Category: Health

Why do regular, boring push ups when you could use push up handles to help you do them? Push up bars make it easier to attain a better posture while working out and will help keep your hands in the right position.

Some of the products listed below are the best bars out there that you might want to consider purchasing for your next workout session in your home gym.

We have also provided  different ways to do push ups to spice up your exercises and  to help you pull off those perfect pushups (anatomically speaking) that you’ve always dreamed of.

Pushup bars are great for both beginners and pros but if you can’t do a push up yet, then we advise not starting out with one.

Most push up handles come in a range of different shapes and sizes, some including features which allow them to rotate.

Push up bars protect your wrists, helping keep them straight throughout exercises, granting a more controlled range of motion and reducing the risk of wrist pain and wrist strain and injury.

Opening up your chest further will put a better emphasis on your pectoral muscles, helping you gain more strength in that area in the long run. The greater range in motion also allows you to work your arms a little more too.

If you have the money and are willing to spend it on something to help you sculpt your body, then the pushup bar is one of the best accessories to start with. Just make sure that you choose a high quality set.

We hope this list will help you on your journey to a healthier life and better toned self.

1. 321 Strong – Push Up Bars (Set of Two)

Created by 321 Strong, these push up bars come with a strong pushup stand, comfortable grip, and an ergonomic angle. They are angled perfectly to prevent tiredness in your wrists.

The stands are able to be positioned at different levels for varying levels of exercises, accompanying all different types of muscle groups. These handles are lightweight, not made of metal or steel, and very compact, making them great for traveling or for when trying to moving them to different areas!

2. Nike Push Up Grips 2.0

These grips, made by the powerful athletic franchise Nike, offer great elevation for not only push ups, but also other exercises that will strengthen your chest and triceps. These lightweight but stable grips provide maximum support for your wrists and are easy to carry for travel.

3. Fitness Kings X-treme Push Up Bars Set

These heavy-duty pushup bars by Fitness Kings are lightweight, visually appealing, and sturdy enough for any type of pushup routine.

With them, you’ll be able to pull off deeper push ups with minimal risk of injury. They are a necessary piece of gear for every home gym user on a tight budget who doesn’t want to skimp on quality.

The X-treme Push Up Bar Set comes with a 100% money back guarantee and the manufacturer’s promise to replace any damaged set for free “no questions asked”.

The provided 90” workout guide mat is an excellent resource for beginners that want to build a pushup routine from scratch.

4. Maximum Fitness Gear – Power Press Push Up Training System

The Power Press Push Up Training System is a unique tool manufactured by Maximum Fitness Gear that lets you choose where you want to plug in the push up bars.

It includes heavy duty bars and it comes with a push board with plenty of color codes for optimal user-friendliness.

The board comes with a DVD that shows you how to do a variety of different exercises beyond just the typical push up, allowing you to mix up your workouts every once in awhile.

5. Iron Gym Push Up MAX Rotating Push Up Grips

While these rotating push up grips look different than the other grips listed, they offer just as much as the others and more. The slip resistant discs are designed for rotating pushups, so they have quality rubber material on the bottom so you have the best overall control when doing rotating pushups.

They help reduce strain on your joints and help you tone your body without risking hurting yourself. They can hold up to 400 pounds and come with a nutrition/workout guide, offering various exercises and instructions on how to use them.

These grips by Iron Gym do not disappoint! Below, there’s a short tutorial on how to use them but it’s not for the faint-hearted.

6. GoFit Push Up Bars

These GoFit Push Up Bars are very useful, especially if you are searching for exercise that are geared for triceps and strengthening your chest. They have padded handles and grips on the bottom to help them stay on the floor and not move while in use.

They are compact, making it easy to take them with you and store in small areas so you don’t have to take up a lot of space using them.

7. Aihoye Fitness Non-Slip Foldable Pushup Handles

Aihoye fitness push up bars are great for home use, the gym, and travel. They offer a soft by solid grip thanks to the quality cushioning on the handles, are lightweight, and extremely portable. When not in use, you can fold them up and stack them in a drawer or the provided carry bag.

