I always like to go back and provide material for beginners. Even for those of us who workout regularly and have been doing so for a long time, it’s always good to go back and freshen up our memory. Sometimes we’ll pick up something new or remember things we may have forgotten. Today we’re going to go over one of my favorite pieces of equipment: Sliders. We’ll cover what they are, their benefits and the many ways you can use them, and examples of some of the ZGYM workouts that incorporate them.

Sliders

Gliding Discs, Core Sliders, or simple Exercise Sliders are all sliders no matter the name they go by. A slider is a flat, disc-shaped object that we place either our hands or feet (sometimes both, depending on the amount you have!) upon to perform specific exercises. They can be purchased online and sporting goods stores, but can also be substituted with common household items. These include folded towels or blankets, worn out T-shirts, rags, paper plates, and furniture sliders. You might be able to get away with only using a pair of fluffy socks or knitted slippers, too.

Benefits of Sliders

Sliders are a creative way for toning and strengthening your entire body. Unlike bulky weights that obviously can’t be taken around for traveling, sliders fit comfortably in suitcases, backpacks, and handbags (which is why they’re great for getting in challenging, doable hotel room workouts). Sliders also enhance the effects of bodyweight training, providing just enough resistance to simple exercises like lunges. Another benefit of using sliders is the fact that they’re low impact. When using sliders, there are no explosive “jumps” or movements that would otherwise bother people with injuries, knee, or joint issues. So if you’re looking to strengthen your body without causing any stress, these are a great tool to have at hand.

Next, sliders provide novel ways of working your core. If you’re trying to strengthen and tone your midsection, look no further than sliders. There are tons of ways you can use these instead of just sticking to crunches. How about a plank with a slider? Or sliding mountain climbers?
If you used to be a regular gym member and miss machines like the hamstring curl, then prepare for a surprise- sliders can be used in place of them, minus the wait time or constant repairs. They also can be used as a substitute for popular Pilates reformer exercises as well (i.e., ab roller, pike press, knee tucks).
Sliders broaden your choices, no matter the move- lunges, pushups, leg extensions. They can be used for cardio, strength, and balance, and add a challenging, fun element to your training.

As a final bonus, sliders are very affordable. Buying even one kettlebell or a group of various dumbbells can be quite expensive. Don’t get me wrong, I use these tools in my own workouts as well, and believe there are benefits to using them, but I also understand that not all of us can afford to buy tons of exercise equipment and set up a little collection in our homes. A pair of sliders shouldn’t cost more than $9; some might be $10-$12, and even the most expensive of sets (which sell around $30) usually come with DVDs, bands, and accessories. So if you’re on a really tight budget and want to get the most bang for your buck, consider using these.

To put all of this together, the benefits of using sliders include:

• Versatility
• Easy to Use
• Travel-Friendly
• Low-Impact
• Cardio, Strength, Core, and Balance
• Affordability

Start Right Now

Get a hold of a pair of sliders and try incorporating them into your workouts. I suggest buying these, which are double-sided for both carpet and hardwood floors.

Like I mentioned before, sliders can be substituted for everyday objects, from towels, T-shirts, paper plates, rags, and blankets, and even furniture sliders, respectively (these are the ones I recommend).

Once you’re ready, why not try doing one of the following routines?

For Beginners

Tabata Fit Slide for Beginners #5

Kettlebell Fit Slide for Beginners #2

Low Impact Full Body #1

Intermediate to Advanced

15 Minute Fit Slide #1

Sliding Ab Workout

Jump Rope Cardio Fit Slide #1 X

Stretch & Tone #32