There are many types of fitness equipment and they are designed to do many different things. Some equipment helps your heart. Treadmills, stair machines and jump ropes fall into this category, because they help to increase your heart rate for extended periods of time. In the picture, you can see some examples. You would only want to use this equipment after a proper warm-up and after you are taught how to use the equipment. Some of you may be lucky enough to have these things in your home.

Some other equipment helps you build strong muscles. Weight machines, free weights and exercise bands are all good examples, because this equipment helps you build strong muscles. Because you are still growing, it is important to lift only light or moderate weights. The easiest weight to use is your own body weight. For example, if you do a pull up, you are lifting your own body weight. It is also important to learn how to use each piece of equipment from a physical education teacher, coach, or trained fitness instructor before you start on your own program. In the picture, you see different types of weights that you could use.

There is also equipment that helps you with your balance. Equipment like exercise balls help you increase your balance or build your core strength. If you look at the picture, you see a large exercise ball that you could use. Core strength means all of the muscle groups in the middle of your body that work together to help you have good posture. Balance is an important part of performing exercises and helps you use good form.

The choice is yours! You can select from many different kinds of equipment to help your heart, strength and balance.