Exercise Bikes –
Discover The Magic
by: 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.
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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: |
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- 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.
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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.
(c)
www.1st-4-fitness-equipment.com
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About The Author
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. |
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