Exercise bikes are a great option for daily physical exercise to stay fit. Due to their better fit and simplicity of integration into a gym, most individuals prefer them as their daily fitness partners. Additionally, riding is a practical choice because it eliminates the need for running.
However, choosing the right type of exercise bike can take time and effort. In the following discussion, we’ve discussed different types of exercises you can give a try.
What are the Types of Exercise Bikes?
Exercise bikes come in wide varieties, including dual-action, upright, and reclined variants. Each of them has a few minor variations.
Let’s explore some exercise bikes in terms of their use and functionality.
Indoor Cycling Bikes
The most popular and easily identifiable exercise bike is an indoor cycling bike. Perhaps the most famous indoor cycling one is the Peloton.
This is the closest to a typical road bike regarding appearance and feel. Your body leans slightly forward because of the handlebars, as you’ll find them in front of you. You can get up from a seated posture and stand as you work out.
Besides, your feet will be right beneath where the pedals are. Some cycles usually have caged pedals, which can be used with gym shoes, while others have clip-ins that need one specific cycling shoe.
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On an indoor cycle bike, you can get a small, narrow seat; however, many models allow you to upgrade to a bigger, more comfortable seat.
A cycling bike differs from other exercise cycles because it has an exposed flywheel that can produce magnetic or frictional resistance at various intensities. Frequently, you have a lever that you can spin right over the flywheel to adjust the resilience.
Some have dumbbells, sophisticated touchscreens, built-in fans, and dynamic programming, like the NordicTrack S22i. Others are less expensive yet still offer excellent exercise, such as the Schwinn IC4.
Indoor Cycling Bike Pros
- A wide range of options is available
- Most closely resembles an outdoor bike
- You may adjust the resilience
- Excellent for intense exercise
- A smaller footprint than comparable cardio equipment
Indoor Cycling Bike Cons
- Injury from improper form or technique is likely to cause back discomfort
- No significant upper body exercise
- Due to the tiny seat, many people find this bike style unpleasant.
Recumbent Bikes
The pedals on this particular exercise bike differ from others since they are placed far ahead of your body rather than immediately below, bringing them closer to the ground. This type of bike is often thought to have the lowest impact since the pedals are out in front.
Additionally, compared to other exercise bikes, recumbent bikes’ seating features a back, which puts the user in a nearly reclined posture. It is an excellent option for those who have back discomfort when riding a bike because it has a back that also offers back support.
Besides, the seat is often broader and more cushioned, making it more pleasant for riders. Plus, the accessible shape of the recumbent bike makes it the perfect choice for anyone recovering from an accident, is elderly, or has a handicap.
Recumbent bikes probably won’t give you the same intense exercise as others. However, you can ride other bikes while standing up or using moveable grips to work your upper body is a contributing factor behind this.
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Recumbent Bike Pros
- Closer to the ground making it more accessible
- Provides more support for your lower back
- Lower impact on joints
- Ideal for seniors or those recovering from an injury.
Recumbent Bike Cons
- Less core engagement
- Only one way to ride the bike, which means less versatility in workouts
- Larger footprint than other exercise bikes
Upright Bikes
This bike positions you upright and might be misunderstood or utilized incorrectly. However, true upright bikes differ from other bikes, such as indoor cycle bikes.
You can ride this bike sitting forward, and the pedals are practically just underneath you–similar to a standard road bike. The grips are significantly closer to your body, helping you maintain a standing posture for the whole time.
Again, the proximity of the seat and handlebars results in a smaller overall footprint than other bicycle models. Although the seat of an upright bike is typically larger than a tiny riding bike seat, it is shorter than the seat on a recumbent cycle.
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Upright Bike Pros
- Compared to indoor cycling cycles, seats are often more comfortable
- Less substantial than similar bike types
- Allows you to complete high-intensity workouts.
Upright Bike Cons
- The market has few options for upright bikes
- Some people find the forced upright stance unsettling.
Air Bikes
You might have used an air bike previously if you’ve visited a gym. An air bike is distinguished by its fan, which serves as the primary “wheel,” as opposed to an indoor cycle bike, which employs a flywheel.
Like an indoor cycling bike, air bikes have pedals directly beneath your feet. The more you pedal, the more friction will produce. However, the fan is loud, so those looking for a peaceful exercise alternative shouldn’t pick this.
Based on the model, the seat’s shape and padding might differ. The adjustable handlebars include your upper body, which is a major advantage. You can use your arms to assist your legs in making an effort, similar to elongated hands. Further, it can be perfect for those wounded.
Air Bike Pros
- Excellent for rigorous exercise
- It gives a movable handle aspect to the upper body
- Generally inexpensive
Air Bike Cons
- Fan noise can be an issue.
- Typically has a bigger footprint than comparable stationary bikes
- Lack of friction adjustment
- Monitors are relatively simple.
Folding Bikes
A foldable bike is ideal for anybody trying to save space. These bikes come in various models. The grips are in front of you, just like the indoor cycling cycle, and the pedals are at the bottom of your feet.
Since these bikes are designed to be packed and stored, they might seem unsteady while ridden vigorously. Folding bikes typically have fewer bells and whistles than indoor cycling bikes due to their small size. The majority have simple monitors, and very few have “extras” like a water bottle attachment or gadget holder.
Folding Bike Pros
- A modest shape
- Simple Storage
- Inexpensive
Folding Bike Cons
- Not intended for intense exercise
- Frequently have a modest weight limit
- Don’t come with extra features like other bikes.
To Wrap Up
Cycling inside has many advantages, such as maintaining fitness in any condition. Exercising bikes can help you burn fat and improve muscular strength while improving your cardiovascular health without putting any strain on your joints. However, choose the right exercise bike because not all bikes serve the same, as discussed here.