Exercise Bikes
What exercise bikes do for you
Train resistance, cardiovascular endurance and up-legs muscles within a fixed space. If you're looking for a simple piece of exercise equipment you can use without preparation at any time, consider an exercise bike or 'fitness bike'. Cycling gives you a cardiovascular workout while putting less strain on your back, knees and leg joints, improving your stamina and promoting great lower body conditioning.
Kinds of machines.
There are three main types of exercise bike:
Uprights, which most closely mimic outdoor bicycles.
Recumbents have the seat positioned parallel to the ground with the pedals in the front of the user, while a back support offers more comfort to users who suffer from knee or back problems.
Semi-recumbents have an inclined seat between that of an upright and recumbent, making it easier for elderly or disabled users to dismount.
What to look for?
- A comfortable seat.
- Sturdy built exercise bike.
- Options of adjustable seat heights to allow a wide range of users.
- Allows you to vary your workout by adjusting resistance.
- A well balanced a smooth-turning flywheel.
- A good warranty and service contract accompanied.
Technical data
Upright bikes: put the user in a similar position as a traditional push bike. The user sits on the seat, with his or her back upright and unsupported with their legs vertical to the floor. It takes up less space than a recumbent bike and will simulate the feel of a traditional bike better. An upright bike emphasizes the quadriceps (the front of the thigh).
Recumbent bikes: positions the user in a more reclined position with the user’s legs horizontal to the floor with his or her back supported by the seat. It will typically be easier on the lower back than an upright and will emphasize the hamstring (back of thigh) and gluteals more than an upright bike.
Resistance: Most lower priced bikes use some sort of friction-based resistance mechanism such as a calliper or fabric band brake. These bikes will be very simple and offer limited programming.
There is also air-resistance, which uses a fan to produce resistance. The faster you pedal, the harder your workout becomes. These bikes last longer since there is no friction involved, and offer a cooling effect from the fan.
A third option are bikes that use electro-magnetic or alternator-based resistance, that will make the bike feel smoother and quieter. These bikes are usually more expensive, and typically include pre-set programs and heart rate interactivity.
Heart rate monitor: It detects your pulse, usually through touching the grips of the exercise bike, so you can see how hard your heart’s working. Remember, the most effective heart rate for most people while exercising is about 70-80% of maximum.
Benefits
- They are simple to use and require little practice - an ideal starting point for your exercise routine.
- Preset programmes assist your workout routine.
- Because there is less movement you can watch TV or read a magazine whilst working out
- A number of resistance levels allow you to exercise at different intensities. Look out for models with permanent magnetic resistance pedalling motion (which allows for a quieter action) and electromagnetic braking systems, which are virtually silent, found on the more expensive machines.
- Heart rate tracking and heart rate programmes allow you to monitor your effort level and train more safely.
- You can track speed, time, distance, calories burnt and energy used, to measure your progress.
- Therefore, you can specifically tailor exercise to your own personal fitness.
- Adjustable seats and handlebars, cushioned seat pads and more robust frames help to ensure a more comfortable workout.
