of cardio. You stand to gain a massive number of benefits by working out with a cross trainer. It ranges from increased leg strength to rapid calorie burning. In addition to this, some cross-trainers feature handlebars that can be pumped in tandem with your legs. It gives your arms and shoulders a bit of strength training to boot, making for an extremely efficient full-body workout.

Exercise Bike

Exercise bikes are a solid solution for anyone who wants to gain the full benefits of a bike ride without dealing with the weather outside. As a form of cardio, riding your bike has very similar benefits to that of a run. It also burns fat and calories alike while strengthening your legs. Some greatly prefer an indoor exercise bike for the perks it provides, namely comfort and entertainment. While no intense exercise is going to be comfortable, per se, if it’s blazing hot, humid, or pouring down rain outside. An indoor biking session is without a doubt going to be far more pleasant. 

In addition, since you don’t have to watch where you’re going as you would on an actual bike. You can put on your favorite TV show to keep you engaged while you’re riding. Once you’re done with your workout, most exercise bikes will provide you with a mileage equivalent to what you have ridden on a regular bike, as well as how many calories you burned doing so. If you felt as if the workout was too easy or too difficult, most exercise bikes offer the option of adjusting the resistance in the pedals. It allows you to fine-tune your workout to perfection.

Strength Training Equipment

Though the goal of running isn’t always to build muscle, doing so is still important. Strong muscles, especially in the legs and hips, will allow you to run for longer, run more efficiently. It also reduces the risk of injury during your run. As such, your home gym should have some basic strength training equipment like dumbbells and resistance bands. In addition, look into some of the best exercises using this equipment to ensure you can get your money’s worth out of it. With these exercises, you’ll be able to better prepare yourself for the next run, making for a more pleasant experience overall.

Treadmill

Finally, there’s the treadmill, an absolute essential for any avid runner. Like the indoor exercise bike, it’s great for people living in extreme climates. It allows you to get a full-fledged run out of the way, all from the comfort of your own home. It’s the perfect alternative to an outdoor run for summers and winters where the weather would otherwise make doing so difficult. Because of this, we recommend that anyone looking to go running year-round owns a treadmill.

Looking for more great personal fitness tips and products? Visit us at NineFit today!

You likely already know the immense physical benefits of jogging. In addition to helping with losing weight, running boosts overall health by preventing diabetes, strengthening muscles, and improving heart health. The advantages of running doesn’t stop with physical health — exercise has a huge impact on mental wellbeing as well. In this article, we’ll break down the mental health benefits of cardio and how you can implement running into your mental fitness routine.

 

Mental Health Benefits

Running both prevents mental issues and improves state of mind. In fact, the mental benefits of exercise are backed up by years of research and study. According to the National Library of Medicine, aerobic exercise improves mood by increasing blood circulation to the brain and producing endorphins. And although exercise alone can’t cure mental illness, it’s often a critical coping skill and can ease many symptoms. Let’s dive deeper into the mental benefits of exercise. 

1. Fights Mental Illness

When you’re in the midst of mental illness, getting up and going for a run is the last thing you want to do. However, physical exercise makes a big difference in alleviating mental illness. Going on a run takes the mind off spiraling thoughts and redirects it to exercise. Common depression symptoms like lack of energy are hard to fight, but getting up and moving helps clear up brain fog and refocus. Getting out in the fresh air breaks the cycle of isolation those with depression often experience. 

Mental health exercises like jogging have even been found to improve symptoms in people with bipolar disorder. Burning off energy is critical to managing bipolar episodes, and running is a repetitive, fast-paced task anyone can do. 

2. Relieves Anxiety 

The next time you’re stressed beyond your wit’s end, try going for a brisk walk or run.  Much in the same way running helps alleviate depression symptoms by redirecting focus, it also soothes anxiety. 

Cardio for mental health also lends itself to anxiety exercises such as mindfulness. The idea behind mindfulness is being more aware in your body to decrease stress. Paying attention to the sounds and sights around you and the way your body moves are ways to practice mindfulness while running. 

3. Boosts Cognitive Abilities

Besides improving mood, running also helps mental health in other ways. Working out boosts the chemicals in the brain that support the hippocampus, the part of the brain dedicated to learning and memory. As a result, running between the ages of 25 and 45 helps slow cognitive decline as you age. 

Running preserves cognitive function in older adults, but it could also make you smarter. The act of physical exercise creates a protein in the brain that promotes brain cell growth. This leads to a mental boost after your workout, improving brain performance. 

Tips on Running for Stress Relief 

Many people struggle to commit to a running routine. Here are some tips to follow to get yourself on the right track: 

1. Start Small

Begin by running for 30 minutes a few times a week. Set small, manageable goals. You can always work towards running for longer distances more often, but it’s better to take small steps at first to avoid burnout if you’re new to running. 

2. Find a Running Buddy 

Having someone exercise with you is a great way to hold yourself accountable. It also makes you feel a little safer when running in an unfamiliar place. If you’re concerned about running by yourself for safety reasons, invite a friend along to join you on your next jog. 

