Exercise Bikes - Uprights Versus Recumbent

So which is best, there is a great deal of debate as to which of the two styles of exercise bike is best, the upright bike or the recumbent bike. It is true that both have their advantages. Which to choice when buying one? well that is down to your personally preference.

The Upright Bike.

The upright is of course the traditional style of bike modelled on the conventional road bike. If you are used to riding on the road on a normal road bike then the upright exercise bike would feel the more natural of the two styles.

Another advantage that the upright offers is the space saving over a recumbent. By its nature a recumbent is a laid back style and the body is stretched out, as a result the is longer. So the upright takes up less floor space.

It is widely regarded, by most fitness professionals, that the upright bike gives a more intense workout as the body is more upright, it is easier to put more effort into the ride.

Recumbent exercise bike.

The recumbent exercise bike is without doubt the more comfortable of the two styles. One of the down side of an upright is they can leave you a little saddle sore, no matter how padded the seat is. The recumbent is like sitting in armchair, no risk of a numb bum.

People with back trouble may find the posture of the recumbent more supportive than an upright, enabling them to cycle longer getting a better workout. A similar thing applies to overweight people; the more comfortable posture of the recumbent may suit them better.

The differing posture of the recumbent also puts more load on the legs and buttocks, so if reshaping your behind is one of your concerns then this a better choice.

Cycling in an upright position also puts a lot of pressure on the hands and wrists and can leave your fingers numb after a while. Using a recumbent eliminates this as your hands no longer support your body weight. Because you are not hunched over on a recumbent your lungs are more open thus you are able too breathe better making for a better workout.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both style of bike, in the end it comes down to personal preference and how fit you are too start with. It is definitely worth testing both style in the store, before you buy.


By Dave R Jones

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