Can I use a bike trainer to burn fat and lose weight?

exercise bikes craigslist image

Eddy

I'm trying to lose some weight and was thinking about buying a treadmill or an indoor exercise bike, but they all seem so expensive. After doing some research online I found out about indoor bike trainers, those that mount to the back wheel of your regular bike for stationary cycling, and it seems like those would be perfect, not to mention cheaper, and could help me lose weight and having fun. But it seems like their purpose is only for training bicyclists for bike marathons, now I don't participate in those at all, I only use my bike to go to the local stores. Can I buy a bike trainer and use it to lose weight/burn fat?
I'm currently in college and working part time so I don't have a lot of time on my hands. Once I get both done, it's already late and dark, and my city isn't really the safest at night. So telling me to go outside and bike is not possible right now. I just want to know if a bike trainer can help me in losing weight.

Answer
BORING! I'll use mine only in the winter if the streets are snow/ice filled. Once the street dept. gets out & does their job - I ride on the streets.

"...and my city isn't really the safest at night." Oh, and like south St. Louis (where I live) is the garden spot of the world? I go out early in the morning. Get your day off to a good start. Ride a bike outdoors.

Look on craigslist & other sites for used equipment before buying new.

Is someone looking for a new home for their old exercise bike?

Melissa

looking for a exercise bike that someone no longer wants

Answer
This is a question & answer forum - not craigslist or eBay. Try looking there.

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What do I do, exercise is boring?

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Phantasm

I'm 13, and forced to go outside. I used to do some sports (ballet, soccer, swimming) but I'm really bad and often compared/pressured to compete with others who are better in that sport than me. Plus I don't have a backyard and there's no where to go. My parents make me go outside but theres nothing to do. Also, I'm scared to do a new sport because I'll be the inexperienced newbie next to a bunch of kids who have been doing that sport for years. If I join the newbie class, it's full of little kids and no one my age because their already higher up. What do I do? :(((((((

Answer
Maybe if you join the newbie class with the little kids, they will all look up to you like a cool big sister. But you won't be in charge of the class, so it won't be like work. Maybe it would be fun.

And swimming shouldn't be a problem. As long as you can get from one end of the pool to the other. :-) Don't worry about the elapsed time or competing, just swim for fun.

Or maybe get an exercise bike? Get the "recumbent" kind where the seat is big and has a backrest, so you can lean back while you pedal it. And watch TV or read at the same time.

Good luck!!! :-)

i'm trying very hard to lose weight?

Mister

As the title says i'm trying. I just don't know what to do I really don't.

Details:
I'm 5''5'tall
and 145lbs.

No matter what I do or how I eat I don't lose weight and it's really starting to make me mad to be honest. I've started running on the treadmill for 10minutes in the morning and 10minutes in the night but I can't keep that up because my legs started hurting. When I started doing the treadmill cardio thing I lost 4lbs in 2 days and I stopped running for 1 day and then somehow was right back at 145lbs.

I don't know what to do, i'm trying to watch my calories and not exceed 1600calories. It's hard to do but so far i've been doing okay...

Today i've eaten at i-hop and had their harvest grain pancakes with no syrup just some butter.
That was about 1k calories and that's all i've eaten all day and right now i'm starving but i don't know what to do because I don't want to go over my calorie limit.

As far as cardio goes so far i've only had enough time to do like 10 minutes in the morning and so far this week i've only done it once on Monday. I got weights too but I don't know what to do because no matter how hard I try I don't gain muscle.

All in all i'm just trying to lose weight and slim down to 130lbs but it seems impossible I don't know how to do it. No matter how hard I try my weight ends up just staying the same and for some reason I wake up every day feeling like crap because it feels like I haven't done anything to try and get rid of this weight. My goal is 130lbs and losing my chest fat but I honestly don't know how I can do this.

Equipment:
Treadmill
Barbell that can go from 100lbs to 80lbs to 60lbs to 40lbs (i've been using 40lbs because I want to tone my arms.)
2 dumbbells that are 15lbs each.

Food I ate today:
Harvest grain pancakes without syrup from i-hop (1k cal.)
I just made a cheese quesadilla because I have nothing else to eat (don't know how many calories).

All I need to know is what to do exercise-wise. And how many calories I should eat. I need to lose weight and my chest fat.

