Fitness

The Best Exercise Bikes for Your Tour De Living Room

Published

11 months ago

October 31, 2024

The Best Exercise Bikes for Your Tour De Living Room

Think about your fitness goals, must-have features, and preferred workouts to hone in on the type of bike that’s work for you. “Check out reviews, comparison shop, read the details, and consider test-driving your bike in person—at a shop, a showroom, or a friend’s place—before purchasing,” Schneider suggests. You could also think about the bikes you’ve liked at different studios and gyms, and jot down some pros and cons of each, Natalie Qayed, a NASM-certified personal trainer and master instructor at Cycle Haus Nashville, tells SELF.

Size

“If you’re someone like me who lives in an upstairs dwelling, then size, weight, and ease of moving the bike is important,” Fu tells SELF. “Some bikes have large monitors that can make the bike [heavy and] difficult to move.” And if you’re tight on space, be sure to check the bike’s dimensions before you buy to make sure it’ll fit in your room. Schneider says to account for any moving parts and appendages, such as handlebars, and ensure there’s enough clearance between you and your ceiling (especially if you’re using dumbbells or standing while cycling).

Comfort

There’s nothing worse than splurging on a quality exercise bike, only to realize the seat feels like a wooden plank or the handlebars are stuck in an awkward position. So make sure to consider the bike’s design. Some models offer adjustable handlebars and seats, allowing you to customize the fit for your body and encourage proper form. This feature is particularly beneficial if multiple people will be using the bike.

Noise level

When shopping for an exercise bike, noise level is an important factor to consider, especially if you live in an apartment or share walls with neighbors. According to Schneider, bikes with chains tend to be significantly noisier than ones that use belts to spin the wheels. Bikes with magnetic resistance mechanisms are also quieter to use.

Technology and programming

When choosing a bike, consider features like the type and size of screen (say, an HD touchscreen versus an LED panel), tilt or pivot options that allow you to use the display for off-bike cross-training workouts, and auto-adjusting resistance capabilities during trainer-led classes. Some questions to ask yourself: Do you prefer a bike with built-in programming, or are you fine with streaming workouts through your own device? Do you want to track your metrics, such as heart rate or calories burned, in real time or post workout? These preferences can help narrow down your options.

Accessories

Think about the little things that can make your workouts more enjoyable and efficient, like consoles, tablet holders, and water bottle cages. You might also want to look for features like dumbbells or weight bars (and spots to stow them on the bike) if you plan to incorporate strength training into your cycling practice.

Price and value

You can definitely find a less expensive, no-frills bike that’ll help you get your workouts in, but a bike with a sturdy design or high-end add-ons will likely cost more. “You get what you pay for,” Qayed says. She cautions to be wary of cheaper bikes that appear to have tons of features and tech. “As with most fitness machines, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.”

Types of exercise bikes

Looking for a road-style bike, a low-impact recumbent bike, or an air bike for those HIIT workouts you’ve been wanting to try? If you’re a newbie and that all sounds like gibberish to you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. To help paint a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of the different types of exercise bikes.

Indoor cycling bikes (aka spin bikes)

Want that studio-class intensity? “Spin bikes are my go-to for an immersive group fitness experience,” says Hayes. “They’re built for both speed work and choreography.” The handles are out in front, causing you to lean forward as you pedal, similar to the position you’d have on a road bike. Fu says you can usually adjust the bike’s height, seat, and handlebars to fit your frame. And “most spin bikes offer a wide range of resistance to make the ride as easy or difficult as the rider wants,” she says.

“Upright bikes are similar to spin bikes, but are higher from the ground and have wider seat cushioning,” says Fu, noting that they are generally larger and mostly at gyms. The bike is designed in such a way that you essentially sit upright (hence the name) with the pedals directly under you. The handlebars are generally closer to your frame, which keeps you vertical, as opposed to leaning forward. The closer handle position also makes it more compact than other bike options.

