Strength Equipment
The RAC has expanded the machine weight area and now boasts two Startrac Fitness lines, including the new Inspiration line. We also have an entire weight floor dedicated to free weights, complete with dumbbells, squat racks, a dead lift platform and a punching bag and speed bag for the boxing/marital arts enthusiasts.
Free weights
Lifting weights improves fitness while it burns calories, increases muscle size, strength, power, and endurance, and increases bone density. It also increases bone density and improves quality of life for many older adults. Instruction is necessary if you have never used free weights before, or are not that familiar with the use of free weights. Technique and safety are important considerations. Once you are familiar with the equipment, using free weights is an effective way of improving strength and fitness.
Resistance equipment
Resistance equipment is a good compliment to any fitness program. Resistance machines (or weights machines) are the pieces of equipment that incorporate a weight stack and pulley system to provide resistance against a fixed movement. They are excellent pieces of machinery to help develop strength and co-ordination and they are also effective for use in rehabilitation following injury.
When using a resistance machine, all movements should be slow and under control, maintaining an emphasis on technique and posture throughout. In between repetitions the weight being lifted should not return to meet the rest of the stack. This maintains continuous tension on the muscles.
Instruction is necessary and any of our trainers are available to help you with the equipment.
RAC FAQs
What do I wear?
Wear proper athletic attire such as athletic shorts or pants, a t-shirt and socks and shoes. Stay away from wearing jeans or other thick, heavy materials to prevent overheating or chaffing.
Are there special shoes required?
Any form of athletic footwear, as long as there are no metal parts on the sole. Please refrain from wearing dress shoes, hiking boots or work boots on the equipment.
Is there someone that can teach me how to use the fitness equipment?
The RAC has at least one certified athletic trainer available throughout the day to answer any of your fitness questions.
How often should I do this activity?
Having a regular weight lifting routine will benefit any fitness program, but it is best to speak with a trainer before starting a routine.
How much time should I start with?
Again, it is best to speak with a certified trainer before beginning any exercise routine.