Exercise Bikes - Recumbent vs. Upright

So, you’ve made the decision to get an exercise bike to help improve and maintain your overall health. Congratulations! Now the only decision you have left to make is whether you want a recumbent or an upright bike.

Upright Bikes – The Key Points to Consider

• In its simplest form, an upright bike is very much like a traditional bike in its design. It has a seat that is positioned directly above the pedals, with a height adjustment feature for your comfort.
• The handle bars are also similar to a standard bike and are used most often for stability while on the bike. Many models also have a heart rate monitor whose sensor is located on the handle bars.
• One major advantage that the upright has over the recumbent bike is that due to its structure, the upright allows you to assume a racing posture (stand) to exert greater force and put more effort into your workout. This would most closely resemble the posture you might take when climbing hills or racing on the road.
• One disadvantage in the upright is that it can often be quite uncomfortable when used for long periods, especially on less expensive models with small, cheaper seats.
• Upright exercise bikes are smaller than their recumbent counterparts and thus take up less floor space.
• Uprights are generally less expensive than recumbents.

Recumbent Bikes – The Key Points to Consider

• Recumbent Bikes are newer and have been on the market for less time. Already though they have caused quite a stir because their design makes bike exercise accessible to people whose chronic pain has rendered them unable to use a standard upright bike.
• The structure of the recumbent bike holds the body in a much more natural position while still providing a safe and effective workout.
• Recumbent bikes are larger and require a bit more space.
• Recumbents cost more than most upright bikes, but they provide a similar workout with less stress to your body.
• Due to the design, you cannot stand while using a recumbent bike.

What’s your Choice?

Depending on your budget, the majority of exercise bike shoppers will likely get the most benefit from a recumbent exercise bike due in large part to the comfort level and the ability to use the machine even when you aren’t in the greatest shape. More dedicated cyclists (such as those in training for cycling events) are better off with an upright model.

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