8 DIY Cat Treadmills You Can Build Today! (With images)

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All cats are predators by nature and need active movement. However, domesticated pets can have different temperaments depending on their breed and personality. Passive individuals prefer to spend most of their time alone. Active cats are often on the move and there are special running wheels just for them. The subtleties of choosing and training your pet to use the simulator will be discussed in more detail in this article.

Who needs it?

A running wheel is a kind of exercise machine, which is primarily needed by active domestic cats. Space in apartments is quite limited and animals do not have the opportunity to express all their energy. If you prevent an active pet from playing, then over time he may become lazy and spend most of his time sleeping or at the food bowl.

Passive individuals have an increased risk of gaining excess weight, which, in turn, can lead to serious health problems. A running wheel will be an excellent alternative to free-ranging on the street for natural predators.

Among all cats, representatives of the following breeds are distinguished by activity:

• Abyssinian;
• Somali;
• Egyptian Mau;
• savannah;
• Bengal;
• oriental;
• Siamese;
• Ocicat.

However, this does not mean that only these animals will like the simulator. Any cat can be active, regardless of its breed.

Press roller Iron Body 1629EG-IB double - review

I’ve been preparing for summer since February, you can read about the whole fight against cellulite here.

I also wrote about a home exercise machine that can draw your waist, review.

But today I want to dedicate this review to the most effective exercise machine - the ab roller. The price for the Champion is 430 rubles, which is a very reasonable price for a double wheel. I wanted to buy it for a long time, but then I found a reason - a nice and necessary gift for my birthday)

It is very compact and reliably made.

Now how I do the exercises: (I’ve only been doing it for 2 weeks):

I put a pillow under my knees (very important, because without it it hurts and puts extra stress on them), and I put it against the wall or sofa, so that while doing the exercise I rest (support is necessary for the unprepared), I get on my knees and roll the wheel until it rests and vice versa, everyone chooses the distance to the support themselves, over time the support becomes further and further, and then disappears altogether. The number of approaches is always 3, but the number of times I do varies from 15-20.

I really hope that I will soon be able to do the exercise from a standing position.

I would like to note that at first the exercise seems very difficult, I almost couldn’t straighten up (the next day everything hurt, including my arms and back!), but now I place the pillow further and further from the sofa, and the position reaches almost parallel to the floor (this and should be ideal). Now it’s not at all difficult for me to exercise, it doesn’t take much time, and my stomach has started to go away, I feel like it’s tightened up after the winter))) Look at the photo!!

after the video my stomach dropped

before classes on a roller and disk

Here you can read a review about what radically changed my attitude towards nutrition and saved my body.

Source: https://irecommend.ru/content/kak-sdelat-figuru-svoimi-rukami-ubrat-zhivot-pochuvstvovat-sebya-sportivnoi-foto

Advantages and disadvantages

Running wheels for cats have both advantages and disadvantages. Let's consider the advantages of such a simulator.

• The wheel allows you to organize leisure time for your pet. Individuals who like to run around the apartment in the mornings and nights will no longer bother tired owners and wake them up.
• The health benefits for cats are undeniable. For lazy individuals, periodic jogging allows you to maintain normal weight and not gain fat. Active pets will be able to splash out their energy at any time. Exercise also helps maintain muscle tone.
• Exercising on a treadmill not only allows you to maintain normal weight and train muscles, but also has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system and lungs.
• In many wheel models, the inside is lined with carpet and can serve as a scratching post for your pet.

As for the disadvantages, they are not so significant for running wheels. Let us highlight the main disadvantages of the simulator.

• Ready-made models are quite expensive . However, on the Internet you can find ready-made drawings and instructions for making such wheels, which will save money.
• Some exercise machines are quite large and are only suitable for large rooms.
• Not all cats are ready to immediately appreciate all the advantages of a running wheel. The owner sometimes has to spend a lot of time to accustom his pet to the exercise machine.

Running wheels are not suitable for all cats. And it's not always about the animal's temperament. If the cat has any injuries or illnesses, training on the simulator may not be acceptable.

Varieties

All running wheels have the same operating principle. Ready-made models of exercise equipment for cats primarily differ in size, material of manufacture and appearance.

Wheels can be of different diameters: small designs are designed only for kittens , and therefore after the animal grows up, they will become unnecessary. Large exercise machines are more practical and will come in handy, especially if there are several cats living in the house.

