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Cycling
Your Way To Fitness
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by: C.J.Gustafson
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Stationary Bikes - Still A Top Choice For Overall
Fitness
In all the craze over new fangled fitness
equipment, the exercise bike often gets
overlooked. Stationary bikes have been around for
many years, which can lead some people to think
they are outdated or not as effective as newer
types of equipment. But for many people, exercise
bikes provide a fun, consistent, reasonable means
of exercising, improving cardio functions, and
losing weight.
Stationary exercise bikes provide all the benefits
of riding a bicycle. They provide good cardio
workouts, have much less impact on knees, hips and
other joints than walking or running, and can be
used at any time it’s convenient. Most
stationary bikes have manual or computerized
controls to allow you to adjust resistance and
speed. Many also come with heart monitors and
cardio workouts already programmed in. There is a
huge selection of price and style, and stationary
bikes tend to be the most affordable cardio
exercise machine.
Plus, with a stationary bike, you don’t have to
worry about traffic, dogs, or bad weather. You can
exercise in the convenience of your own home and
even watch television or read a book while you
bike. Try doing that on the bike path at the park!
Types of Stationary Bikes
Standard, upright stationary bikes come in single
or dual action models. Dual action bikes have
handles or levers to work the upper body and have
been shown to provide more effective cardio
workouts, burn more calories, and also improve
overall body tone more efficiently than single
action bikes. Dual action bikes work well for
those with hip or leg injuries who need to
exercise but also need to go easy on their legs.
The dual action allows the arms to work harder to
operate the machine, thus requiring less work from
the legs.
A recumbent bicycle, sometimes called a
“bent,” is a type of stationary bike that is
more laid back…literally. It places the body in
a semi or fully reclining position, taking
pressure off the back area. Some people feel the
position is difficult to adapt to at first, but
many who choose recumbent bikes say they are very
easy and comfortable to ride. They usually come
with a larger seat, which often means you will
stay on the machine longer or not have discomfort
later.
Because of the reclining position, a recumbent
bike works the abdominal muscles more and also
creates more hamstring action. The lower center of
gravity makes for better balance as well. Doctors
feel they are better for those with back problems
or with cerebral palsy and related diseases. The
recumbent bikes also bring your feet more closely
in line with your heart, keeping blood pressure
low and providing for a safer overall workout.
Popular Models & Prices
Most stationary bikes come with ways to assess
your speed and distance. Economy models have a
tachometer/odometer combination and a design that
utilizes a flywheel to provide resistance. These
models are not programmable and provide the least
effective workout, but are at under $200 can be an
inexpensive way for a beginner or someone on a
tight budget to get some exercise. They can be
purchased at many department stores.
Standard models usually come with more features
such as a programmable consul that calculates
heart rate or allows you to pick a heart rate and
then adjust the resistance accordingly. These
bikes may use flywheels, fan blades, or magnetic
resistance, depending on the quality. Magnetic
resistance is usually the best method as it
operates more smoothly and is quieter. These
models can range from $200 up to $1500 and provide
the broadest range of selection for the average
person. Some popular models include Tunturi F520
(recumbent), Vision Fitness R2000, and several
models from Schwinn, the popular bike
manufacturer.
More expensive stationary bikes often use magnetic
resistance and typically need to be plugged in to
an outlet. They come with all the bells and
whistles, including extended warranties, more
varied programming features, and comfort options
such as built in fans. They typically cost over
$1500. Lifecycle 5500HR and 5500RHR (recumbent)
are popular choices among those who are serious
about their workout or have a healthy budget.
Other popular manufacturers of exercise bikes
include Nordic Track, Reebok, Weslo, Keys, Fitness
Quest, and Edge.
Compared To Other Equipment
All types of stationary bikes provide a low impact
workout that many feel is an advantage over
treadmill exercise. The force on the knees,
ankles, feet and other body parts that occurs with
walking or running can cause swelling or
discomfort in the joints. It can irritate old
injuries or sometimes even produce new problems. A
stationary bike provides non-weight bearing
exercise that reduces impact on these areas.
In the health and fitness industries, and among
customers, there is an extensive debate over which
machines burn more calories and give a better
cardio workout. There is evidence on both sides of
the issue, but many people agree that a stationary
bike should have dual action to optimize weight
loss and heart health. The pumping of the arms has
a significant impact of the effectiveness of any
workout, and a treadmill is less effective as well
if you hold onto the hand supports rather than
letting your arms swing or pumping them in rhythm
to your motion.
Elliptical trainers are another exercise option
that provides a low impact workout, but many feel
they do not provide the same cardio benefits.
Rowing machines are boring, more difficult to use,
and can be hard on the back. Other equipment has
disadvantages as well, making stationary bikes a
good choice for overall effectiveness and
satisfaction. Consumer buying shows that exercise
bikes continue to rank as a top choice for
exercise and fitness training.
In the ever expanding world of health and fitness
equipment, there have been some true advances as
well as a bunch of gimmicks. A stationary bike is
an old standard that has been a proven exercise
tool for years, and that continues to improve and
adapt through new technology. The overall
effectiveness, ease of use and variety of designs
and prices makes a stationary exercise bike an
excellent choice for beginners and advanced
enthusiasts alike.
About the author:
C.J. Gustafson is a successful writer for http://www.best-home-gyms.com
your complete shopping guide for home
gym equipment, exercise bikes, treadmills,
elliptical machines, weight lifting equipment and
more.
Copyright 2005 Best-Home-Gyms.com
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