It makes good sense to check out fitness equipment ratings posted by consumers who have already experienced the product you are interested in purchasing. Consumers can offer valuable insights about effectiveness, service, and other product qualities you may not have even considered.

Fitness equipment ratings by users, however, may swing excessively high or low for reasons unrelated to the product itself. It helps to understand the human factors that could influence the reliability of consumer reviews and to know how to extract useful information before you buy.

The Underraters

Consumers may rate a fitness product excessively low due to:

-Anger: Users who are truly dissatisfied seek to warn others about the perils of purchasing a fitness product. Their objectivity, perhaps tainted by anger, may cause them to post excessively harsh reviews as they air frustrations.

-Limited Experience: A new, inexperienced user may underrate a quality fitness product because they have not have exercised long enough to realize a training effect.

-The Promise of Fast Fitness: Users may be disappointed if they do not see immediate results because they bought into "fast fitness" marketing claims. Even the best exercise products will not produce rapid body transformations that exceed normal human capabilities for adapting to exercise.

-Competitors: Raters who are claiming poor results or scams may not be consumers at all. They may have another motive for underrating-to promote their own products.

-The Bandwagon Effect: Fitness equipment owners are sometimes influenced by having read negative reviews and they simply jump on the bandwagon.

The Overraters

There could be a bandwagon effect on the positive side, too, of course. Other psychological and emotional factors that can cause consumers to overrate fitness products include:

-Expectation: If the ads convince consumers to buy, they expect results, especially if the product is expensive. Expectations can positively influence initial perceptions of product effectiveness.

-Motivation: When consumers buy a new product, they are usually motivated to work out. Higher levels of motivation create increased effort, which produces better results even if the fitness device contributes only marginally.

-The Learning Effect: Reviewers may enthusiastically report immediate results. However, products that require novel movements or greater skill can appear to produce short-term results. Early gains are more likely due to the effect of learning than to physiological changes from exercise.

-Visible Results: Real measurable changes can occur from exercising with effective products. The excitement of making progress toward achieving one's goals can also prompt excessively positive fitness equipment ratings.

-Affiliation: Affiliates, who may or may not have purchased a product, stand to earn a commission by posting rave reviews at multiple sites.

How to Use Consumer Ratings

1. Visit a variety of websites to access consumer reviews about the very same product you are considering.

2. As best you can, try to determine whether the website or reviewers are in some way affiliated with the product.

3. Identify raters who have exercised regularly for at least six weeks-long enough to evaluate the physical training effect, as well as the durability of the product.

4. Sort out comments that appear to be fair and objective from those that are emotionally charged.

5. Read at least 30 reviews by users who meet the criteria described in 1-4.

6. Rely more on consistencies and trends, rather than extremes and exceptions, to form your overall impression of the product according to consumers.

Consumer fitness equipment ratings are just one resource for deciding whether or not a product suits your needs. Temper your overall impression of user ratings with published reports from independent consumer groups, such as Consumer Reports and the Federal Trade Commission, before you make your purchase.

Dr. Denise K. Wood is an educator and sport and fitness training consultant from Knoxville, TN and creator of www.womens-weight-training-programs.com She has trained a wide range of clients from beginners to Olympians. Dr. Wood is a former national track and field champion with years of international experience. She has been recognized as an outstanding professor in exercise science and research/statistics.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/equipment-articles/fitness-equipment-ratings-are-consumer-reviews-reliable-805722.html

While gym memberships have slid since 2006, home gym equipment sales continue to grow. Fitness infomercials are among the most popular TV commercials used to sell home exercise equipment. Of the six most profitable infomercial products, three are related to fitness. (1, 2)

Most of us dream about enjoying amazing workout results by investing only minimal time and effort. Fitness infomercials are designed to create this fantasy, which lulls us into purchasing products that may not live up to their claims.

