Fitness

The Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes To Get Your Heart Pumping

Published

1 year ago

August 11, 2023

The Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes To Get Your Heart Pumping

Recumbent exercise bikes might seem like the laid-back cousins of a typical exercise bike, but you can still get a serious workout on one of these machines. If an upright exercise bike isn’t your speed due to a health condition or simply personal preference, the best recumbent exercise bikes are good alternatives.

The Nordictrack R35 is the best recumbent exercise bike on the market.

Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailer

John Gallucci Jr., doctor of physical therapy and CEO of Jag-One Physical Therapy, says that recumbent bikes are particularly well-suited for people with low back pain or herniations. “The recumbent bike puts less stress on the low back, which gives you the opportunity to do cardiovascular exercise, which is great for your heart,” he says. Not only are you getting a great lower body workout, he adds that they can improve your balance and strength.

The best recumbent exercise bikes have large touch screens with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity to let you stream workouts—but the base cost for these models starts at over $1,000 and goes way up from there. However, if you’re looking to spend less than a grand on this piece of home workout equipment, there are also solid low-tech bikes at prices under $300. Read on to find the best options for a range of budgets and needs.

Nordictrack

Nordictrack R35 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 68.2 x 23.7 x 53.4 inches | Bike weight: 192 pounds | Max weight capacity: 350 pounds

The Nordictrack R35 recumbent exercise bike has a high-definition touchscreen display, built-in fan, water bottle holder and 26 resistance levels. The distance from the seat to the pedals is easy to adjust to suit your height, and the back of the seat is a curved mesh, which allows for better airflow around your upper body during your workout. According to the experts I interviewed, this bike is ideal for people who want to maintain a high level of fitness.

It’s integrated with the iFit Fitness app, which is a subscription-based service with a wide range of on-demand workouts to stream. You can search for workouts in virtual locations using a Google maps feature, or get customized challenges. The annual iFit membership is $180 per year per person, and you also get a 1-month free trial with your purchase from Nordictrack. However, the bike can be used without a membership and you can connect your own audio via Bluetooth.

The bike does weigh nearly 200 pounds, so it’s not easy to move, but it has small wheels at the front of the machine to help position it.

Amazon

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 66.4 x 28 x 47 inches | Bike weight: 107.6 pounds | Max weight capacity: 330 pounds

The Schwinn 290 is a less expensive recumbent bike, but still has many premium features, including a video display, a ventilated seat and access to on-demand workouts via an app. The screen is smaller than our top choice and the display is not a touchscreen, but the bike does have a ledge where you can put a tablet, phone or magazine. It’s Bluetooth enabled and has a USB charging port.

This bike uses the JRNY app, which gives you the option of choosing your own on-demand workout or it can suggest one for your based on your fitness level and workout needs. A 2-month trial subscription comes free with the bike, and after that you’ll need an All-Access JRNY subscription for $20 monthly or $149 annually.

Amazon

Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 25 x 58 x 38 inches | Bike weight: 53 pounds | Max weight capacity: 300 pounds

This recumbent bike is one of the cheapest on the market, and doesn’t have as many of the high-tech features as top models. It has a simple LCD display that tracks your time, speed, distance and estimated calories burned. There are just eight resistance levels, which you manually set using a dial located on the front post. To adjust this bike to suit your height, you need to disconnect a large screw on the machine’s base and push the entire seat assembly closer to the pedals before reattaching the screw.

These compromises aside, the bike is quiet, lightweight and quite popular. There’s no question that you can get a good workout on this bike, which has counterbalanced pedals. It doesn’t require access to a wall plug or an ongoing subscription. Plus, it has a relatively slim profile, making it a better fit for small spaces. At just over 50 pounds, it’s easier to move than most recumbent bikes.

Amazon

Lanos 2 In 1 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 32 x 20 x 41 inches | Bike weight: 45 pounds | Max weight capacity: 300 pounds

This affordable folding exercise bike from Lanos has both a recumbent position and an upright position, so you can switch styles if you want. It folds into an even narrower position for storage, measuring 23 x 20 x 49 inches when fully closed. It’s also fairly light for a recumbent bike, making it easier to put away when it’s not in use. It has a simple LDC screen that shows your speed, distance and estimated calorie burn. There are 10 resistance settings, which are adjusted using a manual dial mounted on the front post.