As for materials, they can be very different. The most commonly used materials are wood, plastic and metal. Simple kitten models can also be made from cardboard . Wood is considered the most versatile option in this case.

Let's consider these options.

• Wood is initially an environmentally friendly material and will not cause allergies in animals or other inhabitants of the house. Typically, exercise machines made of wood are quite lightweight and can be easily moved to a new location. Also, wooden models will fit well into almost any interior.

• Plastic wheels are lightweight and small in size. However, such structures cannot be called reliable and durable. They are quite unstable, and if any part of the simulator breaks, replacing it will be extremely problematic.

• Metal models are the heaviest, but at the same time they are stable and reliable. Moving the structure to a new location will be a little problematic. But the likelihood that the wheel will quickly fail is extremely small. Typically, such models are made to order or independently, if you have experience working with welding equipment.

• Cardboard wheels can hardly be called a full-fledged exercise machine. Such models are designed exclusively for kittens and small breed cats. With a high probability, animals will use the product for other purposes and, instead of training, will prefer to tear off pieces of cardboard from it.

Several materials can be used for manufacturing. At home, you can make a wheel of the desired size and characteristics.

As for the design, there are open and half-closed types of wheels. In open models, the wheel has no side walls. Semi-closed options imply the presence of one partition. Open exercise machines rotate due to rollers, which are mounted on a stand located under the wheel. In closed models, the rotation mechanism is located on the side, so such simulators are considered more stable.

House made of wire and T-shirts

To create such a shelter, you will need 2 pieces of wire 50 cm long, an old T-shirt, but without holes, a piece of cardboard of the required dimensions, pliers, pins and tape.

Advice! Instead of wire, you can take 2 wire hangers. With their help it is easier to create the correct shape of the house.

Since the piece of cardboard has cut edges, they can be slightly refined by decorating them with tape. The edges are covered with tape on all sides to ultimately achieve a neat look. This design also contributes to greater strength. Holes are made in each corner of the cardboard, the diameter of which is approximately the same as the thickness of the wire. You should not make them close to heaven, as the material will quickly tear.

After the completed steps, the finished frame is installed on a cardboard base, its ends falling into the holes. In this case, the frame should not fall out of the holes, but should hold firmly. The ends of the wire on the reverse side are bent, but so that a sufficient part remains for complete fastening.

Next, we take the finished tent and place it on a flat surface. It is necessary to determine whether the frame is installed smoothly and how securely the house itself is designed.

Be sure to pay attention to the fastening. If something seems wrong, it should be corrected at this stage of installation. After leveling the frame of the house, an old T-shirt is put on it so that the collar becomes the entrance, and the sleeves can be tucked under the bottom

At the bottom of the sleeve the T-shirt is secured with threads or pins

After leveling the frame of the house, an old T-shirt is put on it so that the collar becomes the entrance, and the sleeves can be tucked under the bottom. At the bottom of the sleeve, the T-shirt is secured with threads or pins.

Inside, on the bottom of the house, you can put a soft pillow or a blanket folded in several layers to make it soft and comfortable for your pet to be inside. The cat will definitely appreciate such an original house.

How to choose?

When choosing a running wheel, first of all you need to take into account the amount of free space in the apartment that can be allocated for installing the exercise machine. You also need to consider the number of cats in the house, their height and weight. For a large number of animals or for a large pet, massive, stable, semi-closed models are best suited.

Veterinarians recommend not using wheels with a diameter of less than one meter. The width of the path should not be less than thirty centimeters. Otherwise, the animal may damage its spine while exercising on small exercise machines.

When purchasing a finished model in a store, you must carefully inspect the entire structure. A product made of low-quality materials or with poor fastenings can, at best, not last long, and at worst, cause injury to your pet.

The inner surface of the wheel should not be slippery. It is best if it is covered with carpet or felt. Exercise machines differ in appearance and can be of different colors, so you can choose the right option for any interior.

Step by step instructions 4

Attach the foam to the inside walls of the large box using tape.

Insert a small box like a nesting doll.

Place non-synthetic rags at the bottom. Do not use wool, as it strongly absorbs moisture. The best option is a fleece blanket.

Wrap the house in thick, waterproof film. Tape all seams with wide tape to avoid drafts.

In the corner of the structure, cut a 15x15 cm exit. As you know, a cat crawls through a hole if its head passes through. A small hole is necessary to retain heat. Secure the edges of the hole with tape.

Make a foundation of bricks or boards - the house needs to rise above the ground for additional insulation from cold and water.

