Hobby

The recumbent exercise bike capitalizes on the widespread popularity the recumbent bicycle enjoyed in the early 1930’s. As opposed to the standard stationary bike which will have the rider sit straight up, the recumbent bike will allow the rider to sit reclined, almost in a supine position.

There are many health benefits to the supine position; foremost among these is the reduction of strain on the lower back, which permits for longer usage of the exercise equipment. Another benefit is the position of the legs. Since they are on a level closer to the heart than they would be if the rider were sitting on a straight bike, the blood flow to and from the heart is aided, and you will actually be able to experience a higher endurance and therefore a longer time of exercise before you tire.

There are a number of different models available for purchase, and since the price tags can vary significantly, it is up to you to decide which bells and whistles you wish to invest in. Here are some of the better-known models:

1. First and fore most is the Stex 8020R exercise bike that carries a fairly hefty price tag. The buyer will be rewarded with electronics support that not only monitors and tracks the heart rate, but also calculates body fat! The bike operates quietly and is not dependant on an external power source, which makes it a wonderful addition for the patio or balcony. With 25 different levels of resistance as well as 13 pre-programmed exercise routines, you will be able to enjoy a very varied workout indeed.
2. For about a thousand dollars less, you will be able to purchase the Star Trac 4410HR exercise bike which may only offer four different pre-programmed exercise programs, but still a hefty 15 levels of resistance.
3. If the four-figure price tag is too steep for your exercise budget, you may wish to consider the Schwinn 213 exercise bike. It offers less levels of resistance than the Stex- it only offers 16 levels- but at 11 workout programs it only offers two less pre-programmed exercise routines. Displays will offer you the customary exercise bike stats, such as pulse, speed, calories and resistance.
4. For those who are new to recumbent bike exercise equipment, or who do not know if they will actually stick with the exercise regimen they are embarking upon, the Phoenix Magnetic exercise bike may be the most cost effective option. While it only offers eight resistance levels and no pre-programmed routine, this no-frills machine will help you to gain all the benefits of the workout without blowing your budget if you decide that recumbent bike exercise is not your cup of tea.

As you can see, recumbent exercise bikes come in many different styles and with many different bells and whistles. For those who are certain that this is an exercise program they will enjoy for many years to come, the more expensive models offer a large variety of routines and resistance features that will ensure that the workout never gets boring. For those, however, who are not so certain about their ability to actually stick with an exercise routine, the bikes in the lower price ranges are a great first step at getting acquainted with this marvelous exercise machine. You may find that it is worth the money to upgrade; or you may thank your lucky starts that you did not spend more money on another contraption that will serve as a clothes rack in your bedroom.

Whatever your exercise goals may be, the benefits of recumbent bike exercise cannot be denied:

• You will strengthen your leg muscles.
• You will build up your endurance.
• You will burn body fat while developing muscle mass.
• You will not tire as easily as you would with an upright exercise bike since the blood is flowing easier from the heart to your extremities and back, which is due to the position of the legs with respect to the heart.
• You will experience less low back pain since the seat supports this portion of your body.

So why not go ahead and give it a try? Your body will thank you for it!