There are dozens and dozens of different type of fitness equipment out
there so keeping track of them can be quite the task, even for an
expert. The constantly influx of new type of innovations and equipment
also do not help and can intimidate newcomers to the fitness world. We
have compiled a list of the most common terms regarding fitness
equipment and break them down to simple to understand, non-jargon
explanations. We have also detailed which body part the equipment
targets, if applicable. If words like ergometer, P80 console and smith
machine baffle you, this list will be your friend. We have gathered up
all the fitness equipment names that we could find and we are constantly
adding to this list
Ab Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: abdominals
An ab bench is a fitness bench that is generally at a decline, usually with padded leg rollers to hook your legs or foot around to perform a crunch or sit-up. There are also adjustable versions of these where you can perform different exercises on
Adjustable Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: N/A
Similar to a flat bench, but they are adjustable to either become a flat bench, an incline bench or a decline bench
AMT
An abbreviation for the Precor AMT (Adaptive Motion Trainer) which is an all-in-one elliptical machine. It is able to change strides and adapt to the user without any manual adjustments
Arc Trainer
Category: Cardio
Body Parts Targeted: hamstrings, quadriceps, gluteus maximus, core (if it includes upper body: triceps, biceps, back)
A cardio machine created by Cybex that closely resembles an elliptical, but the independent floating pedal mechanism further reduces impact on your lower joints
Assisted Chin Dip
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: triceps, deltoids, pectorals, abdominals, biceps
An assisted chin dip machine is a tower with two protruding rods. Some machines will have the user either kneel or stand on a weighted platform. The user starts with their arms at a 90 degree angle and extends their arms to perform the exercise
Crosstrainer
See entry for elliptical
Curl Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: N/A
Also sometimes called a preacher curl. This bench resembles a seat with a padded section in front. The user places their arm over the padded section of the bench and can perform curls with proper form
Cybex
One of the leading manufacturers of fitness equipment. They mainly specialize in producing strength equipment with over 150 unique pieces. Cybex is also known for their innovative Arc Trainer cardio machines
Decline Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: N/A
A weight bench where the user's legs are higher than their head. It is used for bench presses that target the lower portion of the chest
Elliptical
Category: Cardio
Body Parts Targeted: hamstrings, quadriceps, gluteus maximus, core (if it includes upper body: triceps, biceps, back)
An elliptical is a stationary cardio machine that simulates running or climbing. Users stand on pedals which allows for a low impact workout. Some elliptical also have movable arms which will also allow for an additional upper body workout. Also sometimes referred to as an elliptical crosstrainer or a crosstrainer
Flat Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: N/A
A flat bench is designed for users to lie flat on top of. It is designed to support users while they are performing bench presses
FreeMotion Fitness
A fitness equipment manufacturer that produces both strength and cardio equipment. They are best known for their FreeMotion Functional Trainer, which uses pulleys and cables to allow a more dynamic range of motion
Functional Trainer
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: Entire body
Functional trainers are all-in-one fitness machines that usually look like one large tower. Many of them utilize cables or pulleys in order to accommodate a wide variety of different exercises. Functional trainers target upper body, lower body and the core. The type of exercise varies depending on the model
Hoist Fitness
Hoist Fitness is a San Diego based company that produces strength-training and indoor cycling products for commercial and home markets
Incline Bench
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: N/A
A weight bench where the user's head is higher than their legs. Generally used in bench presses and curls
Incline Press
Category: Strength
Body Parts Targeted: pectorals (upper chest), deltoids, triceps
The incline press machine is a weight machine that consists of a seat with two handles located in front of the user that are attached to weights. The user extends their arms and slowly brings them back to starting position to complete a repetition