How to do it yourself?

Running wheels for cats are just beginning to gain popularity in Russia. The prices for such simulators are quite high, and it is not always possible to find a product in a small town. You can, of course, order a wheel from an online store, but then you won’t be able to first inspect it for defects and will have to take the seller’s word for it or the description on the website.

If you have the necessary materials and tools, you can make the simulator yourself. It won't take much time and won't cost much. The easiest way would be to make a wooden wheel. To make it you will need the following materials and tools:

• wood grinding machine;
• thick sheets of plywood;
• carpet or felt;
• tape measure and rope;
• construction pencil;
• bolts and nuts;
• Miter saw;
• small wheels;
• construction adhesive;
• wooden slats and beams;
• fasteners;
• knife and drill;
• bearings.

How to accustom an animal to a simulator?

Many cats are distinguished not only by their activity, but also by their innate curiosity. These pets are happy to explore new objects on their own. In this case , additional training on how to use the simulator will most likely not be required, and the cat will master the wheel on its own.

However, not all domestic cats will be ready to take the initiative in learning the running wheel and will be reluctant to learn something new. In any case, before you begin any active actions and try to put your pet on the wheel, you need to give him some time to get used to the simulator. Let the animal independently approach the object, examine and sniff it.

To draw attention to the wheel, you can place your cat's favorite toys next to it or directly in it. You can lure your pet to the simulator using a laser toy. In order for the animal to independently take a few steps inside the drum, you can attach a toy to the side surface.

After the first movements in the wheel, the cat may get scared and run away. Under no circumstances should you scold your pet for this. Usually within a week the cat gets used to the simulator and willingly begins to use it. There is no need to expect or demand from an animal that it runs on a wheel for a long time, since cats have nothing in common with hamsters or squirrels.

To learn how to make a running wheel for cats from cardboard, see below.

Depending on the breed, cats can be active or passive. Some sleep for almost a day, only interrupting for food, while others have a hunting instinct that forces them to be very active. Such cats need to splash out their energy every day. In small apartments there is not much room for animals to run around, and the owners are unlikely to be delighted with an animal endlessly jumping on the walls and windows. Therefore, a running wheel is simply necessary for such pets.

Photo with dimensions

No matter how much we talk about the design of a cat house, the best way to understand the dimensions is by drawings with dimensions. If you look at them carefully, you will notice a solid run-up. This is understandable - there are large and small cats, and accordingly the size of the cat's house will be larger/smaller. You can adjust them yourself depending on the size of your pets or the available space.

Photos of cat houses with dimensions

Three options for cat corners with sizes

The height of the presented structures is quite large - 180 cm and above, but you can reduce it by removing floors that you think are unnecessary. All these dimensions can be taken as a basis to develop your own layout and put down approximate dimensions. Having the drawing in hand, you can begin purchasing materials and manufacturing.

Benefits of a running wheel

In fact, the simulator will be useful for a cat with any character. Energetic animals will be able to run around in it to their heart's content, and calm ones will be able to shake out their fat a little. The problem of excess weight is especially acute in castrated and sterilized cats. For them, the wheel will be an effective way to lose a couple of extra pounds. The owner should remember that obesity in an animal is also fraught with problems with the heart and joints, just like in humans. In addition, your pet will appreciate the original design of the wheel. He will clearly enjoy the activity - depression will go away and his mood will improve.

You can make a running wheel for cats yourself. Self-production will allow you to save not only a decent amount of money (from 10 to 25 thousand rubles), but also as a result you will get an original design that no one else will have. However, before you start purchasing materials, you should study the information about what the wheel should be like so that the cat likes it.

"High-rise"

Singles value places at altitude most of all. This makes it easier for them to inspect their possessions. The house can be placed on a warm windowsill or nailed to the wall. For small pets, it is enough to make a structure on a leg with a height of 15-20 cm.

Purchase:

• plywood (12 mm) size 75x50 cm;
• poles made of timber 50x70 cm (total 4.2 m);
• carpet on jute base 1x2.5 m;
• rope 20 m;
• corners 15x20 mm, 40x45, 55x20, 35x40 and a pair of large ones for attaching to the wall.

Before you begin, create drawings and dimensions for proper fabrication.