Even though they are made of plastic, they can hold up to 660 pounds with no noticeable flex or strain.

The bottom is layered with anti-skid pads for extra stability so that you can workout on all types of (slippery) surfaces, including hardwood and tile floors and marble.

The provided resistance tube is great for stretching and toning. The handle elevation may be a bit low for advanced users.

8. Harbinger Push Up Bars

Made of polyethylene with padded foam grips, Harbinger Push Up Bars provide maximum comfort and make it easier to have better posture when working out.

They strengthen the upper body, help tone muscles, and are easy to use. These can hold up to a maximum of 350 pounds. Customers have raved about their durability, and how many customers are still able to use them years later with not a scratch on them.

If you are looking for something small that will last a long time, Harbinger has it for you!

9. KANSOON Carbon Steel Push up Bars

Kansoon have surpassed themselves with this set of push up handles. They have the professional looks, feel, and durability, while retailing for a fraction of the rice of big-name brands.

The company boasts that their product comes with a 20 mm pipe diameter as compared with just 15 mm in their competitors’ products.

This means that the bars have greater load capacity (400 lbs) and better stability than what similar products have to offer.

Also, the padding is double layered for extra cushioning and the paint is similar to those used on pianos, which means that it’s odor-free and environmentally friendly.

Canson’s Carbon Steel Push Up Bars are comfortable, steady, and well-built but be wary that they may roll over. So, we recommend them just for standard push-ups, and not for anything fancy or overly dynamic.

10. Perfect Push Up Elite

Perfect Fitness’s Elite Push Up Handles are Amazon’s best selling in Strength Training Push Up Stands. They engage muscles in strenuous activity, have a steel ball bearing system, and support up to 400 pounds.

Perfect Fitness also offers a twenty one day workout that you can download, giving different ideas for workouts. Made of fine quality and durability, this bestseller is sure to suit you and all your strength needs.

11. Push Up Bars by CAP Barbell

These chrome plated CAP Barbell Push Up Bars have grips on them so you can easily use them without fear of slipping. These bars also come with  rubber foot pads that provide you with more stability while you exercise.

They help position you safely while working out your upper arms, shoulder, and strengthening your back. For an affordable price, these are an excellent option!

12. Ultra Fitness Gear 18-Inch Wooden Push Up Bar

For those of us looking for a quality product with a timeless vibe to it, these wooden pushup bars by Ultra Fitness Gear is all you need.

They are made of 100% natural slip-resistant boxwood designed to absorb sweat even during some of the most strenuous exercises. The base is cushioned with non-slip rubber feet that keep the bars put during intense training.

These pushup bars can support as much as 400 pounds and can accommodate some of the toughest workouts out there, including calisthenics.

Thanks to the perfect handle elevation, these stylish pushup bars will give your torso the deep stretch it needs to pump up those muscles.

13. Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars/ Parallettes Set

These are hands down the best push up handles that money can buy right now. They are bit pricier than other options on our list, but they are worth every penny.

They are made of durable, rust-resistant steel so you don’t have to worry about it breaking or injuring yourself. The bars can reportedly hold up to 2,200 pounds.

The cushioned handle offers a soft but steady grip and tons of abrasion resistance. Each base is fitted with non-slip caps for enhanced stability.

Also, the height is perfect for achieving that extra stretch when working out. The whole product including the finishes scream quality and durability.

These are ideal for L-sits, push ups, handstands, and more.

Different Ways to Do Push Ups

1. Wide Grip Push Up

Start wider and work your way in!

2. Diamond Push Up

It may put pressure on your wrists, but your triceps are sure to be strengthened!

3. One Arm Push Up

Make sure to keep your legs balanced wide! It works your shoulder strength immensely, so be sure you are up for the challenge!

4. Decline Push Up

Have your feet elevated and touch your nose to the ground! Make sure your wrists are prepared to handle the weight.

