Features
Magnetic and Friction
The terms 'magnetic' and 'friction' refer the method an
exercise bike uses to apply resistance to the user.
Friction
Friction is used on cheaper Exercise Bikes. This is a
cheaper way to provide resistance and uses a band or brake
attached to the flywheel. The resistance is increased
adjusting a leaver which by tightens the band or brake.
Because of the way this methods works this type of bike is
quite basic, and does not usually have any programs built in
because of the need to change the resistance manually. They
tend to be less comfortable to use because the mechanism is
not as 'smooth' to pedal against. They are also slightly
noisier than magnetic models and eventually the resistance
band or brakes require changing.
Magnetic
If you are buying an exercise bike intended for regular
use then a Magnetic version is the preferred choice. These
use a magnet to provide resistance, which can easily be
calibrated and adjusted electronically, which means this
type of exercise bike often has programmed training modes,
giving a varied and more enjoyable workout. The Magnetic
Exercise Bike requires less maintenance than a friction
model and is the preferred choice for home use.
Specifications
There are a few things to check BEFORE you purchase an
Exercise Bike:
- Make sure you can adjust the set height and
handlebars to suit your physique, especially if you are
tall.
- Check the maximum weight of user the bike allows -
cheaper bikes tend to have a lower maximum user weight.
- Check that you have enough space around the area in
which you intend to use the bike to use it safely, and
that you have space to store it if you need to move it
between sessions.
And one final note, don't forget to consult your physician
or a qualified fitness instructor before embarking on any
new exercise regime.
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Types of bike:
There are three main categories of exercise bike, which
are:
Each type has it's own purpose and pros and cons. The
following should help you choose:
Upright Exercise Bikes
Upright Exercise Bikes are the 'traditional' training
of bike. They offer a similar seating position as a standard
road-bike and are great if you are using them to train for
road or track cycling when you can't get outside for
whatever reason. They tend to be cheaper then the equivalent
Recumbent bike and take up less floor space, so are an ideal
home exercise bike
Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Recumbent Exercise Bikes offer a more comfortable riding
position than an upright bike, and according to many fitness
advisors are better for your back then upright bikes, where
you tend to be more 'hunched'. Because of the better support
a recumbent bike is better for people who are just starting
a fitness regime - they offer similar feature and levels of
resistance to upright bikes. If you are a beginner and can
afford the slightly increased cost and space then a
recumbent exercise bike is the recommended option.
Spinning Exercise Bikes
Spinning Exercise bikes are more specialist. They
originate from Gyms, where a group of students will 'follow'
and instructor in a training session. The idea is to build
up endurance and stamina - a session my be 1/2 an hour or
more long. These Exercise bikes tend to be quite basic
compared to the other forms of exercise bike, usually not
having a computer. Being made for longer workouts Spinning
bikes tend to be well built and more expensive than the
average exercise bike. They are not so suited to home use as
other types, except for the most enthusiastic fitness
fanatic! |