With a reclined seat and backrest, recumbent bikes let you pedal in a supportive position that’s easy on your joints and lower back. The seat itself is also lower to the ground, which makes it easier to get in and out of, says Fu. As Dr. Clayborne mentioned above, these bikes are ideal for anyone with past knee or hip injuries, or for older adults looking for a low-impact option.

Air bikes (aka fan bikes)

“Air bikes are the powerhouses of the bunch,” says Hayes. Designed with moving arms and a large fan that creates resistance as you pedal, the bike provides an intense full-body workout. The harder and faster you go, the more challenging the ride will be. “They’re brutal, but effective for conditioning work,” he says.

If you’re short on space, these bikes are designed to fold up for easy storage when not in use. While they might not have all the high-tech features of larger bikes, they still offer “a high quality workout without sacrificing living space,” says Hayes.

How we test exercise bikes

To give you top-notch recommendations, our team of testers put each bike through a series of rigorous tests to see how well they perform and hold up over time. Below are a few categories we focus on, but for the extensive list, check out our full fitness methodology.

When you’re investing in a piece of fitness equipment, you want it to last. Our testers ride these bikes at all different levels, making sure they can handle daily use, different body types, and even some environmental extremes (heat, dust, humidity). Does it wobble or feel solid under pressure? We’ve got the answers to keep your rides steady and worry-free.

This stands for adjustability, customizability and ergonomics—all factors that we consider to make sure the bike fits you, not the other way around. We check things like whether the bike adjusts to accommodate different heights, if the seat is comfortable for long rides, and whether the controls are easy to reach and tweak.

If you’re tight on space, you’ll want to know how much room the bike takes up and how easy it is to move around. We look at dimensions, foldability, and whether it’s portable enough to shift across different floors.

Fancy features hold a lot of weight, but only if they’re easy to use. We test the bike’s tech—like Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen displays, and integrated apps—to see if they enhance your workout or just add frustration. Our goal? To help you focus on your ride, not on troubleshooting your tech.

FAQs

What exercise bike is best?

The answer really depends on your individual needs, such as whether you’re after a low-impact ride (like the NordicTrack R35 Recumbent) or top-tier programming with expert instructors (looking at you, Peloton Bike+) Your height, weight, age, health, and even any past injuries all come into play when choosing a bike, as do your fitness goals (like building muscle, increasing endurance, or just staying active).

Is 30 minutes a day on an exercise bike enough?

“Most heart health guidelines suggest 30 minutes, five times per week to help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system, but it also depends on your goals and the style of training,” Dr. Clayborne tells SELF. For example, if you’re hoping to build stamina, you may want to increase your workout time or resistance. Or, if you have health conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, you should consult your physician or physical therapist before beginning cycling, he says. “It’s important to gradually work up to 30 minutes if you’re starting from scratch,” he advises.

What type of bike is best for exercise?

Take into account your overall health, what features matter to you the most, and what you’re trying to achieve to help inform what’s right for you. Are you looking for your bike to help with cardio fitness, strength, or recovery? Different bikes suit different needs.

How much do exercise bikes cost?

Exercise bikes can range widely in price, depending on features like tech, build quality, and resistance options. In this roundup alone, you’ll see bikes priced anywhere from $300 to $2,000. The good news? There’s plenty of options that offer great value at a lower price point.

Related:

Related Topics:bikes Cardio cycling fitness fitness gear Peloton Shopping spin spinning

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Fitness

Donald Trump Fitness: Can His Golf Workouts Replace the Gym? Explore Trump’s Golf Exercise Routine and Health Benefits

Published

15 hours ago

September 26, 2025

Press Room

Donald Trump Fitness: Can His Golf Workouts Replace the Gym? Explore Trump’s Golf Exercise Routine and Health Benefits

Donald Trump’s fitness routine centres around golf, not the gym. Let’s know how his golf workouts burn calories, improve health, and whether golf can truly replace traditional exercise.

