North Bay Woman

S P R I N G 2 0 1 7 | NORTH BAY WOMAN 13 Clockwise from left: Tom Fischer of Mill Valley advises buying equipment you know for sure you will use. The Fischers have several bike trainers, dumbbells ranging from 5 to 40 pounds and a universal gym. Stein Skaar, a personal trainer and conditioning specialist, recommends the TRX Suspension Trainer while demonstrating proper form. – Photos of Fischer and Skaar by Stuart Lirette Left: Picking up a handy free weight while watching TV can make fitness a part of your everyday routine. Before redesigning the spare room and throwing lots of money on equipment, know what it is you want to accomplish and know your physical condition. It's also wise to consult with a training professional to help you purchase equipment that fits both you, your training goals, and budget. Fitness to fit your budget Stein Skaar, a personal trainer and conditioning specialist, says, "Depending on your training goals, you don't need a lot of gear to have a great workout." His recommendation for must-have equipment for a general conditioning regimen at home includes TRX equipment. Skaar uses the TRX Suspension Trainer but also recommends the TRX Rip Trainer, the TRX Duo Trainer, some basic dumbbells, kettle bell, mat, jump rope and an ab roller. Taking it to the next level, Skaar would add a medicine ball, TRX Rip Trainer, bench, pull-up bar or TRX Duo Trainer. With room to spare he would add a battle rope, barbell, squat rack, Olympic lifting bumper plates, and agility ladder. With money to spare he would include a treadmill, Assault Airbike, rower or Concept 2 Ski Erg. Design for success Mill Valley residents Tom Fischer and Cyndi Devereaux have had a home gym since their kids, now teens, were young. "We designed our gym to support our passions of being aerobically fit, physically strong and flexible," Fischer says. "Our advice to others putting together a home gym is to be thoughtful on what is important to you and pick equipment that you know you will use." Fischer and Devereaux purchased an elliptical trainer to complement outside runs, and several bike trainers to

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