The health benefits of getting regular exercise are well known. Just thirty minutes of moderate to intense exercise, five days a week, can greatly improve your fitness level and overall well-being. Cardiovascular exercise is one of the most important types of workouts. But, for an exercise program to work, it must also be affordable. A stationary bike, also known as an exercise bike or fitness bike, can fulfill all these needs.
While getting regular cardiovascular exercise is important, there can sometimes be risks associated with certain types of physical activity. For example, running and jogging, while good exercise in general, may pose the risk for joint injuries and other problems associated with full impact workouts. Using an exercise bike is a low-impact way to workout, which greatly reduces the possibility of getting these injuries.
No matter where you are in terms of fitness level, you can use an exercise bike to achieve your workout goals. The resistance can be adjusted from light to heavy to accommodate the needs of any user, from beginner to top athlete. You can start as slowly as you like and, as you become more fit, adjust the bike so you can continue to get the most benefit at whatever pace you desire.
A very convenient feature of using a fitness bike is that you can read or watch TV during your workout. Many models feature a book or magazine rack which makes holding reading materials (or an iPad) very easy, freeing your hands to hold the handle bars. Often there will also be a place on the bike to keep other items handy, such as the TV remote control and even a water bottle.
Most modern exercise bikes have digital LCD displays to help you keep track of the progress of your workout. Elapsed time of the workout is a very common feature, along with distance travelled, average speed, and rpm readings. Some models have a built-in pulse monitor so you can be sure you are exercising within the proper range for your age and fitness level. All this gives you very valuable feedback (aka eye-candy) to keep you more engaged in your workout.
Stationary bikes are one of the most prevalent pieces of exercise equipment at any fitness club, as they are very popular. But, there are many benefits to owning your own. At home, you will never have to wait your turn to use a bike, as you might at a gym. Also, you will never have to worry about germs and hygiene as you would with any shared exercise equipment at a gym.
Memberships at a gym or health club involve a monthly fee, which can be expensive over time. Buying your own exercise bike may be more of an initial investment, but it will pay for itself in a relatively short period of time, and can continue to give you years of use after that. Another important advantage is that you do not have to leave home for your workout. Having to go out to a gym to exercise is often a strong deterrent to getting the workout you know need.
Making the decision to become fit and healthy is a very important one. It is even more important to have a workout program with is safe, convenient, and affordable. Having your own stationary bike makes achieving these goals very easy, and it will help you adhere to your exercise routine.