blueerica~ that is why I think of yoga, isn't this done in a way that helps stretch the body? I stretch, but not always. And, I thought I read you should for way longer than I ever have.
RStar~ Your pond sounds lovely! What a relaxing project to have. {I think yardwork/gardening is relaxing unless you forget about your plants and they die and then it is a horrible, horrible feeling}. And, great sign that you aren't sore, that does mean you've been using those muscles before and are making them strong.
Prudence~ I had to laugh {sorry} at your description of your treadmills' popping sound. Oh, we are on our second {third?} one right now and I think that it needs maintenance. When we use the one at hotels it feels different. Ours isn't a middle of the road one, not the cheapest, but definitely not top of the line. I think it needs the belt tightened but I don't know how to do it.
Can they be fixed? Hmm. Depends on what it would cost. How old it is. Might be worth just replacing it. Or, at this point, joining a gym. We bought a lot of equipment because there are six of us in the house and we all can use it, so, cheaper than gym memberships. And, I can do it while the kids are around, etc. But, it does look like a fun time, going to the gym.
Let me know if you find out about equipment repair, we have a climber that is really cool but it needs fixin'. We'd buy another but haven't seen one like it anywhere {my sister gave it to me...}