Image sources: builtlean.com, leanitup.com, beautycares.info, bodybuilding-wizard.com

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Top 7 Best Workout DVDs For Women

As a woman, you probably already know how difficult it can be to juggle taking care of your family, maintaining your home, and having a full-time job. As a result, it’s likely that staying fit isn’t high on your list of priorities, especially if it involves hitting the gym or working with a personal trainer.

However, there are plenty of workout DVDs on the market that are designed with the busy woman in mind. Some target specific muscle groups, others are meant to help you tone your body, shed pounds, and finally get in shape. You can pop one in while the kids are taking a nap and you’ll be able to achieve amazing results without completely changing your daily routine or breaking the bank. To give you a head start, here are the best workout DVDs for women currently on the market.

1. Lisa Whelchel’s Everyday Workout

As the title suggests, this is an everyday workout for your everyday woman. In addition to targeted workouts designed for moms on a busy schedule, the DVD also contains a variety of personal training tips that can help improve both your health and your fitness level. All you need are a few spare minutes, some light weights, and an optional exercise mat.

The workouts are safe and effective and they are designed for women of all shapes and sizes. There are different options for each move: beginner, step up, and challenging. This makes this DVD a good fit regardless of your current fitness level. You can simply start with the beginner moves and work your way up as your condition improves.

2. The Tank Top Arms And Bikini Belly Workout

This is a DVD created by Minna Lessig and directed by Andrea Ambandos. Like the name suggests, this program consists of different targeted exercises that will help you sculpt your muscles and achieve the figure you have been dreaming of, tackling areas that women typically complain about most.

Through outdoor cardio type exercises, the instructor brings a fun, but serious workout to the table. Even better, you can do the whole thing when you have a little over an hour to spare or choose to only do a shorter, 20-minute portion when you’re short on time.

3. 10 Pounds Down: Cardio Abs DVD

10 Pounds Down: Cardio Abs promises to give you toned, tight abs. The DVD includes four workouts – Cardio Abs,Total Body Abs Transformer, Concentrated Abs, and Tummy Torching Tabata. Instructor Jessica Smith takes you through an intense cardio session, including kickboxing exercises, strength training, and other cardio movements to get your blood pumping and your heart rate moving.

Consumers have raved about their improved results. Some managed to shed pounds, while others gained muscles and built a more defined abdomen. If you are searching for something to get rid of stomach chub quickly, Cardio Abs is sure to be a fun challenge!

4. The X-TrainFit At Home Workout

If you’re looking to bring your fitness game to the next level, this is a complete women’s training program that consists of eight different intense workout DVDs. The program is directed by Robert Oram and the main workout leader is Stephanie Oram. It is a high intensity fitness program that aims to help you get the best results with basic training equipment, including exercise bands or a set of dumbbells.

The DVD is designed to guide you through a 12-weeks period, during which you will burn fat, tone, and sculpt muscles. It’s meant to help you slim down and become fitter instead of bulking up, which is something to keep in mind if your fitness goals are different. The training program comes with different difficulty levels, from beginner to incredibly challenging, during which even fitness experts will break a sweat. It includes multiple workouts: hardcore training, cardiovascular workout, circuit burnout, yoga, and more. If you are looking to lose weight fast, this is a great option with plenty of choice when it comes to picking the workout that best fits your mood.

5. The Women’s Health Total Workout In Ten

This total workout DVD directed by Amy Dixon and will help you get a complete and intense workout without keeping you busy for hours on ned. If you’re short on time, you can opt to do only a 10-minute session. Otherwise, you can combine sessions to build an effective, full-body routine.

This way, you have full control over the amount of fat you burn, you can dose your energy, and you can target certain problem areas you would like to improve. In other words, this is by far one of the easiest to customize programs on the market. It is also great for moms with little kids, giving them the perfect timeframe to get some exercise in while the children are napping.

6. The Gymnetics Fitness Training DVD

The Black Girls Workout 2 DVD covers how important it is to have curves but also make sure that you’re toned and healthy. The popular mother and daughter duo consisting of Ellen and Lana Factor train you with a comprehensive and user-oriented 45-minute video.

In this program, you will learn everything you need to know about weight loss and body toning to help you achieve that happy balance between curvy and fit. All you need for this amazing exercise is a set of dumbbells, some free time, and a whole lot of determination!

