There are two primary types of exercise bikes available - the upright and the recumbent. The upright bike resembles a typical road bike but remains stationary. The pedals are below the rider and put more stress on the joints. The recumbent bike has a seat that resembles a chair and the pedals are out in front of the rider. This puts less stress on the hips and knees as well as providing a more natural pedaling position.A few other types of exercise bikes available include the dual action and resistance bikes. Dual action bikes are upright exercise bikes that have moveable bars or arm handles. On this bike, you use both your arms and legs, which provides you with the opportunity to gain greater aerobic activity while toning your upper body.
Resistance bikes come with a variety of resistance mechanisms. Direct tension bikes provide you with the capability to manually adjust the amount of resistance you desire. If the bike has flywheels, the cycling motion is similar to regular cycling motion. Air resistance bikes get resistance by pedaling against the airflow of a fan blade. Magnetic frictionless resistance bikes are the most sophisticated resistance bikes. They allow for a greater variety of workout levels.
Feedback mechanisms on more advanced bikes offer the following readouts:
- speed, time, and distance
- total calories and fat burned
- program mode and resistance levels
- pulse, heart rate, and workout level
- RPM, watts, METS, mpms, and mph/kph
Choosing which bike to purchase depends on your needs and your preferences. The type of workout you are seeking will also affect the bike you choose.
An upright bike will give you a great cardio workout that focuses on the quadriceps.
A recumbent bike has you seated in a reclining position. The seat supports your back and your legs are out in front of you. They work the hamstrings and gluteus muscles. A recumbent bicycle is much easier on your lower back.
Upright exercise bikes might have handlebars that move back and forth simulating a rowing motion. This will work your arms, chest, abs, and back muscles.
All bikes offer excellent cardio vascular workouts and calorie burning experiences. Make sure to match the bike to your size. (Most exercise bikes are easily adjusted for almost any body type.)
People use exercise bikes for a variety of reasons. Cyclists often use them during their off-season to maintain their levels of fitness. Many people use them at home because they feel uncomfortable exercising in front of other people.
Exercise bikes are also used in physical therapy programs to promote healing and the regaining of knee or hip joints. Some cardiac rehabilitation programs also use them to promote endurance and greater cardiac health.
You can purchase exercise bikes in sports stores, department stores like Sears or Wal-mart and online. It is better to purchase from a store, if buying for the first time, to allow you to match the bike to your living space, your body size, and your budget. When buying online you run the risk of not getting exactly what you wanted. The bike may or may not have the exact specifications or may be bigger (or smaller) than what you ordered.
Whatever your reason for purchasing an exercise bike, it is only going to work if you use it. Of course, as with any exercise routine, check with your doctor to make sure that you are healthy enough to exercise. Start out slow and build up your endurance. Be safe, be healthy and have fun.
About The Author: Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Home Fitness Equipment, which includes Home Gyms, Exercise Bikes, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. Visit http://www.1st-4-fitness-equipment.com.
