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This exercise has a huge effect on our health and longevity, but many of us ignore it

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This exercise has a huge effect on our health and longevity, but many of us ignore it

In the pursuit of fitness, we might turn to some great activewear, a pool membership or a daily walk — all good and important stuff.

But many of us forget about building strength — despite the fact that, as we age, retaining muscle has the power to transform our lives.

“It’s really vital,” David Scott, an exercise scientist at Deakin University, tells ABC RN’s Life Matters.

Strength training lowers your risk of heart attack and other heart disease, stroke and cancer.

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Fitness

Fitness Pros Say These Are the Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors

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Fitness Pros Say These Are the Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors
6 Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors, According to Fitness Experts

Hopping on a stationary bike is a great workout that’s accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. A low-impact cardio exercise that’s easy on joints makes it ideal for those over 65, or those with joint pain and mobility issues. The best exercise bikes for seniors take all of this into account, allowing everyone to reap the many benefits of indoor cycling.

“Exercise bikes are great for cardiovascular health for seniors. They are non-weight-bearing which allows repetitive motion in the hip and knee joints without the added stress of gravity, joint impact forces, and joint compression,” says Karena Wu, P.T., D.P.T., physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy. “The movement of the legs can help mobilize the joint fluids which helps to nourish the joints. This can create increased joint mobility and reduced stiffness. Pushing against resistance will work the muscles, keeping or making them strong.”

Meet the Experts: Karena Wu, P.T., D.P.T., physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy; and Jim White, R.D.N., A.C.S.M. Ex-P, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios

Experts generally recommend recumbent exercise bikes for seniors, which feature a reclined seat and a backrest for support. “Recumbent exercise bikes are best for seniors especially dealing with joint pain, back issues, or balance concerns. This is due to the reclined seat that lessens stress on the lower back, lower pedal position which puts less stress on the knees and hips, and step-through design that makes it easier to get on and off,” explains Jim White, R.D.N., A.C.S.M. Ex-P, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios.

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Ahead, we rounded up the best exercise bikes for seniors, recommended by our fitness experts and highly rated by online reviewers. Shop top picks below that feature comfortable, ergonomic seats, a user-friendly design, and adjustable resistance levels for a customizable workout.

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