Answer
The answer to your question is actually quite simple. You're not burning more energy (calories) than you are taking in. It's all part of the energy balance: you must have greater energy output (through physical activity) than energy input (food intake).

Firstly, a total of 20 minutes of cardio is nowhere near enough to promote any significant weight loss. Assuming you aren't running at a very high intensity, you aren't going to notice a difference anytime soon. It seems like you're a little strapped for time. If your legs are hurting, you're either running improperly or are not fit enough to currently run. You may want to invest some money into a gym where you can use a recumbent bike: you can simply sit down and pedal.

Since it seems you're not a big fan of long amounts of cardio (I'm talking more than 30 minutes of continuous running), you should try High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). With HIIT, you only need to spend a maximum of 20 minutes a day, but you can burn the same or even more fat compared to a 40 minute cardio session. The fat burning effect from HIIT persists long AFTER your workout has been completed (research shows it can last up to 48 hours).

On my blog, I've listed my personal 20 minute HIIT workout: http://keleefitness.com/20-minute-high-intensity-interval-workout/

If you want to learn a little more about HIIT, be sure to read this article: http://keleefitness.com/why-cardio-is-a-waste-of-time/

Secondly, sorry to say this but your diet is unacceptable. Do not have a large carbohydrate meal like grain pancakes right before or after your workout. Large portions of carbohydrates taken shortly after working out can blunt the fat burning effect I mentioned above. Instead, have a fruit before you workout (banana) or even better, workout on an empty stomach, BEFORE breakfast, so that your body uses up the excess carbs and uses your body FAT as fuel which is what you want.

After a cardiovascular workout (fat loss day), wait 30-45 minutes, and then consume a high quality source of protein (whole food) and vegetable-type carbohydrate. An example would be a spinach salad and some chicken.

Stick with several SMALL meals throughout the day (at least 3) to keep your metabolism going. Don't think that just eating 1 meal a day is okay... you want to have a small healthy snack (even almonds/walnuts) throughout the day to keep this metabolism running and burning fat throughout the day. Remember, fruits and vegetables are your friend.

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Is it bad to exercise in the morning without eating?

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SportsGeek

I was wondering if it was ok to workout in the morning on an exercise bike for about 30 minutes without eating breakfast, THEN eating breakfeast. I heard it could be bad to work out on an empty stomach but I want to start working out at like 430 AM in the morning and I just don't feel like eating then.

Answer
It's fine, many people do this because it helps burn fat. The theory is if you don't have any food for energy then your body has to use fat reserves to fuel your work out.The flip side is that it could break down muscle to use for fuel also. It won't do you any harm though, so go for it.

how long to stay on recumbent exercise bike?

Jane

My husband has bad back and has not been walking, etc for months. He has been sedentary. Neur doc he went to told him he needed to get recumbent exercise bike for his back and neck problems.,
He also has Neuropathy.
Can anyone say how long he should do bike to start? LIke 5 minutes a day? He is afraid this is going to hurt his back more.

Answer
An hour or so...

Good luck!

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Does an exercise bike tone places besides legs?

best exercise bike abs image

Ryan

I am looking to lose weight especially my belly. I always thought an exercise bike only helped your legs. I ride an exercise bike for 5 miles everyday plus 50 push ups and 200 crunches. Will this routine help me lose belly fat?

Answer
Any cardio will help you shed excess body fat. Keep up the crunches for definition in your abs.

If I ride an exercise bike will it help me run faster and longer?

Mike M

I would like to run faster and farther. I have not exercised since high school (6 years ago). I just decided to start exercising now. I'm not overweight or anything (5 foot 8 & 162lbs). I would just like to get into better shape. So would using an exercise bike in conduction with me running a little bit everyday help more? or is it better to just run and bypass the bike.

Answer
I had exercise bikes for years, and consider myself to be somewhat of an expert!

The repetitive, unchanging motion of a bike is good for building the quadraceps and calves, but too much, in my opinion.

I think it's an excellent idea to do both. It keeps the progress going as the body doesn't get used to a routine, and running works all the leg muscles, lower abs, even arms. If you add light weights, it creates even more variety.

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What are the pros and cons of upright vs recumbent exercise bikes?

