A recumbent exercise bike is a low-impact cardio machine that allows you to cycle in a laid-back, reclined position. They are straightforward to use and convenient to maintain, making them a great addition to a home or commercial gym. Recumbent bikes provide many similar benefits to other exercise bikes, all with a higher level of comfort
What is a recumbent bike?
Recumbent exercise bikes are cardio machines that provide additional back support while you pedal. Their design is ergonomic, distributing the rider’s weight comfortably over a larger area. The back and buttocks are fully supported, and extra stability is provided by the low center of gravity. This makes them more suitable for people with limited mobility.
Recumbent exercise bike vs upright exercise bikes
Exercise bikes, whether upright or recumbent, aim to replicate the activity of riding a bicycle. However, there are some key differences between these two types. Upright bikes put the user in a standing position to focus on engaging core muscles and ramping up a workout. Recumbent bikes focus more on increasing comfort and minimising the risk of hurting yourself. This makes them better for anyone recovering from injury or seeking a low-impact exercise option.
How to use a recumbent exercise bike
To use a recumbent bike, you should adjust the settings to your liking and make sure you are using proper form. Seats, handlebars, foot straps and resistance can all be adjusted to suit your preferences. The ideal position for your seat is one where your legs are slightly bent as the pedals reach their furthest point. Meanwhile, the handlebars should be put within easy reach to help relax your posture. The foot straps should be snug on your feet to prevent them slipping but not overly tight. And finally, the resistance levels should be adjusted to an appropriate level for your fitness and your workout goals.
Recumbent bike technique
Proper technique is important to ensure you’re getting the maximum benefit from your recumbent bike workout. You should maintain a relaxed posture during the exercise. Avoid hunching your shoulders or leaning too far forward and instead keep your back against the seat. Make sure your pedaling motion is done at a smooth steady pace, so that you can maintain it for longer. You have to breathe deeply and at regular intervals to ensure your muscles have enough oxygen to keep performing. Additionally, a cool down is good for the end of your workout. This helps lower the risk of injury and ease you into rest.
Benefits of using a recumbent bike
A recumbent bike provides a range of useful benefits for its user. It offers a comfortable, low-impact workout that strengthens leg and core muscles. Additionally, recumbent bikes help improve cardiovascular health, and reduce pressure on sensitive areas of the body.
Cardiovascular health
Recumbent bikes provide an effective cardiovascular workout. Regular use can help improve heart health and lung capacity. Increasing your heart rate during your workout helps strengthen your heart muscle. This reduces the risk of heart disease and improves your overall cardiovascular health.
Joint health and low Impact
The reclined position reduces joint stress, making it ideal for those with arthritis or injuries. Recumbent bike seats provide full back support and encourage a natural pedalling motion. This prevents undue pressure on the knees or hips. It’s a low-impact exercise that helps to improve joint mobility and strength without the risk of injury.
Comfort and ease of use
Recumbent bikes are designed with comfort in mind. The larger seat and backrest make for a comfortable ride, and the low profile makes it easy to mount and dismount. This is especially important for anyone recovering from injury or dealing with mobility limitations.
Muscle building
While recumbent bikes are often praised for their cardiovascular benefits, they also work well for the lower body. The pedaling action targets the glutes, quads, and hamstrings effectively. This allows users to build and tone these muscles over time.
Recumbent bike maintenance
The main two aspects of recumbent bike maintenance are cleaning and repair. Keeping your recumbent bike clean after each ride prevents rust and corrosion from accumulating. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent for a more thorough cleaning every few months. Avoid harsh chemicals and rough materials that could damage the finish. Regular cleaning also helps you check for wear and tear on the recumbent bike’s components. It’s important to keep an eye out for any recumbent bike parts that aren’t working properly. When you do notice these, you can enlist professionals to provide effective repairs for you.
Top recumbent bike brands
Orbit Fitness houses a range of leading recumbent bike brands. These are able to cater to different budgets as well as varied needs with their features. They work well in both residential or commercial settings, making them versatile choices to include.
Orbit
Orbit Fitness has our own range of recumbent exercise bikes available for purchase. They are known for having innovative designs and high-quality construction such as our Deluxe Recumbent Bike. Orbit’s recumbent bikes are a great option for either home or commercial use.
Schwinn
Schwinn is a brand well-known in the fitness industry for their various street and exercise bicycles. An excellent offer from Schwinn is the 570R Recumbent Bike, which is highly rated for its sturdy and high-quality design.
Impulse
Impulse is a leading manufacturer of fitness equipment like exercise bikes. Their commercial recumbent bikes, including the RR700, Encore, and RR500 models, are designed for heavy use in gyms or fitness centers. They offer a high level of durability and a range of advanced features.
INTENZA
INTENZA is a brand that prides itself on creating user-friendly fitness equipment. Their 450Ri2S Interactive Series and 550RBe2+ Entertainment Series recumbent bikes offer interactive features. These help provide entertainment during your workout and increase your overall engagement while you exercise.
Pulse
Pulse is a brand that combines innovation and high-quality materials to create reliable fitness equipment. Their R-Cycle Series, including the Classic, Club Line, and Premium Recumbent Cycles, offer tactile feedback systems and large displays for easy workout tracking.
Where to find high-quality recumbent exercise bikes?
Orbit has a wide array of recumbent exercise bikes available for purchase. If you’re interested in learning more or want to check out the recumbent bikes in person, feel free to visit one of our several locations in Western Australia. Or, if you have any questions, you can always give us a call. We also have a range of other high-quality exercise equipment like treadmills, rowing machines and other exercise bikes to suit your needs. Whatever you’re after, we’re confident you can find something that suits you.
Commercial Enquiries
We stock a range of commercial-grade upright recumbent bikes suitable for commercial purposes. Head to our commercial cardio page to view the full range or if you have specific questions, please call (08) 6241 3019 to speak to our commercial team.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Is A Recumbent Bike Different From an Upright Bike?
Recumbent bikes feature a wide seat rather than a saddle and a backrest. The upright bike has a comfortable saddle seat and no backrest, requiring you to sit upright as you pedal. On the recumbent, your legs are positioned out in front of you to reach the pedals vs the upright bike where your legs are vertical. Recumbent exercise bikes are lower impact and provide a safer more supported workout.
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Is a Recumbent Bike a Good Workout?
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Who is a Recumbent Bike Most Suited To?
Recumbent bikes are most suited to those seeking a low impact machine that is easily accessible. The recumbent bike is often used by those who experience discomfort on other exercise bikes, those rehabilitating an injury or elderly people. Ultimately the bike you choose for your home will depend on your unique situation and training goals.