Should I Buy A Recumbent Exercise Bike? (Everything You Need to Know!)

Have you ever asked yourself “Should I buy a recumbent exercise bike?”

If you want to work out but do not have a lot of time to go to the gym, one of the options at your disposal is buying a recumbent exercise bike.

Most people are, however, torn between choosing this type of bike versus the regular upright bicycle. Some tend to assume that one is more effective than the other.

Though making the right decision when it comes to bikes is not easy, you should do some research and only use the best bike so that you are motivated enough to maintain your fitness routine.

If you are wondering if the recumbent exercise bike is the right one for you, our discussion can help you find out.

We will not only tell you what this bike is all about but also give you details on how it can benefit you.

At the end of this discussion, you should understand how a recumbent exercise bike differs from the upright bike and which one is best for you.

Read on to learn more about how to choose a recumbent exercise bike.

What is a recumbent exercise bike?

Bikes keep on getting better each day due to the advancement of technology.  Research reveals that cycling is one of the most effective forms of exercise that everyone should try.

This specific bike places you in a laid back position where you ride it as your backrests comfortably.

Nowadays, most of the fitness centers and gyms have recumbent exercise bikes. You can also purchase this bike and use it to train indoors if you don’t have the time for gym classes.

This bike has a different design compared to the upright bike. Though recumbent exercise bikes are available for everyone, they are more suitable for people who body issues.

The recumbent exercise bikes come in different configurations. You can either choose one that has a short or long wheelbase. Some of them even come with three wheels.

What are the benefits of a recumbent exercise bike?

Before you invest your money in a recumbent exercise bike, you need to understand how it can help you as well as how it differs from the regular upright bike.

Weighing the merits and demerits of each type of bike can help you choose the ideal one. Most people find the recumbent exercise bike comfortable because it is easier on the lower back.

The way you sit on the bike enhances the positioning of the lumbar spine.

Unlike the upright bike, which makes you hunch over its handlebars, a recumbent exercise bike encourages you to maintain a proper spinal posture.

Since the bike is also easy on the joints, people with arthritis can use it comfortably. It comes with a bucket seat, which supports your lower back well.

The ankles and knees are safe from any form of injury.

You will also notice some difference when it comes to the seat of an upright bike compared to that of the recumbent exercise bike. The second bike has a larger seat, which increases comfort.

Most riders tend to find a smaller seat uncomfortable on the behind. By choosing the recumbent exercise bike, you don’t have to keep on placing a pillow on the seat before you start your workout.

Using an upright bike exposes you to the risk of injuries when you ride it while standing.

Choosing a recumbent exercise bike, on the other hand, is safer since you don’t have to ride it while standing up on its pedals.

If you have a neurological condition, you can enjoy a low impact workout through the use of the recumbent exercise bike. This can help you keep fit without making you strain a lot.

It also prevents you from pain and helps you build strength. You get to maintain a reclining position as your weight gets distributed over the back and your behind.

Most people who use this bike are concerned about the number of calories they can burn from using it. Some tend to assume that an upright bike is more effective than a recumbent exercise bike.

Though both bikes have their merits, you can still burn the same amount of calories from choosing either of the bikes. It is possible to lose weight as you use the recumbent exercise bike.

You only need to be consistent in your workout and work hard for you to see the desired results. The bike also comes with all the right features that increase efficiency.

How should you choose a recumbent exercise bike?

Now that you understand how this bike can benefit you, you need to learn how to choose the right model. The different models available can be overwhelming for a beginner.

Start by considering the amount of space you have in your home or gym. Most beginners get overexcited about the different models that they forget to focus on the space they have back home.

There is no need to buy a recumbent exercise bike that cannot fit in your apartment. Bigger recumbent exercise bikes are, however, considered to be more comfortable compared to smaller ones.

They tend to provide room for people with different body sizes and shapes. As you start shopping for an ideal recumbent exercise bike, you should have a budget in place.

The market offers both cheap and expensive recumbent exercise bikes. One of the reasons why these bikes differ in prices is because of the available features.

You need to weigh your budget against the features that are most crucial to you so that you select a recumbent exercise bike that fits your every need.

If you still want a cheaper model, look for one that does not lack the basic features such as a quality LCD screen that can display crucial data, different tension levels, and quality programs.

Some of the expensive models feature luxurious amenities like a desk to place your laptop or a magazine rack.

Conclusion

Start your fitness journey by adding a stationary bike in your gym collection. A recumbent exercise bike would be an ideal choice, especially if you have problems with your knees or joints.

It gives you a comfortable resting position as you work out. Since this is a lifetime investment, making the right decision is crucial.

Focus on the features and benefits of this type of bike and decide if this is what you need.

I hope this article helped you to answer the question “Should I buy a recumbent exercise bike?”