Keeping in shape is not always easy - especially if you are over-worked or simply cannot find time to go to the gym or do other sports. In such cases working out at home is a good option. If you are in this group, find out which is better - a magnetic or flywheel exercise bike?
Keeping in shape is not always easy – especially if you are over-worked or simply cannot find time to go to the gym or do other sports. In such cases working out at home is a good option. If you are in this group, find out which is better – a magnetic or flywheel exercise bike?
What should you pay attention to when choosing an exercise bike?
An exercise bike or cross trainer is a great way to keep fit, because they let you have intense workouts at your own home. Regardless of your goals – whether you don’t like working out in front of other people, you want to watch movies during your workout, or maybe you simply cannot find enough time to go to the gym – home gym equipment can be the perfect solution. What should you pay attention to before buying such training equipment? Below are a few of the most important features of exercise bikes:
- Load – the first thing you should pay attention to when choosing an exercise bike is the maximum load. This will let you know if it is suitable for you. Most models have a fairly large tolerance range, usually up to 120kg, although make sure to check this beforehand.
- Resistance adjustment – do you intend to use your equipment for a light workout from time to time, or maybe more intensive use? Check the range of the exercise bike of your choice and make sure you can adjust the resistance to your needs and expectations.
- Saddle and handlebar adjustment – both a flywheel and magnetic bike must first of all be comfortable and a pleasure to use. Adjusting the height of the saddle and handlebar should be easy and intuitive, allowing you to work out in a comfortable position.
- Brand – good exercise bikes are not cheap, so it is safer to go for a reputable brand. Not only will this ensure a certain level of quality, but also aftersales care in the case of any issues during use. Finding spare parts for bikes of exotic brands can be challenging.
- Electronic display – choose an exercise bike equipped with an electronic display for easy access to additional functions, as well as tracking your progress. Monitor the number of calories burned or distance travelled and set yourself ambitious goals!
- Dimensions – for home use, the size can often be a key parameter. Luckily, there are many compact models available on the market, ideal for small apartments.
Types of exercise bike
The next aspect to keep in mind is the type of bike you want – the basic choice is between upright and recumbent bikes. Which one is better?
An upright bike will let you sit in a similar way as you would on a regular bike. The pedals are located directly under the saddle, and the user leans gently forward during the workout. For many people, this type of bike is ideal, but for users with back problems this posture may turn out to be too strenuous – this is where recumbent bikes come to the rescue.
Recumbent bikes are designed so that you can sit comfortably, resting your back against the backrest, and place your legs on the pedals in front of you. Your spine is therefore relieved, but you can still effectively exercise your leg muscles. And what’s more, in the case of a recumbent bike your abdominal muscles are also tense, so you can additionally exercise your stomach muscles.
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Stationary Bike – flywheel 13 kg – loadable up to 100 kg – LCD
319.00 €279.00 € -
Stationary Bike – flywheel 20 kg – loadable up to 120 kg – LCD
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Stationary Bike – flywheel 13 kg
669.00 €569.00 € -
Stationary Bike – flywheel mass 13 kg – LCD
789.00 €279.00 €
Spinning bikes also deserve a mention here. These are very specific types of bike, designed for an intensive aerobics workout, very popular in fitness clubs. You will rarely find home versions, because in order to use them correctly and according to a set workout regime, they are intended for group workouts together with a trainer.
Flywheel exercise bikes – specifications
A magnetic or flywheel exercise bike? This is another aspect to consider when purchasing such equipment. But what is a flywheel exercise bike? This is the simplest type of bike. It is lightweight, usually compact, and often foldable, making it perfect for home use. A simple knob is responsible for adjusting the resistance, and therefore the intensity of your workout – it lets you increase and reduce the friction of the wheel. A flywheel bike is also the cheapest option, simple to use, and generally quite reliable – you can fix most issues yourself.
This is often a decisive feature when choosing an exercise bike for home use. However, it also has some disadvantages – the load range is quite limited, it is very loud during use, and over time you may miss some of the additional functions that magnetic bikes offer.
Magnetic exercise bikes – specifications
What exercise bike should you buy – flywheel or magnetic? Advanced users, who desire more control over their workout, will usually opt for the latter type. These bikes are equipped with a magnetic brake, which allows you to precisely set the resistance of the flywheel. Such smooth resistance adjustments let you tailor your workout to your needs.
What are the other differences? They are quiet when in use, so you will be able to watch TV during your workout, and other members of your household will not be bothered by your loud workouts.
As with flywheel bikes, magnetic bikes also have some disadvantages. These include their considerable weight, the fact that they are more difficult to repair in the event of any damage, and their overall higher price. So which one should you choose? You should answer this question yourself, taking into account your workout needs and purchase budget.
A magnetic or electromagnetic bike?
Although magnetic bikes themselves are quite technologically advanced, electromagnetic bikes are a class higher. Equipped with a microprocessor and an electric motor, they offer incredibly precise user settings. They also have a much wider range of features, such as heart rate measurements or the possibility to connect the bike to an online app, letting you track your results and plan your next workouts. They are also nearly silent to use. However, such advanced features come at a price – for this reason, they are usually chosen for commercial use.
Basic equipment for gyms and fitness clubs
It is hard to imagine a good gym without exercise bikes. Well-equipped gyms will offer both upright and recumbent bikes, as well as spinning bikes for intensive aerobic workouts. An interesting alternative sometimes found in gyms are hybrid models, which are something between upright and recumbent bikes, and are ideal for users who experience spinal pain.
A magnetic or flywheel bike? You will not find flywheel bikes in fitness clubs, but rather high-tech and reliable electromagnetic models, ideal for commercial use.
Magnetic or flywheel exercise bike – summary
Setting up a home gym? Which exercise bike should you buy? Flywheel or magnetic? Now that you know the differences between the two types, making the right decision will be easier. First of all, take into account your own needs, the available space, and your purchase budget.
Also, bear in mind any back issues when choosing between an upright or recumbent version. Most importantly, you should choose equipment that will improve your health instead of making any existing issues worse. On the other hand, if you are looking for equipment for a fitness club, you should definitely choose top-of-the-range models, an investment that will definitely pay off in the long run.
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