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What you need to know about the running wheel

For the “cat simulator” to be successful, it is not enough to have all the necessary tools and preparations. It is important that the cat likes the final design. To do this, it must meet the following requirements:

• Large wheel diameter. The cat will not have to bend its body unnaturally if the size of the circle allows it to keep its back straight. In pet stores you can find wheels with a height of 80 and 120 cm, but this is not the limit. If, for example, a Maine Coon is going to jog in it, then the diameter of the wheel can be made even larger.
• Non-slip interior coating. If a cat’s paws constantly move while running, then she will definitely soon get tired of this activity. In the best case, the animal will simply jump out of the simulator, and in the worst case, it may twist its paw. So the ideal covering would be carpet or felt.
• Wheel structure. If the cat is very active and passionate, then a running wheel with an inner wall is best suited for him. It will be able to prevent the animal from “flying out” while running, and coordinate its trajectory of movements.

Photos of interesting cat houses/complexes

Living next to us for years, cats become not only pets, but members of the family. I want to create all the conditions for comfort for them, so the owners are trying, coming up with more and more new devices/designs. We have collected several interesting ideas in this section.

Different approaches for different numbers of cats, but interesting ideas

Compact “high-rise building” Shelves for cats - the name is clearly no coincidence...

Making a cat bed in the form of a bookcase is an interesting idea. Just like a cat climbing frame from a stepladder Cat-bedside table...

It’s not cold... Hammock near the radiator When the window sill is too narrow...

For lovers of high altitude. The cat will be happy Wall-mounted hammock - comfortable and safe (for cats)

Security guards...

It’s very easy to organize a hammock. The combination of shelves for cats with hammocks... Almost a work of art

How to make a trainer yourself

There are many photos and videos with different DIY cat wheel options. This article will provide several step-by-step instructions.

Method one

This option will be quite difficult for craftsmen who have never cut into a bearing or installed rollers. More experienced craftsmen will be able to figure it out without difficulty, since photos are posted as tips.

To work you will need:

• plywood;
• Miter saw;
• rail;
• rollers;
• pencil;
• Dremel;
• centimeter;
• bearing;
• beam;
• rope;
• fasteners;
• carpet;
• drill;
• glue;
• sander;
• bolt with nut;
• pipes;
• knife;
• double sided tape.

The sequence of actions can be divided into seven stages:

• Creating a foundation. Two circles of plywood with a radius of 46 cm are cut out, which will be the base of the wheel. They are connected to each other using bars.

• Manufacturing of slats. The slats are glued around the end part. For greater strength they are secured with straps.

• Installation on rollers. Two semicircular stands are equipped with two rollers on both sides, on which the running wheel will subsequently be installed. It is due to them that the simulator will rotate.

• Wall installation. Another circle is cut out of plywood and glued to the support. In the future, a bearing will be attached to it.

• Axle placement. Since the running wheel rotates on an axis consisting of a bolt with a bushing, to install it it is necessary to strengthen the insertion point. To do this, a plywood square is glued to the back side of the wall, and a gear is placed in front. A hole is drilled in the center.

• Making a stand. It is made from a support and bars made in the form of a rack. Two boards are fixed on it, into which bearings are installed.

• Gluing the track. A strip of carpet is cut along the width of the wheel. It should be glued with double-sided tape.

Method two

This option requires the presence of a welding machine, and the manufacturing algorithm is a little simpler than the previous one. To make a running wheel for cats with your own hands according to the instructions you will need:

• steel profile;
• plywood;
• wooden barrel;
• boards;
• bearings;
• wire;
• fasteners and wrench;
• welding machine;
• dye;
• drill;
• jigsaw;
• roulette.

The sequence of actions consists of three stages:

• Creating a frame on which the wheel will be attached. To do this, you need to weld a rectangular frame from a steel profile. Immediately on the long side, retreating 10 cm from the edge, weld the crossbar. Also attach two hinge posts to it through welding at an angle of 30-45 degrees.
• Making the running wheel itself. Cut off part of the barrel. To prevent the boards from falling apart, they need to be bolted together. Cut out the back wall for the drum from plywood. The circumference should be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the narrow part of the barrel.
• Assembly of the structure. Attach the drum to the hinge so that it can rotate freely. This should be done so that the wheel rotates only forward and backward, and does not sway left and right.

Who would like a cat exercise machine - a running wheel?

Cats, like people, differ in character and temperament: some can spend the whole day on the couch, others need constant movement.

