Comparisons

Shopping for gym equipment means wading through dozens of brands, each claiming to offer the best combination of quality and price. Two names that consistently come up are French Fitness and Titan Fitness, but these two take very different approaches to getting equipment into your gym. French Fitness assembles commercial-grade gym equipment in California, emphasising craftsmanship and durability. Titan Fitness keeps prices low by importing equipment and offering one of the industry's broadest product catalog. Both strategies work, but they work for different people. With that in mind, we’ve put together a Titan vs French Fitness review to help you decide which makes the most sense for your needs. French Fitness vs. Titan Fitness – Key Differences at a Glance Quality and Construction: Where Your Equipment Comes From Matters Design and Engineering: Depth vs. Breadth Warranty and Support: The Real Cost of Ownership Pricing and Long-Term Costs: The Math You Need to Do Which Brand is Right for Your Gym? French Fitness vs. Titan Fitness – Key Differences at a Glance Choosing between French Fitness and Titan Fitness? Here’s the quick breakdown that shows exactly which brand delivers more value for your home or commercial gym: Feature French Fitness Titan Fitness Manufacturing Assembled in Benicia, California Primarily imported from China with some USA-made items Quality Control 7-step inspection process in California Standard factory QC at point of manufacture Primary Materials Commercial-grade steel comparable to premium brands High-grade materials with focus on affordability Core Focus Quality craftsmanship and long-term durability Aggressive pricing and broad accessibility Frame Warranty Lifetime 1 Year Parts Warranty 10 Years 1 Year Labor Warranty 1 Year Not explicitly included Price Range Mid-range pricing Budget-friendly pricing Quality and Construction: Where Your Equipment Comes From Matters The origin of your gym equipment isn’t just a detail. It’s the difference between years of reliable performance and constant repairs: French Fitness: Assembled and Inspected in California Every French Fitness machine is assembled in Benicia, CA, where it goes through a 7-step quality control process before it ships. This isn't a quick once-over. Technicians check the frame, test the motion, inspect the cosmetics, and ensure everything works as it should. It's the kind of attention you'd expect from a company whose founder spent years taking apart and rebuilding equipment from brands like Cybex and Life Fitness. That background matters. When you've spent two decades fixing other people's machines, you learn exactly where they fail and why. French Fitness uses that knowledge to build equipment with commercial-grade steel and the exact specifications you'd find in premium brands, just without the premium price tag. The result is equipment that feels solid the moment you use it. Titan Fitness: Volume and Variety at Low Prices Titan Fitness keeps costs down by importing most of its equipment, enabling it to offer an enormous catalog at hard-to-beat prices. If you're trying to outfit a home gym on a tight budget, this approach makes a lot of sense. They do manufacture some items in the USA, but the majority of their products are made in overseas factories. The trade-off is straightforward: you get functional equipment that does the job, but you're not getting the same level of hands-on quality control as gym equipment assembled in California. Titan's equipment is built with high-grade materials and designed for regular use. That said, the inspection process happens at the factory level rather than unit-by-unit in the United States. What This Means for You If you care about where your equipment is made and want peace of mind knowing experienced technicians have inspected every unit, French Fitness is your best choice. If your main concern when comparing commercial gym equipment is getting equipment quickly at the lowest possible price, Titan's import model is designed for exactly that. Design and Engineering: Depth vs. Breadth When it comes to gym equipment, doing more isn’t the same as doing it better. Actual performance comes from deeper design, not a more expansive catalog: French Fitness: Built by People Who Fix Equipment for a Living There's something to be said for learning by doing. French Fitness grew out of Fitness Superstore, a business that specialized in remanufacturing and servicing high-end gym equipment. That means the people designing French Fitness machines have spent years working on equipment from the world's best brands. That meant learning what breaks, what lasts, and what makes a machine feel right. This expertise shows up in the details. French Fitness equipment is built to be durable and safe over the long term, not just functional out of the box. They also offer customisation options, such as custom color and logo placement, which are rare in high-end commercial equipment. If you're outfitting a facility and want your equipment to match your branding, that's a significant advantage. Titan Fitness: Something for Everyone Titan's strength is variety. They offer an extensive catalog that covers almost every piece of equipment you might need. Their catalog is organized into tiered product lines (T-2, T-3, X-3, and TITAN) that let you choose based on your budget and feature requirements. This makes it easy to start with a basic setup and upgrade over time as your needs change. The downside is that with such an extensive catalog, maintaining consistency can be more difficult. Some products are excellent for the price, while others may have quality control issues. This can be a common challenge for brands that rely on high-volume imports. What This Means for You French Fitness offers a more focused selection built on deep industry knowledge, which appeals to people who want equipment designed to last. Titan offers more options across a wider price range, which is helpful if you need flexibility or want to mix and match based on your budget. Warranty and Support: The Real Cost of Ownership A great deal isn’t great if the support disappears when you need it. The warranty behind the equipment shapes your long-term costs: French Fitness: A Decade of Protection Any worthwhile comparison of commercial gym equipment has to take warranties into account. French Fitness backs their commercial gym equipment with a lifetime warranty on the frame, 10 years on parts, and 1 year on labor. That's one of the best warranties in the industry, and it reflects how the equipment is built. The warranty covers mechanical and electrical issues, labor costs, on-site technician services, and complete parts replacement. This coverage matters more than you might think. A power rack or functional trainer isn't a small purchase, and knowing that it's protected for a decade gives you absolute peace of mind. French Fitness also offers weekend customer support and direct CEO involvement in resolving issues, unusual for a company of their size. Titan Fitness: One Year and You're On Your Own Titan offers a 1-year warranty on all products, covering manufacturing defects. That's standard for budget-focused brands, but it's worth understanding what it means. If something breaks after the first year, you're responsible for repairs or replacement. The warranty also requires that claims be submitted within 90 days of a reported failure, which can be a tight window if you overlook an issue right away. For equipment that costs a few hundred dollars, a one-year warranty might be acceptable. For larger, more expensive pieces, it's a risk you need to consider. What This Means for You The warranty difference is enormous. French Fitness protects your investment for up to a decade, helping you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repairs and replacements. Titan's one-year coverage is fine for inexpensive items, but for major equipment, it leaves you exposed after the first year. Pricing and Long-Term Costs: The Math You Need to Do If you’re only comparing price tags, you’re missing the math that actually matters. Long-term cost is where good decisions pay off. French Fitness: Pay More Now, Save Later French Fitness sits in the mid-range price category. You'll pay more upfront than you would for Titan, but less than you'd pay for premium brands like Precor or Life Fitness. The key is to think about the cost of ownership per year. If a French Fitness power rack costs $1,500 and lasts 15 years with minimal repairs (thanks to that 10-year parts warranty), you're paying $100 per year. If a $700 Titan rack needs to be replaced after 5 years, you're paying $140 per year, and that's assuming no repair costs. This isn't just hypothetical. Equipment that's built better and backed by a strong warranty simply lasts longer and costs less to maintain. Titan Fitness: Low Entry Point, Higher Risk Titan's appeal is simple: you can build a functional home gym for significantly less money up front. Free shipping on all orders sweetens the deal even more. If you're starting on a tight budget or are not sure how committed you are to your fitness routine, this makes sense. The trade-off is that you're accepting more risk. The equipment may not last as long, and once the warranty expires, you're on your own. For some people, that's a perfectly acceptable trade-off. For others, it's not. What This Means for You Run the numbers based on your situation. If you're building a commercial gym or a serious home setup that you'll use for years, French Fitness is likely the more intelligent financial decision over time. If you need to keep upfront costs low and are willing to replace equipment later, Titan gets you started faster. Which Brand is Right for Your Gym? Titan Fitness makes sense if: You need to outfit a gym on a strict budget and can't afford mid-range pricing right now. You're comfortable accepting some risk in exchange for lower upfront costs. You may be new to fitness and want to start with affordable equipment before committing to higher-end gear. French Fitness makes sense if: You want equipment that's built to last, backed by a warranty that actually protects you, and assembled in California by people who know what they're doing. You're thinking about the next 10-15 years, not just the following year. You value quality and are willing to pay a bit more upfront to avoid headaches later. Explore how French Fitness equipment is engineered for durability and value — Shop French Fitness Equipment. Titan Fitness® is a registered trademark of Titan Distributors, Inc. French Fitness is not affiliated with or endorsed by Titan Fitness or any other mentioned brands. Product data used for comparison is based on publicly available information as of November 2025.

