There are so many exercise bikes available that it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Spinning bikes, stationary bikes, dual action bikes, and recumbent bikes are probably some of
terms you’ve heard. It’s almost as though you have to be a fitness equipment engineer to understand differences! Here’s a quick summary of these confusing terms.•Spinning Bikes
You’ve probably heard about spin craze that has become so popular in health clubs. Spinning bikes usually have at least a front wheel that spins (which is why they are so brilliantly named spinning bikes). These bikes might be current fad, but they aren’t very comfortable. The seats are small and hard. The classes make these boring bikes more interesting, but as home exercise bikes, they quickly become tedious.
•Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes (or upright bikes) are exercise bikes that most people can identify. It’s same basic model as in 1980’s. Once again, it’s fairly uncomfortable. You can’t really do anything like read or watch TV because you’re leaning left and right and bouncing, so it, too, quickly gets boring.
•Dual Action Bikes
Dual action bikes are aptly named, as they give you both an upper and lower body workout. There are handles that move independently - much like an elliptical machine. It’s a good workout, but a bit tough for beginners, and as usual, time on bike will eventually get boring.
You can also get dual action bikes that allow you to adjust machine to create an arm-pedaling workout. It’s usually fairly difficult to make adjustments. It’s also two separate exercises, which create a longer workout. Most people aren’t as likely to keep up such a routine.
•Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes are exercise bikes with comfortable bucket seats. You sit back and lower to ground as you pedal. These exercise bikes are easy enough for even most sedentary beginners, and they usually offer workout programs to keep workouts from becoming mundane.
The Experts Recognize Advantages of Recumbent Bikes
Most physicians and personal trainers recommend recumbent bikes. Recumbent bikes are better for people of all different fitness levels. You are more likely to keep up a recumbent bike routine over time, bikes are safer, and there are different benefits for both men and women.
•Recumbent Bikes for All Fitness Levels
Even most sedentary person will find a recumbent exercise bike easy to use. You can adjust settings to offer little or no resistance as you pedal. People who are overweight will definitely find seat much larger and more comfortable than other exercise bikes.
Athletes will find recumbent exercise bike a challenge. The resistance can become incredibly difficult. The bike can simulate pedaling up hills. Most recumbent bikes offer various programs that will require you to sprint and tackle hills. If you want an upper body workout as you pedal, you can easily add weights and do repetitions as you sit back in recumbent bike seat.
•Recumbent Bikes Offer a Sustainable Workout
The programs offered by most recumbent exercise bikes definitely keep workout from becoming boring. You can simulate a course that is easy or difficult, flat or hilly. When shopping for exercise bikes, it’s better to get a bike with as many variations as possible.
The fact that a recumbent bike is suitable for all levels will keep you getting back on bike. If you’re feeling particularly tired or lazy one day, you can have an easy workout where you can read a book or newspaper. If you really want to test your limits, you can crank up music, set machine to more difficult levels, and add some weights for an upper body workout.
