How to Assemble a Sportsmith Wooden Plyo Box
Instructional Video about How to Assemble a Wooden Plyo Box by Sportsmith
- In this video we show you how to to assemble a Sportsmith wooden plyo box
- The first step is to unpack the plyo box and make sure you have:
- (4) Side Panels that include two marked "A" and two marked "B"
- (1) Bag of Hardware that includes 16 Screws
- (1) Top Panel
- Note: Though wood glue is not included, it is highly recommended
- Take caution when assembling parts
- Using one panel "A" and one panel "B" lean them against each other as shown
- Using one of the included screws, install a screw into one of the pre-drilled pilot holes
- Once you have assembled one panel "A" to one panel "B", set it aside and assemble the other half of the plyo box
- Now that you have both "halves" assembled place them together as seen in the video and start the six screws that will attach the two halves together
Be sure you have not tightened any of the hardware completely before the next step
- NOTE: Though wood glue is not included, it is highly recommended for assembly of this Plyo Box
- Set the top piece in place. Then align one edge and install a screw through the top panel using one of the pre-drilled holes
- Now move to the opposite edge and make sure the top panel is aligned before installing the screw
- Make any final adjustments to the alignment and install the last two screws into the top panel
- Make sure all alignment is correct and then tighten all hardware
Click here to view Sportsmith Wooden Plyo Boxes.
Fitness Equipment Repair Videos
You may not know it, but for several years now, SPORTSMITH has been producing instructional videos. Our resident tech gurus put in some long hours to bring our customers no-nonsense, how-to videos, on a variety of subjects. These videos are professional quality and made using the latest filming and editing equipment. We also host videos produced by the tech wizards at a variety of other equipment manufacturers, such as Schwinn and StarTrac.
What kind of videos are on the Sportsmith site? Well, we currently host about 100 different videos (with more to come!) and they cover a variety of technical and how-to subjects. Want to revive an old felt brake pad on your spin bike? We can show you how. Our tech videos range from simple, such as how to install a ramp sleeve on a Precor elliptical machine, to the complicated, such as replacing the running belt on a treadmill.
As always, we at SPORTSMITH strive to diversify and bring you, our customer, a full suite of services. We want you to get the most out of our service and your purchases. What better way to do that than show you how to repair and extend the life of those purchases. Just click on the “Need Help Click Here” button found on the top of the Sportsmith.net website. All videos are embedded, so you won’t have to leave the site to see any of them. We also have our own YouTube channel, so be sure to check out all fitness repair videos there as well!
What tech support videos would you like to see? Click here to tell us.
LifeFitness 95Xi Crosstrainer Battery Replacement
Battery Replacement Video for LifeFitness 95Xi Crosstrainer
- The video shows how to replace the battery on a LifeFitness 95Xi Crosstrainer.
- Tools required:
- Phillips Screwdriver
- T25 Torx Driver
- Begin with the Phillips screwdriver and remove the main shroud as seen in our main shroud removal video.
- Disconnect the red and black wires from the battery.
- Remove the (2) Torx screws that are securing the battery to the drive module.
- Install the new battery in reverse order.
- Click link for more information and parts for the LifeFitness 95Xi Crosstrainer.
‘TIS THE FLU SEASON
Unfortunately, everyone has to deal with being sick. It usually hits at the most inopportune times. This holiday season, along with decking the halls, protect your club members against all sorts of illnesses with some of the effective anti-microbial products that we carry.
Fitness Equipment Cleaning Wipes
By far our best selling wipe (and one of our best selling items overall), this box contains 2 rolls of 900 sheets each. These wipes clean and deodorize and are alcohol free. They come in sealed bags. So just pop a roll into a dispenser (see below), and you're all set. They are designed for use on gym equipment, and are safe for most any surfaces.
These alcohol and lint free hand wipes come with 4 sealed packages per case, 800 sheets per roll. These are FDA approved wipes that are a great way to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. They won't dry your hands out, and smell fresh and clean.
WIPESPlus Surface Disinfecting Wipes
As with several other wipes we carry, these are alcohol free. Useful for more than just equipment, these wipes come 4 packages to a box with 800 sheets per roll. Intended as an all purpose wipe, these can be used on any surface that potentially dirty hands touch, including counter tops, doorknobs, and most gym equipment. Kills a wide variety of microbes, including the virulent staphylococcus aureus and several types of influenza virus, even destroys certain types of fungus. Don't be left defenseless against the ravages of these types of nasties, folks. Defend yourself with these low priced bug killers.
Featuring the same anti-microbial power that's in Purell hand sanitizer, these convenient wipes destroy 99.9% of all common germs that cause illness. Packaged in a convenient, transportable bucket, just pop the top, get what you need, and replace the air tight lid. We also carry refills for the bucket once you run out. These are ideal for workplaces, gyms, offices, anywhere large groups of people gather. 1200 sheets per roll. NOTE: Due to this product containing Isopropanol alcohol, they CANNOT be sent via air. Ground shipping ONLY.
We also carry a dispenser in which to put our various lines of wipes. In addition, we also carry a floor stand to put the dispensers in. No need to look in a hundred different places for what you need!
