Stationary Bike

How to Choose the Ideal Stationary Bike

What is a recumbent bike?

As evident from the name, it is a type of stationary bike on which one sits in a reclined position. Being effective in bolstering quadriceps, hamstrings, shins, calf muscles and glutes, recumbent bikes are an attractive proposal to strengthen your body that come with added benefits which we’ll discuss below.

What are the advantages of using a recumbent bike?

Thanks to the reclined body position offered by recumbent bikes, more comfort is afforded due to better ergonomics. Generally, it is a more comfortable sitting position that allows for reduced tension on the upper body and hence, decreased onset of muscle fatigue. Versatility during workouts is another benefit that can be extracted from the recurrent bikes. You can lie back and work out while watching your favorite movie which can give you further motivation to make your body suffer for an increased period of time.

What is a vertical bike?

These are traditional seated stationary bikes which enforce a more upright body posture on the user. The pedals are positioned below the body in contrast to in front of the body which is a staple in recumbent bikes. The seat has a decreased surface area. As a whole, vertical bike offers a more complete package in regards to overall body exercise.

Why should you go for a recumbent bike?

Due to better ergonomics as a result of function over form philosophy behind construction of recumbent bikes, they make up for a more comfortable workout that can be maintained for a longer duration. Simultaneous multitasking is also an added benefit that can be reaped when using a recumbent bike. There is markedly reduced stress exerted on the body and hence as a result muscle fatigue takes an increased amount of time to set in.

Why should you go for a vertical bike?

New does not mean best. Let us look into the traditional vertical bikes that I have been around since one can remember. Resembling a traditional bicycle, the looks of the vertical bike are not alien at all. Most of the general public is familiarized with the notion of vertical bikes and hence the learning curve is not steep at all.

It offers less support for the upper body which results in lactic acid buildup in muscles, resulting in an oxygen debt that eventually leads to muscle fatigue. However, where recumbent bikes offer more concentrated workouts, usually limited to lower body, vertical bikes offer a more consistent exercise pattern for the whole body.

Conclusion

There is nothing more valuable than health and to actively strive for the improvement of health is good health itself. Recumbent bikes and vertical bikes are both excellent options for anyone working out in their home.

They offer great cardiovascular exercise and each has a unique set of advantages that can massively benefit an individual. Which one is the right for you? That depends on the advantages you wish to gain and the workout you are desirous of. We hope this article helps you in making your decision. Health is everything and life starts with good health.