Of all of the stationary exercise machines that are available to choose from in today’s market, recumbent exercise bikes are arguably the most versatile and easy-to-use pieces of equipment. A recumbent exercise bike is a stationary bicycle with one major noticeable difference from a traditional bike design: it features a bucket seat. The comfortable seat is situated lower to the ground, thereby facilitating a leg workout that is done from a sitting, semi-reclined position.
The advantages of a stationary recumbent exercise bike are numerous, and include ensuring a comfortable workout, with minimal stress on sensitive joints. The seat is considerably larger than that on a traditional cycle machine, and is comparable to a regular backed chair. As a result, the seat eliminates the potential discomfort and chaffing that can occur during long bike workouts. It is also a much more friendly design when considering larger individuals who may experience additional discomfort.
The position of the seat on a recumbent exercise bike also ensures that the back is supported throughout the workout. On a regular bike or stationary exercise bike, the action is done from a bent-over position, whereby the arms are supporting the weight of the upper body, while the pedals, for the leg movement that propels the bike forward, are situated beneath the seat. For many this stooped forward position can put undue stress on the back, neck, arms, and wrists. The more reclined position of the recumbent bike allows for a supportive and upright back position, and does not require the support of arms or wrists at all, freeing them up to hold a book or magazine, or even add free weights for an additional upper body workout.
When shopping for an exercise bike, one might encounter the term magnetic recumbent exercise bike and become confused. In fact, this title simply means that the bike provides frictionless magnetic resistance, as opposed to the traditional bike concept of gears and chains. The magnetic resistance can still be altered to accommodate various levels of difficulty, but eliminates the need for maintaining and oiling the gears; a process, which is inconvenient and can be quite messy. Magnetic bikes also require no electricity or cumbersome cords, and are extremely silent, making them the best recumbent exercise bike choice for people who enjoy watching television or listening to music while they exercise, or for households with multiple members that appreciate a silent environment.
Other features to look for can include slide resistant footpads, a sturdy frame (built from a metal such as steel), and comfortable handgrips that will prevent blistering.
An excellent manufacturer that includes the above-mentioned features with all of its bikes is Schwinn Fitness. The Schwinn recumbent exercise bike is available in multiple makes and models. As an added advantage, the Schwinn website (www.schwinnfitness.com) displays and discusses all of the makes that they produce. The website’s best feature in undoubtedly the compare option, in which buyers are able to compare up to five different products side by side.
With their multiple advantages over other designs of stationary bicycles, recumbent exercise bikes are an excellent choice for any fitness enthusiast looking for a new at-home work out!