Exercising on a traditional upright stationary bike can often cause pain to people with back problems. An upright position puts your body in a sometimes awkward forward tilt that can put your spine out of alignment. The solution is to try a slightly modified version of a traditional-style upright called a recumbent stationary bike. Recumbent stationary bikes feature a more comfortable seating position that takes the strain off your back.
Seat Position
The primary difference between upright and recumbent stationary bikes is the seat position. Recumbent exercise bikes put you in a reclined position that people with back pain may prefer. Most recumbent bikes also feature lumbar support to take additional strain off your lower back. Megan Tyner, an American Council on Exercise Council-certified writer at Spine-Health.com, writes that people with mechanical low back pain, such as degenerative disc disease, will especially find the sitting position more comfortable on a recumbent exercise bike.
Health Benefits
Recumbent stationary bikes provide you with an effective cardiovascular workout and also helps tone the muscles of your legs. You can do a variety of workout routines using a recumbent bike, including interval training, increased resistance pedaling and high-intensity workouts. You can burn a substantial number of calories on a recumbent exercise bike; Bicycle Man, LLC points out that a 155 lb. person can burn 563 calories per hour pedaling at just a moderate pace.
Top Consumer Choices
A few of the top manufacturers of recumbent exercise bikes include Marcy, Schwinn, ProForm, Weslo, NordicTrack and Golds Gym. As of February 2011, Google Shopping rates the top-selling recumbent stationary bikes as the Marcy ME-709, Schwinn 240, Schwinn 220, Schwinn Active 20 and ProForm XP 400R. These are all medium-priced models that are ideal for lighter people; heavier individuals are better off choosing a commercial-grade bike that will provide a more stable ride. Most moderately priced models, such as the Schwinns, feature adjustable lumbar support to help keep you back comfortable while you work out.
Price Range
Recumbent exercise bikes come in a range of prices. Entry-level bikes can be purchased at any major sporting goods retailer for $150 to $300, as of February 2011. Heavier-duty models with added features, such as advanced LCD readouts and Internet connectivity, will often cost $500 to $1,000. Some high-end models, such as the Kettler HKS RX7, can run in excess of $2,000. Pricier models won't necessarily provide added comfort on your back, so it's best to try it out personally before you buy.
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