Recumbent exercise bikes have become a popular cardio workout option in both the gym and at home. Because the user sits back in a reclining position, some find it more comfortable than an upright bike. Compared to working out on a treadmill, which is a high-impact activity, a recumbent bike offers a nonweight bearing, no-impact workout.
The Company
Icon Health and Fitness is the world's largest manufacturer of home fitness equipment. It incorporated in 1994 with ProForm being one of the original companies that merged to create Icon Health and Fitness. The ProForm line of products includes not only recumbent exercise bikes, but also treadmills, incline trainers and elliptical trainers.
Function
Recumbent bikes provide exercisers with a no-impact alternative to treadmills, steppers and elliptical machines. Sitting in a reclined position eliminates stress to the knees and back, and creates a nonweight bearing exercise. Adjusting the seat properly, so you have a slight bend in your knees at all times, eliminates pressure on the knee joints.
Design
ProForm recumbent bikes feature magnetic resistance, which allows you to adjust the tension of the pedals with the touch of a button on the console. Depending on the model, there are 12 to 20 resistance levels. As with treadmills and elliptical machines, recumbent bikes made for in-home use have a user weight limit. The weight capacity on ProForm recumbent bikes varies between 250 and 325 lbs.
Features
Most ProForm recumbent bikes include a set of built-in workout programs that adjust the intensity of the workout for you. The number of preset workouts ranges from eight to 20. iFit card technology is available on some ProForm recumbent bike models. You purchase these workout cards separately; they insert directly into the bike's console. Each workout card is designed by a personal trainer. Her voice guides you throughout the workout as the card automatically adjusts the speed and intensity for you. Other features available on some ProForm bikes include iPod compatibility, a cooling fan and a heart rate monitor.
Availability
As of October 2010, ProForm only has one recumbent bike listed on its website. You can also find ProForm bikes at large online retailers such as Amazon.com. ProForm produces a line of in-home equipment for sale through Sears' department stores. These are available at sears.com and in stores.
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