fitness frenzy

I normally don't brag, but I'm making an exception this one time (if you can even call it bragging). Almost 2 months ago, I committed myself to exercising for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. With the exception of last week, in which I only exercised 4 times, I've successfully stayed on track! I've only lost a couple pounds and a couple inches, but I've been sleeping SO much better at night, and my body fat % has gone down a few percent! My biggest accomplishment thus far? Regaining the strength to do a real push-up.

I feel like I'm at a plateau right now, and want to step it up. My primary goal is just to be healthy, but my secondary reason is to feel better about myself, especially around the holidays. No one likes to feel guilty for indulging a little in the smorgasbord of treats around Christmas. However, I'm finding that I need some extra motivation to kick this up, so I've been browsing around for some in-home gym equipment. Mind you, our place is already full to the brim as we've been collecting and replacing items in preparation for our California move, but if I could just find something that meets the following requirements, I'd be golden:
1) inexpensive
2) foldable/movable/easy to store
3) effective
4) durable (meaning, it's not a piece of crap)

Here's what I've come across so far:


The Phoenix Exercise Bike ($150). It gets 4 out of 5 stars and has 8 levels of resistance.




The ProForm 925 Folding Elliptical Trainer ($480). 5 out of 5 stars and the best part (other than its folding abilities) is that it is equipped with an "LED Pacing Coach" that lets you know when it's time to work a little harder or slow down so you can get the most out of every workout.




Anyone feeling generous this Christmas??? :)

Of course, I could always just get the Shake Weight ($20). I mean, if its claims of effective overall weight loss and super toned arms in just 6 minutes a day are true... then this would be the obvious solution.

I'll let you all know what I end up with, if anything. Maybe I'll just stick to yoga and occasionally the gym.

the mrs.