7. Jillian Michaels – 30 Day Shred

This DVD has become a cult favorite for a reason. Known from her days on reality show The Biggest Loser as TV’s toughest trainer, Michaels built an exercise program that guarantees amazing results in only 20 minutes/day. In other words: it may be challenging, but it works. If you don’t trust us, just check the glowing reviews.

Each workout features, in rapid succession, short bursts of strength, cardio, and abs, as well as warm-up and cool-down. The DVD includes three complete workouts (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3) and you’re meant to do each of them for 10 days, so results will come quickly. Additionally, there are specific modifications for beginners, but not to worry – everyone will break a sweat, regardless of fitness level. All you need is a set of dumbbells and a mat. As long as you combine this workout with a healthy diet, you’ll be in excellent shape in no time.

Yoga is an ancient relaxation and meditation technique that has been practiced for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Its numerous health benefits are the main reasons as to why it is so popular today and practiced by people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Not only can yoga help you relieve stress and pressure, but it is also a great to get into shape and even lose weight, if that is your goal. Below we have listed for you the top 10 most popular and bestselling yoga DVDs available today, along with a brief buyer’s guide on choosing which one would work best for you.

Buyer’s Guide for Purchasing the Right Yoga DVD

1. What is your end goal? – Are you looking for yoga that is going to relax you and is very calming? Or for a training DVD that is going to help you shred pounds very fast? If you are searching for a more peaceful, meditation-based yoga, then make sure you do not pick one that is intensity based. If you are looking for one that is highly intensive and will help you lose weight fast, then take that into consideration when choosing which one is right for you.

2. What level do you want? – Be careful! Make sure to read titles. If you are just starting yoga, a beginner is probably more suited for you than one that may say expert.

3. Read the features! Read the features for each one when deciding. Every DVD has different yoga lessons and styles, different amounts of times and intensity. Some only have ones in 15 minute increments, while others have longer times. Figure out what makes each one unique and what they each have to offer.

1. The Yoga For Beginners Boxed Set Directed By Michael Wohl

Like the name suggests, this is a boxed set for beginners that contains the basic yoga techniques for stress relief, relaxation, and flexibility. It can be purchased for a very affordable price and it contains tips and hints on how to slowly start your day with yoga, along with other programs. For example, there is the evening revival (40 minutes), the waking up program (1 hour), and a special program that addresses insomnia issues (35 minutes). This yoga DVD also include special features that address neck, back, and shoulder issues.

2. Biggest Loser: Weight Loss Yoga

Although every person is different, there have been many stories and testimonies of those who have used this yoga DVD, along with changing their eating habits, and have seen major results, some losing over thirty pounds! Bob Harper leads you through fifty five minutes of weight loss yoga, with a five minute warm up and a cool down section included. Sections key in on the different aspects of yoga, including vinyasa, abs and flexibility, and gym workout. Even though Harper has an encouraging voice throughout the whole workout, this yoga can not be taken lightly. It is weight loss yoga, and is pretty intense in certain areas. Even if you are not trying to lose weight, it will still be a good workout for you, guaranteed. If you are searching for a strenuous workout and want to lose weight fast, this DVD is definitely for you.

3. Yoga For The Warrior: by Bob Harper

The Yoga for the Warrior DVD was released back in 2010 and is directed by Darren Caprik. If you are searching for extreme yoga for a cheap price, you have met your match! In this DVD, Bob Harper takes traditional yoga techniques to a whole new level by training every muscle group in your body, thus whipping you into shape very quickly. This program is designed to help you achieve the best results in the shortest period of time and will do so effectively! This yoga program is designed for those who want to lose weight quickly and naturally, and for those yoga experts who want a grueling challenge!

