How to choose the ideal exercise bike?
When gym equipment started becoming available to consumers decades ago, the exercise bike was probably the first one that made its way into people’s home. To this day, it’s still one of the most popular pieces of fitness equipment for at-home fitness enthusiasts, with good reason. In addition to improving physical and cardio conditioning, the exercise bike allows for high intensity training and muscle stimulation.
When researching the best exercise bike, you need to look beyond the manufacturers' popularity and really dig into the specs so you can make an informed purchase and ensure your flashy exercise bike won’t become a glorified clothes hanger in just a few months.
How to choose the ideal exercise bike for you.
Here are some tips on what to consider when buying an exercise bike.
- Assess your fitness level. That will be the starting point when deciding which exercise bike to choose and to make sure you’re getting the equipment that suits your needs.
- Take in consideration the features each exercise bike offers (resistance mechanism, programs available - if any, functions on the console), and aspects such as safety (i.e.: is it compatible with heart rate monitors?), warranty and maximum user weight.
- It’s worth to have an estimated budget beforehand so you can choose models that offer the best bang for the buck.
What are the benefits of an exercise bike?
An exercise bike at home brings, above all, convenience. Many people stop exercising regularly due to lack of time. Having a exercise bike in your bedroom and home gym guarantees that you'll get your cardio workout any time you want.
Here are some other advantages of having an indoor bike:
- Improves physical endurance and tones the leg muscles.
- Strengthens and protects joints due to its low impact qualities.
- Offers a high caloric consumption that enables weight loss.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
Should I buy a stationary bike or Spin® bike?
The stationary bike offers a linear and incline-free pedalling. The intensity of the exercise is controlled by the resistance chosen by the user when pedalling. For this reason, it is the most suitable option for beginners or those with knee problems.
On the other hand, the Spin® bike simulates a more realistic cycle, as it offers incline options and greater resistance variation. No wonder it became popular in gyms with group classes. Due to the more intense workout, the Spin® bike offers a greater caloric burn, ranging from 500 to 650 calories lost per hour.
Upright Bike
Among the different types of exercise bikes, the upright bike stands out due to a more intense cardio and muscle workout, in comparison to a recumbent bike.
The upright bike is the most common model we see more in commercial gyms and home gyms. It suitable for the vast majority of people, but, in particular, for those looking for a traditional exercise bike, and for those without health requirements that might prevent its use.
Recumbent Bike
The recumbent bike does not require an advanced fitness level. In fact, it manages to reduce the impact on joints, which helps muscle recovery and improves blood circulation.
The recumbent bike also benefits the glutes and the core without putting too much stress on your back muscles or spine. They are ideal for lighter or intermediate cardio workouts. However, if you have limited space, bear in mind that recumbent bikes are usually larger than upright bikes.
Check out our wide range of Exercise Bikes, including the best Exercise Bikes for sale in Ireland, along with great options of Recumbent Bikes, Upright Bikes, and Air Bikes.
For more cardio exercise options browse our Treadmills, Crosstrainer, and Rowing Machine ranges.
Need more Info? Why not read our Exercise Bikes Buying Guides:
Spin® Bikes Vs Upright Bikes: Which One Is Best For You?
Hit Fitness G Exercise Bike Series – McSport Ireland
