What Is a Mini Exercise Bike?

What Is a Mini Exercise Bike?
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A mini exercise bike is really a set of pedals that simulate the motion of biking. They come with two pedals connected to a small body. Two stabilizer bars with rubber ends are attached to the body and keep the bike from moving. You can sit on your couch and read while pedaling away the pounds. Mini exercise bikes come in a variety of styles, sizes and materials.

Types

Mini exercise bikes come in various styles. Tube frames offer light resistance and are made using a tube for the body with attached pedals and floor grips. Cased body mini exercise bikes offer higher resistance and have a built in display that notes distance, time and calories. The body of the exercise bike is encased in plastic or metal to cover the pedal assembly and electronics. Some more expensive models offer variable resistance. Motorized versions of the mini exercise bike are also available that promote circulation and offer a low-impact, low-resistance workout. Then, there is the gamer mini exercise bike that comes with a built-in game controller. It also automatically logs your exercise statistics onto your computer. The rehab trainer mini exercise bike can be used for the arms or legs. It comes with non-standard pedals for the feet that can also be used for arm rotation. It includes electronic readouts and is industrial quality.

Uses

Mini exercise bikes are used to increase circulation, provide a low-impact workout and some models can be used as an upper body warm up or workout. While mini exercise bikes simulate the action of pedaling a bicycle, they do not provide an intense cardiovascular workout. They do provide a light cardio workout, burn calories and are extremely easy to use. You just sit in your favorite chair or on the sofa and start pedaling.

Benefits

Mini exercise bikes are very small and portable so you can take them to work and get some exercise during your breaks. They fit nicely in a closet or other storage area. They are great for seniors and help them maintain mobility. The motorized versions are used with seniors or anyone with joint or mobility problems. The motor turns the pedals and gently moves the legs increasing circulation and easing the muscles into use. Mini exercise bikes come in a variety of styles and most are economical in comparison to other home workout equipment.

Cost

Mini exercise bikes range in price from $30 all the way to $1,200 for the Rehab Trainer model. The less expensive models have some stability problems because of the simple frame. The more expensive models have the assembly encased and use a wider base, which provides more stability when pedaling.

References

Article reviewed by Bill C. Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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