Exercise bikes are universal training equipment that work well both at home and at the gym. How do they work, and which exercise bike should you choose?
Exercise bikes are universal training equipment that work well both at home and at the gym. How do they work, and which exercise bike should you choose?
- What should you pay attention to when choosing an exercise bike?
- Types of exercise bikes
- Exercise bikes for the elderly
- Exercise bikes used for rehabilitation
- Exercise bikes for slimming
- A flywheel or magnetic bike?
- Which exercise bike will best suit your physical conditions?
- Which exercise bike should you choose? – summary
What should you pay attention to when choosing an exercise bike?
Before deciding which exercise bike to choose, precisely define your workout needs and expectations. You should take into account the intensity of the workouts you plan to have.
This aspect lets you choose the type of resistance mechanism (e.g. mechanical or magnetic). The type of equipment is also important.
When considering which exercise bike to choose, pay attention to whether it has various additional functions. Simple models, without advanced technological solutions, will definitely cost less than ones full of high-tech electronics.
Types of exercise bikes
Let’s take a look at the other types of exercise bikes. This group of exercise equipment can be divided into three categories. Which exercise bike should you choose? You can choose from upright, recumbent and spinning bikes, which differ in the way particular elements are placed. The user assumes a different position when using each type. As this affects the load on individual parts of your body, you should carefully consider which one will be best for your needs.
Upright exercise bikes
Let’s start with taking a look at upright bikes, which are by far the most popular. Working out on this type of equipment is very similar to riding a classic bicycle. Upright bikes are easy to use – they let you assume a vertical position, like riding a city bike, or a more inclined position if used as a bike for road cycling.
Upright bikes usually come with a large, comfortable seat, allowing for longer and more comfortable workouts. Such bikes can be used by anyone without spinal issues or breathing problems.
Recumbent exercise bikes
The second type are recumbent exercise bikes. They are a bit more advanced than the previously discussed version, and due to their design, they also take up more space. An advantage of such bikes is that they provide your back with additional support, taking pressure off your spine, but at the same time increasing the involvement of your abdominal muscles.
Recumbent bikes also have a higher load capacity. They can be used by virtually everyone, but are a popular choice both for people who are overweight or suffer from back problems.
Exercise spinning bikes
The last type on our list are spinning bikes. This type is intended for advanced users, looking for a more demanding workout. Its design requires a very tilted body position, with a narrow seat. It is essentially like riding a road bike. Spinning bikes usually have precise height adjustment of the saddle and handlebar.
The torque is transmitted through a chain or with the help of a special strap, which allows for much greater resistance when pedaling than with the previously mentioned types of exercise bikes. Spinning bikes are also very sturdy and solid – they are intended for people who are ready to put in a lot of effort.
Exercise bikes for the elderly
Considering the fact that working out is not only something for the young, some exercise bikes are also recommended for elderly users. Among the types mentioned above, the best solution here would be a recumbent bike, because they are not only lighter on the spine, but also are more recommended for people with cardiovascular diseases.
Recumbent bikes are equipped with a comfortable backrest, and are also easier to get on to. In addition, the risk of fainting is much lower due to the small height difference between your legs and your heart. They are therefore an optimal choice for the elderly.
Exercise bikes used for rehabilitation
An exercise bike can also be an excellent piece of rehabilitation equipment. Of course this is if it is appropriately chosen, so before buying any exercise bike for rehabilitation purposes, you should consult your doctor or physiotherapist. Making the wrong decision may be a risk to your health, so be reasonable and seek the advice of a specialist.
Exercise bikes for slimming
Which exercise bike will be best for losing weight? The answer is simple – all of them. Using an exercise bike is an excellent way to burn unnecessary fat, provided that you use it regularly and with the right intensity. According to specialists, this type of training is much safer than other cardio workouts, such as jogging, because it does not burden your joints or bones.
Using an exercise bike you will also strengthen your abs and lower body muscles. In addition, it is also a great way to fight cellulite and is great for endurance workouts.
A flywheel or magnetic bike?
In addition to the division of exercise bikes according to the sitting position, there is also a division into flywheel and magnetic bikes. In this case, the difference is not in the workout position but the mechanism used. However, let’s have a look at exactly what the differences are.
A flywheel exercise bike is definitely a cheaper option. Due to the physical friction of the flywheel, it creates resistance while pedaling. The resistance level is adjusted with a special knob. The mechanism is quite loud during use, but it is very simple, and therefore recommended for beginners.
The situation is slightly different in the case of magnetic bikes. Here, the resistance is caused by a magnetic brake, which provides a much wider range of load adjustment than with flywheel models. This solution is more popular with advanced users, although there is nothing to stop beginners from using them. The magnetic mechanism is also much quieter than that used in flywheel models.
In addition to these two variants, there is also the option of electromagnetic bikes. However, this solution is much more expensive, as such bikes are equipped with a number of technologically advanced additional options. This type of equipment is usually chosen by professional users looking for high-end solutions.
Which exercise bike will best suit your physical conditions?
To finish off, let’s take a closer look at one more aspect – choosing an appropriate bike in terms of your own physical conditions. Among others this refers to your height. So if you are looking for equipment to perfectly match your needs, you should make sure the chosen model has an adjustable seat height option.
The optimal settings should allow your leg on the pedal closer to the ground to be slightly bent. If your leg is completely straight, then the seat is too high. If it is bent too much, then the seat is too low and your workout will be much more difficult. When it comes to body weight, before buying the bike you should check the maximum load capacity.
Which exercise bike should you choose? – summary
When considering which exercise bike to buy, you should first of all take into account your own needs and physical abilities. The choice of the type of bike should be made in regards to both the cycling position, the mechanism, and various additional features.
Different models are recommended for elderly users, and different ones for advanced users. If you suffer from spine problems or a cardiovascular disease, the decision to buy an exercise bike should be consulted with your doctor or physiotherapist. Failure to do so could pose a further risk to your health.
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