Exercise Bikes – Discover The Magic
Martin Smith
There are two types of exercise bikes available. The upright bike
resembles a typical road bike but they are stationary. The pedals
are below the rider and puts more stress on the joints. The
recumbent bike has a seat that resembles chairs and the pedals
are out in front of the rider so that pedaling is more natural
and less stress is put on the hips and knees.
There are a few other types of exercise bikes available as well.
Dual action bikes are upright exercise bikes that have moveable
bars or arm handles. On this bike you use both your arms and
legs. Aerobic activity and upper body toning is experienced while
using the bike.
Resistance bikes have some variety as well. Direct tension bikes
has manual adjustment of the resistance you use. If it has
flywheels the cycling motion is similar to regular cycling
motion. Air resistance bikes get resistance by pedaling against
the airflow of a fan blade. Magnetic Frictionless Resistance
bikes are the most sophisticated resistance bikes. They allow for
a greater variety of workout levels.
Feedback Mechanisms on more advanced bikes offer the following
readouts:
speed, time, and distance
total calories and fat burned
program mode and resistance levels
pulse, heart rate, and workout level
RPM, watts, METS, mpm’s, and mph/kph
Choosing which bike to purchase depends on your needs and your
preferences. What type of workout you are seeking will also
affect the bike you choose? An upright bike will give you a great
cardio workout that focuses us on the quadriceps.
A recumbent bike has you seated in a reclining position. The seat
supports your back and your legs are out in front of you. They
work the hamstrings and gluteus muscles. A recumbent bicycle is
much easier on your lower back.
Upright exercise bikes might have handlebars that move back and
forth simulating a rowing motion. This will work your arms,
chest, abs, and back muscles. Both bikes offer excellent cardio
vascular workouts and calorie burning experiences. Match the bike
to your size. Most exercise bikes are easily adjusted for almost
any body type.
People use exercise bikes for a variety of reasons. Cyclists
often use them in the off season to maintain their levels of
fitness. Many people use them at home because they feel
embarrassed about exercising in front of other people.
Exercise bikes are also used in physical therapy programs to
promote healing and the regaining of knee or hip joints. Some
cardiac rehabilitation programs also use them to promote
endurance and greater cardiac health.
You can purchase exercise bikes in sports stores, department
stores like Sears or Wal*mart and online. When you buy from a
store it is easier to match the bike to your living space, to
your body size, and your budget. When buying online you run the
risk of not getting exactly what you wanted. The bike may or may
not have the exact specifications or may be bigger (or smaller)
than what you ordered.
The other problem with ordering online is taking delivery. The
delivery company likely will not bring it into your house, you
will be left to get it in and set it up. This is true though of
buying it in a store unless you contract with someone to do the
entire process including the set up. If you buy from a store like
Sears you can purchase service contracts in case of a problem.
Whatever the reason for your purchasing an exercise bike, it is
only going to work if you use it. Of course, as with any exercise
routine check with your doctor to make sure that you are healthy
enough to exercise. Start out slow and build up your endurance.
Be safe, be healthy and have fun.
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice
for consumers on purchasing a variety of Home Fitness Equipment
which includes Home Gyms, Exercise Bikes, and more! His numerous
articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting
and relevant information. Visit
http://www.1st-4-fitness-equipment.com
See Also:
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