But there are a few drawbacks. Some users find the seat to be uncomfortable after a longer workout, and the overall size isn’t suited to people who are below-average in height. Additionally, it does have a contact heart rate sensor on the handlebars, but it’s worth keeping in mind that these types of monitors may not be fully accurate.

Amazon

Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 33 x 19 x 46 inches | Bike weight: 43 pounds | Max weight capacity: 300 pounds

If you live in a small space or just don’t want your home workout equipment to take up a lot of room, the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding recumbent bike has an extremely compact footprint. Additionally, it has a lower display height than many other stationary recumbent bikes, and can even be used with an adjustable-height desk, so you can truly multitask. At 43 pounds, it’s also one of the lighter recumbent bikes on the market. The height of the back can be adjusted, and the seat is wide.

This bike is very pared back, with a simple LED screen that shows distance, calories, time, speed and heart rate (although it’s important to keep in mind that this type of heart monitor can be inaccurate). It only has eight resistance settings, which you adjust using a manual dial.

Life Fitness Shop

Life Fitness RS1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike

Dimensions: 64.4 x 26.8 x 51.5 inches | Bike weight: 133 pounds | Max weight capacity: 400 pounds

The Life Fitness RS1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike has a wide step-through design that’s ideal for older people and people who are experiencing some kinds of mobility issues. It can also hold more weight than many of the other bikes on the market, and has a particularly user-friendly display. The front of the bike has an extra handle bar to help users get on, and the seat position is easy to adjust while you’re sitting on it. It has 20 different resistance levels, so it can accommodate a wide range of abilities.

The RS1’s Track Connect 2.0 console allow you to sync the machine with a range of devices including a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, an Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch. The machine also has the ability to set up four different user profiles and has pre-loaded workouts. It has a water bottle holder and a ledge for phones or tablets.

NuStep

NuStep RB8 Pro Inclusive Recumbent Bike

Dimensions: 70 x 32 inches | Bike weight: 250 pounds | Max weight capacity: 500 pounds

The experts I interviewed say that NuStep is popular with physical therapy offices, and while these commercial-grade machines are among the most expensive, they’re also some of the most accommodating to different body sizes and types. The NuStep RB8 Pro has a single continuous handle bar around the seat, plus another handle on the front post to help you get on, in addition to a wide step through design. According to NuStep, it’s designed for people who are between 4 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 7 inches.

The bike’s 18-inch seat also has a number of special adaptive features: It turns a full 360 degrees and locks every 45 degrees, the back can be inclined an additional 12 degrees, and there are multiple armrest options. The console has two touchscreens that let you see all your stats, plus stay the course on the workout of your choice.

How We Chose The Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes

This list is intended for home gym users, so we did not evaluate bikes for their suitability in commercial spaces like physical therapy offices or commercial gyms.

To find the best recumbent bikes, I started by interviewing John Gallucci Jr., MS, ATC, PT, DPT and CEO of Jag-One Physical Therapy. I then visited an exercise equipment show room, where I used over a dozen different recumbent bikes and evaluated them by pedaling, adjusting the seat and tension, testing the controls and buttons, and noting any additional features. I interviewed the sales people about popular brands and standout models. I also read many user and professional reviews, and tracked my research in a spreadsheet. To make my final selections, I took into account the cost and value of each stationary recumbent bike.

What To Consider When Shopping For Recumbent Exercise Bikes

For people who are looking for a low-impact workout, a recumbent exercise bike can be a good option. However, these bikes are a major purchase if you’re considering bringing one home. Before you buy, you’ll want to consider the bike’s size, adjustment functions, tech and more.

Size

The top-of-the-line recumbent exercise bikes are big and heavy. They have a substantial footprint in your home, so if you’re short on space you may want to consider a folding option. Folding models tend to be less expensive, but they also don’t have many of the common features you’ll find in larger recumbent bikes, like touchscreens or water bottle holders.

Adjustments

Nearly all recumbent bikes let you adjust the distance from the seat to the pedals in some way. It’s the difficulty of this step that varies, and the number of possible seat positions. If you’re the only person using the bike, this may not matter, but if multiple people are working out on the bike, a seat that’s easy to adjust is important.

Most bikes also let you adjust the tightness of the foot strap, and some also let you change the incline of seat.

