All About Exercise Bikes - Key Fitness Benefits Revealed
Posted: Saturday, November 28, 2009
by Brandon Massey
http://www.exercise-equipment-advisor.com
The exercise bike . . . does anyone use them any more? Many of us have asked this question. When you look at all of the treadmills outfitted with dozens of bells and whistles, and elliptical trainers so high tech that you can surf the Internet on them, one wonders if there is any use for an old-fashioned piece of exercise equipment like a stationary bike.
Stationary bikes come in two basic types: upright, and recumbent. The model you'll choose depends upon your specific needs and goals.
The Upright Stationary Bike
An upright has a lot in common with a normal outdoor road bike. There's the saddle (no back support), and pedals positioned directly below your legs.
Since this style of bike doesn't include any back support, maintaining proper form during use is especially important. If you don't suffer from lower-back issues, using an upright bike is a great way to put in an intense cardiovascular workout and thoroughly exercise your legs.
The Recumbent Bike
A bucket seat, with plenty of back support, is standard on a recumbent. With the pedals in front of you, and the benefit of a wider seat, keeping correct posture while you pedal is simple.
Using a recumbent is a good idea if you're bothered by back pain, or otherwise find it difficult to sit upright for a half hour or longer.
Another positive? Recumbent bikes will work your legs at a slightly different angle than your ordinary upright cycle. This can help to stimulate your muscles in new ways, and provide variety to your workout.
Features in Both Models of Exercise Bikes
Both types of exercise bicycles generally come equipped with consoles that hold reading material, good for passing the time while you're pedaling away. With treadmills and ellipticals, on the other hand, reading anything while you exercise is difficult, if not impossible, because of the jerky movements.
If you want an even more thorough workout, look into a dual-action bike. Models vary, but usually include movable handlebars that allow you to increase the resistance. You'll burn extra calories and tone your upper body, too.
Today's indoor exercise bicycles include electronic features that compare favorably with the bells and whistles offered on other aerobic equipment. Standard monitoring includes calories burned, distance traveled, and heart rate. Pre-programmed routines and resistance adjustment capabilities are common, too.
There are dozens of manufacturers that offer quality exercise bicycle models. Some of the best known brands are Schwinn, Stamina, Reebok, Lifecycle, and Proform.
Anyone interested in adding aerobic equipment to their home gym would do well to look into a quality exercise bike. The numerous benefits are well worth consideration.
Brandon Massey is editor of a home exercise equipment reviews web site. For exercise bike reviews and consumer reports on other fitness equipment, visit his site today.
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