Exercise Bike : What is it?
| Exercise bikes simulate the cycling action of bicycles without moving from one place. They are designed to look like regular bicycles, except for a base on which the bike is mounted to keep it stationary. They are popularly used for home exercise, and are also found in most gyms and rehabilitation centers. Exercise bikes are also called stationary bikes, indoor bikes, or studio cycles. Exercise bikes provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout, which makes them ideal for people with joint or back injuries or those on rehabilitation programs. They also effectively burn calories and raise the heart rate while keeping the stress on the knees and joints at a minimum. Most models also come with controls that let the user customize the exercise, such as adjustable tension and programmable courses.
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Kinds of Exercise Bike s include the following: |
Upright Exercise Bikes
Upright bicycles have small raised seats and no back supports. They most closely resemble regular bikes, and offer much the same exercise as outdoor cycling. The user sits on the bike with the back upright and the legs vertical when pedaling down. This position is best for toning the quadriceps, or the front of the thighs. They take up less space than recumbent bikes. Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Recumbent bicycles have larger bucket seats positioned lower and parallel to the ground. They usually feature backrests that allow the user to lean back during the exercise. The pedals are positioned in front of the user, so that the bike is pedaled with the legs stretched forward. They allow a less stressful position for people with high blood pressure or knee and back problems. They work best on the thighs, buttocks, and hamstrings. Semi-Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Semi-recumbent bikes combine the advantages of upright and recumbent bikes. They have seats similar to those in recumbent bikes, slightly inclined to an upright angle. This allows disabled people or those with weak joints to mount and dismount more comfortably. Ergometers Exercise Bikes
Ergometers feature a device that measures the user’s effort level while exercising. They can be fitted with upright or recumbent seats. Some types are also designed to simulate a water rowing action, and are known as indoor rowers. |
Resistance: Choose a recumbent bike that offers a wide range of resistance levels. Look for one with a tension adjuster to help you find the right intensity of exercise for you. If you need a comprehensive workout but do not have enough time, consider a bike with programmable courses, which allows you to preset a series of resistance levels without having to adjust constantly. |
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