The exercise bike is a permanent fixture in the fitness centre. It is even used by professional athletes such as NBA players whilst on the sideline. This equipment has long been known to be an effective way to get your aerobic exercise in.
If you are contemplating on joining a spin class or buying your own exercise bike, here are some advantages and disadvantages you may want to consider:
Advantages of The Exercise Bike
1. Low-impact cardiovascular exercise—the Arthritis Foundation states that a stationary or exercise bike offers an “effective way to get a cardiovascular workout without stressing weight-bearing joints.” Since the exercise bike’s seat carries the brunt of the weight, stationary cycling is the most appropriate type of leg exercise for people who are rehabilitating knee injuries or recovering from knee replacements.
What’s more is that the rider does not need to worry about turning and uneven surfaces, making it a great form of aerobic exercise for people with balance problems. The Arthritis Foundation also reiterates the exercise bike’s advantage for patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Safety—bicycle riders who get their exercise outdoors run into potholes, wind, sudden storms, sunburn, stoplights, reckless motorists and biting dogs. All of these are avoided when riding an exercise or stationary bike.
3. Covenience—stationary cycling saves time and keeps leg motion uniform. Among its other convenience advantages are it allows you to either read a good book or watch television while getting your aerobic exercise in. A good number of exercise bikes can also be stored inside closets when not in use. They also do not soil carpets or tile floors which traditional bikes with wheels do.
4. Affordability—you can get your exercise bike for an affordable price. Good values are found in the $200-$500 range. A good machine will last for many years with little upkeep or maintenance.
Disadvantages of the Exercise Bike
1. Focus on legs—exercise bikes’ focus on the legs may require users to balance everything out by also incorporating upper body and core exercises into their workout programmes.
2. Boredom—users may feel bored after using the exercise bike a few times. Therefore, if you are the fickle-minded type of exercise equipment consumer, you may be better off purchasing something else.
3. Storage—as compact and easily-storable as some exercise bikes are, others take up a considerable amount of space which constrains your movement inside your home.
Conclusion
If you have been thinking about getting an exercise or stationary bike for the longest period of time, try to weigh the advantages and disadvantages very carefully. It offers a lot of promise and may be good to pass up. If you want exercise equipment that offers great deals which includes low-impact cardiovascular exercise, safety, convenience and affordability, an exercise bike is the way to go.
