The array of cardio equipment available in the gym or for home purchase can be overwhelming. Both the recumbent bike and the treadmill offer ways to achieve a cardiovascular workout. When deciding which piece of equipment is best, evaluate your goals and preferences, as well as any physical conditions that affect your ability to exercise.
Recumbent Bikes
A recumbent bike looks much like a traditional upright stationary bicycle, but with a seat back like a chair. It features a bucket seat and handlebars at shoulder height. Recumbent bikes are often used in therapy settings to help people recover from injury. Those with arthritis, back problems and the elderly appreciate the low impact nature of recumbent cycling.
Treadmills
A workout on the treadmill consists of any combination of walking, jogging or running. High-end home and commercial treadmills reach speeds as high as 15 mph. Most treadmills also feature a belt that can be raised and lowered to simulate hills. Combine the incline and speed features in many different ways to add variety to your workout--hike hills, perform short sprints with bouts of walking or do steady-state tempo training as a few examples.
Physical Considerations
Jogging and running are safe and effective exercises for the already-fit person. The Cleveland Clinic warns that anyone with orthopedic problems, chest pain or shortness of breath should not attempt aggressive treadmill workouts. Walking on the treadmill is accessible to a wider range of fitness levels and is particularly good for beginners or people with joint problems.
Recumbent cycling may be more comfortable if you are 50 pounds or more overweight, as it will put less stress on your joints than long bouts of walking. Those with balance problems do better with a recumbent bicycle, as there is less chance of falling.
Misconceptions
Although a recumbent bike is useful for people with physical limitations, you can still achieve a strong workout using one. Push your resistance level and speed of pedaling to elevate your heart rate into an aerobic zone. You can vary your workout on a recumbent bike by alternating periods of high intensity and lower intensity work in the same session.
Other Considerations
If you are looking for a home exercise machine, consider the space you have available. The American Council on Exercise notes that a stationary bicycle needs just about 10 square feet of space while a treadmill requires about 30 square feet. Both machines can help you achieve enhanced fitness levels and burn calories. You will burn more calories on the treadmill compared to a workout of equal intensity on the recumbent cycle. Including both modes of exercise in your routine may be your best strategy because it decreases boredom and allows your muscles to benefit from different challenges.
Member Comments