Powerlifting and Strongman training both celebrate raw strength, but they do it in very different ways. Powerlifters focus on mastering three lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift, chasing absolute precision and measurable progress. Strongman athletes, on the other hand, thrive on variety, pushing their limits through unconventional challenges like atlas stones, logs, and yokes. Whether your goal is to increase your one-rep max or build total-body power that performs in real life, you need commercial-grade powerlifting equipment and strongman training gear that’s built to last. At Fitnes Superstore, we supply power racks, bars, and functional trainers designed to fuel serious strength athletes in both worlds, at prices that make sense. Both athletes chase power, but how they build it couldn’t be more different. Let’s break down what truly separates Powerlifting from Strongman. 1) Powerlifting Has Specific Strength Goals 2) Strongman Prioritizes Versatility and Functional Power 3) Powerlifting Relies on Static Strength 4) Strongman Combines Strength with Endurance and Speed 5) Powerlifting Uses Standardized Equipment 6) Strongman Training Uses Unconventional Implements 7) Powerlifting Focuses on Precision and Form 8) Strongman Encourages Adaptability 9) Progressive Overload Works Differently 10) Powerlifting Competitions Focus on Three Core Events 11) Strongman Competitions Feature a Wide Variety of Events 12) Coaching and Recovery Differ Between the Two Recommended Equipment Comparison Chart Which Should You Choose? FAQs 1. Powerlifting Has Specific Strength Goals Powerlifting revolves around three key lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Every rep is about generating maximum power in a single controlled movement. The goal is simple yet demanding: lift as much weight as possible for one repetition while maintaining perfect form. This structure provides athletes with measurable progress and clear benchmarks to pursue. Powerlifters thrive on precision and consistency, refining their technique to squeeze every ounce of power from each lift. For anyone who values structure, accountability,  and long-term progression, powerlifting provides a clear path toward disciplined strength. 2. Strongman Prioritizes Versatility and Functional Power Strongman is built on the principle of adaptability. Rather than focusing on three standardized lifts, Strongman athletes prepare for unpredictable, full-body challenges that mimic real-world movement. They lift, carry, drag, and press objects of all shapes and sizes, from stones and logs to kegs and yokes. This training develops functional strength that goes beyond the gym, improving grip, endurance, and overall athleticism. Each event demands strength under fatigue, quick problem-solving, and mental toughness. Strongman competitors must be prepared for anything, making this sport ideal for lifters who enjoy variety and thrive in ever-changing environments. For gym owners or athletes seeking the same versatility, the French Fitness FFB Black Dual Adjustable Pulley (New) delivers full-body strength training with unlimited movement options. 3. Powerlifting Relies on Static Strength In powerlifting, strength is measured in static positions. The barbell doesn’t move across distances or through unpredictable ranges; the athlete moves it vertically, under strict control. Static strength enables lifters to channel all their energy into a single explosive moment. Each movement is slow, deliberate, and precise, emphasizing power production from a solid base. This type of training conditions the body to recruit as many muscle fibers as possible and to develop superior neuromuscular control. Static strength not only builds a powerful frame but also reinforces joint and tendon stability. It’s an approach rooted in patience, precision, and technique, perfect for athletes who love measurable progress and the pursuit of personal bests. 4. Strongman Combines Strength with Endurance and Speed Strongman training bridges the gap between strength and conditioning. Athletes not only lift heavy weights but also carry them over distances, flip massive tires, or push vehicles under time pressure. This blend of endurance and strength creates total-body athleticism. Success depends on moving heavy loads efficiently and quickly, a test of both muscle and heart. Unlike powerlifting, where rest between sets is long, Strongman training often uses circuits or timed intervals that challenge cardiovascular capacity. The combination of speed and stamina ensures that athletes develop explosive power that can be maintained under fatigue. It’s a sport that rewards those who can stay strong when others tire out. 5. Powerlifting Uses Standardized Equipment Powerlifting’s appeal lies in its consistency. Every competition uses the same barbell, plates, bench, and squat rack, allowing athletes to train and compete under identical conditions. This standardization ensures that progress is measurable and fair.  In training, lifters rely on quality commercial-grade equipment that mirrors competition setups, stable benches, rigid racks, and calibrated plates. The focus on uniformity helps athletes perfect their technique with precision and safety. Train like a pro with commercial-grade Power Racks and adjustable benches that replicate competition conditions. Consistency builds confidence, and confidence builds results. 6. Strongman Training Uses Unconventional Implements Strongman athletes rarely train with just a barbell. They lift stones, carry sandbags, press logs, drag sleds, and flip tires. These unpredictable objects require more than brute force; they test grip, leverage, and balance. You can replicate this style at home or in your gym with Functional Trainers, sleds, and grip accessories that target total-body power safely. Strongman training builds usable strength that transfers to everyday movement and real-world tasks. At Fitness Superstore, we recommend versatile tools like the French Fitness FSR90 Functional Trainer Smith & Squat Rack Machine (New) and sleds for those who want to safely replicate Strongman-style exercises at home or in a commercial gym. 7. Powerlifting Focuses on Precision and Form Perfecting technique is the foundation of powerlifting success. From the angle of your feet to the bar path, every detail affects performance and safety. Lifters spend years refining form to maximize leverage and reduce injury risk. Training cycles are often divided into phases, volume work, intensity blocks, and peaking periods, to reinforce both strength and form. The mental focus required makes powerlifting as much a discipline of patience as of power. Mastering proper alignment and breathing patterns allows lifters to perform consistently and confidently. Precision ensures longevity in the sport and steady progress toward personal records. 8. Strongman Encourages Adaptability Strongman athletes must constantly adapt to new events, equipment, and challenges. One competition might include a truck pull, while the next features a keg toss. Because of this variability, Strongman training builds problem-solving skills and resilience. Athletes must quickly assess how to grip, lift, or move an object they’ve never encountered before. This adaptability extends to mental toughness; every session demands perseverance under pressure. It’s what makes Strongman training unpredictable, exciting, and deeply rewarding. For athletes who dislike repetitive routines, this format delivers constant challenges and opportunities to grow stronger across multiple dimensions of performance. 