Passive cats play reluctantly, sleep 20–22 hours a day, are calm and slow. Active ones clearly demonstrate the hunting instinct, restlessly rush around the entire apartment, play a lot and noisily, splashing out their energy. In this they differ little from their wild relatives: in nature, such cats can cover a distance of more than 10 km at night in search of food. If every day your pet wakes you up in the morning with noisy running around, joyfully pounces on every new toy, jumps on furniture, then this definitely means that you are the happy owner of an active breed of cat. A running wheel will come in handy in a home where representatives of active breeds such as Siamese, Bengal, Abyssinian, Kurilian Bobtail, Egyptian Mau, Balinese and others live.

Cat in a running wheel

City apartments are cramped for such cats, they limit their hunting territory, so tailed fidgets endlessly run around the house, jump on windows and curtains, damage furniture, causing trouble for the owner. It is especially difficult for pets if the owners do not have the opportunity to take the cat for a walk. Cats may begin to mark their territory at home by running restlessly around the rooms. The simulator will help calm the animal and redirect attention.

The treadmill wheel is very popular in Europe, and this exercise machine has recently appeared on Russian shelves.

Now it can be purchased at any pet store, which allows every owner to take care of the health of their cat, or to make it themselves.

Benefits of a running wheel

A treadmill is similar to a human treadmill. It helps the cat lose excess weight, strengthen the cardiovascular system, muscles, and lungs.

The wheel will be useful for overweight cats and will help them get into good physical shape. Spayed and neutered cats are most susceptible to overeating. As in humans, this can lead to serious heart disease, metabolic disorders, and stress on internal organs and joints.

Together with proper nutrition, such a simulator will allow your cat to stay healthy and lose extra pounds.

The simulator can replace a scratching post. The inner covering is made in such a way that the cat can rest on it with its paws. The animal will use the running wheel when it is bored or the owner is not at home. If there are several cats in a family, then the simulator will be an excellent play complex for them.

Running on a wheel allows your cat to burn off some energy.

Description and functions

One of the items that will help diversify the life of a mustache is a running wheel for cats. At specialized sales points you can find several models of cat simulators. All of them are a round rotating object, namely a wheel of different types and sizes, with individual features in the form of lining and other details. The models differ according to the following main parameters:

You can either purchase a running wheel or make it yourself. Using the accessory will help your pet lose excess weight or prevent its appearance, strengthen muscles and joints, and prevent the development of diseases associated with lack of active activity. In addition, it will be possible to prevent domestic chaos and destruction caused by young, active and playful cats.

What types of running wheels are there for cats?

The operating principle of all running wheels is the same. The main difference is in the design and material used. Exercise machines are usually made of wood, plastic, metal or corrugated cardboard. Each material has its own positive qualities and disadvantages.

Wood is the most versatile, environmentally friendly and natural material for making cat running wheels. Most often, products made from light plywood are offered. For its basis, trees such as birch, walnut, oak, and pine are taken. The wooden exercise machine will fit perfectly into the interior of the apartment and will delight your pet every day. If you want to make a homemade wheel from wood, then keep in mind that it must first be treated to prevent rotting and its condition must be monitored.

The weight of a wooden exercise machine is from two kilograms or more

The plastic wheel is light in weight and easy to assemble at home. It is convenient to clean, but like any other thing made of plastic, such a simulator can quickly break down and repairing it will be problematic.

The plastic wheel looks aesthetically pleasing

The metal wheel is reliable, stable, durable, easy to clean, but most often it is solid and bulky, so it is inconvenient to transport. Such products are most often made by the owners themselves in home workshops.

A metal wheel is more reliable than others, but also heavier

A cardboard wheel is perfect for kittens and light weight cats. It is much easier to assemble than wood or plastic, but quickly becomes unusable. Many cats like to use cardboard objects as scratching posts, so sometimes paper scraps form next to this simulator

Cardboard wheel may not last long

Table. Comparative characteristics of materials for making wheels

Some craftsmen use a combination of different materials to create a wheel. The resulting hybrid options are with a base made of plywood or iron and a running part made of corrugated cardboard.

By design, the wheels are either open or semi-closed. The first option assumes that the cat can enter the wheel from any side. In the closed type, one side is adjacent to the wall and is completely closed. Depending on the design option, a rotation mechanism is installed. In the open type, rotation is carried out by rollers under the wheel itself on the bottom of the stand. Such a wheel is less stable and can “walk” slightly under the weight of the cat. In the closed type, the mechanism itself that allows the wheel to spin is located on the side and allows the structure to maintain balance. If the pet is too reckless and energetic, then if he loses coordination, the side wall will be able to align his trajectory and will not allow him to fall off the wheel.

