Fitness Program - Get In Shape With One of These Exercise Equipment

Exercise bikes or sometimes called the stationary bike is a increasing popular home equipment due to their cost and size. You can get the same workout you would get riding a regular bike without leaving the comforts of your home. Great for those who might live in areas where weather conditions might prohibit outdoor exercise.

Exercise bikes provide a great cardiovascular workout and done properly can burn up to 550 calories an hour. What makes them attractive is that you can read the paper, watch tv or listen to music while pedaling away. Recovering from injuries to your legs, a exercise bike is a great warm-up and keeps your muscles loose and in shape.

Unlike running or treadmills where impact of your feet pounding on the pavement can cause joint injuries, an exercise bike has almost no impact on the joints which makes for a more comfortable workout and less recovery time. Now that you know a bit more about the benefits of an exercise bike, what are your choices? We've listed the main types of exercise bikes you can select from.

Types of Exercise Bikes

There are three main categories of exercise bikes - Upright, Recumbent and the mini bikes. Each serve the same purpose (to help you get in shape) but provide different functions that can suit your individual needs.

Upright Exercise Bikes: - These are the typical exercise bikes you see. They resemble your normal outdoor bicycle. They are the closest thing to riding a real bicycle.
Recumbent Exercise Bikes: - Most people while used to the look of the upright exercise bike, find the recumbent type style bikes the most comfortable. This style lets you sit in a lowered position with a backrest. The backrest is great for those with any back problems or soreness as it provides support.
Mini Exercise Bikes: - For those who do not have the space or budget for a full-size exercise bike there are mini bikes that might suit their needs more. Mini bikes are basically the pedals of a bike but no seat or frame. You can use them while you sit at your desk at the office or anywhere else. Some models can be used as an "arm bike" meaning you use your arms instead of your legs to exercise.

Cost and Other Things To Think About

Due to the popularity and increasing number of people who like to exercise, companies have come out with different types of bicycle models. Some come with more bells and whistles but you should go and test out as many models as possible to find the most comfortable fit.