When you’ve first decided that you should try and get into shape, one of the things that can put you off is the thought of working out at the gym amongst all the ‘perfect’ people. Of course, they’re not really perfect, but if you’re suffering from low self esteem because you’re carrying a few extra pounds, it can be hard to motivate yourself sometimes to taking that first step.

This is, perhaps, one of the reasons why the home fitness market has been such a success. For many people working out at home can be a great way to get the exercise they need without having to show themselves off in public. For other, is just simply more convenient – and if the equipment is right there at home, it’s harder to find an excuse not to use it.

Two of the best pieces of equipment that any beginner can buy are treadmills and crosstrainers. Both of these are simple to use, requiring little or no instruction, and both will give a great all-over full body workout by exercising nearly all of the major muscle groups. From the legs, up through the torso, across the chest and shoulders and down the arms – all these muscle groups will be toned after a few sessions. Crucially, both crosstrainers and treadmills provide a cardiovascular workout – they will both elevate your heart rate and oxygen intake, and if you sustain this for twenty minutes or more your body will start to burn calories and you should start to lose weight.

Most local sports stores will have a small range of crosstrainers and treadmills for sale, and so you should be able to get a good idea of what each machine can do before you decide which one to buy. Crosstrainers give a more gentle exercise, and if you’re prone to painful joints then the constant jarring of running on a treadmill is likely to hurt your knees and ankles.

After deciding which one to buy, you’re most likely to get the best deal by shopping online. There are a number of specialist suppliers with a huge range of machines to choose from – you’re sure to be able to pick up a bargain, and have it delivered direct to your door.