9. Progressive Overload Works Differently In powerlifting, training follows a linear progression, gradually adding weight to the bar in a predictable structure. This systematic overload helps lifters build strength steadily and prevent plateaus. Strongman training, however, takes a more flexible approach. Athletes might increase distance, reps, or time under load rather than just weight. This nonlinear style simultaneously develops multiple attributes, such as strength, endurance, and coordination. Both methods rely on progressive overload, but Strongman demands creativity, while powerlifting thrives on precision. Each approach can complement the other; many lifters combine them to achieve both controlled power and functional strength in their overall training programs. 10. Powerlifting Competitions Focus on Three Core Events Powerlifting meets are simple in structure but intense in execution. Every athlete performs three lifts —the squat, bench press, and deadlift —each with three attempts. The heaviest successful lift in each category is combined for a total score. Competitions emphasize discipline, technique, and composure under pressure. Because rules are standardized, success comes down to preparation and precision. Every detail, from warm-ups to rest timing, affects the outcome. For athletes who enjoy structure, clear rules, and direct competition with measurable results, powerlifting offers a fair and focused platform to showcase pure strength. 11. Strongman Competitions Feature a Wide Variety of Events Strongman contests are unpredictable and dynamic. Events change from one competition to another, testing not only strength but also versatility. Athletes might press logs overhead, carry farmers’ handles, or load atlas stones onto platforms. Some events test endurance, while others reward explosive power. The variety keeps both athletes and audiences engaged, as no two contests are identical. This unpredictability makes Strongman one of the most entertaining strength sports in the world. Train for this diversity with French Fitness All-in-One Trainers that let you safely replicate strongman-style compound movements. 12. Coaching and Recovery Differ Between the Two Powerlifters often train under structured coaching programs designed around volume, intensity, and recovery. Every rep is tracked, and deload weeks are scheduled to maintain progress. Strongman athletes, however, must tailor recovery around highly varied workloads. They rely heavily on mobility work, soft tissue therapy, and active recovery days. Coaching in Strongman emphasizes versatility, and programming includes heavy lifts, conditioning, and skill work for multiple event types. Both athletes value rest as much as training, since recovery is where strength truly builds. Choosing the right balance between effort and recovery defines long-term success in either sport. Recommended Equipment for Powerlifters and Strongman Athletes Whether you’re chasing powerlifting records or training for Strongman events, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Here’s what every serious strength athlete should have in their setup: Power Racks & Cages: Heavy-duty frames for squats, presses, and pulls, offering safety, stability, and adjustability for progressive strength training. Weight Benches: Durable adjustable benches for flat, incline, and decline presses. Ideal for powerlifting and accessory strength work.. Functional Trainers: Versatile cable systems for dynamic strength, stability, and conditioning. Great for Strongman accessory training.. Plates & Bars:  Precision-calibrated plates and balanced barbells built for accuracy, safety, and consistent heavy lifting performance. Powerlifting vs. Strongman: The Complete Comparison Beyond the Barbell While both sports demand incredible strength, the way that powerlifters and Strongman athletes train, compete, and measure success couldn’t be more different: Category Powerlifting Strongman Primary Objective Achieve the highest possible one-rep max in squat, bench, and deadlift Display total-body power, speed, and endurance across varied events Skill Development Focused on perfecting limited lifts with precision and control Builds adaptability, coordination, and real-world strength Event Scoring Based on total combined lift weight (Wilks or DOTS formula) Scored by time, distance, reps, or total load across multiple events Judging Criteria Strict form enforcement and standardized depth/range of motion Looser technical judging, emphasizing completion and speed Injury Risk Profile Lower risk due to controlled movement patterns Higher due to unpredictable events and fatigue-based activities Training Frequency Typically 3–4 structured sessions per week Often 4–6 varied sessions mixing strength and conditioning Mental Approach Precision, patience, and long-term progression Resilience, problem-solving, and grit under chaos Nutrition Focus Emphasis on maintaining power-to-weight ratio and recovery Prioritizes calorie surplus for mass, hydration, and endurance fuel Equipment Cost Relatively affordable: rack, bench, barbell, and plates Higher, includes specialty gear such as logs, yokes, stones, sleds, and harnesses Community Culture Technical and data-driven; individual performance emphasis Tight-knit and supportive; community-driven and event-based Body Composition Trend Compact, dense physiques optimized for leverage Larger, bulkier builds to manage load and momentum Career Longevity Easier to sustain due to structured mechanics and lower volume Physically demanding with shorter peak competitive years Powerlifting vs. Strongman: Which Should You Choose? Both sports build strength, confidence, and discipline, but they cater to different personalities. Powerlifting suits those who thrive on structure and measurable progress. Strongman appeals to those who crave variety, functional movement, and challenge. Some athletes even blend both, using powerlifting to build base strength and Strongman to apply it. Regardless of the path you choose, success starts with high-quality equipment. At Fitness Superstore, we offer commercial-grade racks, barbells, and all-in-one trainers built for both training styles, helping you push limits safely and effectively. Ready to take your training to the next level? Shop premium French Fitness strength equipment today or visit our Benicia showroom to experience the difference in person. FAQs About Powerlifting and Strongman Training 1: What equipment do I need to start powerlifting at home? Start with a sturdy power rack, adjustable bench, Olympic barbell, and quality weight plates. Add flooring and spotter arms for safety. 2: Can Strongman training replace traditional gym workouts? Yes. Strongman workouts improve strength, endurance, and coordination, making them an excellent alternative or complement to standard training. 3: Is powerlifting safer than Strongman? Both are safe with proper technique, programming, and recovery. Strongman adds more dynamic elements, so supervision and preparation are key. 4: Can women compete in Powerlifting and Strongman? Absolutely. Both sports have female divisions with inclusive weight classes and supportive communities. 5: How often should I train for either sport? Most powerlifters train three to four days a week. Strongman athletes train four to five times weekly, combining strength and conditioning work.  

