Ergometer exercise training is not as complicated as it sounds. Ergometers are types of exercise cycles that you pedal with either your feet or your hands. You may not refer to a regular stationary bike as a cycle ergometer, although you would be correct if you did. The term ergometer is usually reserved for a cycle trainer that is used during exercise testing or for research purposes.
Cardiovascular
Ergometer training improves your cardiovascular system. Your body increases its need for oxygen during ergometer training as your heart rate increases in response to the exercise. This rise in heart and breathing rates during the workout improves the function of your heart and lungs. Your daily heart rate slows as your fitness improves and your heart is able to pump more blood with each beat than before your cycle training.
Lower Body
A lower body ergometer resembles a stationary bike. Your workout on this ergometer includes endurance activities in which you maintain a certain speed and heart rate. Include resistance exercises such as hills in which you gradually increase the tension on your fly wheel to simulate climbing a hill. Include speed training into your workout by pedaling at top speed for a sprint and then recovering with a moderately paced cycle.
Upper Body
Upper body ergometers can be used in a standing or seated position. Many of these arm bikes are able to function as you pedal with one arm at a time for equal upper body training. Pedal forward or backward for exercise variation. Increase the tension on the flywheel to use muscle strength instead of muscle endurance.
Intensity
According to Dr. Len Kravitz, Associate Professor of Exercise Science at the University of New Mexico, leg ergometers require a higher heart rate and oxygen intake response than arm ergometers. When you combine legs and arms together, the intensity level feels higher to the participant, but the oxygen intake is less than when using only your legs. Both ergometers improve your cardiovascular system, but overall, a lower body ergometer burns more calories.
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