The Successful Infomercial Program Profile and Fitness Products

Successful infomercial programs promote products that:

*are reasonably-priced,
*are revolutionary and innovative,
*cannot be found anywhere else,
*can make life easier and better, and
*produce immediate, transformational results. (3)

In order to fit this profile, marketers of fitness products often promote the fantasy of fast fitness. While the notion of undergoing a rapid body transformation appeals to the viewer, product claims may exceed the ability of the human body to achieve such accelerated results.

Many fitness gadgets have been taken to task by consumer groups for making unsubstantiated claims. While some products have been tested and shown to be reasonable supplements to a total exercise program, others are ineffective. (4, 5)

Despite consumer complaints and negative reviews, however, sales from fitness infomercials are booming. Why? Infomercial marketing tactics intrigue and motivate us to purchase a product regardless of its quality or effectiveness.

7 Common Marketing Tactics that Sell the Fast-Fitness Fantasy

These 7 common marketing tactics used in fitness infomercials target our emotions, establish product credibility, and offer bargains we can't seem to refuse.

1. Emotions: Ads aim at the very core of our being--our sense of self and, perhaps, our vanity. They strike the chords of our emotions and play on our universal dreams, desires, and needs.

Our imaginations begin to mold our fantasies. Next, they establish credibility and trust, while easing skepticism about the ability of the product to fulfill our dreams of scupting a gorgeous body.

2. Testimonials: We listen to the stories of peers who profess amazing results from using the product and toy with the notion that, just maybe, it will work for us, too.

3. Endorsements: We tend to trust the word of celebrities, trainers, and elite athletes. If Oprah endorses a product, that pretty much seals the deal for many of us.

4. Scientific research: If a fitness device is based on a new scientific discovery or is university tested, isn't that real proof that it is effective? Not necessarily!

Each of these confidence-building strategies has its shortcomings. Results claimed by compensated models may well be due to their total weight control and exercise program, rather than due to the product itself.

Scientific studies conducted or sponsored by manufacturers are often disclosed only upon request. Even results from university research may not be accurately represented in fitness infomercials, particularly if all of the findings do not support the fast-fitness profile. (5)

Nonetheless, according to one survey, viewers are more likely to trust infomercials than Congress, used car salesmen, and corporate executives! (3)

Once they have gained some reasonable level of our confidence in the product, they attempt to close the sale by:

5. Overcoming objections and upping the ante: Marketers emphasize the uniqueness of the product and urge us to accept no substitutes. They create a sense of urgency with limited-time offers and great bargains for the shopper in us.

6. Guaranteeing no risk: If you don't get results, you will get a full refund! So, what have you got to lose?

7. Being persistent: Fitness infomercials repeat the same message frequently. Repetition, particularly late at night when our subconscious minds are more vulnerable, may well tap into the power of suggestion that prompts the buy.

Sold! Viewers will generally watch for 13 to 15 minutes before calling.

Add-On Sales For More Quick Profits

The purchase decision may be just the beginning of profits from fitness infomercials. Shipping, handling, and taxes are expected. But as a new, enthusiastic buyer, beware that you are likely to encounter a barrage of add-ons before you have completed the transaction. Pay close attention, or your credit card may automatically be charged monthly for additional products. And later, if you exercise your money- back guarantee, you may get the runaround from an automated system.

All told, you may pay the original advertised price many times over and, unfortunately, never see results. At some point you may come to realize that your fast-fitness fantasy was, from the start, the manufacturer's quick-profit, dream-come-true at the expense of consumers.

Consumer Knowledge is Power

Do not let your emotions override patience and logic. Take a step back and research the fitness infomercial product and its claims. If you can move past the impulse buy:

*Check out user reviews on the specific product of interest.
*Visit consumer-related sites before buying exercise equipment.
*Ask the opinion of a fitness professional, preferably one who has formal training and an advanced degree in exercise science.
*If you decide that the product is worth a try, be sure to read the fine print on the website.

Educate yourself by learning fundamental exercise and weight control principles so that unsubstantiated product claims will be more transparent to you. Fitness knowledge gives you the power to prevent falling for the fast-fitness fantasy before you make the purchase.

