Lifecycle is owned and operated by Life Fitness, a manufacturer of treadmills, weight lifting equipment and stationary bikes. Since the late 1960s, when Lifecycle released the first computerized exercise bike, the company has been producing a variety of recumbent and upright stationary bikes for home and commercial use. Each Lifecycle bike contains specific features that help you reach your fitness goals.
Types
Lifecycle bikes are available in two basic types: recumbent and upright. Recumbent bikes are characterized by a seat and backrest with the pedals in front of you, and upright bikes resemble traditional bikes. Both types of bikes are available in home and commercial-grade models.
Features
Every model contains specific features that set it apart from the other models, but they all contain the same basic features. A digital computer screen displays workout data such as speed, calories, resistance and time. Built-in programs allow you to choose pre-programmed workouts designed to help you reach your fitness goals, and the heart rate monitor maximizes workout efficiency by maintaining the appropriate intensity. Another feature includes adjustability to the pedals and seat.
Potential
Along with the built-in programs, you can customize workouts to match your personal goals. Within these customized workouts, you can program the workouts to focus on heart rate control using the wireless heart rate monitor. The advanced workout console includes the ability to create user profiles that record and track your progress throughout your workout routine. During the workouts, Lifecycle bikes are programmed to stay at a constant power for a consistent workout. For example, is Level 6 is programmed to be 100 watts, increasing pedal speed will result in a decrease to the resistance to maintain 100 watts.
Benefits
Lifecycle bikes are designed to provide a total body workout with a specific focus on aerobic exercise. According to the Mayo Clinic staff, aerobic exercise and a consistent fitness program has several health benefits. Exercise on the Lifecycle bikes has the potential to improve mood, manage bodyweight, increase energy and promote better sleep. Other benefits of regular exercise on the Lifecycle bikes is the prevention or management of chronic diseases such as heart disease and osteoporosis.
Price
The price range for Lifecycle bikes varies according to the features. For example, the Lifecycle base model C1 has a suggested retail price of $1,200 as of 2010, while the Platinum Club Series Upright bike has a suggested price of $3,000. The added price for the Platinum Club bike includes an LED message screen and a 15-in integrated LCD screen for watching television or movies.
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