Exercise Bikes Offer Low-Impact Workouts
Upright and Recumbent Bikes Provide In-Home Aerobic Workouts
Dec 29, 2008
For those who want to workout in the comfort of their own home, a stationary bike is the answer. There are two types of exercise bikes: the familiar upright stationary bike and the newer recumbent bike. The upright stationary bike closely simulates outdoor bike riding while providing low-impact, safe, and effective cardiovascular exercise. The newer recumbent bike was introduced to minimize the stress and impact that biking can have on the lower body. Which type of bike to use is a matter of personal preference. Both types provide an equally good cardiovascular workout and are easy to use.
Upright Exercise Stationary Bikes
Upright exercise bikes are popular because they are uncomplicated and effective. The variety of models available today can make selecting one a bit daunting. Seek out what is most important to you, such as size, resistance options, extravagant or basic consoles, a quiet unit, an adjustable seat, and adjustable handlebars.
Exercise Bike Pedal Resistance
Most exercise bikes provide a mechanism for applying resistance to the pedals which increases the intensity of the exercise. Resistance mechanisms include magnets, fans, and friction. Some models allow the rider to pedal backwards to exercise antagonist muscles which are not exercised in forward pedaling. Almost all exercise bikes include a console which monitors your workout. Some of these consoles are manually operated and some electronically driven. Most consoles provide information such as time elapsed, distance traveled, and calories burned, as well as revolutions per minute (RPMs), and heart rate data. More advanced consoles include workout programs such as interval, weight loss, mountain, race, and so on.
Indoor Cycling Bikes
In addition to the standard upright stationary bikes, there are indoor cycling bikes. These bikes more closely resemble a real bicycle than the standard upright stationary exercise bike and are most often used in a group exercise class. During the class, the instructor simulates a ride, such as traveling on flat roads, climbing hills, and racing. For those who want this type of cardiovascular workout at home, purchasing an indoor cycle is surprisingly cost-effective. Having an indoor cycle at home saves money in the long run, as it usually costs no more than a yearly gym fee or aerobics class fee. There is no longer a need to arrange and pay for child care while you go to your indoor cycling class, and you are not forced to schedule your workout around gym class schedules.
Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Those who are overweight or have shoulder, back, hip or knee problems may find the recumbent bike appealing. Many people with low back pain have trouble finding the right form of exercise that provides a good aerobic workout and is still gentle for their backs. Using a recumbent bike is excellent for a low stress workout. This type of bike allows the rider to recline, taking more of the gravity and weight off of the legs. Most recumbent bikes provide the lumbar support needed while exercising, as well as bio-mechanically correct body positioning for riders up to 350 pounds. With recumbent exercise bikes, the back of the rider is supported, and the rider’s legs extend forward to pedals that are at about the same height as the seat. The recumbent exercise bike offers bucket seats which can be more comfortable than traditional uprights. These types of bikes also stress the gluteal muscles more so than with traditional upright exercise bikes.
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