Many of us are committed to exercise ~ even enjoy it! ~ but worry about the effects it will have on our joints.  Here are some new workout products designed especially to be gentle on our joints while still giving us a full work-out.

By Hillary Stone

The Elliptigo

The basics: Combo elliptical trainer and bike used outdoors to simulate running with less impact. Rider remains in upright position while riding. Eight gears; sold in blue, green and black.

Pros/Cons: Can trigger cardio ‘high’ without same joint wear-and-tear. Seat-less feature a plus for cyclists with back, neck or prostate issues. May require modification to fit riders not in the 5-foot to 6-foot-6-inch range. At 40 pounds, device is heavier than many bikes.

Visit elliptigo.com for more information and for pricing.

TRX Suspension Trainer

The basics: ‘Suspension training’ via two heavy-duty nylon straps that attach to door or other secure post. User grasps handles or places feet in cradles to leverage body weight during exercises such as squats, hamstring curls and chest press. Modifying stance alters intensity.

Pros/Cons: Total-body workout for under $200. Comes with training DVD. Workout area of 8 feet by 6 feet needed for full range of motion. Door anchor may chip paint or stress less-sturdy frames.

Head to fitnessanywhere.com to find out more.

Valslide

The basics: Two foot-sized ‘slides’ activate lesser-used muscles in hips, legs, buttocks and abs for sculpting and cardio workout.

Pros/Cons: Can fit in handbag or suitcase; low-impact. To be used on carpet or with $5 pair of booties on hardwood and tile floors. Some balance required.

Valslide.com is the place to go for more info.

Kettlebell

The basics: Generally come in sets of 2. Weight resembling a cannonball with a handle. Often made of cast iron. Some plastic models can be filled with water or sand to vary load. Can execute swinging moves not easily performed with dumbbells.

Pros/Cons: Design flexibility permits fatburning/ metabolic exercise as well as bodybuilding. Stress injuries and bruising possible with certain flipping exercises.

Hit up beacon-fitness.com for more information, to view different types/sizes of kettlebells, and to order both the kettlebells and the accompanying DVD.

Perfect Sit-Up

The basics: A mat connected to feet straps and headrest; designed to improve sit-up form and work all ab muscles. Makes audible ‘click’ when exercise is performed correctly.

Pros/Cons: Helps keep back flat and supports neck to avoid injury. Can hang in closet. Pricey to perform limited exercise.

If you want to start doing the perfect sit-up, head to perfectonline.com.

SelectTech Dumbbell

The basics: Adjustable-weight dumbbell. User sets dial to needed weight and unit picks up appropriate poundage.

Pros/Cons: Space-saving; can replace up to 17 sets of weights. Adjusts from 5 pounds to 52.5 pounds or 10 pounds to 90 pounds, depending on model. Expensive versus some traditional weight sets.

Visit bowflexselecttech.com to view the model options and to order.