Tech

Like other kinds of workout machines, the consoles on recumbent exercise bikes run the gamut from simple LCD displays to fully Wi-Fi connected touchscreens. If you want the immersive experience of streaming a workout, prioritize a bike that has on-demand workouts via an app—just note that these services often require an ongoing subscription.

Can You Get A Good Workout With A Recumbent Bike?

In short, yes. “You could get a real workout on it,” Gallucci says. Recumbent exercise bikes are great for strengthening the lower body and getting a cardio workout, which is important for your heart and overall health.

But if you’re looking to strengthen your abs, this isn’t the way to do it. “When you’re on a recumbent bike, you don’t engage your core as well as you do on a normal bike,” he says.

Is It Okay To Exercise On A Recumbent Bike Every Day?

Yes, it’s generally safe to use a recumbent bike every day unless you have a specific health condition that limits your ability to exercise (if you’re not sure, check with a healthcare provider about your specific concerns). Also, be sure to read any user manuals or safety instructions that come with your bike.

Frequent use is possible because recumbent bikes offer low-impact exercise, which is typically easier on your joints. Gallucci says it’s “different than running and/or walking where you have that constant pounding on your ankles and your hips and your knees.”

Click to comment

Fitness

Jonathan Daviss Trains With Big Weights to Get ‘Outer Banks’ Ripped

Published

2 hours ago

November 19, 2024

Press Room

Jonathan Daviss Trains With Big Weights to Get ‘Outer Banks’ Ripped

JONATHAN DAVISS IS not the type of guy to go light. When he showed up to the MH Fitness Hub to show off his workout, he didn’t need to stack weight plates on the bar to recreate a working set of back squats. But the 24-year-old star of Netflix’s hit Outer Banks series—who introduced himself simply as JD on camera—didn’t even think about slacking, even though he was only demonstrating his routine. He threw 315 pounds on the barbell, stepped up to the rack, and repped out his set.

That willingness to load up the weight might just be because he has a different mindset than the norm. “I’m one of the weird ones,” Daviss said. “I actually prefer doing legs over arms.” He called out squats, hang cleans, power cleans, or deadlifts as his favorite exercise, depending on the day—all major movements that will build up leg strength and power—mostly because he knows he can use heavy weights for those movements.

Daviss has built a workout with trainer Rhys Athayde that allows him to push big weights while also prepping him for his Outer Banks role as Pope Heyward—who, as the pair joked, has his shirt off for a lot of the series. The combination of heavyweight lifts, jumps, and dedicated core work help him to look the part. It also helps that the actor has an athletic background: He played two years of varsity football in Texas, and he credits his training knowledge on that experience.

Check out Daviss’s workout, which challenges the actor to harness his power and strength to build up his body for Outer Banks.

Jonathan Daviss’s Outer Banks-Ready Workout

Warmup

Resistance Band Stretch and Floor Work

The Workout

Barbell Bench Press

3 sets of 10 to 12 reps

Single, Double Leg Box Jump

3 sets of 10 to 12 reps each

Barbell Back Squat

3 sets of 10 to 12 reps

Cable Kickbacks

3 sets of 10 to 12 reps per arm

Core Superset

Farmers Carry

5 sets of 20 yards

Hanging Knee Raise

30 second hold, then reps to failure

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

Fitness

Alchemy X brings Fitness and Holistic Health Facility to Philly's Navy Yard

Published

10 hours ago

November 18, 2024

Press Room

Alchemy X brings Fitness and Holistic Health Facility to Philly's Navy Yard

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Fitness and Holistic Health Facility Alchemy X moved from South Philly to the Navy Yard this past June.

Owner DaraMarie Adams opened Alchemy X in 2022 with the help of her fitness instructor turned into close friend, Alexis Guthrie.

With Dara’s previous experience working in finance, she took classes with Alexis to clear her mind.

Alchemy X was born after discovering they shared the same dream of creating a community space based on fitness and wellness.

Alchemy X now has two rooms and 11 instructors for their pilate-based classes of various levels.

The newest addition to Alchemy X is the coffee and juice bar where Adams makes juices, cleanses, and detoxes based on your needs and seasonal drinks.

You can visit the Alchemy X website to book your next class.

website | Website|Instagram|
1200 Constitution Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19112.