Choosing between an elliptical vs treadmill depends on how you train and how your body responds to impact. A treadmill simulates outdoor running and is popular with athletes who want speed, incline, and endurance conditioning. An elliptical is easier on the knees and a great option for low-impact aerobic exercise, since using an elliptical can reduce pressure on your joints while still challenging your muscles. Unlike treadmills, which often require more floor space and are generally pricier than ellipticals, an elliptical can deliver a low-impact workout that engages more muscles. In fact, ellipticals activate more upper-body and quadriceps muscles than treadmills, and some models mimic the motion of running without added strain. For buyers who want long-term value, the elliptical is better than the treadmill for joint protection, while a treadmill suits those prioritizing calorie burn and outdoor training realism. At Fitness Superstore, you'll find both ellipticals and treadmills built for commercial gyms or home setups, making it simple to invest in the machine that truly supports your goals. Key Takeaways on Elliptical vs Treadmill Workouts Key Differences: Motion, Muscle Engagement, and Impact Level Calories Burn: Do Treadmills Help You Burn More Than Ellipticals? Joint Safety: Which Cardio Machine Is Better for Low-Impact Exercise? Full-Body Workout Comparison Weight Loss Efficiency Cost Breakdown Choosing the Right Machine Where to Buy: Fitness Superstore Making the Final Choice FAQs Key Takeaways on Elliptical vs Treadmill Workouts Before going deep into specifications and comparisons, here are the essential key points every buyer should know about the cardio comparison between these two machines: Calorie Burn & Decision Factors: Treadmills generally burn more calories per hour at running pace (around 600-800 calories), while ellipticals burn 400-600 calories depending on resistance. The difference narrows when you factor in workout sustainability and joint comfort. Elliptical Benefits for Joint Protection: Ellipticals deliver the clear advantage for low-impact exercise. Your feet never leave the pedals, reducing stress on knees, hips, and ankles by up to 50% compared to treadmill running. Treadmill Advantages for Runners: Treadmills offer higher impact, which can strengthen bones and provide the most realistic training for outdoor running. These treadmill advantages make them ideal for race preparation and speed work. Muscle Engagement Differences: Ellipticals activate upper-body muscles (arms, chest, shoulders) through moving handlebars, plus recruit quadriceps and glutes. Treadmills focus almost entirely on lower-body muscles with minimal upper-body involvement. Cost & Decision Factors: Ellipticals typically start at $500-$1,500 for quality home models, while treadmills range $800-$3,000. Commercial-grade options push higher, but ellipticals consistently cost 20-40% less than comparable treadmills. Space Requirements: Treadmills demand more floor space (averaging 6.5' x 3') and weigh significantly more. Ellipticals offer a smaller footprint (5' x 2.5') and easier portability, making them ideal for apartments or multipurpose rooms. Best for Long-Term Use: The elliptical benefits include sustainable cardio that protects joints while building cardiovascular endurance, making them the top choice for anyone managing arthritis or seeking injury-free training. Key Differences: Motion, Muscle Engagement, and Impact Level Treadmills and ellipticals both support cardio, but they function differently in how they move, which muscles they engage, and how much stress they place on joints. Comparison Factor Treadmill Elliptical Motion Patterns Linear, weight-bearing stride that mimics walking or running. Feet strike the belt with each step, creating repetitive impact. Incline adjustments change stride angle and intensity. Gliding, elliptical arc with feet secured to pedals. No foot strike or impact phase. Handlebars create synchronized upper and lower body movement. Reverse stride option changes muscle emphasis. Muscle Activation Primarily targets lower body: glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Core engages for stability during incline work. Upper body remains mostly passive unless using handrails for balance. Engages both upper and lower body simultaneously. Quadriceps, glutes, and hip flexors drive leg motion. Arms, chest, shoulders, and back activate through handlebar push-pull. Core stabilizes throughout the movement. Joint Impact High-impact exercise with repetitive foot strikes generating 2-3x body weight force per step. Cushioned decks reduce but don't eliminate stress on knees, hips, and ankles. Higher bone density stimulus but greater injury risk for sensitive joints. Low-impact, zero-strike cardio. Feet remain in constant contact with pedals, eliminating ground reaction forces. Reduces joint stress by up to 50% compared to running. Ideal for arthritis, joint recovery, or long-term sustainability without wear. These differences in motion patterns, muscle activation, and joint impact influence which machine feels more natural or sustainable for individual users based on their training history, physical limitations, and long-term fitness objectives. Calories Burn: Do Treadmills Help You Burn More Than Ellipticals? Both machines burn calories effectively, but the amount depends on speed, intensity, and resistance. Studies show treadmills have slightly higher calorie expenditure at running pace (600-900 calories per hour), while ellipticals can match this energy burn with increased resistance (500-700 calories per hour). The real difference comes down to workout intensity and sustainability. Treadmill vs Elliptical: Calories Burned at Different Intensities Intensity directly impacts calorie burn comparison between these machines. Treadmills at running pace (6 mph) burn ~360 calories in 30 minutes, while ellipticals at moderate resistance levels burn ~324 calories. Adding incline or increasing resistance levels can boost calorie expenditure 20-40% on either machine. Intensity Level Treadmill (155 lb person) Elliptical (155 lb person) Walking Pace (3.5 mph, flat) ~140 calories/30 min N/A (not comparable) Moderate Running (6 mph, flat) ~360 calories/30 min ~324 calories/30 min (moderate resistance) High-Intensity Running (8 mph or 5% incline) ~450-500 calories/30 min ~400-450 calories/30 min (high resistance + active arms) HIIT Intervals (sprint/recovery cycles) ~500-550 calories/30 min ~450-500 calories/30 min (max resistance intervals) Which Machine Keeps You in the Optimal Calorie-Burning Zone? Treadmills raise heart rate faster with high-intensity intervals, ideal for peak calorie-burning zones during short workouts. Ellipticals allow steady-state cardio that keeps users in the fat-burning zone longer without joint fatigue, supporting sustained metabolic rate elevation over 45-60 minute sessions. Choose treadmills for explosive HIIT training bursts or ellipticals for consistent cardio you can maintain without overloading your body. Heart Rate Zone Benefits: Treadmill vs Elliptical Treadmill – Peak Cardio Zone (80-90% max HR): Interval sprints and incline runs spike heart rate quickly, maximizing calorie burn in 20-30 minutes. Best for time-efficient workouts and athletes training for performance. Elliptical – Fat-Burning Zone (65-75% max HR): Smooth, sustained motion keeps heart rate elevated in the optimal fat oxidation range. Ideal for longer sessions (45+ minutes) without joint stress or burnout. Workout Duration Impact: Treadmills excel in short, intense sessions where you push limits. Ellipticals shine in extended cardio where sustainability matters more than peak intensity. Sustainability Factor: Ellipticals let you stay in calorie-burning zones longer because reduced impact means less muscle fatigue and joint strain, supporting consistent training frequency week after week. Joint Safety: Which Cardio Machine Is Better for Low-Impact Exercise? Ellipticals are widely recommended for low-impact exercise because your feet never leave the pedals, eliminating the repetitive joint stress that comes with treadmill running. Treadmills deliver higher impact with every foot strike, but they offer benefits for bone density development and functional strength when used at walking pace. Joint Safety Comparison: Elliptical vs Treadmill Impact Force Reduction: Ellipticals eliminate ground reaction forces entirely (zero impact), while treadmills generate 2-3x body weight with each step. For a 180-pound person, that's 360-540 pounds of force per stride on a treadmill versus zero on an elliptical. Knee Pain Management: Ellipticals are the clear winner for knee pain. The gliding motion removes the compression phase that aggravates patellar tracking issues and meniscus inflammation. Treadmills can worsen knee problems, especially at running speeds. Arthritis-Friendly Design: Medical professionals routinely prescribe elliptical training for osteoarthritis patients because the smooth, controlled motion maintains cardiovascular fitness without inflaming sensitive joints. This arthritis-friendly approach allows consistent training without flare-ups. Bone Density Benefits: Treadmills provide weight-bearing impact that stimulates bone growth, making them valuable for preventing osteoporosis in younger, healthy users. Ellipticals don't offer this skeletal loading, so they won't strengthen bones the same way, though they preserve joint health for long-term training consistency. Full-Body Workout Comparison: Upper, Lower, and Core Engagement Muscle engagement differs significantly between treadmills and ellipticals, with each machine targeting different body zones based on movement patterns and resistance options. Treadmills focus almost entirely on lower-body development, while ellipticals recruit both upper and lower muscle groups