How Does a Recumbent Exercise Bike Work?

Position

Recumbent bikes are easier for people to get into. They are used in a horizontal position and have a seat with a back rest. This offers good support for people with lower back or hip issues as it doesn't place any downward force on the body.

Pedals

On a recumbent bike, the pedals are straight out in front of the body. You can adjust the seat froward and back until you get your legs into a position where your knees are just slightly bent when you are pedaling. This reduces the stress on the knee joints.

Muscles

When you use the recumbent bike, since you are in a horizontal position, you lose the advantage of gravity which would be seen in a regular stationary bike. This requires you to use more of your leg muscles to move the pedals.

Features

Some recumbent bikes also come with added features. These would include digital screens with time, distance and workout programs, and two locations to place the hands. Another feature they often have are heart rate monitors. These are galvanized sensors that are located on the handlebars. To use this feature, you grab onto them and hold firmly for about 30 seconds until your heart rate appears on the screen.

Resources

• Recumbent bikes