Upright vs. Recumbent Bikes: Know What’s Right for You

There's been plenty of debate regarding which is a better exercise bike between an upright and recumbent one. Presumably, the one that emerges victorious is the one that's better for you. It must be mentioned, however, that making such a distinction isn't so simple.

Whether the bike one exercises which falls under used gym equipment for sale or is brand new is inconsequential to the outcome. The ideal way to figure what's ideal for somebody is by making a comparison between the bikes by outlining their advantages and disadvantages.

Upright Bikes

Upright Bikes are similar to regular bikes in that one can lean on the handlebars and the pedals are located right beneath you. The advantages of upright bikes include;

• They involve more muscles and, consequently, give adequate training for cyclists and people who are interested in a wholesome exercise regimen.
• The fact that more muscles are engaged during exercise means more calories end up being burned.
• One ends up with stronger arms given they're given a workout when supporting oneself over the handlebars.

Upright bikes also have some disadvantages. They include;

• The positioning of the pedals can exert a strain on your knees and ankles.
• The straining is also experienced on your back given most of the time cycling is spent hunching over the handlebars. The poor posture exerted on one's back could result in aches and pain.
• Some bikes have seats that prove to be uncomfortable given they exert a strain on your tailbone.
• Upright bikes are ideal for many people but not all people. Many people have a lot of difficulty finding balance on the seats.

Recumbent Bikes

Recumbent bikes allow users to assume a more relaxed seated position. The advantages of recumbent bikes include;

• Recumbent bikes allow a person to perform other tasks while exercising e.g. browsing one's phone or reading a book.
• They are ideal for people who are recovering from injury given it helps to avoid straining muscles that are convalescing.
• They are accommodating to people of all shapes and sizes.
• There's minimal risk of falling off the bike and harming yourself.
• The relaxed seating position encourages better posture which ensures there's minimal muscle straining.

Disadvantages of recumbent bikes include;

• The bike doesn't exercise the upper torso.
• Due to the fact that few muscles are engaged, less calories get burned.

The Ideal Bike

Once one has evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of each bike, choosing the one that's better for you gets much easier. The ideal bike should be the one that suits your needs. If one is recovering from an arm injury, then a recumbent bike would be ideal. Nevertheless, if you want to burn more calories, then an upright bike is the one you should go for.