Exercise machine
Device for physical exercise
An exercise machine is any machine used for physical exercise. These range from simple spring-like devices to computerized electromechanical devices to recirculating-stream swimming pools. Most exercise machines incorporate an ergometer. An ergometer is an apparatus for measuring the work a person exerts while exercising as used in training or cardiac stress tests or other medical tests.
01Resistance machines
Weight machines
Weight machines use gravity as the primary source of resistance, and a combination of simple machines to convey that resistance, to the person using the machine. Each of the simple machines (pulley, lever, wheel, incline) changes the mechanical advantage of the overall machine relative to the weight.
Other kinds of resistance machines
- Friction machines
- Spring-loaded machines (such as BowFlex)
- Resistance band
- Pneumatic exercise equipment
- Hydraulic exercise equipment
- Whole body vibration
- Fan-loaded machines
- Bullworker
- Outdoor gym
- Treadmill
02Endless-path machines
Stationary bicycles
Running/walking machines
Elliptical machines
Ellipticals (elliptical machines) are a combination of stair-climbing and a treadmill. Generally it contains two tracks upon which the user stands. Users describe an elliptical motion (hence the machine name) while walking or jogging. Some ellipticals have magnetic resistance controls that add difficulty to doing the motion.
Glider machines
This machine allows the user to stand on two separate foot pedals and use their own muscles to create the movement. The stabilized movement can be likened to that of a "swing set" for each leg.
Climbing machines
Also named stair-climbing machines, they work the user's legs as they pump pedals up and down, much like climbing stairs. Some climbing machines have handles to push and pull to exercise the whole body.
Rowing machines
Rowing machines, also named rowers, simulate the body movements of using a rowing boat.
Sources and credits
This article is adapted from the Wikipedia article “Exercise machine”, written by its contributors and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fathomly has changed the layout, removed citation markers, navigation and maintenance notices, and adjusted punctuation. This adapted version is shared under the same license. For references, see the original article.
Images, from Wikimedia Commons:
- Stride-q210c.jpg by Vitabc, Public domain
- Gymnasticon.png by J. Walker, engraver, based on specifications by Francis Lowndes, Public domain
Fathomly is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Wikimedia Foundation. Spotted a problem? Tell us.