THE CURE FOR LOCK JAW!
Ok, so maybe not the cure for the disease (lock jaw is an old term for tetanus), but definitely the cure for some of your weightlifting needs. Olympic bars typically lack any sort of integrated mechanism designed to keep the plates from slipping off. This is by design, as you need to be able to quickly slip plates on and off during actual weightlifting competitions. What you actually use to keep the plates on, however, can be a major factor in your lifting. Traditionally, a metal sleeve was used that had a tension handle screwed into either one or both sides. You’d turn these handles to secure it to the bar. This, however, isn’t ideal (not to mention the screws can potentially damage your lifting bar). For one, during heavy lifting sets, the screws can easily loosen due to the impact of the bar hitting the ground or the cradle.
Enter the Lock Jaw Collar. This is a fairly new product that has been getting rave reviews by weightlifters all over the world. Its simple, easy to use design has made it popular with both amateur and professional lifters alike. It’s incredibly easy to use. Simply pull on the release handle to release it, and push it down firmly to secure it to the bar. Nothing could be easier. The collars are constructed of high-impact nylon resin polymer, so not only are they extremely durable, they’re completely immune to the effects of the environment. No rusting here! The chain like design also fits any barbell out there. The inside surface is a non-slip material, so they won’t slide off, and unlike the heavier metal collars, they only add about 12 ounces to your overall weight. Currently, SPORTSMITH carries them in a matte black color, and you receive a discount when purchasing multiple pairs. Grab some today, and take your weightlifting game to the next level!
DOCTOR RECOMMENDED MEDICINE
Medicine balls (or fitness balls, exercise balls, call them what you will) have been around since ancient times. Hippocrates was one of the first to make use of such a device, using animal bladders sewn together and filled with sand. Today, they come in a myriad of sizes, colors, and types and athletes in just about every sport you can think of make use of them. SPORTSMITH™ carries several different types of medicine balls to meet our customers varied and always-changing needs. Here is a quick rundown of what we carry.
These are the no-frills smooth balls. They are quite “bouncy”, and come in several weights. First, we have the Standard Weight set, which comes in 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 kilogram weights. Each ball is differently colored depending on it's weight, so there's no confusion as to what ball you're using. Several different styles of storage racks are available for these balls as well. You can purchase these individually, as a set of 5, or as a set of 5 including a storage rack. Made of a super tough rubberized shell with a weighted core, these balls are easily inflated with any standard sports ball pump.
These balls are made of the same tough outer shell and weighted core as the standard balls, but feature two textured handles on each side. The handles are molded directly into the material, so the ball retains a perfect sphere shape. Balls with handles allow you to do different exercises that the standard balls don't allow, and you can even substitute them for actual lifting weights in a pinch. Available in 5 different sizes, like the standard ball, each weight is color coded. Uses the same storage racks as the standard ball, and the same sets are available for purchase.
Soft medicine balls tend to be used somewhat differently than the harder variety. Normally, you would use one as a follow up to strength exercises. They are also well suited to larger athletes due to their much larger 14” diameter. DynaMax balls are some of the best on the market today. The outer covering is incredibly tough while maintaining it's natural softness. They come in a variety of colors and weights, ranging from the light 6-pound ball to much larger sizes, like 20lbs. Mini sizes are also available for those with smaller hands.
Dead Balls, also known as Slam Balls, are for the serious user of medicine balls. They have absolutely no bounce to them, stopping “dead” when they hit the floor, hence the name. Currently, we carry weights ranging from a relatively light 12 pounds all the way up to an absolutely monstrous 100 pound ball. A bright yellow coloration makes them easily visible, and they are constructed of a tough outer shell with a sand filled interior. If you think you know how to use a medicine ball, get yourself one of these and challenge yourself even further.
How to Remove a Crank Arm Using a Crank Arm Puller Tool
Video of How to Use a Crank Arm Puller Tool
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In our video we show you how to use a crank puller tool
- Tools Needed:
- Cotterless Crank Puller Tool
- 7/8" Wrench
- Be sure and remove the crank arm bolt before installing the crank arm puller
- Now that you have removed your crank arm bolt, to get the crank arm off you will need a crank arm puller tool
- The tool used in the video is a Park Tool marked CCP-22
- To see our complete listing of crank pullers, click here.
- Begin by threading the tool into the crank arm as far as possible by hand
- Then, using a 7/8 inch wrench turn the crank puller as far into the crank arm as possible
- If you only finger tighten the tool into the arm your risk damaging the crank arm, the tool or both
- Once the tool is fully threaded into the crank arm turn the handle of the crank arm puller clockwise to press the arm off of the bottom bracket spindle
For more info about this video and tools used click here.
PLYO BOXES THAT YOU “WOOD” LIKE
Recently, Plyometric Boxes have really taken off as a great way to cross-train, especially with programs like high intensity interval training. SPORTSMITH carries a wide variety of Boxes, ranging from those that are adjustable and made of all-metal frames to fixed ones that come pre-assembled. Recently, we started carrying a new style Box, and it’s really nice!