To make the cat “spin on the wheel” more actively, some models are equipped with various teasers in the form of a laser beam or a toy mouse. It is better to make such toys removable so that the cat does not get used to them.

There is a special coating inside the exercise machine to prevent the cat's paws from slipping while moving. It can be carpet, rubber, felt, foam mat. The modern market offers a choice of wheels with a wide variety of designs:

• with different wheel shapes (round, polygonal);
• with different designs for the back wall;
• different colors;
• running wheels built into play complexes;

A large play complex will give your cat a lot of positive emotions

Ab roller: exercises, which muscles are involved, effectiveness, reviews

There are quite a lot of exercise machines that are compact in size, but can make working on the body much more effective.

One of them is the abdominal roller, exercises with which are aimed at strengthening the abdominal muscles, but also allow you to work with other muscle groups.

Not only trained athletes, but also beginners taking their first steps in the world of sports can perform exercises with the simulator.

The exercise machine can be found in almost any sports store or purchased online. The names may be different: abdominal roller, abdominal wheel, sports wheel, gymnastic wheel, gymnastic roller. In fact, these are names of the same simulator.

What is a simulator?

The ab wheel fully lives up to its name. In essence, this is a wheel with handles attached on both sides. The simulator can have one or two wheels or provide the ability to install/remove an additional wheel.

The diameter may vary, but usually ranges from 15-20 cm (the smaller the diameter, the more difficult it is to practice). The simplest models have ordinary plastic handles, while the more advanced ones have rubberized handles, which is much more convenient and safer when practicing.

Modernized models can be equipped with foot pedals, which allow you to expand the list of exercises and work more actively on the lower body. You can also purchase a wheel trainer with handles, which will have a built-in trimmer with tensioners (expanders).

What to look for when choosing

When purchasing a gymnastic roller, it is important to correctly assess your capabilities and needs, as well as analyze product offerings on the market. This is necessary in order to buy a simulator specifically for your level, and also not to succumb to the tricks of consultants in stores, for whom sometimes it is much more important not to help the client find a suitable option, but to sell him a more expensive model.

A trainer with a return mechanism is the best option for beginners. It makes training easier and minimizes the risk of injury. But unlike a simple wheel that does not have a similar function, it does not produce such a high load.

Working out with an ab wheel that has two rollers is much easier than with one. This type of exercise machine maintains balance better, although it makes the load lighter.

A roller with a shifted center of gravity is more suitable for those who already have experience with a simple wheel and are ready for more complex loads. This model is not recommended for beginners.

When choosing, you should pay attention to the weight of the wheel. Light weight models are easier to work with, heavier ones are more difficult.

A wheel with pedals is usually chosen by those who exercise professionally. This simulator allows you to significantly diversify the set of exercises with it and get the best results. Even more options for performing exercises are provided by the simulator, which is additionally equipped with a trimmer with tensioners. It allows you to increase loads by using cable tension.

What muscles are strengthened when working with a simulator?

Ab roller exercises are aimed at working primarily the upper body, namely the arms, shoulders, abdomen, back and chest. But when they are performed, a significant load is also placed on the muscles of the lower abs and lower back; the buttocks, quadriceps and hamstrings are additionally involved.

When performing exercises with a wheel in the “plank” position, almost no part of the body is left without load. A wide range of options for using the simulator also allows you to work on hidden muscles, while achieving the best results.

Exercises with the wheel are also recommended for those who are too early to think about working out muscles and simply need to lose excess weight.

How to pump up your abs and other muscles using a wheel

There are quite a few exercises that use a gymnastic wheel. The principle of operation is always almost the same, but the starting position changes.

Down on my knees

Holding the handles of the roller with straightened arms, rest it on the floor and place it strictly under the shoulders.

Slowly begin to roll the wheel forward to the distance of outstretched arms, and just as slowly return to the starting position. This is the simplest option, but quite effective for working out the abs.

To work on the oblique abdominal muscles, a similar exercise is performed, but the roller does not roll forward, but slightly to the side of the body.

Down on one knee

In this case, the second leg is moved to the side. The exercise is performed similarly to the previous one. It is also possible to roll the roller both forward and to the side.

Half-standing emphasis

Kneel with one foot, the other rests against a wall or other reliable surface. Holding the roller in your hands, roll it forward and backward as much as possible, keeping the center of gravity on it.

Standing emphasis

Feet shoulder-width apart, arms straightened, roller resting on the floor. Roll it forward as much as your physical training allows, then go back.

