Stationary bicycles come in two varieties. The more common style is the upright bicycle, which mimics the traditional design of street bicycles. Recumbent bicycles have a different seat design that allows you to recline as though you were in a chair. The design of the stationary recumbent bicycle offers users a comfortable, low-impact workout.
Design
The ease and comfort of a stationary recumbent bike makes it a versatile aerobic machine for almost anyone, regardless of physical condition. Stationary recumbent bikes can be used by people who are minimally fit, struggle with balance or have minor physical limitations. A stationary recumbent bike allows you to comfortably sit back and pedal with your legs outstretched in front of you. Always consult your doctor before starting a workout regimen.
Low Impact
Stationary bicycles incur little to no impact on your joints. Running on a treadmill or using a step machine can place added stress on your knees and back. The seated position of a recumbent bike provides greater comfort and stability than an upright bike. According to the Spine-Health website, recumbent cycling offers people with knee and lower back issues a way to comfortably engage in aerobic exercise without exacerbating their condition. If you want a more intense workout, you may not be satisfied with the low-impact of a recumbent bike.
Strength
Recumbent cycling challenges the lower body muscles. According to Maurie Lackey, in her Lifestyle Fitness Report, the action of outstretching your legs to reach the pedals of a recumbent bike engages the lower abdominal muscles. Additionally, you will not have the assistance of gravity helping you to push the pedals down on a recumbent like you would on an upright cycle. Cycling on recumbent bike does not provide much opportunity for you to exercise the upper portion of your body.
Alleviates Pain
Recumbent cycling may aid in the recovery of soft tissue injuries or conditions. According to Spine-Health, the increased cardiovascular activity associated with aerobic exercise increases the amount of oxygen and vital nutrients delivered to your muscles, promoting faster healing. Additionally, aerobic exercise releases endorphins, providing you with relief from feelings of stress and depression, as well as pain, states Spine-Health.
Position
The seat position of a recumbent bike limits the mobility of your upper body. On an upright bike, you can adjust the level of incline or decline of your back or stand up to increase the intensity of your pedaling. Indoor cycling classes typically use upright stationary cycles because they offer riders greater flexibility of movement.
Seat Adjustment
A recumbent bike seat must be properly adjusted to fit your leg length to prevent potential injuries to your knees. According to Heaner, your seat should be back far enough to allow your legs to almost fully extend when at the peak of a pedal rotation without allowing the knees to lock. Leaving your seat too far forward could result in too much flexion in the knees, exacerbating joint pain.
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