These Wooden Plyo Boxes are made of super sturdy plywood, and have a landing surface that is entirely covered in a non-slip, high grip surface. The non-slip surface is very handy when trying to quickly knock out high repetitions ob box jumps. All of these new Boxes feature beveled edges for extra safety, and are angled like a pyramid for maximum stability. So no need to worry about coming down on a sharp edge. They’re also perfectly designed for heavier athletes, as they have hardwood support slates secured inside them. This not only makes them extremely sturdy, but also allows you to stack them for storage. Being able to stack these bad boys is huge! No need to worry about the boxes getting stuck on top of another one. Plus, stacking is a great space saver. Pre-cut hand holes allow for easy transportation, as well.
SPORTSMITH offers these new Boxes in three sizes. Sixteen inch, twenty inch, and twenty-four inch. They also come either assembled or unassembled. The unassembled ones can be put together very easily will save you a bundle on shipping costs. Lastly, we also offer a Box that has a really handsome red mahogany finish (pre-assembled only). You’ll be the envy of your gym when you bring in one of these! Get yours today!
How to Find a Health Club or Fitness Center that’s Right for You
With the holiday season and the New Year fast approaching, many of us will be looking to get fit and to lose some weight to look our best. Sadly, many of these resolutions don’t last beyond the first month. The key to sticking to your resolutions is to find a good health club or fitness center that’s right for you. It has to have good, motivational staff that will encourage you to achieve your goals. It has to offer facilities, activities and workouts that you want to keep you going back. Most importantly, it has to be clean, affordable, and convenient.
Staff
A health club or fitness center with well trained staff that can motivate you is particularly important for beginner gym-goers. The staff must be able to answer your questions about any workouts and show you how to use the gym equipment. Be sure to ask about the staff and their qualifications. Also inquire if there are personal trainers available. A few sessions with a personal trainer can also be helpful to help you to map out your goals and encourage you along the way.
Facilities
Some health clubs or fitness centers offer only the most basic facilities while others have pools, saunas, and perhaps even a spa that offers massage therapies. Larger gyms may also have nutritional therapists attached. Ask about these additional benefits but try not to be dazzled by them. Too often, many of us sign up to these fitness centers with the best of intentions but do not use any of the facilities. Decide on what you want and don’t over commit yourself to an expensive contract. If undecided, ask if the health club or fitness center has a trial period so you can determine what facilities you will really use.
Equipment
Before committing yourself to a gym, ask for a tour of the facilities and ask to test some of the equipment to make sure it is well maintained. There should be a wide variety of machines, including guided machines and cardio equipment like treadmills and ellipticals. If you enjoy working with free weights, make sure these are plentiful. Other popular equipment include fitness balls and floor mats.
Group fitness classes
We all have different workout preferences, with some preferring solitary workouts while others enjoy more structured programs with a larger group. If you prefer classes, make sure your gym has a good mix of group classes at convenient times throughout the day. Aerobics, Yoga and Pilates are popular options. If there is a specific workout program that you would like to try like Zumba or High Intensity Interval Training, equire if the gym offers those programs.
Cleanliness
On your tour of the facilities, make sure the health club or fitness center is clean, with appropriate locker space and well maintained toilets and showers. The workout area should have plenty of gym wipes, or disinfecting spray bottles dotted around the room with paper towels so you can wipe down the equipment after you have finished.
Contracts and costs
The right health club or fitness center should be within your price range. Most offer a variety of contracts to suit every budget. Some will have pay per use contracts while others charge a little more in exchange for allowing its members to visit different gyms in the chain. Some contracts will be monthly while others will be for the whole year. Shop around and compare prices, making sure to only pay for what you need. Also, enquire if you can put the contract on hold in case of illness or travel.
Convenience
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a health club or fitness center is its convenience for you. If it is a hassle to get to, you will be more likely to give up your workout for the day. Make sure the gym is in a suitable location for you, with the appropriate operating hours. If early mornings are the only time that will work for you, make sure the gym opens early. If group classes are more your style, make sure these are at times that suit you. Visit the gym during peak times to ensure that it isn’t overcrowded as this will reduce your enjoyment of the workout. If you will need a child minded while you are working out, ask if the gym has childcare facilities. Don’t forget to ask about their operating policies during the holiday season.
The right fitness center or health club has to feel right for you. To help you decide, watch out for free trials or ask if they have a pay as you go option. Some gyms also have incentive periods where they waive joining fees or offer discounted trial memberships. Remember – the more you like the gym, the more likely you are to stick to your resolution so don’t be too quick to decide on the right gym for you.
All of you Indoor Cycling Needs in One Place!!
Very recently, SPORTSMITH launched a new website solely dedicated to indoor cycling. You can rest assured that we carry all the parts and accessories you will need for your stationary indoor cycle! We stock all of the most popular brands, such as Schwinn and LeMond, and our parts are competitively priced. Easy browsing means you won’t have to spend as much time looking for what you want, and as always, we offer quick and user-friendly checkout, and multiple delivery options. What are you waiting for? Go visit indoorcyclingparts.com today!