Sitting on my knees

Roll forward to a lying position, without lifting your knees from the floor, pull yourself back.

It is recommended to perform each exercise with an abdominal roller 10 times, doing 3 approaches. At the initial stage of training, the number of repetitions and approaches can be reduced. This is especially true for those for whom physical activity is unusual. It is best to exercise every other day, since the muscles need time to recover.

It is extremely important each time before you start using a gymnastic roller to warm up your body with simple exercises. This could be running, squats, bending, etc.

Advantages of the roller over other simulators

Despite its simplicity, small dimensions and low cost, a sports roller has many advantages and can seriously compete with more complex and expensive exercise equipment. Its advantages include:

• Highly effective in strengthening the abdominal muscles, as well as general “drying” of the body and reducing the amount of fat deposits;
• By working on both the rectus and oblique abdominal muscles, the roller helps change its shape, making the abs toned and attractive;
• Increased endurance, improved posture;
• Does not take up much space, easy to assemble and operate;
• You can choose a simulator for different degrees of fitness and weight of the athlete, as well as the type of exercise.

Features of the exercises

When performing exercises with a gymnastic wheel, you must adhere to certain recommendations that will help you get the most noticeable results from your exercises:

• For those who are just starting training with a roller, it is better not to immediately get into the plank position, but to perform the exercises with emphasis on the knees;
• The wheel should move as smoothly as possible, without jerking;
• While the wheel is moving, the abdominal muscles should be in constant tension;
• In the final position you need to take a short pause.
• When performing the exercise on your knees, you need to place a special gymnastic mat under them to minimize the load on the joints.

There are a number of contraindications for training with a wheel. Traditionally these include:

• Spinal injuries and joint diseases;
• Presence of chronic diseases;
• Bad feeling;
• Pregnancy.

If pain occurs in the back and spine, it is recommended to stop exercising and consult with specialists.

How to choose a running wheel in a store?

When choosing a wheel, first of all, you need to pay attention to its size so that your pet feels comfortable. A standard wheel for medium-sized cats is considered to be a simulator with a diameter of 80 cm or more, but veterinarians advise not to skimp on the length and to purchase a wheel of 1 m or more so that the cat does not have to bend its body unnaturally and does not injure the spine. The optimal width of the treadmill is 30-40 cm.

You should pay attention to the inner shell of the simulator, on which the animal will not slip when moving. The best option for covering a cat wheel is carpet or felt.

Wheels can be solid or prefabricated. When ordering a simulator through an online store, they will send you a prefabricated wheel, which you will need to assemble yourself, piece by piece. The price for such a device varies from 10 to 25 thousand rubles. The simulator can be ordered both from Russia and abroad from individuals or in various stores.

DIY running wheel for cats

Cat owners often make exercise equipment for their pets with their own hands. The most common option is wooden running wheels. You can find many models of wooden exercise machines online. Most often, birch plywood or chipboard is used. Let's look at some designs.

Wooden running wheel

Model No. 1. Wooden running wheel

To make this model you will need the following materials and tools:

• plywood;
• Sander;
• double sided tape;
• rope;
• roulette;
• Miter saw;
• rollers;
• knife;
• rail;
• fasteners;
• bolts with nut;
• Dremel;
• pipes;
• bearing;
• glue;
• beam;
• pencil;
• carpet

Stage one . We will need two plywood circles with a diameter of 92-100 cm. We connect them together with bars.

Start of wheel production

Stage two. We glue the slats for the running drum around the circumference.

The process of making a running wheel requires some carpentry skills

Stage three. Cut out two semicircular platforms for the stand. For an open type of simulator, we make a rotation mechanism on a stand: we install two rollers on both sides, due to which the wheel will move.

The wheel runs on a bearing

Stage four. If you plan to make an open type of wheel, then the middle part of both plywood is cut out, and the mechanism is installed from below. All that remains is to glue the carpet to the inside. The wheel is ready. If you want to make a closed type, then cut out only one of the walls. To create a rotation mechanism, look at the following steps.

Stage five. The wheel rotates on an axle, which consists of a bolt with a bushing, so you need to increase the space for its installation. A square of plywood is glued to the back of the wall, and a decorative gear is placed on the front.

The gear can be cut out with a jigsaw or bought at a hardware store

Stage six. Let's make a stand from two boards, a support and bars for the stand. The boards themselves have pre-installed bearings.