References:

1. Consumer Reports. (2009, January 6). Tip of the day: Choose a home exercise machine to fit your budget. Retrieved January 19, 2009, from http://blogs.consumerreports.org/health/2009/01/home-workout.html?resultPageIndex=1&resultIndex=1

2. The Marqui Automation Company. (2005, May 7). The all-powerful infomercial. Retrieved January 18, 2009, from http://www.marqui.com/blog/the_allpowerful.aspx

3. Infomercial Marketing. (2006, April 7). The right kind of product for an infomercial is... Retrieved January 19, 2009, from http://infomercialmarketing.wordpress.com/2006/04/

4. Federal Trade Commission. (2003, November). Avoiding the muscle hustle: Tips for buying exercise equipment. Retrieved January 18, 2009, from http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt113.shtm

5. Consumer Reports. (2009, January). Assessing exercise infomercials' claims. Retrieved January 19, 2009, from http://www.consumerreports.org/health/healthy-living/fitness/staying-fit/infomercial-exercise-2-08/how-they-tested/infomercial-exercise-equipment-how-they-test.htm

Dr. Denise K. Wood is an educator and sport and fitness training consultant from Knoxville, TN and creator of www.womens-weight-training-programs.com She has trained a wide range of clients from beginners to Olympians. Dr. Wood is a former national track and field champion with years of international experience. She has been recognized as an outstanding professor in exercise science and research/statistics.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/equipment-articles/fitness-infomercials-how-they-create-the-fastfitness-fantasy-for-quick-profits-805828.html

From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, The best value in home fitness equipment is the Nordic Track A2350 Treadmill! Built with adjustable DuraSoft cushioning and SpaceSaver technology, the A2350 fits into your exercise routine easily. The Solaris LED-lit console features 10 built-in iFit workouts, a custom workout center, fitness age center and mp3 music port. For the best value, check out Nordic Track treadmills and specials online! ... NordicTrack treadmill reviews Nordic Track A2350 Treadmill .... Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.

When you make the decision that you want to be fit, you look for various ways in which you can achieve your goal. Helpful fitness equipment will top your list as one of the most important ways to get in shape. However, if you are not familiar with helpful fitness equipment, you might find yourself stranded. This article will give you great insights into equipment for fitness that can be helpful to you. Before you look into the equipment, make sure that you are actually fit to use relevant equipment. A trainer will definitely come in handy here. Let us begin with the most popular equipment which is the treadmill.

For home and commercial gym use, treadmills have played a pivotal role in helping many individuals get into shape. Treadmills that are powered or motorized, will keep your rate of walking or jogging constant.  The belt in the treadmill is moved by motor. Treadmills that have powered incline adjustments will fit you just right. The main advantage of powered treadmills is that they keep your on your toes. They move faster than you and you have to work hard if you want to keep up. The equipment come with many dynamic features and you will find treadmills that you can actually fold. However, if you have enough room for storage, you can get non folding treadmills. Other equipment that will be helpful to you are the cross trainers. They are also called elliptical trainers and, as you use them, your feet will not move. In other words, they are low impact machines. They come with dynamic features including digital displays. They are without a doubt more quiet and yet fully sophisticated.

Another fitness equipment that will have your seat slide on rails are the rowing machines. With this equipment, you can use your whole body in a single motion. This is the greatest advantage that rowing machines come with. There are mainly 3 kinds of rowing machines which include the following. Air rowing machines, magnetic rowing machines and water machines for rowing. If you prefer to work out indoors, the best machine to get is the water rowing machine. Other equipment that will help you build up muscle in your legs are the exercise bikes. They are commonly referred to as exercise cycles. Bikes that are manual have a variable resistance and, they will help you work the legs pretty well. There are bikes which can be used to work your upper body too. Bikes are designed to go easy on your back and, it is up to you to choose the bike that suits you right.

Another kind of fitness equipment are boxing equipment. They will consist of boxing boots, bags, glooves and other standing equipment. If you are interested in throwing some kicks, they will be perfect for you. They will do wonders to your body. You can get equipment for fitness from various places or stores. One popular store is Fitness Superstore. It offers an amazing range of equipment which will help you make the fitness change. With the above information, there is no doubt that you are going places in regard to fitness.

