Huff. . .Puff. . .Won't this exercise equipment ever break down? You wish! Actually, most exercise equipment is designed to take rough treatment with minimal problems. The biggest problem is lack of maintenance, lubricating moving parts, and keeping batteries fresh. Even so, sometimes a stationary bike, treadmill, or other exercise equipment quits. What to do? Burn calories fixing it!
How Does It Work?
The stationary bike and the powered treadmill remain the most popular home exercise machines. The bike is a belt-flywheel machine that simulates riding a standard bicycle. The treadmill is a motor driven machine that simulates taking a walk or a jog. In addition, many people have free weights and weight machines in their exercise room, but most don't break or need much maintenance.
***image2**What Can Go Wrong?
The stationary bike uses a flywheel that is driven by a chain and belt that are powered by pedaling the bike. So the chain or belt can break or fall off, stopping the flywheel.
Treadmills rely on an internal motor to move the running belt positioned over a running platform. The motor can burn out or, more likely, the belt can break or require adjustment. And controls can fail.
Fix-It Tip
As basic maintenance, wipe down your exercise equipment with a soft dry rag after each use to keep perspiration from corroding metal parts. Once every few months, clean surfaces with mild household cleaner and water.