4. Gentle Yoga: 7 practices for your day

Jane Adams is a yoga expert and has been for many years! She specializes in training those searching for midlife yoga (anyone from 40-70 years old) and offers so much in this DVD that at filmed Glacier National Park! Enjoy the beautiful scenery while following along Jane as she takes you through her 3 different sequences: Morning Practice (18 minutes), Mid-Day Relief (19 minutes), and Relaxing Evening Practice (29 minutes). They also cover sections for improving your balance, strength and flexibility, and leg and hip flexibility. If you are looking for a softer yoga and one that is not vigorous, this DVD is a great option.

 

5. Power Yoga – The Total Body Workout

This DVD features renowned actor Rodney Yee and was released in 2005. Through training with Yee, you will find out techniques and tactics that will help you increase your stamina and your endurance, as well as detoxify your body and build strength not only on the outside, but also on the inside. This yoga DVD lasts for 75 minutes and will not only increase your stamina, but your flexibility and health at the same time.

6. Namaste by Kate Potter – The Complete First Season

This a great DVD for any yoga enthusiast and soul seeker and is led by Kate Potter. It is targeted for people who not only want to lose weight, but also want to improve their lifestyle and live a longer, healthier, and happier life. The amazing visuals, the soothing and relaxing music, as well as the targeted yoga techniques will help you strengthen your body and relax your mind at the same time. This yoga DVD contains thirteen different episodes that last for 22 minutes each with various different techniques. This is a complete yoga practice session designed exclusively for those who are on a very tight schedule, yet who want a customized training session to help them reach their health goals.

7. The Yoga Meltdown By Jillian Michaels

Yoga Meltdown led by the famous Jillian Michaels is an affordable DVD that is highly intensive and is aimed at those trying to lose weight. This DVD combines dynamic training techniques with hardcore yoga sessions to help you achieve your weight loss goals. The Yoga Meltdown DVD contains a sixty minute workout, including warm ups and cool downs that are aimed at helping you burn a lot of calories in a healthy, natural, fast, easy, and pleasant manner. Although it does have yoga techniques, it definitely focuses more on the workout aspect. If you love yoga and are into the meditation side as well, this is not your DVD. But if you want a more “gym” feel to your workout, this is an excellent choice!

8. Yoga for Weight Loss: Beginners

Featuring Maggie Rhoades, the Yoga For Weight Loss For Beginners was released in 2007 and was directed by Michael Wohl. It is an addicting DVD for some, because it consists of twelve comprehensive and user-oriented customized yoga training routines that will not only help you burn calories, but tighten your muscles at the same time. The Yoga for Weight Loss for Beginners will not only help you lose weight, but relieve stress and feel more invigorated and fit as well. Filmed on a fun beach scene, this DVD is a great option for Beginners to yoga who want to lose weight.

9. Yoga for Beginners by Rodney Yee

Featuring Colleen Saidman and Rodney Yee, the Yoga for Beginners was released in 2009 and can be purchased for a very reasonable price. It includes two yoga workouts for beginners, tips and hints on how to get over some of the most common and dangerous yoga mistakes, tips from professional yoga instructors as well as programs that will help you achieve the look you’ve been craving. It includes both a morning workout and an evening workout, each meeting your expectations. If you want various opinions from different yoga experts, this DVD has a wide variety for beginners.

10. Element: Yoga Energy and Relax

Element: Yoga Energy and Relax features Tamal Dodge and it is a very affordable DVD. This program is designed to help you build stamina, reduce fatigue, provide deep muscle relaxation, remove tension from your muscles and your body, as well as release all the tension from your nervous system. This DVD is a great source for yoga experts, because it combines yoga with meditation, but at the same time builds muscle and stamina.

11. Kundalini Yoga : Green Energy of the Heart

Kundalini Yoga : Green Energy of the Heart is an excellent DVD to try out for a twist on the standard yoga activities other options present.

This DVD features Ana Brett and Ravi Singh as instructors and comes loaded with helpful features to comfortably fit daily yoga into your lifestyle. Enjoyable music, warm-ups, workouts and meditations can be chosen to match your interests. The Kundalini approach provides a faster and more energetic exercise system for yoga aficionados to take on as a change of pace.

This form of yoga aims to raise your body’s awareness so that your Kundalini energy can rise through your energetic centers, calming and revitalizing you in the process.