When you consider Donald Trump, you probably don’t think of fitness. Yet, one thing that he always swears by is golf. Beyond being a hobby, Trump uses golf in his leisure a great deal, as a way to stay active, socialise, and keep his body in motion. But here’s the big question: Can Trump’s Golf Workouts Replace the Gyms? Let’s explore his regimen and discover the unexpected health benefits of golf as a form of exercise.

Does Donald Trump Work Out At The Gym?

Unlike several celebrities or political figures who are stuck to a gym regimen, Donald Trump is not known for pumping iron or running on treadmills. Instead, it is his fitness in playing golf that comes first. Trump is said to spend hours of his day at the golf course, walking around, swinging and being active while he is managing both business and leisure conversation. While it may not sound like a real workout, golf requires you to move around, control your posture and your coordination all the time, making it a low-impact exercise for burning calories.

How Many Calories Does Playing Golf Burn?

Yes, and here’s why. On average:

Walking 18 holes may cover 4 – 6 miles.
The number of calories burned by carrying clubs or pushing a cart is 600-1,000 calories per round.
A golf cart even allows golf players to burn up to 300-450 calories because of swinging, short walks, and postural control.

And when you’re an early riser, a workaholic and a frequent visitor to the course, as Donald Trump is, that calorie burn adds up, making golf something of a fitness powerhouse.

Health Benefits Of Trump’s Golf Routines

People grossly underestimate golf, but Trump’s steady play grants him some wrist flexing fitness advantages:

1. Improves Heart Health

Walking the course and swinging regularly provides greater blood circulation and makes the cardiovascular system stronger.

2. Increases Flexibility and Balance

The golf swing to develop: Spine, shoulders, hips, and core. After a certain period of time, repeating the same movements helps your body gain flexibility and balance.

3. Improves Muscles Without Heavy Lifting

While not weight training, swinging a golf club develops arms and shoulders and core muscles.

4. Reduces Stress

Golf is an outdoor game, and it is played in often lush and calm surroundings. For Trump, it’s also a break from the pressures of politics and business, mentally.

5. Promotes Longevity

Studies show that golfers live longer on average due to the combination of moderate physical activity and the provision of relief.

Can Golf Replace The Gym?

This is where opinion becomes polarised. For Donald Trump, golf might be sufficient to get a workout, but for most people, the gym allows for targeted exercises on strength training and cardio intensity which golf simply cannot match. However, golf is an excellent option for those who hate gyms but still desire a regular workout. The combination of walking, swinging, and being outdoors means that this is an effective low-impact workout.

Golf Smart: Maximise Your Workout

If you want to follow in Trump’s footsteps-but maximise the amount of fitness benefits you are getting-try these:

Use your feet to walk the course rather than use a cart.
Carry or use a push cart for your own clubs.
Always warm up before playing by stretching.
Galea does weight exercises, such as squats or push-ups, after golf to try to balance with force.

While Donald Trump is not known for lifting heavy weights or running marathons, his golf workouts keep him active and in shape in a sustainable way that is both fun and engaging. While a game of golf cannot completely take the place of a workout in the gym, it proves that fitness doesn’t always need to come from traditional workouts.

Fitness

Michael Chiklis Had to Get in Football Shape Well After 50. Here’s How He Did It.

Published

3 days ago

September 24, 2025

Press Room

Michael Chiklis Had to Get in Football Shape Well After 50. Here’s How He Did It.

MICHAEL CHIKLIS HAS played tough cops in shows like The Shield and a granite-strong superhero in The Fantastic Four, but the most difficult physical challenge the actor has faced over a long career might just have been playing a regular, real-life guy. That regular guy did something remarkable, however—Chiklis’s most recent film, The Senior, is about 59-year-old Mike Flynt, who suited up for college football as the oldest player in the NCAA.

