It’s that time of year again. A time when many people start researching ways to meet New Year’s Resolutions. Thoughts of beach-bodies and shedding holiday weight cross our minds as we start the ever-so-dangerous task of reading online reviews. The web is full of sites, each offering a set of user and expert reviews. That’s why it’s important to be informed before you begin. The following are just a few things to consider when researching which machine works for you.

There are hundreds of machines.

In fact, there are thousands of different machines out there—each one of them claiming to be great. Very few people have the time or resources to compile data and usage notes on all the machines. On top of that, any site or organization that offers reviews for only a handful machines may not have reviewed the best machine for you.

Not all reviewers are created equal.

Every person has a unique body type and exercise habits. A marathon runner will need a different treadmill than the casual once-a-week exerciser. Many of the existing machines fall in between these exercise habits making it important to seek the advice of physiology professionals while considering your exact fitness goals.

In addition to that, remember that this is the Internet. Proceed with caution and practice skepticism. Any review site that also has links, sponsored advertisers, vested interests to sell future replacement parts—as well as any site offering discounts on treadmills that it reviews—should receive your careful scrutiny. Everyone wants to be fitter and healthier. But for every honest company that wants to genuinely serve you, there are dozens who may try to oversell or exploit.

The machine is only as good as your plan.

Each year we all make the push to start a new exercise regime to change our lives. But having easy access to a machine is only half the battle. Making sure you have a plan, and that you execute that plan, is the other half.

If you have questions about which treadmill, rower, or elliptical is right for you, stop by Priority 1 Fitness. Our employees are certified fitness experts and many hold degrees in exercise science, nutrition and certified personal training. We employ physiology and nutrition experts who can help create a plan to meet your precise fitness goals.

It’s a new year. With our expertise on your side, we’ll ensure a new you.