Have you ever found yourself in a crowded fitness center, with people all trying to get on the same machine at the same time? Frustrating, isn’t it? It’s tough when you want to get your workout in and can’t get on the equipment you want. With that in mind, here are some easy trades you can make in the fitness center to complete your workout without them, if needed.
1. Squat Press
See the machine at the top? It’s a squat press, and we have 2 types in the center at Elite. Both could be in use, or maybe you’re not familiar with the one that’s open. No problem! Choose a wall squat with a ball, instead!
2. Rowing Machine
This one gets pretty popular…the switch? Try this:
The fitness center has a ton of resistance bands – try the band row instead. Be sure to attach it to something sturdy!
3. Chest Press Machine
A possible trade? As long as you have a band, try the band chest press:
via Women’s Health Magazine
4. The Lat Pull-Down Machine
The lat pull-down is another classic. I prefer to work on the traditional version myself, but we do have two: one traditional pulley pull-down, like this, and one in the main line of equipment. Both could be in use these days.
There are actually lots of options for this one, but I like the free weight pullover!
5. The Ab Crunch Machine
There is only one, and I know that folks that like it will stay on it for a bit and finish up, meaning you are left waiting…
Get adventurous…try some new ab exercises! Try sprinkling in something with a bit more juice, like this one:
Reach for the feet with a medicine ball (weighted from 4#-15#, you choose).
Now you can finish your workout in an efficient manner! If you need help with any of these exercises, come see me!
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Written by Melissa Abramovich, ACE CPT, NASM CGT, AAHFRP Medical Exercise Specialist at Elite Sports Club-River Glen
Melissa Abramovich went into Personal Training and Group Exercise instruction after successfully losing 140 pounds through healthy diet and exercise. Her desire to help others drove her forward into a career helping others to make healthier choices. She is an ACE certified personal trainer and now also a Medical Exercise Specialist (AAHFRP), helping clients with a myriad of health issues at Elite Sports Clubs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree, and many group exercise related certifications as well.