Fitness

Sweat in Style: Exploring the Boom in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market

Published

18 hours ago

November 18, 2024

Press Room

Sweat in Style: Exploring the Boom in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market

WiseGuy Reports

A Market Pumped for Growth
The market size for exercise and fitness clothing was projected to reach USD 340.35 billion in 2023. It is anticipated that the market for exercise and fitness apparel would increase from 357.4 billion USD in 2024 to 528.5 billion USD in 2032. During the forecast period (2024-2032), the exercise fitness apparels market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR (growth rate) of approximately 5.01%.

Get a Free Sample File of Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Research Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request?id=552510

Shifting Trends Fueling the Demand

The Rise of Athleisure Athleisure, a blend of athletic and leisure wear, has been a game changer in the fitness apparel industry. Consumers now demand clothing that is versatile, stylish, and comfortable, suitable for both workouts and everyday wear. With celebrities and influencers endorsing fitness gear as a fashion trend, athleisure has taken center stage, appealing to a broader audience beyond gym-goers.

Wellness and Fitness as a Lifestyle The global pandemic acted as a catalyst, transforming how people perceive fitness and well-being. Home workouts, virtual fitness classes, and outdoor activities became popular, fueling the demand for quality exercise apparel. People are investing more in activewear that supports their fitness goals, enhances performance, and provides maximum comfort.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices Today’s consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious, pushing brands to innovate in sustainable activewear. Companies are leveraging recycled and organic materials, adopting eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and creating products with reduced carbon footprints. This shift toward sustainability is not only a trend but also a necessity as brands aim to capture the environmentally aware segment of the market.

Key Companies in the Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Include:

Nike

Adidas

Lululemon Athletica

Under Armour

Puma

Columbia Sportswear

VF Corporation

Asics

Mizuno

New Balance

Anta Sports

Li Ning

Fila

361 Degrees

Kappa

Technological Innovations Transforming Activewear

Advancements in technology are revolutionizing fitness apparel. Moisture-wicking fabrics, odor-resistant materials, and compression wear that aids muscle recovery are just a few examples of how technology is enhancing performance. Furthermore, smart textiles equipped with sensors to monitor biometrics like heart rate and body temperature are slowly entering the market, catering to the growing demand for data-driven fitness experiences.

Read More About Exercise Fitness Apparels Market Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/exercise-fitness-apparels-market

The Impact of E-commerce and Social Media

E-commerce has become a significant distribution channel for exercise fitness apparel, making it easier than ever for consumers to browse and purchase products. Online platforms offer a wide variety of styles and brands, while social media plays a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences. Fitness influencers and brand ambassadors showcase the latest trends, making activewear more aspirational and accessible. Direct-to-consumer brands are also using digital marketing and e-commerce to gain traction, offering personalized experiences and convenient shopping.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the positive outlook, the market faces challenges. Intense competition, fluctuating raw material prices, and the need for constant innovation can put pressure on brands. Moreover, meeting the demands for sustainability while maintaining affordability and performance quality is a balancing act that many companies are still navigating.

Future Outlook

The future of the exercise fitness apparels market looks promising, with several growth opportunities on the horizon. Expect to see more hybrid garments that blur the lines between fitness wear and everyday clothing, as well as further integration of smart technologies. Customization and personalization will become key focus areas, as consumers seek apparel that reflects their individual style and preferences.

Read Our Related Reports

Surface Disinfectant Chemicals Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/surface-disinfectant-chemicals-market

Surfing Equipment Gear Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/surfing-equipment-gear-market

Table Tennis Shoes Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/table-tennis-shoes-market

Tape Adult Diaper Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/tape-adult-diaper-market

Tape Casting Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/tape-casting-ceramic-sanitary-ware-market

WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTD

Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Pune – 411028 Maharashtra, India 411028

Sales +91 20 6912 2998

About WiseGuy Reports:

We Are One Of The World’s Largest Premium Market Research & Statistical Reports Centre

Wise Guy Reports is pleased to introduce itself as a leading provider of insightful market research solutions that adapt to the ever-changing demands of businesses around the globe. By offering comprehensive market intelligence, our company enables corporate organizations to make informed choices, drive growth, and stay ahead in competitive markets.

Integrity and ethical conduct are at the core of everything done within Wise Guy Reports. We ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in all aspects of our business operations, including interactions with clients, partners, and stakeholders, by abiding by the highest ethical standards.

This release was published on openPR.