Kim Garrison's five favorite fitness gadgets
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned $7.99 ab wheel for toning the abs, core, arms, shoulders and back.
1. AB WHEEL
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned $7.99 ab wheel for toning the abs, core, arms, shoulders and back.
2. JUMP TO IT
I have always extolled the virtues of the jump rope. Done properly, jumping rope is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that simultaneously works every muscle in the body. A jump rope is simple, efficient, travels well and can be used anywhere. Six minutes of jumping (at 120-1,140 rpm) equals 20 minutes of jogging. Jump rope for 15 to 20 minutes for an unparalleled total body workout. So there!
3. WALK SMART
Grab a pedometer and walk your 10,000 steps a day, the American Heart Association's recommendation for minimum fitness. Get a free phone app or buy a low-tech pedometer for as little as $10. Whatever you choose, just get walking, baby.
4. MONITOR YOUR HEART
If you really want to step up your game, or if you're a gadget girl like me, a heart rate monitor is another inexpensive weapon for you wellness arsenal. It gives you immediate feedback on just how hard (or not) you're working. Priced from $35 to $500.
5. FOOD SCALE
If your goal is to eat smarter and smaller portions, this is a must-have. No more portion distortion - this is how you truly keep it real. Prices range from $15 to more than $300, depending on features.