Manufacturing and fastening of the wheel support

Stage seven. We make an internal path from carpet. You can attach it using double-sided tape or glue.

Carpet scraps can be purchased cheaply at the construction department.

Stage eight. A protective coating is applied to the finished simulator. Assembly is complete.

Model No. 2. Wooden running wheel with steel profile

There can be several variations of running wheels for cats

This version of the simulator assembly requires a welding machine. The manufacturing procedure is a little simpler than the previous one. To create a wheel you will need:

• steel profile;
• plywood;
• welding machine;
• boards;
• fasteners and wrench;
• jigsaw;
• bearings;
• wooden barrel;
• dye;
• wire;
• drill;
• roulette.

Stage one. First, the steel frame is welded: for this it is necessary to weld a rectangular steel frame onto which the wheel is attached. At a distance of 10 cm from the edge, weld a steel crossbar on the opposite side. Using a welding machine, weld two platforms for connection at the crossbar site at an angle of approximately 30-45 degrees.

Stage two. The base for the running drum is round, so it is not easy to make it by hand. A wooden barrel is best suited for these purposes, but it is advisable to bolt its boards together in advance so that they do not fall apart. For the closed wall of the wheel, cut a plywood base. It should be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the barrel.

Stage three. Having dealt with the drum and the back wall, you can begin assembling the structure of the treadmill, painting the drum with paint in advance. We connect the bushing and the drum with bolts so that the wheel can rotate freely without deviation to the left or right.

Model No. 3. Running wheel based on a bicycle one

Bicycle wheel for cats

The running wheel, which operates like a bicycle wheel, can support the weight of two adult cats and can be installed on any surface. The wooden drum has a diameter of 100-110 cm. Using the same principle, you can make a metal wheel with your own hands using a welding machine.

Reliable design, but requires metal welding skills

Model No. 4. Cardboard running wheel

This version of a homemade simulator is the simplest and most economical; assembly takes much less time. To work you will need:

• corrugated cardboard;
• glue or double-sided tape;
• professional knife for cutting cardboard;
• scissors;
• a rag made of cotton fabric;
• carpet

Stage one. Cut out a rectangular area for the stand. Glue perpendicularly with three pieces of cardboard, curved under the wheel area. Pre-cut identical holes on the sides of the curved parts for the rollers, close the structure on both sides.

Cardboard blank

Stage two. Attach the roller to the sleeve on one side and push it through the holes in the structure, placing the bolts on the sleeve so that they come into contact with the cardboard. Put on the second video. Perform the same operation on the other side of the rack.

Stage three. Prepare the covering surface of the structure by first wetting it with a wet cloth. Separate the skin of the cardboard from its main part. As a result, we get a soft surface that rests quietly on the edges of the structure, completely covering it from above.

Stage four. We cut out four identical rings with a diameter of 46 cm and a thickness of approximately 3-4 cm. Place the first pair of rings on top of each other and use the soft part of the separated corrugated cardboard, placing it along the entire inner diameter. Place the remaining pair of rings on top of the cardboard.

The work is moving towards completion

Stage five. We connect the resulting wheel to the stand and glue the carpet track with double-sided tape. The wheel is ready!

Video - Cardboard cat trainer

How to train a cat to ride a wheel?

Don't expect your cat to spin a wheel all day long, like a hamster or a squirrel. The respiratory system of a cat is designed in such a way that it can withstand maximum load for 30-40 seconds. This is exactly how much it takes for a cat in the wild to catch its prey. They spend the rest of their time tracking and lying in wait for their prey. To understand the delights of running in wheel to wheel, the cat needs to get used to and examine the new furniture, not be afraid of the noise and movement of the wheel itself.

The first step is to move your games that you usually play to the area of ​​the wheel or to the room where it is located. Use a laser, mouse, bell, or other teaser to get your cat to step onto the treadmill several times. It will take 2-3 days to get used to the simulator. Hang the toy on the side of the drum, above the cat's reach. In pursuit of the toy, the cat will make several movements and the wheel will begin to rotate. If this works, then after 10-15 seconds let the cat take possession of the toy. If the cat gets scared of the wheel and jumps out of it, then you need to continue playing near the simulator without rewarding the cat with a toy.

Physical activity is extremely important for cats

Over time, your pet will get used to the wheel and playing inside it. Do not forget that at the end of the hunting game the cat must get what she wants. Veterinarians advise not to keep your cat constantly excited and to give it rest between games to regain its strength.