Is your lifestyle too hectic to ride a bike or visit the gym after work? Instead of complaining about the lack of time for workouts, you can invest in an exercise bike and transform your living room into a gym. These machines are beneficial for cardio and leg-burning workouts, enabling users to improve their cardiovascular health and knee flexibility.
Individuals with limited workout space are advised to purchase a foldable exercise bike, which can be stored anywhere when folded up. There is a myriad of factors to consider when shopping for a stationary bicycle, such as weight limit, resistance, dimensions, seat adjustability, console, and extra features.
We hope the following tips help you pick the right model.
Check its weight limit
An essential factor to take into account when looking for an exercise bike is the weight limit of this device. For optimal stability, stationary bicycles are supposed to be constructed from long-lasting materials like steel. The greater their weight, the lower the risk of wobbling.
Nevertheless, when purchasing such a device online, one cannot test it for stability. Therefore, make sure the weight limit of the bicycle exceeds your body weight to prevent potential injuries. Keep in mind that the heaviest models should be equipped with transport wheels in order to be moved around the room easily.
Consider the resistance
The only way for stationary bikes to provide the same cardiovascular and weight loss benefits as standard bicycles is by providing multiple fitness programs with various resistance levels. When pedaling, the flywheel starts rotating and provides a smooth ride. Anyhow, the weight of the machine is mainly responsible for the smoothness of the riding process. The heavier the stationary bike, the better the ride.
Resistance is what makes one’s ride challenging. It can be mechanical, magnetic, and air resistance. When it comes to models with mechanical resistance, friction is controlled manually with either a brake pad or a band. These models are capable of producing incredibly high resistance levels, thus being ideal for intense leg workouts. Click here to check out some stationary bike workouts that burn fat.
Moreover, foldable exercise bicycles with magnetic resistance are known to be the most functional. Owing to the magnets placed in various positions on the machine, users change the level with the help of a button. The largest part of these models is equipped with heart-rate sensors to keep track of one’s heartbeat while exercising.
Ultimately, air resistance is solely provided with pedaling, which means the biker is directly responsible for the level of resistance. The faster you pedal, the higher the level. In order for the resistance level to be reduced, one has to paddle more slowly.
Check out the dimensions
Another factor to consider when purchasing a folding exercise bike is the dimensions, both when folded and unfolded. The folding models are specially designed for people with a lack of storage, as their original size can be substantially reduced. As long as you have enough room to place your stationary bike when unfolded, you’ll have no trouble storing it once done with your workout.
The folding models are designed to be both light and portable for users to move them around the house with no difficulty. These are more convenient than the models with removable components, as you won’t have to assemble and disassemble the bicycle every time you plan to use it.
Consider the console
The console display is yet another important consideration when purchasing such an exercise machine. It enables users to control and keep track of their current session by providing a myriad of functions. The most common details included on such displays are heart rate, distance, time, number of burned calories, speed, pulse rate, etc.
Furthermore, keep in mind that low-end models include nothing but the basic functions, such as time, speed, and burned calories. In contrast, the more advanced models include LCD screens, USB device chargers, and information retention options. For instance, one can pause the workout session and resume it later without having to reset the data.
Don’t forget seat adjustability
Individuals who spend plenty of time using their folding exercise bikes are advised to purchase models with an adjustable seat. These seats can be adjusted to the height of the user, as well as moved forward and backward for better reach of the handlebars. In order for the seat to be suited to your height, it has to level with your hips.
Additionally, the models with an adjustable seat are particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from back problems or going through injury recovery. Owing to the reduced pressure on the knees and ankles, people are capable of using these stationary bicycles without overstraining their back.
Check out the add-ons
When looking for a high-end exercise bike, one is advised to inspect the variety of extras of the top-notch models. For instance, some models are equipped with built-in speakers and fans to provide more lavish comfort while exercising. You’ll be able to motivate yourself with the beats of your favourite songs.
Moreover, certain stationary bicycles feature a water bottle holder for users to keep hydrated without getting off the bike. Some models come with a magazine stand to hold magazines, books, tablets, and newspapers.
Final word
Purchasing a folding exercise bicycle means wasting neither time nor money on going to the gym.
Invest in one!