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How to Be a Smart Fitness Consumer
By the President and Fellows of Harvard College
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Before you invest in any piece of equipment, remember that all you really need
to get started is a pair of comfortable walking shoes and some willpower. If you
do decide to buy exercise equipment, consider your exercise goals first. Other
considerations include your budget and the amount of space available for using
and storing the equipment. When you think you're ready to buy, follow these
guidelines:

* Keep what you like to do in mind. If you hate taking the stairs, a
stair-stepper isn't going to change your habits. A treadmill might be a better
option.
* Because many types of equipment require a sizable outlay of money, look
for the one that offers the most complete workout. If you're setting up a home
gym, a good strategy is to devote the bulk of your budget to a good quality
cardiovascular machine. Supplement that with less expensive strength training
pieces, such as dumbbells and resistance bands.
* Measure the space where you plan to install the machine and carry the
dimensions with you when you shop. Stair steppers, for example, are quite tall.
* Bring a healthy skepticism about performance claims with you when you
consider equipment. For example, most aerobic equipment will burn 400–600
calories an hour, not the more than 1,300 calories that some manufacturers
claim. And no device is going to produce "perfect abs" in just three minutes a
day.
* Keep in mind that it's impossible to burn fat from just one part of the
body. Don't be swayed by emphatic testimonials or dramatic before-and-after
pictures.
* Take a test drive before you buy. This means spending some real time
working out on the machine in proper exercise clothes and shoes. Don't make your
decision on the basis of a few seconds of use while still in your street
clothes. Also, reputable dealers will often allow you to try out the machine for
30 days and return it for a full refund if you're not satisfied.
* Look for well-built equipment. A sturdy frame, smooth running parts,
sufficient horsepower (if motorized), and a comfortable feel are all key
elements. Also, ask the dealer about warranties, return policies, repair
records, and service costs.
* Make sure you understand the full cost of the equipment. Read the fine
print to see if items such as shipping and handling, sales tax, and set-up fees
are included.
* Look for features that you'll really use. Fancy add-ons such as
computer-programmed displays are nice to have, but they can inflate the bottom
line. However, you may feel some extras are worthwhile — for instance, if
knowing how many calories you're burning will act as a motivator or if features
such as a reading rack, water bottle holder, or seat and tension adjusters will
make your workout more appealing.
* Learn how to use your equipment properly. From stair machines to stability
balls, exercise equipment can be dangerous if used incorrectly. It's a good idea
to consult a qualified fitness professional to learn how to use any new
equipment you purchase. Many dealers offer a complimentary training session when
you buy a large piece of equipment.
* Be careful when buying large equipment secondhand. It is cheaper, but
warranties aren't likely to apply, and usually you cannot return the equipment.
If you buy from a gym, the equipment is more likely to be heavy-duty. However,
it's also more likely to have seen heavy use.

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From the Harvard Health Publications Special Health Report, Exercise: A Program
You Can Live With. Copyright 2007 by the President and Fellows of Harvard
College. Illustrations by Harriet Greenfield and Michael Linkinhoker. All rights
reserved. Written permission is required to reproduce, in any manner, in whole
or in part, the material contained herein. To make a reprint request, contact
Harvard Health Publications. Used with permission of StayWell.