4 Types of Exercise Bikes

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Before buying an exercise bike, it helps to know what types of exercise bikes are available.

Exercise bikes are appreciated by fitness buffs and casual exercisers alike. They provide a popular alternative to cycling, jogging, running, walking, and other outdoor exercises. While outdoor exercises do have their health advantages, such as exercising amid natural terrain, fresh air and the negative ions produced by trees and other vegetation, what do you do if the outdoors is not conducive to exercising? After all, it might be raining, snowing or too hot and sunny to exercise safely and comfortably. Or you might just prefer to exercise indoors, regardless of the weather. Stationary bikes are perfect under these circumstances.

Not familiar with exercise bikes?

Sometimes called exercise bicycles, stationary bikes, or cardio bikes, they resemble traditional bicycles but are designed to remain stationery and be used solely for exercising indoors. Working out on an exercise bike for 20 minutes can burn calories, elevate your heart rate, and tone the muscles of your abdomen and legs.

What types of stationary bikes are available?

There are two main types of exercise bicycles: upright, which resemble traditional bicycles, and recumbent. Each type is available in different models and designs, with various optional features.

1. Traditional Upright Exercise Bicycles

Featuring pedals, handles and a saddle as a seat, this type of cardio bike strongly resembles a typical street bicycle. Your position while riding this type of stationary bike also resembles your position on an ordinary bicycle.

2. Dual Action Exercise Bikes

Another type of upright stationary bike, dual action bikes feature handle bars attached to their pedals. These special handle bars are designed to exercise your arms. A dual action exercise bike can give you a full-body workout, including your upper body and arms in addition to your legs.

3. Recumbent and Semi-Recumbent Exercise Bicycles

These exercise bicycles feature seats that resemble a chair or bucket. The seat design places the rider in a reclining (recumbent) position while riding. A backrest is provided to support the lower back. While pedaling in this reclined position, the rider's legs are thrust forward rather than the more traditional downward movement.

4. Stationary Bikes with Interactive Features

Trendy and modern, interactive exercise bikes feature technology that permits the rider to enjoy entertainment or Games while riding. Some people find these features distract them and are able to convert a strenuous exercise session into an easy fitness workout. An LCD screen allows the rider to watch a movie, simulate a hill climb or race, or play a video game.

Which type of cardio bike would be best for you?

No type of stationary bike is better than the others. The type that would be best for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you want to replicate the workout you can get from a traditional street bike, or if you want to simulate hill climbing, then one of the upright models would suit you. A recumbent bike would be better if you need or prefer comfort, particularly for your lower back.

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