simultaneously for true full-body workout potential. Understanding muscle recruitment patterns and core stability demands helps you choose the machine that aligns with your strength and conditioning priorities. Upper Body Activation with Ellipticals Moving handlebars on ellipticals recruit biceps, triceps, chest, shoulders, and core muscles, turning standard cardio into strength-supportive training. As you push and pull the resistance handles in rhythm with your leg stride, your arm muscles engage continuously, with higher resistance levels amplifying upper body engagement across your back, deltoids, and abdominal stabilizers. Lower Body Focus with Treadmills Treadmills target glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves through walking, running, and incline work, building leg strength and muscular endurance with every stride. The glutes and quadriceps power forward propulsion, while hamstrings control deceleration and calves stabilize each foot strike. Incline walking at 8-15% grades shifts emphasis to your glutes and hamstrings, creating a posterior chain workout that rivals many strength training exercises, though treadmills provide minimal upper-body activation beyond core stabilization. Elliptical Reverse Stride: Targeting Glutes, Hamstrings, and Calves Reversing stride direction on an elliptical changes muscle emphasis dramatically, hitting hamstrings and calves more directly while still engaging glute activation throughout the backward motion. This reverse stride pattern forces your posterior chain to work as the primary driver instead of your quadriceps, creating a strength training effect that forward motion simply can't replicate. It's a unique advantage ellipticals have over treadmills, allowing you to target different muscle groups without switching machines or adding separate leg exercises to your routine. Weight Loss Efficiency: Elliptical Resistance vs Treadmill Running Both treadmills and ellipticals contribute to weight loss efficiency, but results depend on intensity, workout duration, and sustainability over weeks and months of consistent training. Treadmills typically burn calories faster due to higher impact and full body weight displacement, making them effective for creating the calorie deficit needed for fat loss. Ellipticals provide consistency with less joint stress, allowing longer workout duration without fatigue or injury risk, which can balance or even exceed total weekly calorie expenditure when you factor in adherence and recovery time. Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which Burns More Fat Over Time? Treadmills produce higher short-term calorie burn rate (600-900 calories/hour at running speeds), creating aggressive energy deficits quickly. Ellipticals encourage longer sessions due to reduced impact, which may balance or surpass fat loss over time when users can consistently train 45-60 minutes without joint pain cutting workouts short. The real advantage comes down to adherence: treadmill intensity wins for speed if you can sustain 3-4 sessions weekly without injury, but elliptical comfort often produces superior long-term results when it enables 5-6 days of consistent endurance training and higher total weekly calorie expenditure. Which Machine Supports Long-Term Weight Management Best? Successful long-term weight management depends on adherence, and the machine you'll actually use consistently beats the one that burns slightly more calories per session. Treadmills work best for athletes training intensely who can handle impact without injury, while ellipticals serve as a sustainable option for those with joint issues or anyone who needs consistency over years of training rather than months. Long-Term Weight Management Factors: Sustainability: Ellipticals win for users who need to train 5-6 days weekly without joint fatigue or recovery issues. Treadmills suit those who can manage 3-4 high-intensity sessions and recover adequately between workouts. Injury Risk: Treadmill impact increases injury probability over time, especially for heavier users or those over 40. Ellipticals nearly eliminate overuse injuries, supporting decades of consistent training without wear on knees, hips, or ankles. Program Variety: Both machines offer interval programs, hills, and heart rate zones, but ellipticals add reverse stride and adjustable resistance patterns that keep workouts fresh without requiring speed increases that risk injury. User Preference: The machine you enjoy using determines long-term success more than any calorie calculation. If treadmill running feels natural and motivating, it's your answer. If elliptical gliding feels sustainable and comfortable, that adherence will deliver better weight management results over 6-12 months of consistent use. Cost Breakdown: Which Machine Offers Better Value for Home or Gym Use? Cost comparisons matter for both home gym and commercial gym owners making smart equipment cost investments. Treadmills generally come with higher upfront costs but are valued for their realistic training and versatility across various user types. In contrast, ellipticals often offer affordability, along with reduced maintenance needs, which lower total ownership expenses and deliver better value for money over 5-10 years of consistent use. Upfront and Long-Term Ownership Costs Purchase price ranges vary significantly, with treadmills costing $800-$3,000 and ellipticals starting at $500-$1,500 for quality home models. Cost Factor Treadmill Elliptical Upfront Price (Home Quality) $800 - $3,000 $500 - $1,500 Upfront Price (Commercial Grade) $3,000 - $10,000+ $2,000 - $6,000 Annual Energy Usage $50 - $100 (motorized belt) $15 - $30 (minimal electronics) Typical Repair Costs $200 - $500/year (belt, motor, deck) $50 - $150/year (pedals, bearings) Warranty Coverage 1-3 years parts, 5-10 years frame 2-5 years parts, 10-20 years frame Treadmills demand higher maintenance costs due to motorized components, while ellipticals require minimal upkeep and deliver better long-term warranty coverage. Space, Storage, and Maintenance Factors Treadmills demand larger footprints and more frequent upkeep, while ellipticals offer compact designs that fit tight spaces with simpler long-term care. Home gym owners and apartment dwellers need to consider space requirements, portability, and ongoing maintenance needs when choosing between these machines. Practical Space and Maintenance Factors: Space Footprint: Treadmills average 6.5' x 3' and require additional clearance behind the belt for safety. Ellipticals need roughly 5' x 2.5' with no rear clearance necessary, saving 8-10 square feet in tight home gyms. Portability: Ellipticals weigh 150-200 lbs and feature transport wheels for easier repositioning. Treadmills range 200-350 lbs with motorized components that make moving them a two-person job requiring careful handling. Storage Options: Folding treadmills reduce footprint by 50% when stored vertically, though they still occupy wall space. Most ellipticals don't fold, but their smaller base footprint means they fit corners and multipurpose rooms without dominating the space. Upkeep Frequency: Treadmills need belt lubrication every 3-6 months, deck inspection quarterly, and motor servicing annually. Ellipticals require bearing checks twice yearly and occasional pedal tightening; maintenance takes 15 minutes versus an hour for treadmills. Treadmill or Elliptical: Choosing the Right Machine Based on Your Fitness Goals and Space The best machine depends on your personal fitness goals, current fitness level, and available space. Runners, beginners, and home gym owners face different priorities when selecting cardio equipment, and understanding your training needs helps narrow down which machine delivers the results you're after. Treadmill vs Elliptical: Best Choice for Runners and Endurance Training Treadmills excel for speed workouts, incline training, and race preparation because they replicate outdoor running mechanics precisely. Ellipticals serve as valuable supplemental training, delivering cardiovascular conditioning and endurance training without joint strain between hard running days or during recovery weeks. Elliptical or Treadmill: Safest Pick for Beginners and Joint Recovery Ellipticals are the safer option for beginners or those recovering from injuries due to reduced impact and intuitive motion patterns. Treadmills work for slow walking and controlled progression when users start at 2-3 mph with zero incline. Injury recovery favors ellipticals because the gliding motion eliminates joint compression, making them beginner-friendly while building cardiovascular fitness, and their superior joint safety allows consistent training without setbacks during rehabilitation periods. Which Machine Saves More Space: Elliptical or Treadmill for Small Home Gyms? Ellipticals generally take less room with their smaller footprint and vertical design, but compact equipment like folding treadmills can also work in tight spaces. Space-Saving Considerations: Machine Dimensions: Ellipticals average 5' L x 2.5' W x 6.5' H, while treadmills need 6.5' L x 3' W x 5.5' H. That's roughly 12.5 sq ft for ellipticals versus 19.5 sq ft for treadmills, a 35% difference in floor space. Storage Options: Folding treadmills reduce footprint by 50% when stored vertically against a wall. Most ellipticals don't fold, but their smaller base means they fit corners and can slide under higher ceilings without modification. Portability: Ellipticals weigh 150-200 lbs with transport wheels, allowing one person to reposition them. Treadmills range 200-350 lbs and require two people to move safely, limiting flexibility in space-saving layouts for home gyms. Ceiling Height Clearance: Treadmills need 8-9 ft ceilings for taller users running at speed. Ellipticals require 7.5-8 ft minimum due to their arcing motion, making them