Exercise machine facts for kids
An exercise machine is a special machine people use to get physical exercise. These machines can be simple, like ones with springs, or very advanced, like computer-controlled ones. Some even include special pools that create a current to swim against!
Many exercise machines have something called an ergometer. This is a tool that measures how much work or effort a person puts in while exercising. It helps trainers and doctors see how well someone is doing, especially during cardiac stress tests (medical checks for the heart).
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Machines That Use Resistance
These machines make your muscles work harder by pushing or pulling against something.
Weight Machines
Weight machines use gravity to create resistance. They have weights that you lift or push. These machines also use simple machines like pulleys, levers, and wheels. These parts help change how much effort you need to use to move the weights. This makes the exercise easier or harder depending on how the machine is set up.
Other Types of Resistance Machines
There are many other ways exercise machines create resistance:
- Friction machines: These use rubbing to make it harder to move.
- Spring-loaded machines: Like the Bowflex, these use springs that push back when you try to move them.
- Fan-loaded machines: These use air resistance from a fan. The faster you go, the more resistance you feel.
- Fluid-loaded machines: These use liquids (like water or oil) to create resistance.
- Hydraulic equipment: These machines use liquid pressure to make movements harder.
- Whole body vibration: These machines vibrate your whole body, which can help your muscles work.
- Outdoor gym: These are exercise machines found outside in parks, often using your body weight for resistance.
- Pneumatic exercise equipment: These use air pressure to create resistance.
- Treadmill: While often thought of for running, some treadmills can also offer resistance for walking or climbing.
Machines with Endless Paths
These machines let you move in a continuous way, like running on the spot or cycling.
Stationary Bicycles
- Exercise bicycle: This machine lets you cycle indoors without going anywhere. It's great for building leg strength and improving your heart health.
Running and Walking Machines
- Treadmill: This machine has a moving belt that you can walk, jog, or run on. It's like running on a path that never ends!
- Elliptical trainer: This machine lets you move your legs in a smooth, oval (elliptical) shape. It's a mix between walking and stair climbing.
Elliptical Machines
Elliptical machines combine movements from stair-climbing and treadmills. You stand on two foot pedals that move in an oval shape, which is why they are called "elliptical." You can walk or jog on them. Some ellipticals have magnetic controls that make it harder to move, giving you a tougher workout.
Glider Machines
On a glider machine, you stand on two separate foot pedals. You use your own muscles to create the movement. It feels a bit like swinging each leg back and forth, but in a controlled way.
Climbing Machines
Also called stair-climbing machines, these work your leg muscles as you push pedals up and down, just like climbing stairs. Some climbing machines also have handles that you push and pull. This helps you exercise your whole body, not just your legs.
Rowing Machines
Rowing machines, also known as rowers, let you practice the movements of rowing a boat. They work many different muscles in your arms, legs, and core.
See also
- Chin-up bar
- Exercise equipment
- Sports medicine
- Rehabilitation