The author has been working to compile numerous relevant articles on all information that affect you. Her extensive experience in research will make your process of information search on anything worthwhile and interesting. Visit her site for more.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/equipment-articles/helpful-fitness-equipment-for-you-769998.html

From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, treadmills-ellipticals-homefitness.com Reviews of the top home fitness equipment so you can compare brands and models and purchase at factory direct prices.. Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.

From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, homefitnessgym.org - Discover what equipment you need for your home fitness gym. User reviews, videos and more.. Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.

From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, horizonevolvesgcompacttreadmill8.tumblr.com Horizon Evolve Treadmill - Visit above link to find Treadmill In-Depth Reviews!. Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.

Exercise balls,being a highly versatile piece of exercise equipment provides plenty of ways to help improve your strength, balance, flexibly and co-ordination. Compared to working on a flat surface, your body needs to respond to the instability of the ball to remain balanced and by doing so, many body muscles will be engaged. These muscles will become stronger over time in order to keep the balance. Most frequently, the abdominal muscles and the back muscles will be developed the most in the process of keeping your balance.

In this article, I will highlight the 3 GREAT ABS exercise that can be executed with the exercise ball and they are as follows

1) Exercise ball ab crunches
2) Stability ball hip flexion (knee tucks)
3) Stability Ball Plank Holds

Great abs exercise 1 - Exercise ball ab crunches

Stabilize your body on a stability ball by finding your balance point for performing a crunch movement (your lower back will be on the top of the ball). Then simply crunch your upper body up while keeping your fingers on the sides of your head, chin up, and feet planted flat on the floor. Try to hold the top of the crunch for 2 seconds while forcefully exhaling and holding a tight contraction of the abdominal muscles. To make this exercise more challenging, you can move your arms straight out behind your head. For more advanced trainers, you can hold a medicine ball or weight out behind your head while completing the crunch . The addition of medicine ball in the exercise will add more resistance to the exercise making it more effective.

Recommended reps : 1 set x 10

Great abs exercise 2 - Stability ball hip flexion (knee tucks)

Start with your arms in a push-up position and your shins balancing on the top of a stability ball. Tuck your knees in under your body as you roll the ball closer to your hands and elevate your rear. Your back will come up in a hunched position and your abs will contract if done properly.

Recommended reps : 1 set x 12

Great abs exercise 3 - Stability Ball Plank Holds

Stability ball plank holds are similar to floor planks, but the instability aspect of the ball will make this exercise much more challenging to your abs and core than standard floor planks. To do stability ball planks holds, position yourself on your toes and with your forearms on the top of a stability ball. Be careful if you've never tried this before as it takes quite a bit of balance. Hold the plank position on the stability ball while you make slight 1-inch movements back and forth in every direction with your elbows to make this even more challenging. Try to hold this for 60-90 seconds. Super-studs can try for over 90 seconds hold time on this one.

Recommended reps : 1 set x 30-60 seconds

Now that you have learnt how to use the exercise ball effectively,be sure not to miss using this excellent tool the next time you hit the gym !

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From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, All the elliptical reviews will tell you this- we are a leading manufacturer in elliptical training equipment. Watch this video to see the features of our SpaceSaver model- a compact, versatile and affordable machine thats perfect for any home gym. With 10 built-in workout programs, adjustable stride lengths and a bright LED screen, you can own it for as little as 29.99 a month!. Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.

From discount exercise equipment to used exercise equipment, it'll be covered right here. In today's video, Are you looking for Nordic Track treadmill reviews? Hear the opinions of Nordic Track Fitness Equipment owners in this video! For top rating exercise equipment, our ellipticals, treadmills and steppers make the grade. Make your workout effective and fun- read NordicTrack treadmill reviews and learn more in this video!. Subscribe to our RSS feed and bookmark us to stay updated on the latest reviews of home exercise equipment.