1. Going Nowhere Fast
You can get a great cardio workout on a stationary bike. Granted, you might not get all the interesting scenery or environmental challenges you might get riding a trail or on hilly streets, but the results can come pretty close. Biking is low impact, which is best for people with back and bone problems. It can be a good alternative for athletes who have shin splints or foot problems. For seniors with osteoporosis, a stationary bike provides a safe, total workout that can reduce pain while reversing the degenerative process. Bicycling improves flexibility while strengthening the leg and thigh muscles.
2. Bells and Whistles
A basic bike has a seat, pedals and some kind of spinning device, either wheels or a chain. It is usually mounted on a stand. More sophisticated models offer everything from speedometers and odometers to calorie counters and heart monitors. Adjustable bikes allow you to set the terrain and pedal pressure to change your workout levels. A stationary bike is a good piece of exercise equipment on which to multi-task. Many models come with stands to hold magazine or books and inputs for headphones attached to radios and televisions.
3. Cost Conscious
Used stationary bikes fill the pages of local web sites such as Craigslist and they are always available at local used exercise equipment stores and flea markets. A used stationary bike is a pretty safe bet since you easily can test the ride before you buy it. New models can be purchased in a wide price range, depending on the peripherals you select. A simple, stripped-down model can be purchased for under $200, while a versatile bike with all the electronic gadgets can cost up to a $2000.
4. Room to Grow
A stationary bike makes a good addition to a home gym. Your bike can be set in a corner permanently and not take up too much room. Many of the newer bikes can be folded up to slip out of sight under a bed. Recumbent bikes are longer and will take up more space. They do provide a different kind of workout though and may be worth the space. The prone position puts more stress on the abs and the hamstrings are stretched a little further. Recumbent bikes typically have larger seats too, providing a more comfortable seat on which you can stay longer.
5. In the Gym
The stationary bike in the public gym is a great addition to a total workout routine. It is a good start to a workout and you can warm up the leg and thigh muscles before doing any intense leg lifts. Spend 10 to 15 minutes to reach an aerobic state before you move to other machines. Your metabolism, heart rate and energy will be pumped up to get you through your routine. Also, consider joining a spinning class for an intense workout.
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