There are so many exercise bikes available that it's easy to be
overwhelmed. Spinning bikes, stationary bikes, dual action bikes, and
recumbent bikes are probably some of the terms you've heard. It's
almost as though you have to be a fitness equipment engineer to
understand the differences! Here's a quick summary of these confusing
terms.
Spinning Bikes
You've probably heard about the spin craze that has become so popular
in health clubs. Spinning bikes usually have at least a front wheel
that spins (which is why they are so brilliantly named spinning bikes).
These bikes might be the current fad, but they aren't very comfortable.
The seats are small and hard. The classes make these boring bikes more
interesting, but as home exercise bikes, they quickly become tedious.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes (or upright bikes) are the exercise bikes that most
people can identify. It's the same basic model as in the 1980's. Once
again, it's fairly uncomfortable. You can't really do anything like
read or watch TV because you're leaning left and right and bouncing, so
it, too, quickly gets boring.
Dual Action Bikes
Dual action bikes are aptly named, as they give you both an upper and
lower body workout. There are handles that move independently - much
like an elliptical machine. It's a good workout, but a bit tough for
beginners, and as usual, the time on the bike will eventually get
boring.
You can also get dual action bikes that allow you to adjust the machine
to create an arm-pedaling workout. It's usually fairly difficult to
make the adjustments. It's also two separate exercises, which create a
longer workout. Most people aren't as likely to keep up such a routine.
Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes are the exercise bikes with the comfortable bucket
seats. You sit back and lower to the ground as you pedal. These
exercise bikes are easy enough for even the most sedentary beginners,
and they usually offer workout programs to keep the workouts from
becoming mundane.
The Experts Recognize the Advantages of Recumbent Bikes
Most physicians and personal trainers recommend recumbent bikes.
Recumbent bikes are better for people of all different fitness levels.
You are more likely to keep up a recumbent bike routine over time, the
bikes are safer, and there are different benefits for both men and
women.
Recumbent Bikes for All Fitness Levels
Even the most sedentary person will find a recumbent exercise bike easy
to use. You can adjust the settings to offer little or no resistance as
you pedal. People who are overweight will definitely find the seat much
larger and more comfortable than other exercise bikes.
Athletes will find the recumbent exercise bike a challenge. The
resistance can become incredibly difficult. The bike can simulate
pedaling up hills. Most recumbent bikes offer various programs that
will require you to sprint and tackle hills. If you want an upper body
workout as you pedal, you can easily add weights and do repetitions as
you sit back in the recumbent bike seat.
Recumbent Bikes Offer a Sustainable Workout
The programs offered by most recumbent exercise bikes definitely keep
the workout from becoming boring. You can simulate a course that is
easy or difficult, flat or hilly. When shopping for exercise bikes,
it's better to get a bike with as many variations as possible.
The fact that a recumbent bike is suitable for all levels will keep you
getting back on the bike. If you're feeling particularly tired or lazy
one day, you can have an easy workout where you can read a book or
newspaper. If you really want to test your limits, you can crank up the
music, set the machine to more difficult levels, and add some weights
for an upper body workout.
Recumbent Bikes are Safer
Because you sit back and lower to the ground in a recumbent bike, it is
better for your body. Most exercise bikes force you to hunch over,
causing a stiff back. Some dual action bikes are back injuries waiting
to happen. Recumbent bikes require that you sit with good posture as
you pedal.
Recumbent bikes also offer one of the few cardio workouts that put no
pressure on your knees and other joints. You can't "cheat" on a
recumbent bike and stand up when you're finding it more difficult to
pedal. Standing like that on other types of exercise bikes puts
unnecessary pressure on your knees and ankles. Recumbent bikes let your
body exercise at an angle where your body weight is not stressing your
joints. Even people with back and knee problems will find a recumbent
bike easy to use.
Why Men Should Choose Recumbent Exercise Bikes
So many men neglect their lower bodies when they workout, especially in
strength training. It's common to see buffed out men with giant biceps
and tiny little bird legs. That's because it's easier to get an upper
body workout at home. If you just invest in a recumbent bike, you can
set the machine to high resistance. You will build leg muscle, and you
can even do curls while you pedal.
Recumbent bikes can also allow men to get a great cardio workout
without the discomfort that only a man knows on regular bikes or other
types of exercise bikes. With the large, comfortable seats of recumbent
bikes, you are much more likely to enjoy your workout pain-free.
If you move the seat of a recumbent bike up a bit to bring your legs
higher, you can even target the lower abs and have to do less crunches
to get the bottom of your six-pack!
Things Women Should Know About Recumbent Bikes
Two words, ladies: legs and bottoms. Recumbent exercise bikes are so
comfortable and easy to use that eventually you can do workouts giving
you results like you've spent hours a day on a stair-stepper.
Recumbent bikes can give you a fat burning cardio workout with enough
resistance to help you build long, lean muscle. Picture Tina Turner
legs. Recumbent bikes also are great for your inner thighs. Using
different programs and settings, you will be able to target different
muscle areas in your legs for longer looking, leaner legs.
According to most polls, women claim in higher numbers to not have time
for exercise because of more responsibilities in the home. With the
positioning of a recumbent bike, you can multi-task to more easily fit
in a workout. You are able to read, catch the news, and even use a
phone or your handheld organizer.
Finding a Recumbent Exercise Bike
With prices between $200 and $3000, there is quite a variety of
recumbent bikes available. Use the Internet to find great deals
(including free shipping most of the time). Because the bikes are great
for any level and help you to finally be able to stick with a safe and
effective workout routine, you can splurge a little. This is definitely
one of the best investments you can make for your health.