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estrellast

Does one burn more calories than the other? Any other advantages or disadvantages that you know of?

Thanks!

Answer
I prefer recumbent due to lowerback safety.

ReligiousWeightloss.blogspot.com

Is a bike machine the same as running or walking?

Aubrey

Does it exercise and strengthen a person's body in the same way? Running in my neighborhood isn't really an option for me.
Will it help a person become a better runner?

Answer
nope, the bike has advantages and disadvantages. Bike riding does burn off calories but not as much as running, however the muscles associated with bike riding are different and you may avoid many of the injuries from not properly running with good form by riding a bike, as well as bike riding has a lower rate of injury from a lack of shock and misalignment of the knee joint. That's why I love riding a bike more than running. they also have a bike style called recumbent, of which you lay back reclined while you cycle. this is very supportive of the back and can be a very comfortable way to exercise.

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Would you feel strange riding a bike in your neighborhood?

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David

I have a treadmill and an exercise bike in my house but I often want to get out and see something other than my walls when I exercise. I thought about riding a bike around my neighborhood, but at 27 years old, I feel like this would be weird. I associate bikes with kids for some reason and would feel strange to be seen riding a bike down my neighborhood streets. I know this is stupid, but I can't help it. The only people I see riding bikes in my neighborhood are senior citizens and kids.

Would you feel strange riding a bike in your neighborhood at my age?

Answer
Not at all. Maybe it's all in your head. there is really nothing wrong with it. I've seen people your age riding bikes. Actually, different ages. Bikes are for everyone. It's not strange at all.

What sort of exercises that can help me lose belly and arm fat quickly?

Q. well the thing is i can't avoid eating fruits and white bread and all that because my parents are so stubborn and they make me eat all those things your not meant to eat when your on a diet. (except for junk food like chocolates and stuff). and i don't have a treadmill or exercise bike at home so i can't exercise on that and my parents say they don't have ANY time to take me to the gym or swimming and all.so I'm trying to find out a way to exercise without using any equipment. i want to lose my belly fat, arm fat and my face is really kind of puffy especially the cheeks. how can i lose them all quickly?
do i just walk around the house? because my parents don't let me walk around on the streets by myself cos they don't have time to take me. and do i walk at a steady pace or fast?
but doesn't fruits make you gain weight?

Answer
Okay...I only started two Mondays ago and All I do is walk one hour every morning. I wear a calorie counter monitor to loose weight by the numbers. I have already lost one pant size and 10 pounds. I am a woman and have three kids and this is the method I use when I gain weight.. I am now at a size two and everyone is always amazed that I have had three kids. This is what I do below when I throw on a few extra pounds. It always works..No diet pills, no energy drinks..just me walking and getting the water I need. Of course I watch what I eat and the Lean Cuisine meals are great for that since the calories per box are 180 to 380 per box. Just make sure you eat healthy every three to four hours so your body will perform at its max.


Here it is:

Helpful Tips for weight loss:

1)A good way to loose weight is to use a calorie counter watch

Keep to a 1,200 food intake

Add 1,200 plus 3,500 (equals one pound of fat) ...and that is the total amount of calories you need to burn each day. Its actually really easy once you start watching the numbers and it doesn't seem like work or exercise. Its just a matter of changing the way you think about loosing weight.

I use this method when i gain some pounds. The first time I did this I went from 168 to 127

2) Most people do not get enough water in their system. Water is your body's principal chemical component, comprising, on average, 60 percent of your weight. Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues.

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. To determine if you are getting enough water use this simple formula.. Take your weight, for example 150 pounds and divide by 2. Take your answer which is 75 lbs and change it to ounces, in this case 75 ounces. That is how many ounces of water you need a day. Your body performs mostly on water. If you make sure you get enough water everyday your body will perform at top notch and your body will no longer have the cravings of junk food. You will have a better performing body system to help you work out and feel better thru out your day.

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How to choose between upright and recumbent exercise bike?

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mongersmom

I have a sit-down job at home and have heel spurs on both feet, which doesn't help my morbid obesity. I want to get an exercise bike for when my feet really hurt, but would like to know opinions on upright versus recumbent exercise bikes. Recumbent might be easier on the tushie and I could use hand weights more readily, but an upright is a little smaller. Help!

