An exercise bike is a gym training apparatus with operation and appearance similar to those of a conventional bicycle. Exercise bikes, however, are used, as the name suggests, for exercise, to increase broad fitness and for preparation for cycle competitions and events. The exercise bike has extensively been used for body therapy because of the low-impact, protected, and efficient cardiovascular workout it offers. This movement does not put much pressure on the joints and does not involve intermittent actions that other exercise equipment may necessitate.

Two main types of exercise bikes exist depending on the structure of the seat: the recumbent and the upright training bikes.

Recumbent vs. Upright Exercise Bikes

Recumbent training bikes, (sometimes called a “bent”) are those that have mounted a supportive saddle with a backrest. This props the body in a fairly reclining position while training as opposed to the conventional upright position maintained in a standard bicycle. The trainee, simply, sits back and lowers to the ground as they step on the pedals. This type of training bike is sufficient for even the most inactive of beginner trainers and is normally suggested when trying to make the exercise routine to less unexciting.

Upright training bikes (also known as standard stationary bikes), on the other hand, has the shape and appearance of the conventional bicycle. The seat is in an upright manner – giving the trainee a vertical orientation once he or she mounts on it. Upright bikes permit for more motion, such as pedaling while standing or in a racing which are good exercises for the back muscles.

Upright stationary bikes may appear as single or dual action models. Dual action models have handlebars or knobs to exercise the upper body and these have been proven to offer a more efficient cardiovascular workout, lose more weight, and also increase overall body calisthenics more proficiently than single action models.

However, the greater advantage is vested upon the recumbent bikes. Recumbent bikes are more comfortable and easier to use than the conventional upright bikes. They are especially suitable for trainees with lower body pain, for trainees who are undergoing physiotherapy on their legs or for novice trainees since these bikes promote a slower, less extreme but yet efficient exercise.

Since the body is in a reclined position and is lower to the ground while using the recumbent bike, the workout is safer for the body especially the back. Other exercise bikes compel the back to bend over resulting in a very uncomfortable stiff back.

Recumbent bikes also avail cardiovascular exercises that place no strain on the trainee’s knees and other joints – standing while pedaling puts avoidable strain on the knees and ankles. Recumbent bikes let the trainee workout at an inclination where the body weight is not straining the joints.

Conclusion

Exercise bikes range in prices of between $200 and $3000 – the most popular being the Schwinn, Tunturi F520 and Vision Fitness R2000 models. Online sporting goods websites may be sought for details relating to these exercise equipment as well as purchase of these bikes. Exercise bikes are a worthy investment for the home gym as they have different training uses: for cardio, weight-loss and bodybuilding training.