3. Wear Comfortable Shoes 

Avoid wearing flats, sneakers, or other non cushioned shoes on your run. Wearing the wrong shoes could result in blisters and distract you from your exercise. Instead, opt for a pair of cushioned shoes with arch support. Athletic sneakers or running shoes usually have these features. 

4. Rest Often

Running feels good for your body and mind, but it’s important not to overdo it. By not letting your body heal, you risk overworking your body. Pay attention to your body and any signs of fatigue, extreme soreness, or exhaustion. Take time to rest and drink plenty of water. 

By exercising often, you’ll be on the right track for adopting healthier habits for your mind and body. Including running in your workout routine improves mental health and can even prevent future issues. Now that you’re familiar with the mental benefits of exercise, we hope you give running for stress relief a try. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, Ninefit has all the fitness tips, recommendations, and products you need. Visit us today and see for yourself! 

 

People are more concerned about their health than ever, with many adopting and elevating their exercise habits. Thanks to the growing popularity of gyms and workout routines, athletic gear is found in almost every large chain store. Gym leggings for women are some of the most in-demand athletic apparel items, and clothing brands have tons of options to accommodate this. Different colors, fabrics, and styles are all available at a range of prices. However, with so many to choose from, finding legging outfits is often a chore. 

Luckily, we’ve outlined a few tips to help you score the perfect pair of leggings. 

Choose the Right Fit and Feel 

When choosing a pair of leggings, it’s important they match your preferred type of exercise. The fit and feel on a pair of leggings will vary depending on the activity they’re designed for. Let’s break down a few different workouts and the type of fit they work best with: 

1. Yoga 

Skin-tight pants, also called compression pants, are a great option for yoga sessions. By gently squeezing your muscles, these leggings create a minor compression effect. This increases blood flow to your muscles, improving performance and recovery. 

2. Running

Tights or leggings will work for jogging, but they can also chafe during rapid movement. Breeze, loose gym trousers give you the space to walk, sprint, and jump. Pants that are weather resistant and moisture-wicking are even better for keeping you dry and cool during your workout. 

3. Weightlifting 

During weight lifting, we recommend wearing squat-proof leggings. They provide full coverage, allowing you to lift without worrying about your underwear or skin showing underneath the fabric. Squat-proof leggings also come with a high-rise waist for extra support during your workout. The ideal fit should have a waistband that rests on your waist without digging in or rolling down. 

Know Which Fabric Works Best for You

Just as important as having the perfect fit and feel is selecting the right fabric for your workout needs. There are many different types of material used in workout leggings, but the most common are nylon, polyester, cotton, and spandex. 

Nylon and polyester leggings are best for high-intensity workouts. Their moisture-wicking properties keeps sweat away from your skin, and they also dry fast.

If you prefer a more natural feel, cotton-blend leggings are a go-to option. They’re breathable and soft, making them perfect for low-impact exercises. Cotton leggings are often the comfiest, so they can be worn around the house or on the run, not just during exercise. However, keep in mind that they tend to lose their shape over time.

Spandex is an especially popular fabric choice in yoga pants for women. Its superior elasticity makes it great for all types of exercise. Spandex is often blended with other materials to enhance the leggings’ stretchiness and compression. Pants made with a blend of spandex are a popular choice for those needing muscle support during weight lifting. 

Prioritize Pockets

Pockets are a must for any pair of leggings. Jogging while having to hold your phone is annoying, and it impedes your running performance. Leggings with pockets seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised by how often sports leggings don’t have them! 

Choose gym leggings for women with secure, well-placed pockets. They should be able to stash your phone, keys, or cards without interfering with your movement. Pockets on the side of the legs or at the waistband are usually the most convenient options.

Identify When/Where You Work Out 

The ideal pair of leggings differs depending on the weather, time of day, and location where you work out. When you work out at home by yourself, it might not be a concern if your leggings are a bit frumpy or out of style. However, those at the gym may prefer wearing something more fashionable.

If you work out at the gym or at home, you have more flexibility with the type of leggings you pick. On the other hand, women who prefer exercising outdoors must consider the weather when choosing their workout clothes. During colder months, we recommend investing in thicker leggings for warmth. Once the warmer seasons hit, switch them out for leggings with breathable mesh panels or cut-outs to stay cool. 

Quality over Quantity 

It’s tempting to buy as many cute pairs of leggings as you come across, and it may feel nice to have a lot of options in your wardrobe. Unfortunately, there’s a big downside. By shopping recklessly, you’re often left with more low-quality leggings that won’t last or don’t fit right. After they inevitably wear out, you’ll have to buy new ones. Save yourself the hassle and adopt more mindful shopping methods for gym leggings. It’s always better to purchase a few pairs of high-quality leggings instead of 10 cheap ones. 

Shop NineFit for High-Performance Workout Leggings 

At the end of the day, the key to finding the best gym leggings for women is knowing your own needs. By considering your workout habits, preferences, and personal style, you’ll find the right pair in no time.

Whatever type of workout pants you need, NineFit has you covered. Our diverse selection of athletic apparel is optimized for comfort and ease of movement. Find everything you need to get active at NineFit today.