Indoor cycling has become an effective way to fitness and burn off a few pounds. It gives a good cardio workout as it targets large muscle groups such as the quadriceps, hamstrings and the glute muscles.
Science has been evolving to produce the optimum fitness machine taking into account the posture, muscle groups targeted and comfort while working out.
The two major indoor exercise bike types are the upright and the recumbent bikes. The recumbent bikes have some advantages over the conventional upright bikes.
Get a full-body workout with the comfort and support of a recumbent exercise bike.
Let us Look at 7 Major Benefits of Recumbent Bikes
1. Easier on the back
Recumbent bikes go easy on your lower back. This would significantly increase the time spent during a workout session.
An upright bike while as good for a cardio workout as recumbent bikes puts a great deal of stress on the lower back. This would limit the time spent on working out and cause debilitating injury for some.
2. Less stress on the joints
The bucket seat supports your lower back. The knees and ankles are protected from trauma during a rigorous workout session. Unlike upright bikes, you do not put your full body weight on the pedals.
This increases the effectiveness of the workout session without putting your joints under stress.
3. A one-stop solution for all fitness levels
It is a one-stop solution for all fitness levels! The professional cyclist who attempts a Tour de France every year or a newbie looking to improve fitness. It also works for all ages without putting too much strain on the aching joints and gives a rigorous injury-free workout to a pro.
It is also ideal for people with debilitating health issues. They can have a comfortable workout session on a recumbent bike.
4. Efficient workout
Recumbent bikes give a range of options for different fitness levels. It allows you to add upper body weights for more strenuous exercise. You could try out the easy flat slope to the more grueling and challenging uphill marathon.
Upright indoor bikes put your whole body weight on the pedals thereby reducing the effort. Doing the same on a recumbent bike will fetch you a better workout sans the strain on the knees and ankles.
5. Hands-free
Upright indoor bikes need hands to be on the handle every time. Recumbent bikes allow your hands to be free due to their bucket seats. You can read your favorite paperback, text your friends or play a game while exercising. It allows for multi-tasking!
6. Comfort
The Upright indoor bikes have tiny seats. Not at all comfortable! The big bucket seats of the recumbent bikes allow for superior comfort while working out and are also mounted low. The lower seating also gives more stability.
For some, the higher seat position of upright bikes may be daunting. You can extend your workout session due to the comfort factor. This is one of its more enticing features.
7. Muscle Strengthening
On the upright stationary bike, the thighs, lower legs and the glute muscles are targeted. On a recumbent bike, the same muscles are targeted but, from a different angle. This will give a different strengthening effect.
According to some research, more muscles are targeted while using recumbent bikes. If you are physically able, spending time on both upright and recumbent bikes at different times can make your workout sessions extremely useful.
It is imperative to build up any fitness regimen slowly. You can increase the intensity gradually. If you have any pre-existing medical condition or have not done much exercise in a while, consult your doctor before starting any fitness routine.
The stationary recumbent bike is a great way to increase cardio fitness and burn a few pounds without aggravating any pre-existing medical condition.