Exercise Differences Between Spinning & Recumbent Bikes
Spinning and riding exercise bikes have increased in popularity as an aging population looks for low-impact ways to exercise. These bicycles can be adjusted for different strength levels. However, there are also different styles of bikes and choosing one can be a challenge. Here are some of the differences between the two dominant styles: the recumbent bike and the spinning exercise bike.
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Accommodate Differences
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When it comes to accommodating different body weights and fitness levels, the recumbent bike is superior to the spinner. Recumbent bikes are made with comfortable seats, strong supported frames, a reclined position -- and less stress on lower back, knees and arms. For those just beginning an exercise program or those with a great deal of weight, recumbent bikes are ideal.
Accurate Bike Feel
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The spinner -- or standard upright exercise bike -- replicates the experience of riding a road bike. A good spinning bike is similar in saddle feel, resistance pedaling, leg movement, and fitness benefits to riding a road bike. The advantages over a road bike are immediate feedback through electronic monitors, lack of worry about road conditions or motorists, and lack of weather concerns.
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Lower Stress
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For lower stress workouts, recumbent stationary bikes are the clear choice. Patients with back problems, needing lumbar support or having knee problems may prefer the recumbent bike. While there is less stress from the bike, workouts are also less intense and exercise fewer muscles than the spinning bike. Recumbent bikes work the glut muscles, the hip-flexor muscles, quads, hamstrings and inner thighs.
Major Muscle Groups
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The spinning bike allows you to exercise more muscle groups because of the variety of positions you can assume. Riders can stand up, lean forward and adjust the saddle and handlebars in a variety of ways on a spinning bike. The five positions used in spinning exercises each strengthen different muscles. The positions are seated flat, standing flat, seated climb, standing climb and jumps. The emphasis in spinning classes is replicating road bike movements and fitness benefits. Spinning works all leg muscles, abs, gluts, back and some upper body muscles for a more complete workout.
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