better for basements or rooms with lower clearances. Where to Buy Reliable Ellipticals and Treadmills: Fitness Superstore's Advantages Fitness Superstore stands as the trusted source for high-quality treadmills and ellipticals that serve both home and commercial gym environments. With a large inventory spanning entry-level home models to professional-grade equipment, buyers find the reliable equipment they need without compromising on quality or overpaying for brand markup. Commercial-Grade Equipment at Home Gym Prices Fitness Superstore delivers commercial-grade treadmills and ellipticals at prices that compete with consumer home equipment. You get the same durability found in professional gyms without paying the premium markup that big-box retailers charge. This value for money approach means your machine withstands daily use for 10-15 years, not the 3-5 year lifespan typical of budget home models, making it a smarter investment whether you're outfitting a personal training studio or building a serious home gym. French Fitness: Exclusive Brand with 10-Year Warranty Coverage French Fitness represents an exclusive brand available only through Fitness Superstore, positioning itself alongside global leaders like Life Fitness, Precor, and Technogym. Every French Fitness treadmill and elliptical comes backed by a 10-year warranty on parts, creating long-term reliability that budget brands simply can't match. This warranty coverage protects your investment through a decade of training, giving you the confidence to push hard without worrying about repair costs or premature equipment failure. Save Up to 60% on Remanufactured Treadmills and Ellipticals Fitness Superstore's remanufactured equipment delivers commercial-grade machines at 30-60% below retail pricing, creating massive cost savings without sacrificing performance. Remanufactured Quality Assurance: Cosmetic Restoration: Each machine undergoes professional refinishing, fixing scratches, worn grips, and faded consoles to restore like-new appearance while maintaining structural integrity. Mechanical Testing: Technicians rebuild motors, replace worn belts and bearings, calibrate resistance systems, and test every function under load to ensure flawless operation for years of training. Warranty Protection: All remanufactured treadmills and ellipticals include comprehensive warranties covering parts and labor, protecting your investment just like new equipment purchases. Price Advantage: Save $1,500-$4,000 compared to buying new while getting the same quality assurance and performance that corporate gyms and hotels rely on daily. White-Glove Delivery, Professional Assembly, and Custom Gym Setup Fitness Superstore handles the entire installation process with white-glove delivery, professional assembly, and complete custom setup tailored to your space. Nationwide delivery brings your treadmill or elliptical directly to your preferred room, with technicians unpacking, assembling, and testing every function before they leave. This service advantage saves you 3-5 hours of frustration with instruction manuals and eliminates the risk of improper assembly that voids warranties, giving you peace of mind and letting you start training the same day your equipment arrives. Making the Final Choice: Elliptical or Treadmill for Your Lifestyle The decision between treadmill vs elliptical depends on your lifestyle, personal goals, and physical needs. Runners benefit from treadmill realism, while those prioritizing joint health find ellipticals more sustainable for consistent training. Fitness Superstore serves as your trusted source for finding the right equipment at the best value, whether you need commercial-grade durability or space-saving home models that deliver professional results without the premium price tag.  Shop Ellipticals Shop Treadmills Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is 30 minutes on the elliptical better than walking on a treadmill? It depends on intensity and incline. 30 minutes on the elliptical burns more calories (270-320) than flat treadmill walking (135-150) while engaging upper body muscles. However, treadmill walking at 10-12% incline matches elliptical calorie burn and targets glutes more directly. 2. Is 30 minutes of elliptical a day enough for fitness? Yes, 30 minutes of elliptical a day is enough for cardiovascular health. This meets the American Heart Association's recommendation of 150 minutes weekly moderate cardio. For weight loss or athletic goals, extend to 45-60 minutes or increase resistance. 3. Can you lose belly fat with an elliptical? Yes, you can lose belly fat with an elliptical by creating a calorie deficit. Ellipticals burn 400-600 calories per hour, contributing to overall fat loss including your midsection. Combine with proper nutrition for optimal results, as spot reduction doesn't exist. 4. Which cardio machine is best for losing belly fat? The best cardio machine for losing belly fat is the one you'll use consistently. Treadmills burn slightly more calories (600-900/hour) at running speeds compared to ellipticals (400-600/hour), but ellipticals allow more frequent training without joint stress for better long-term adherence. 5. What are the disadvantages of using an elliptical machine? Elliptical machine disadvantages include limited bone density stimulus, less running-specific training carryover, and potential movement monotony. The fixed gliding path doesn't strengthen bones like weight-bearing treadmill exercise, and the predetermined motion feels unnatural to some users compared to free walking. 6. Do elliptical steps count toward daily step goals? It varies by device. Most fitness trackers count elliptical strides as steps because the motion mimics walking cadence, registering 3,000-4,000 steps per 30 minutes. However, these aren't true weight-bearing steps, so some fitness purists don't include elliptical activity in their 10,000 daily step goal.  

The Calorie Burn Showdown When shopping for commercial cardio equipment, one question always comes up: Which machine burns the most calories? Three heavy-hitters dominate commercial gyms: Cybex Arc Trainer Precor Adaptive Motion Trainer (AMT) Classic Elliptical Trainer Based on averages, here’s how they compare in calories burned per minute: Machine Calories/Min Arc Trainer 10.8 AMT 9.9 Elliptical 9.3 Winner: The Arc Trainer – leading by up to 1.5 more calories per minute over a standard elliptical. How the Movements Differ Arc Trainer – Arc Path with Options Your feet move in an arc-shaped path that reduces joint stress while engaging the quads, glutes, and hamstrings. Resistance and incline settings allow you to switch between climbing and striding. Two Arc Trainer Styles: With Moving Arms: Delivers a total-body workout, recruiting arms, shoulders, and back. Without Moving Arms: Focuses exclusively on lower body, often preferred for athletes targeting power output. Elliptical – Fixed and Familiar Ellipticals are loved for being low-impact and accessible. The drawback? A fixed stride path, which can feel repetitive and less muscle-targeting over time. AMT – Adaptive Stride Freedom The AMT is like three machines in one, adjusting stride length automatically. You can mimic stepping, jogging, or sprinting without pressing a button. Two AMT Versions: Open Stride: Lets you adjust stride height and length (up to ~36”), creating virtually infinite motion options. Fixed Stride (Non-Open): Dynamic stride length only, without the adjustable stride height. Lower price, but less versatile. Weight Loss & Program Variety Arc Trainer: Famous for its Weight Loss Program — light resistance + low incline + interval bursts. AMT: Built for variety — endless stride combinations, especially with Open Stride. Elliptical: Reliable steady-state cardio, but limited variety. Tip: French Fitness Arc Trainers and AMTs deliver commercial performance at 30–60% below MSRP. Muscle Building Benefits Calorie burn is great, but muscle engagement determines long-term results. Arc Trainer: Superior for building glutes, hamstrings, and quads. Higher resistance/incline = strength plus calorie burn. AMT: Strong total-body recruitment, especially with Open Stride and moving arms. Elliptical: Minimal muscle-building benefits; best for endurance and steady cardio. Comparison at a Glance Feature Arc Trainer AMT (Open Stride) AMT (Fixed Stride) Elliptical Calorie Burn Highest High High Moderate Muscle Building Yes Moderate Moderate Minimal Movement Arc Path Adjustable Height + Stride Adjustable Height Only Fixed Ellipse Upper Body Optional Arms Moving Arms Standard Moving Arms Standard Moving Arms Standard Program Variety High Highest High Moderate Cost $$$ $$$$ $$$ $$ Final Thoughts If calorie burn and muscle building are your top goals, the Arc Trainer (with moving arms) is hard to beat.If you want maximum versatility, go with the AMT Open Stride.For a budget-friendly, low-impact cardio option, the elliptical is still a reliable choice. Pro Tip: Remanufactured models at Fitness Superstore let you own premium Arc Trainers and AMTs at nearly half the cost. FAQS Which AMT version should I buy — Open Stride or Fixed? If you want maximum versatility and stride customization, go with Open Stride. If budget is a concern, the Fixed Stride version still delivers adaptive movement at a lower cost. Do Arc Trainers burn more calories with moving arms? Yes. Moving arms add upper-body engagement, increasing calorie burn and muscle recruitment compared to the no-arm version. Is the AMT better than an elliptical? Yes — the AMT offers dynamic stride lengths and greater versatility, while the elliptical is limited to a fixed motion. Which machine builds the most muscle? The Arc Trainer at higher resistance and incline settings provides the most lower-body strength benefits. Are remanufactured AMTs and Arc Trainers reliable? Absolutely. At Fitness Superstore, every remanufactured unit undergoes rigorous testing and often performs like new — at 30–60% off MSRP. Shop Commercial Cardio at Fitness Superstore Browse Arc Trainers Compare AMTs Explore Ellipticals

