When you talk about exercise bikes today, you have two main categories to consider: upright and recumbent. In either category you may want features like a quiet ride, preset programming and various levels of resistance. If you need to lean back for a good ride, then opt for the recumbent bike, popular with anyone looking for a low impact activity. The recumbent also offers support for the lower back, a feature that helps if you enjoy long rides. Extra features push the price of exercise bikes up, and include ergonomic designs, cushioned saddles, drink holders and wider pedals.
What to Look for
Magnetic resistance is a modern and common form of resistance for a stationary bike. The higher the cost, the greater number of resistance levels at your fingertips. Some entry level cycles will allow you to increase resistance by turning a knob; others make changes electronically. There are value cycles with 8 to 16 programs. Anyone working in the beginner to intermediate range will require less resistance. Look for variety in programmed workouts to enhance manual modes, including hills and intervals.
With any cycle, have a professional show you how to adjust the seat for the least strain on joints. This proper seat height adjustment can determine a great deal about the safety of uprights. The pedals are at about the same height as the seat with the recumbent, so horizontal distance is the factor. Adjusters that unscrew and pull out allow for simple changes. You will also see slider adjustments. Just make sure the seat fits securely in the seat pole after any modifications.
Many indoor bike handlebars also come with adjustment options, as well as grip pulse monitoring. Remember to double check this style of monitoring with a hands-on heart check. The American Heart Association website carries a target heart rate chart as a guideline. See americanheart.org and search for target heart rate, or consult your physician. Cycling classes often remind students about foot "stroke." Concentrating on a down stroke uses the quadriceps; the smooth pulling upstroke brings the hamstring into play. A good cycle makes these movements feel natural and provides straps to keep the foot secure but not penned.
Common Pitfalls
Stable construction and smooth operation are more important than a full electronic menu. A common mistake is not checking to see if your choice is exerciser-friendly. Can you reach the controls well when you are in position? When you hit your top speed, is there any wobble or shaking? This could be the quality or you may have forgotten to check the maximum weight limit on a lightweight frame. When the resistance is set on 1, do you feel like it's really at 4? For low-impact fitness fun, indoor cycling shines. Combine it with some dynamic music or the latest audio book and you'll be done with a session before you know it.
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