Working out with training equipment is a great way to improve and maintain your physical condition. However, you may be wondering - should you get an exercise bike or a cross trainer? Read on and find out what equipment to choose.
Working out with training equipment is a great way to improve and maintain your physical condition. However, you may be wondering – should you get an exercise bike or a cross trainer? Read on and find out what equipment to choose.
Basic cardio equipment for gyms
As mentioned above, a cross trainer and an exercise bike are the most common options at the gym. Both of them let you have an intense cardio workout. A treadmill will also be good in this case. All of these machines are also perfect for home use, as their size is relatively compact. With such equipment you can work out at virtually any time.
If you really want to stay in shape, you could go for all three of these machines. Each of them has a different purpose and helps to achieve a different training goal. And if you want to find out which one will be best, get to know a bit more about each one. Treadmills, exercise bikes and cross trainers can all be equipped with a number of functions to optimise your workout.
Overview of exercise bikes
Exercise bikes train your lower body muscles as well as your abdominal muscles. Thanks to the seated position, your workout can be very intense.
In terms of the mechanism of operation, we can distinguish three types of exercise bikes – mechanical, magnetic and electromagnetic bikes. When it comes to the type of construction, and thus the position you adopt, we distinguish upright, recumbent and spinning bikes.
However, regardless of the type of bike, the exercise routine is the same. It is based on simulating using a real bike (e.g. city or road bike). By adjusting the resistance, the user can determine the effort level while pedalling. Exercise bikes may have a built-in calorie burn meter, heart rate monitor or other measuring tools.
Types of exercise bikes
Now briefly have a look at the types of exercise bikes. First, let’s take a look at mechanical bikes, which are the most popular type.
Mechanical bikes work on the principle of resistance caused by the friction of the flywheel. Such bikes are equipped with an element similar to a classic bicycle brake, the operation of which can be regulated by a knob, determining the force when you pedal.
In the case of magnetic bikes, the resistance is generated by the use of a magnetic brake. The user also has a wider range and greater precision in determining the intensity of the workout. Since they use more high-tech solutions, magnetic bikes are also more expensive than mechanical ones.
The third group are electromagnetic bikes. Their mechanism is based on an electromagnet that attracts the flywheel. As the power of the electromagnet increases, so does the resistance to pedalling. These are the most advanced type of exercise bike. They are equipped with a number of sensors and functions that improve your workout.
Let’s move on to the second type of classification and compare exercise bikes in terms of their design. In this regard, upright bikes are the most basic type. They reflect the position when riding a classic bicycle. Their name comes from the upright seating position of the user. Although these types of bikes are equipped with a comfortable seat, they are not intended for use by people with spine problems and circulatory system issues.
Recumbent bikes are larger than upright bikes and are adapted to heavier loads. Recumbent bikes have a seat with a backrest, meaning that the position you adopt during your workout makes it safe not only for seniors and people with back injuries, cardiovascular diseases or struggling with obesity.
The third type of exercise bikes are spinning bikes. Their design forces the user to adopt a very tilted body position. A chain or a special belt is responsible for transmitting the torque, and the seat is very narrow. This type is usually chosen by people more advanced and in good shape, who are ready for an intense workout.
What is a cross trainer?
What is a cross trainer and how does it differ from an exercise bike? First of all, a cross trainer lets you simulate running. To use a cross trainer, place a foot on each of the stands and take hold of the poles with each hand. Drive your right foot forward and you’ll notice your right arm will need to extend with it as the pole moves.
Just like exercise bikes, cross trainers also come in several types. In this case, the division is according to the braking mechanism. The most basic versions are equipped with a physical brake. Its resistance is adjusted manually using a special knob. This type of equipment is great for beginners, although a disadvantage could be the fact that they are quite loud.
The second type are magnetic cross trainers. They work based on the resistance created by the magnets. These cross trainers are a proposal for more advanced users, as they have a greater range of resistance adjustment than in the case of mechanical ones. It is worth noting that this type of endurance equipment is very quiet during training.
The third group are electromagnetic cross trainers. As the name suggests, electromagnets are responsible for the resistance in this type of equipment. The workout intensity can be adjusted on the electronic control panel. Changing the workout intensity therefore takes place without having to pause your workout.
When choosing the best option for your needs – an exercise bike or a cross trainer – it is also worth bearing in mind that cross trainers, in addition to cardio exercises, also help you develop the muscles on your legs, abs and arms. Exercising on a cross trainer simulates running.
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Cross trainers and exercise bikes – basic differences
So what should you choose? A cross trainer or an exercise bike? You will have to answer this question for yourself. Both machines work in a completely different way, and therefore offer a different type of workout. If your goal is a heavy endurance workout, then an exercise bike will be a better choice.
If, on the other hand, you want a cardio exercise that is similar to jogging, then you should choose a cross trainer. It is great for toning your legs, arms and glutes. It is also good for your spine. When choosing the best option for yourself, also take into account your own preferences and physical condition.
Exercise bike or cross trainer – summary
Which should you choose – a cross trainer or an exercise bike. If possible, it would best to invest in both. Your workouts will then be more varied and you will be able to work on different parts of your body.
Before making your choice, take into account the different types of bikes and cross trainers. Both the mechanisms and the design of the equipment can make a big difference not only with your comfort and convenience in mind, but also to your health.
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