When upgrading or launching a fitness space, the big question is: buy brand-new machines, or choose refurbished (remanufactured) gym equipment? At Fitness Superstore, we use the term remanufactured to describe our deeper process (full teardown, rebuild, refinish, and testing), while we also use the word refurbished throughout this guide to match how customers search online. The goal: help you find the best value and performance for your budget. Warranty Advantage: Every remanufactured unit includes a 1-year parts & labor warranty standard, with options up to 5 years parts & labor—often longer than warranties on new machines. Want to see real equipment? Browse our Remanufactured Equipment page for videos and photos from our warehouse showroom. What “Remanufactured” Means (and Why It Beats Basic Refurbishing) Full teardown & inspection of frames, drive systems, electronics, and consoles. New or reconditioned parts installed where needed; belts and bearings checked or replaced. Refinish & calibration to deliver like-new appearance and performance. Final testing for safety, durability, and smooth biomechanics. Refurbished (Remanufactured) vs. Brand New: Quick Comparison Factor Refurbished / Remanufactured Brand New Upfront Cost 40–60% less than new; scale faster on budget Highest initial cost Performance Like-new feel after rebuild & calibration New out of box Warranty 1-year parts & labor standard; up to 5-year options Typically 1–3 years (brand/model dependent) Sustainability Extends product life; less waste New manufacturing footprint Availability Premium commercial brands at attainable prices Broader model-year choices at full price Top Brands We Remanufacture We specialize in premium commercial brands—rebuilt to perform like new: Precor, Life Fitness, Technogym, and Matrix. Refurbished vs. Used: Not the Same Used gym equipment is typically sold as-is (no rebuild, limited testing, limited or no warranty). Our remanufactured process results in refurbished equipment that’s fully rebuilt, tested, refinished, and backed by a strong warranty—so you get commercial-grade reliability at a fraction of the cost. Who Benefits Most? Commercial gyms & studios: Outfit an entire floor for the cost of a few new units. Hotels & multi-housing: Premium amenities, controlled budgets. Home users: Commercial quality for consumer pricing. Ready to compare models? Explore our full selection of Refurbished (Remanufactured) Gym Equipment for Sale or view showroom videos & photos. Shop Refurbished / Remanufactured See Videos & Photos FAQs What’s the difference between refurbished and remanufactured? Refurbished is the common search term customers use. At Fitness Superstore, remanufactured means a deeper process: full teardown, rebuild with new or reconditioned parts, refinish, and comprehensive testing to perform like new. What warranty is included? We include a 1-year parts & labor warranty standard on remanufactured equipment, with extended options up to 5 years parts & labor. That often exceeds coverage on new units. Can I see the equipment before I buy? Yes—visit our Remanufactured Equipment page for videos and photos from our warehouse showroom.

You might think that free weights are all pretty much the same. After all, their basic function involves being a certain poundage to provide resistance when exercising. That’s hardly rocket science, right? When it comes to free weights, however, the details can make a big difference. In this article, we compare and contrast the various types of weight covering materials to help you make the smartest purchasing decisions when it comes to bumper plates, olympic plates, barbells, kettlebells and dumbbells. The 4 Main Weight Coverings There are four basic types of workout weight, with each having a distinct covering. The free weight options discussed here have a cast iron core, so the actual weight you’re lifting is pretty much the same. It’s the different types of covering that make each one unique. Painted Weights Painted dumbbells, barbells or weight plates simply coat the cast iron weight with an anti rust covering. These are the least expensive types of fixed dumbbells and barbells that you can buy. The main problem with painted weights is that the paint can easily chip off. Dumbbells are subject to some pretty harsh treatment so most painted dumbbells will get banged up pretty quickly. Painted weights are also more noisy than coated ones as there is no padding to absorb the noise of the impact when you drop them. They are also more prone to have sharp edges, not to mention the fact that paint flecks are liable to fall into your eyes when you’re doing the dumbbell bench press (trust me, I know from experience!). You are likely to find painted dumbbells, barbells and plates in dungeon style industrial gyms. Chrome Plated Chrome dumbbells and barbells usually have a shiny silver, gleaming boutique appearance. They usually top out at around 20 pounds, being mainly for light gym use. These weights are electroplated with a light covering of chrome. The handles typically attach to the head with a screw in the handle. Rubber Rubber covered dumbbells, barbells and plates are quite popular due to their protective covering to prevent damage to floors and racks. Rubber is a relatively durable cast iron covering. However, you will see wear and tear over time. Rubber does not do well when exposed to sunlight so you will want to keep your rubber weights indoors. There are three qualities of rubber that may be used. These are: Recycled Rubber Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Natural Rubber The end quality of the rubber in terms of elasticity, fluidity, strength and durability will depend on the mixing ratio. Each manufacturer guards his mixing ratio closely. However, none of them use 100 percent original rubber. All rubber emits an odor. Generally speaking, the stronger the odor, the lower the quality of the rubber that has been used. Most rubber dumbbells will have a cast iron head but a steel handle. Rubber dumbbell shapes include hexagonal, round and 12-sided. The hex shape provides the greatest stability as it will not roll around on the floor when you’re doing exercises like renegade rows. When it comes to that vital combination of premium quality and value for money in a rubber dumbbell set, you won’t get much better than French Fitness. They offer a wide rage of rubber dumbbell set configurations, including racks and benches, that will save you some serious dollars! Urethane Urethane is the cream of the crop when it comes to weight coverings. Not surprisingly, it is also the most expensive. Unlike rubber, there is no odor with urethane weights. However, urethane dumbbells, barbells and plates look very much like rubber. This material is also extremely hardy, meaning that it is easily the most durable dumbbell, barbell and weight plate covering material. That factor should be taken into account when looking at the cost comparison with rubber or other types of weight; they generally work out more cost effectively in the long run. Urethane dumbbells are available in a range of shapes, including the ever popular hexagonal design. Urethane weight coverings are technically called polyurethane or PU. There are two types: CPU TPU The main difference between the two is that TPU weights are injection molded under high temperatures while CPU gets melted in a mold. CPU weights will last about twice as long as TPU, with a lifespan of around 8 years. CPU is not as environmentally friendly as the material cannot be recycled. The head of a CPU dumbbell is constructed of steel whereas that of a TPU weight is made of cast iron. CPU weights will always be slightly more expensive than TPU. Types of Weight Plates Bumper Plates Bumper Plates are exclusively made from rubber or urethane apart from a small metal insert in the middle. This allows them to bounce when dropped. That means they will not damage your floor. They are popular for Crossift and Olympic lifting. The range of Bumper Plates available from French Fitness includes some packages offering spectacular bulk purchase savings. Rubber Rubber coated Olympic weight plates are the most popular option for both commercial and home use. French Fitness Rubber plates feature wide rims, along with three gripping spaces. They are also available in budget priced package deals. Cast Iron Solid cast iron plates are powder coated and feature a built in lip and flat surface to assist with loading and offloading. They are available in solid and easy grip designs. The Cast Iron finish is popular with kettlebells, providing the natural grip and feel that this unique training tool demands. If you’re on the hunt for premium level cast iron kettlebells at a great price, French Fitness offers them singly and in sets ranging from 5-70 lbs with hard-to-beat deals . Urethane Urethane plates may look similar to their rubber counterparts but there are some key differences. They will not produce an odor and are much stronger and more durable. You’ll also notice the difference in feel, with urethane having a more non tacky texture to them. Urethane Olympic plates can also be customized with logos and branding. Urethane dumbbells are odorless, more durable than rubber and have greater shock resistance for longer life. French Fitness Urethane 8-sided hexagonal dumbbells are available in the following sets: 5-50 lbs 5-60 lbs 5-100 lbs If your preference is for round pro style dumbbells, French Fitness also offer sets ranging from 5 to 100 lbs. In addition, they offer a premium urethane EZ-Curl barbell set (20-110 lbs) that features solid steel knurled handles and black urethane plating.

