The Exercise Bikes

Exercise Bike Reviews and Comparisons: Read This First!

Finding the time to get and stay fit in today’s hustle and bustle is challenging. It doesn’t take much effort to convince people to develop an exercise regimen; they are aware of its benefits to the body. But they are often discouraged at the onset because of the high cost of gym membership, unhealthy air outdoors, and busy work life. Fortunately, people can use exercise bikes to be healthy inside and out, without ever stepping out of the door. The following are the main categories of exercise bikes to select from.

The first group of exercise bikes is the conventional upright units. They follow the frame and design of an everyday bicycle, but they remain in place when being used. They are proven effective in working out the heart, as well as firming up the abdomen, thighs, and legs. However, the user’s back is hunched while doing the exercise, which may not be good for the spine down the road. People who use the upright exercise bikes also complain of neck strain, according to many exercise bike reviews and comparisons.

Second, there are exercise bikes that come with a dual action system that provides a full-body workout. The handlebars of the dual action bicycle are linked to the pedals, so that they rotate at the same pace. This mechanism allows for the arms, shoulders, and chest to be toned with consistent use of this bike. The saddle though still forces the user to bend over, a sitting position that can damage the spine after many uses.

These first two stationary bikes have improved much over the last decade. Fitness manufacturers have added modern features into them that allow people to monitor their heart rate, BMI, and calorie burns. Some units are fitted with LCDs that provide entertainment while doing a course or two. But this type of exercise bike may not be suited for people who are easily distracted by movies and games in the middle of getting fit.

The fourth kind of exercise bikes are known for having reclining seats, and they are better known as recumbent bikes. The design of the seat gives a comfortable sitting position for the rider, with ample support for the lumbar. Pedaling motion is directed in front and riders are will notice that they are doing a kick action when exercising. Because of added comfort, people are drawn to recumbent bikes in achieving fitness.

An increasingly popular choice is the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike, because of the uncanny comfort its seat give to the rider. It has two reclining positions, and it can be slid forward or backward to accommodate different body sizes. The Schwinn 230 is excellent both as an entry-level and advanced exercise bike with its 16 resistance levels. Workout statistics can also be monitored through its LCD screen.

The Schwinn 230 unit normally costs $600. Bought online, people can save as much as $150, or $100 if shipping cost is factored in. If available, previously owned units can be purchased at a much lower price. Judging from the exercise bike reviews and comparisons that can be accessed through various online stores, it is easy to see why Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike is getting the attention and approval of many fitness buffs.