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As a yoga teacher, I am often asked if yoga is a complete workout in itself or whether it needs to be supplemented by a cardiovascular or strength-training workout.  Yoga Journal recently did an article on the fitness levels of several yoga practitioners as measured by various physical indicators, and the yoga practitioners did very well.  However, these practitioners were doing a relatively advanced and lengthy practice on a regular basis.  Those of us who are new to yoga or who don't practice at a certain intensity and frequency would do well to add walking or basic weight training to their programs in order to boost their overall fitness in a minimum amount of time.

The practice of the poses or asanas of yoga are said to be 5,000 years old-- walking and running are probably the only forms of exercise older than yoga.  Unlike aerobics, the Thighmaster, Spinning, and elliptical trainers, both yoga and walking have proven their physical, mental and spiritual benefits to man over the millenia.  If you are like me, you may enjoy walking outdoors, but constraints of time and weather (especially in Illinois where I live!) often make it less than pleasurable.  That is where a treadmill comes in very handy.  

Why do you not find treadmills sold on infomercials? Because it is not a high margin, hyped up exercise equipment. The majority of the infomercial equipment is designed for one purpose, to make as much money as soon as possible before the general public figures out they don't work. Have you ever seen any infomercial equipment at a health club? No, because they don't work and they're not built to last. What you will see is a number of treadmill, often with people waiting their turn to use them.  

The treadmill is unsurpassed for a cardiovascular workout. It works the large muscles in your body. According to a study done by the Medical College of Wisconsin and the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, calories burned on the treadmill for 60 minutes averaged 865 - 705. This is one of numerous studies, including one by the American Medical Association, that rank a treadmill as the number one cardiovascular machine. There are several other important factors that make treadmill exercising so practical.

Either Run or WalkA

The two most popular forms of exercising are running and walking. Whether you are a casual walker or a serious runner, a treadmill can accommodate your exercise needs. Set the speed and incline to suite your desired cardiovascular goals. You can do a power walk up an incline or a heart pumping run at high speed.

Avoid Bad WeatherA

A treadmill can guarantee a consistent workout in all seasons. If you live in a cold climate, freezing temperatures and snow will not disrupt your workout. For those in warm temperate regions, you don't need to be concerned about heat exhaustion in hot and humid weather.

Low ImpactA

For walkers and runners alike, injuries are common from the constant pounding of joints on asphalt and concrete. Particularly higher end treadmills offer surfaces that absorb impact and reduce pressure. Injuries are less common and stress is reduced on those critical joints. Achilles tendons, knee joints, back muscles, ankles, thighs take less of a beating, which guarantee that you'll continue to walk or run into your old age.  Many people begin yoga because they have damaged their joints running or because they are beginning to get arthritis and a program of yoga and walking is ideal to keep the health of the joints maximized.

VersatilityA

As treadmills become more sophisticated so does the versatility of the workout. Speed and incline have always been a feature on motorized treadmills, but now your workout is enhanced by a variety of preprogrammed computerized exercises. Simulate running up and down hills, focus on cardio exercise, concentrate on burning calories, or work on speed training. Often treadmills have preset programs with various levels of intensity. In addition you can program your own workout, combining speed with incline.

Choosing a TreadmillA

Treadmills come in all shapes and sizes, including folding and stationary models. It is important to find just that right model that accommodates your present and future exercise goals. You can research on the Internet through articles and reviews. Don't be lured by the blue light specials found in large retail and sporting goods stores. They lack the components and functionality to provide an enduring and pleasurable exercise experience. If you are in it for the long run you'll want to buy a treadmill that is build to last and designed to be virtually maintenance free.

Several years ago I purchased a Smooth treadmill over the internet, and I have been exceptionally pleased with this purchase.  The company (Keys) that manufactures this treadmill is very reputable and their products are highly rated.

Of course buying a treadmill is just the beginning. You won't lose weight looking at it. It is important to get yourself on a regular routine. The more time you spend on it, the more calories you burn and the more weight you lose. Find a fitness program that works for you. Depending on your preference, combine your workout with music, television or videos.

Now you can purchase a quality treadmill Factory Direct online and have it delivered to your home.