Why Is Infrared Heat Better Than Traditional Sauna? Dynamic Saunas produce the same type of heat as produced by the sun and our bodies. Infrared heat is very safe and not at all like the heat produced by microwaves. In an infrared sauna, only 20 percent of the energy is used to heat the air, leaving the rest of the energy to heat the body. The radiant heat can penetrate deep below the skin producing a gentle warming inside the body. The temperature inside an infrared sauna is adjustable and averages a comfortable 100 °F to the upper 140 °F range, depending on the sauna model. A typical session last 20 to 30 minutes and can be repeated once or twice during the day to maximize the benefits. Infrared saunas leave you feeling invigorated and rejuvenated, but not depleted like conventional saunas. Infrared heaters warm the body in the same manner as natural sunlight. Far Infrared Heat therapy uses the wavelength of the visible and non-visible light spectrum of sunlight that heats the body normally. Traditional saunas raise the temperature of the air to a very high level within the chamber to warm the body. Some people have difficulty breathing in this extremely warm air. Far infrared saunas work differently. Instead of heating the air within the enclosure, far infrared saunas heat the body directly. The result is deeper tissue penetration. In the far infrared sauna, the body perspires and receives all of the healthy benefits and avoids the harmful and extremely hot air of a traditional steam sauna. What Is A FAR Infrared Sauna and What Can A FAR Infrared Sauna Do For You? An infrared sauna makes the same rays that come from the sun and filters out the UV radiation. The high temperatures help to lower blood pressure and increase blood circulation. Infrared saunas raise your metabolism and help you to burn calories as you sweat. You can burn up to 700 calories without lifting a finger! When you sweat, you’re sweating out toxins and heavy metals through the skin. FAR Infrared Saunas Help With: Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Detoxification, Hypertension, Insomnia, Weight Loss Depression, Lowers Cholesterol, Lowers Blood Pressure, Enhances Skin Tone, Removes Cellulite, Relaxes Muscles, Reduces Muscle Spasms, Increases Blood Circulation, Helps The Immune System, Promotes Healing, etc.

Carbon Ultra Low EMF Heat Emitter An Electromagnetic Field is a physical field produced by electrically charged objects. It is one of the fundamental forces of nature. The field can be viewed as the combination of an electric field and a magnetic field. The electric field is produced by stationary charges and the magnetic field by moving charges referred to as currents. Although all of our sauna products have been developed to have low EMF, several of our model saunas use our advance Carbon Ultra Low EMF technology (patent pending) which significantly reduces the amount of EMF exposure resulting in very low EMF or less than 3 milligauss (mG)(@2 inches)(test results average between 3mG-5mG including background EMF). GoldenDesigns Incorporated Near Zero EMF Heat Emitter The manufacturer of our model saunas is also the creator of the technology behind the Near Zero EMF Heat Emitter which eliminates electromagnetic waves. A typical carbon heating panel takes electric energy and transforms it into heat. In doing so, EMF is produced. The critical manufacturing process of our Near Zero EMF Heat Emitter incorporates a method that extensively reduces the amount of EMF given off. Simply put, as the magnetic field passes through the carbon heat emitter, it is greatly neutralized resulting in Near Zero EMF being generated. GoldenDesigns Incorporated EMF & RF Safety Levels - A Comparative Guide It can be very hard to say exactly what levels of EMF are safe, because safety in this arena is often a relative concept based on frequency, exposure time, and possible individual sensitivity. Even then, studies are often considered inconclusive plus there is the potential for political and financial agenda to steer perception one way or the other. ScanTech How do we characterize EMF exposure? No one knows which aspect of EMF exposure, if any, affects human health. Because of this uncertainty, in addition to the field strength, we must ask how long an exposure lasts, how it varies, and at what time of day or night it occurs. House wiring, for example, is often a significant source of EMF exposure for an individual, but the magnetic fields produced by the wiring depend on the amount of current flowing. As heating, lighting, and appliance use varies during the day, magnetic field exposure will also vary. Southern California EDISON

Treadmill vs. Rower: The Calorie Battle When it comes to cardio machines, two contenders stand out: the treadmill and the rowing machine. Both deliver serious calorie burn, but the best choice depends on your workout style and fitness goals. Light Workouts: Rower Takes the Lead At lower intensities, the rower burns more calories than the treadmill. That’s because rowing activates your legs, core, back, and arms all at once, making it an efficient full-body workout. Moderate Intensity: Neck and Neck When you increase the treadmill’s speed or incline, it matches the rower in calorie burn. The difference comes down to preference: Treadmill Great for walking, jogging, or running while boosting cardiovascular health. Rowing Machine Perfect for low-impact training that strengthens both upper and lower body. High-Intensity Training: Treadmill Wins If your goal is maximum calorie burn, the treadmill comes out on top. Running at higher speeds or steep inclines pushes calorie expenditure beyond what most people can sustain on a rowing machine. Which Machine Is Best for You? Choose a Treadmill If you love running and want the highest calorie burn potential. Choose a Rowing Machine If you want a joint-friendly, full-body workout that builds strength and endurance. The best option is the one you’ll stick with consistently. Both machines can help you torch calories and improve overall fitness. Pro Tip: Mix It Up Alternating between treadmill and rower sessions keeps your routine fresh, prevents overuse injuries, and balances muscle development. Calorie Burn Comparison Chart Here’s a quick look at approximate calories burned on a treadmill vs. a rower at different intensity levels (30 minutes). Intensity Treadmill (calories) Rower (calories) Light (30 min) Moderate (30 min) High (30 min) 200 350 500 250 350 450 Frequently Asked Questions Does rowing burn more calories than running? At moderate intensity, rowing can burn more calories because it engages the whole body. However, running at higher speeds or inclines on a treadmill usually burns more overall. Is a rowing machine better for weight loss than a treadmill? Both are effective for weight loss. A treadmill may burn more calories in less time, but a rower provides a low-impact, full-body workout that can be easier to sustain consistently. Which is easier on the joints: treadmill or rower? Rowing is low-impact, making it gentler on knees, hips, and ankles. Treadmill running puts more stress on joints but can be adjusted with incline walking or slower speeds. Can I use both treadmill and rower in one workout? Yes! Combining both machines creates a balanced routine: treadmill for cardiovascular endurance and calorie burn, and rower for strength and full-body conditioning. Shop Treadmills Shop Rowers Browse Cardio