Stepping into the shoes of this character wasn’t a stretch for Chiklis, who is now 62—he says he was the captain of his football team in high school, so he has the background—but getting in shape for the film well after 50 was a trial. The actor did “about 90 percent” of the football action on screen, so he needed to be able to do more than just look the part. He had to be able to move, too.

How did he do it? A dedicated strength and conditioning plan (and plenty of focused warm-up and mobility). Chiklis stacked up full-body training sessions to prep his body to get into football shape. He did more than just gym training, however; Chiklis says he would often spent 40 minutes in the pool jogging and walked 10,000 steps to raise up his general activity levels.

Chiklis says that overall, the most important part of his training was preventing injury. His priorities are being healthy and strong—both for his career, and for the stage he’s at in life. “If you’re an older person and you’re interested in keeping your body strong and being fit, then listen to yourself,” he says. “Don’t get pulled into the whole machismo crap.”

Check out Chiklis’s breakdown of his routine here.

Michael Chiklis’s The Senior Workout

Lower Body Exercises

Reps or 45 seconds per exercise

Suitcase Squat

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift

Dumbbell Lateral Lunge

Dumbbell Goblet Squat

Push and Pull Movements

4 rounds of 30 to 40 second intervals

Pushups

Dumbbell Floor Press

Dumbbell Row Variations

Arm and Shoulder Circuit

4 sets of 45 seconds per exercise

Dumbbell Curls

Arnold Press

Triceps Kickbacks

Want more celebrity workout routines? Check out all of our Train Like videos.

Brett Williams, NASM-CPT, PES, a senior editor at Men’s Health, is a certified trainer and former pro football player and tech reporter. You can find his work elsewhere at Mashable, Thrillist, and other outlets.

Fitness

How Many Days a Week Should You Do HIIT? A Trainer Weighs In

Published

4 days ago

September 23, 2025

Press Room

How Many Days a Week Should You Do HIIT? A Trainer Weighs In

For some people trying to lose weight, they might find that they’ve plateaued and wonder if there is anything they can add to their workout routine to jumpstart their metabolism. Enjoying a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout a handful of days per week can be just the thing that works.

“If you’re looking to be more explosive, athletic or build muscle, HIIT workouts are best suited to help you do that,” Rafique “Flex” Cabral previously told TODAY.com.

Trainer Tip of the Day: HIIT Workouts 3 Days a Week Boosts Metabolism

A HIIT workout focuses on brief moments of super-intense activity with rest periods sprinkled between the exercise. While the high energy exertion occurs in quick bursts — often 30 to 45 seconds, with rest in between — it demands more of the muscles. This type of exercise builds and maintains lean muscle mass, which can help with weight loss.

“Maintaining a routine that involves HIIT training three to four times a week will help compound that post-workout effect on your metabolism,” Cabral said.

HIIT sparks something called excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), which enables people to burn calories even after their workout ends. The American Council on Exercise says that HIIT works best for kickstarting EPOC.

“You will produce an after-burn effects with 25% more calories burned post-workout compared to going for a walk or a run,” Lisa Reed, a performance coach and owner of Lisa Reed Fitness, previously told TODAY.com.

Why It Matters

HIIT’s impact on people’s metabolism lingers for some time — Reed estimates it bolsters metabolism up to 10% for three days after a workout.

Having lean muscle mass helps with weight loss but also promotes healthy aging. People with more lean muscle are less likely to experience falls and engage in their daily activities with ease.

How to Get Started

Dedicating even 20 minutes three times a week to a HIIT workout can lead to boosted metabolism and weight loss. Workouts can be customized to exercise preference and the equipment people have handy.

“You can also keep things interesting by switching up the sequence or swapping out different exercises from strength to high-intensity movement,” Reed says. “HIIT workouts are an excellent way to increase your workout intensity in a short amount of time — 20 minutes or less.”

TODAY’s Expert Tip of the Day series is all about simple strategies to make life a little easier. Every Monday through Friday, different qualified experts share their best advice on diet, fitness, heart health, mental wellness and more.