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There’s a fitness revolution underway. Technologically advanced exercise gadgets and equipment innovations are transforming not only how we exercise, but how we stay motivated to exercise. The Wii Fit, at the forefront of this movement, has gained massive media attention. But there are many other new gadgets and exercise equipment advances that will keep you fired up about fitness.

Hear How You Run

Two of the most recognizable and successful brands in America, Nike and Apple have collaborated to develop a cutting edge fitness innovation. The Nike + iPod Sport Kit monitors your running experience by transmitting data through a wireless connection between your Nike shoe and your iPod nano. The microchip tracks speed, distance, time, and calories burned while real-time spoken feedback announces milestones throughout your workout . The PowerSongs option integrates your favorite iTunes selections. The kit works with the iPod nano 1G, 2G and 3G and any Nike+ shoe.

• Futuristic Factor: *****
• Fun Factor: ****
• Fitness Factor: ****

Virtual Reality Enhanced Cycling Systems

Although The Expresso Upright Stationary Bike is designed for commercial fitness clubs (you can’t afford it), the cool
 factor merits a mention. This futuristic system engages not just the muscles but also the mind by fusing exertainment with web-based personalization. Imagine playing a visually stunning video game, but instead of planted on the sofa with a game pad, you’re actually riding a top-of-the-line recumbent or upright stationary bike. The handlebars move for realistic steering as you pedal and compete on an interactive course, creating the immersive illusion of being on the open road. The web based high-res screen delivers personalized, real time fitness information. You can set goals, track progress and log data online, taking your workout places it’s never been.

• Futuristic Factor: *****
• Fun Factor: *****
• Fitness Factor: *****

A Personal Trainer in Your Pocket

Easily bored by your exercise routine? Get personalized guidance form Hollywood fitness trainers on your iPod or MP3 player. ITRAIN Personal Trainer downloadable programs include customized audio routines for running, walking, cycling, rowing, climbing, sculpting, stretching, swimming, boxing, pilates and yoga. Celebrity endorsements include Courtney Cox, Sarah Silverman and Olympic Gold medal swimmer Natalie Coughlin. If you’re apathetic about your current exercise routine, iTRAIN’s ever-changing menu of workouts will keep things new and fresh.

• Futuristic Factor: ***
• Fun Factor: ****
• Fitness Factor: *****

Transform Exercise Into “Gamercise”

Some fitness-themed games can only keep your attention for a short time before becoming boring and routine. What sets this system apart is the ability to plug in to any of your favorite games or systems. Gamercize interacts with your Xbox360, PSP3 or Wii, letting you play normally while exercising – but when you pause the game pauses with you. Adjust the exercise level to maximize enjoyment of the game and provide the greatest fitness benefit. The system records your statistics and you’ll be amazed at how much workout time you’ve logged when the game is over. The Gamercize system is available as a cycle or stepper, the best choices to leave your hands free to operate the controller.

• Futuristic Factor: ***
• Fun Factor: *****
• Fitness Factor: ****

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Bowflex, America's favorite home fitness equipment manufacturer, has helped millions of people achieve their desired health and fitness goals. The leading edge Bowflex line of home exercise equipment offers gym-quality workouts in your own home, helping you to lose weight, get in better shape or completely transform your body.

In this article we’ll focus on the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbells and the Bowflex line of Treadclimbers  -- two best-selling Bowlex products -- and for good reason.

The Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells exemplify one of the most progressive and versatile fitness equipment advances in recent years. You no longer need a rack with multiple dumbbells at various weights. The SelectTech series effectively replaces 17 sets of dumbbells using a patented dial system that allows you to quickly modify the weight in 2.5 lb, 5 lb or 10 lb increments, depending on the model. The whole system sits on one compact base that takes up about the space of one set of dumbbells.

Bowflex offers the SelectTech Dumbbells in three models – the SelectTech 220, SelectTech 552 (the most popular) and SelectTech 1090.

Available in four primary models, the Bowflex Treadclimber provides an option for every fitness level and budget. They include the TC1000, TC3000, TC5000, and TC6000. Owning a Bowflex TreadClimber is like having a treadmill, elliptical trainer, and Stairmaster all in one compact home exercise solution. The machine's distinct combination of movements, using two independently operating platforms, is efficient and highly effective.

The most affordable option, the TC1000 features a 3.8 mph (6.1 kph) maximum walking speed, while the high end TC 6000 runs at a top speed of4.5 mph (7.2 kph). The TC3000 and TC5000 each max out at 4.0 mph (6.4 kph).

There are numerous other important differentiating factors among the individual Bowflex Treadclimber models. Starting with the TC1000, each model includes 3 basic functions -- Speed, Distance and Time. The TC3000 also gives you Calories per Minute, Total Calories and Total Steps. The TC5000 then adds two additional functions -- the Climb Indicator and the Heart Rate Monitor. Finally, the high end TC6000 incorporates all of the above plus special training programs, including Cross Training, Intervals, Plateau, The Brooklyn Bridge and The Golden Gate Bridge. The Heart Rate Monitor on the TC5000 and TC 6000 lets you accurately monitor optimal heart rate levels using an integrated display and wireless chest strap.

We’ve examined two popular Bowflex pieces of equipment produced for very specific types of exercise. The Bowflex prestige is also seen in their line of complete home gyms. These include the Bowflex Revolution, Bowflex Ultimate, Bowflex Ultimate 2, Bowflex Xtreme SE, Bowflex Xtreme SE 2 and Bowflex Blaze.

Bowflex has become the most recognizable name in fitness. They continue to innovate and produce home exercise options that will keep you motivated and on the path to realizing your fitness goals.

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Obsession Fitness features in-depth discussions of exercise equipment, fitness accessories and diet and health products. Our articles and reviews focus on emerging technology and trends and will help inform and motivate you toward reaching your fitness goals.