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Women often have different workout goals than men. Where men want to bulk up and build muscle, women usually want to slim down and tone. This can cause a problem if you are using the wrong equipment.

First thing to remember in trying to tone is that you are going for the number of repetitions, not a higher weight. Always choose lighter weights that you do more repetitions with. If you already have free weights or an exercise machine at home, you can use these items. Try to use the lighter weights or the lowest setting and perform more repetitions.

One of the more popular pieces of toning equipment for women is a medicine ball. Smaller than exercise balls, they range from 2 to twelve pounds and help promote muscle strength and endurance. They can be used for a variety of exercises that simulate everyday movements. With a variety of catching, throwing, and reaching movements you can work out both your upper and lower body, improving coordination and endurance during aerobic or strength training workouts.

Toning bands are a great way to add some shape to your body as well, without the hassle of dumbbells. Easy to store or take with you, they are also easy to use for a variety of exercises for both upper and lower body benefits. For the upper body, they can be used to tone abdominals, arms, shoulders, chest and back. For lower body they work great on legs, thigh, and butt. Since bands use a slightly different muscle group than free weights, they can also be used in addition to free weights to add some variety to your workout. Some sets offer over the door hanging equipment that can add even more options when using the bands.

Exercise or stability balls can be a fun addition to your exercise routine. Just balancing on the ball requires the use of you core muscles helping to slim your mid-section. Joining a class or getting a video can give you good ideas for different exercises that you can do with the ball so that you do not get bored. If you are new to using an exercise ball, some companies offer a stabilizer ring to keep the ball from rolling around while you learn to balance on it.

Adding a little weight to your cardio exercises can help with the toning that you need. Any easy way to this is to get wrist and ankle weights. Lightweight (usually under 10 pounds for ankles and five pounds for wrists) they Velcro on and can be used in many cardio activities. Wristbands are perfect for activities such as jogging, walking, or aerobics. Ankle bands should not be used for walking, but make a good addition to floor routines. If you do a lot of workouts in the pool you can even get waterproof weights for pool use.

Yoga is a very popular toning exercise. Some beginners find the poses or deep stretches difficult to do at first. If this is the case with you, consider getting a yoga block or yoga bands. A block is usually made of high-density foam and can be placed under your body for support during certain poses. Yoga bands are held with an end in each hand and the middle hooked around your feet to assist with deeper stretches.

It is also very helpful to have a mat underneath you while you are exercising. Mats can act as a cushion for movements that require you to be on the floor as well as absorb impact of cardio exercises. They range in size from portable yoga mats, to floor mats that fold for easy storage, to floor mats that are permanently installed. You can choose the style that works best for your needs.

Whatever equipment you decide to go with, you should always make sure that it is safe and in good repair. Know how to use equipment properly and get instructions if it is new to you. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine as he or she may have some advice on exercises that you can do or that should be avoided. Keep your routine varied and fun for the best results.