Exercise Bike

Stationary bikes are making a comeback! Remember the old Schwinn stationary bike your mother had in the corner of her bedroom? The one with clothes draped over it? Well fast forward 30 years, it's time to look into buying one for yourself. Things have changed dramatically in that time. Sophisticated electronics have replaced clunky mechanical components. Space age materials now provide you with a workout that is at once comfortable and benefitial. Utilizing magnetic principles, the resistance adjustments have been made to operate smoothly and quietly. In fact, the overall noise level of stationary bikes has been greatly reduced, you can workout without disturbing anyone else!

The Two Types Of Bikes

There are 2 types of stationary bikes, the upright and the recumbent. The difference being the position the rider works out in. On an upright, the rider is seated on a narrow seat above the pedals, handlebars are out in front. This arrangement is the most like a normal bicycle, in fact, the rider can workout standing up or hunched in a racers position. Most hard-core bike enthusiasts prefer this type of stationary bike. The drawback of an upright bike is lower back problems caused by the hunched over position. An upright takes up a relatively small area, and as such is ideal for someone in an apartment or with a small exercise space.

Recumbent Bikes

Recumbent stationary bikes differ in the fact that the rider is placed in a reclined position, pedals out front, handlebars out front or at the seat sides. The seat is larger and includes lower back support. In this way, the recumbent exercise bike is ideal for persons with lower back problems. Obese riders or people having trouble getting on an upright will love the recumbents lower to the floor arrangement. Don't be fooled by the recumbents seemingly easier workout, you are still receiving a great health benefit.

No matter which of the two types you decide to purchase, an exercise bike will provide you with a low impact aerobic workout. The cardio benefits are stellar too. In addition to the leg muscle workout you receive, some models of exercise cycles have handlebars that move in sync with the pedals giving you an added arm workout at the same time.

Both upright and recumbent stationary bikes are available from many sources, you can find both a new or used stationary bike. If looking for a used stationary bike, try a fitness equipment dealer that specializes in used equipment, or check with a fitness club. Often clubs will update periodically and sell off their used pieces of equipment for a good price. New stationary bikes are available from fitness equipment dealers, big box retailers, and on line. You should check out different makes and models in publications like consumer reports, and by talking to other purchasers on and off line. Keep in mind which features you need and which you can do without.

Exercise Bike |