Stationary Bikes
Outdoor biking is one of the most effective forms of exercise when it comes to burning massive amounts of calories and keeping the entire body fit, so it follows naturally that stationary bikes are one of the most effective forms of indoor exercise. There are a wide variety of bikes currently on the market, from those that strive to deliver the same feel as riding outdoors to those that strive to come up with a completely unique feel through technological advances.
Working out on a stationary bike is a great form of cardio and will help take off unwanted pounds, but it will also do great things for the muscle tone in your lower body. On a recumbent bike you are in a comfortable position to pick up the dumbbells and include your upper body as well, or you can go with an upright stationary bike that has moving arm handles for a complete body workout.
The Schwinn upright stationary bike is the most cost effective way to start biking indoors. While they are offered at value prices they deliver top notch workouts with a variety of features you would expect to see only on more expensive models.
For example, their 131 stationary bike comes with 20 trainer designed workouts programmed into the console as well as 16 levels of resistance. For extra comfort, it comes with a built-in fan, reading rack and wheels for convenient moving. All of this comes on a sturdy frame for around $500.
You also get a 10 year warranty on the frame, 1 year mechanical and electrical, and just months on wear and labor.
If you find the upright position uncomfortable or have health problems that make that position unsafe, you can always go with a recumbent stationary bike. The Monark 837E recumbent stationary bike is one of the best on the market.
It has a rather unique design with the console down low so your view is not obstructed and it is very easy to get on and off the seat. It has an oversized seat and back support and even the flywheel adjusts to ensure a comfortable position. The very sturdy frame can hold users up to 550 pounds.
A Monark bike will run you considerably more than a Schwinn, but the ability to hold heavier users is often a necessity.
Whether you go with an upright or a recumbent, home stationary bikes will take you a long way to reaching your fitness goals, taking off excess weight, or even training for an outdoor biking event.
Back from Stationary Bikes to Stationary Exercise Bikes