Answer
I like the upright better personally, it may not be as comfortable but you get a better workout with it and it is more versatile. I only use the recumbent bike at the gym when I am cooling down from a very vigorous workout. Either one will help, but my vote goes for the upright for the following reasons.
-Smaller footprint (it'll take up less room)
-More versatile (you can do many different angles and it works you harder)
-Cheaper (you can get an everlast upright for less than $150 new)

As far as your heel spurs go you are going to have to try out both bikes if neither one hurts you, go with the upright.

How much cycling should I do?

curious

I am doing 5 km cycling daily on my exercise bike @ home. I am 36 male with slim body and good health. Is this enough, less or much? Please serious answers only.

Answer
You have good health, why would you want to limit it to only 5 km? Ever get curious how far or how long you could go on this thing? When I was cycling through Europe I met 2 women that were regularly cycling, with gear, about 100 km per day. They were very excited about their best day, 175 km. These were not professional cyclists, just 30ish women taking some time off to travel. Just saying, if you have the time....

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What is considered "moderate" and "vigorous" on a stationary bike?

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Rivvy

Have a digital exercise bike (upright) that tracks my speed at average 14mph. Is this considered "moderate" or "vigorous" when calculating calories?? It tracks my heart rate at average 116 (I'm a 30 yo female).

Answer
You want to go by time and effort. Start out with an easy 10 min warm up ride. After the warm up you want to pedal at 70-90 rpm's with just enough resistance to get you heart rate to 70-80% of your max hear rate zone. That is the fat burning zone. You need to be aware that most heart rate monitors on machines are not very accurate 116 sounds awful low during exercise. You should be around 133 to 152 for moderate exercise. You are on the right track if you start sweating around the 15 min mark. I spend about 45 min on my trainer and slowly work my heart rate up to max for the last 10 min. On the road I can get to 20 over my heart rate max for a short period on time when climbing hills. I turn around and go back down and buy the time I reach the bottom I am back to a moderate heart rate.

Measure your actual heart rate and compare that with the machine. I use a watch that has a heart rate monitor and it reads off of a chest band, it is very accurate.

You can do intervals where you go hard for 30-90 seconds and then drop back to recover. Once you recover do it again.

What is the best upright exercise bike for a tall person?

smurph

I was wondering if there are any upright exercise bikes on the market suitable for tall people. I am 6'2'' and 200lbs.
I have tried out a Schwinn 140 in a nearby sports store but my knees just about hit the handlebars. The only bike in the store that was a good fit was a ProForm but I've read bad reviews about those.
I don't have an outdoor bike and don't want a recumbent exercise bike. Any advise would be much appreciated.

Answer
Did you adjust the saddle high enough, it also adjusts fore and aft. Chances are it was set up for a shorter person.

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What type of bicycle should I buy?

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Leen@

I would like to start riding around on a bike again. For exercise and just to enjoy being outdoors. I have not rode a bicycle since probably middle school. I'm 25..about 5'2 or 5'3, I forget;) Anyway, do I have to look for a certain size to fit me? Is there anything else I should know?
I was told just now that I'm about 5'5. does height even matter?
What do I need to look for when buying?

Answer
Bicycles have frame sizes, I am 5'7" and prefer an 18" to 19" frame so you may like a 15" or 16" frame.

A lot of which bike you buy depends on where you ride, if it is just on the sidewalk or bike path a rigid bike (no suspension) w/ a steel frame should be just fine (the steel frame absorbs a lot of impact compared to alloy)

If the trail is only partially paved a hardtail bike (front shocks) will make control over the rough much easier, and alloy frames will save a bit of weight (since a heavy bike and off-road is enduring - the lighter the better :)

Jamis is a brand that is good quality and relatively inexpensive

they have an entry level rigid / steel bike the "trail xr" http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/hardtails/trailx/09_trailxr.html which gives you a well made bike for just over $300

the "trail x1" gives you an alloy frame and front shocks for under $400
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/hardtails/trailx/09_trailx1.html

and the x2 upgrades the x1 with disk brakes all for under $450
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/hardtails/trailx/09_trailx2.html

if your local dealer has them give them a test ride, the staff should be knowledgeable about what frame size is best for you.


cheers!

What are some some good, durable climbing gloves?

John

Hello :D I'm 17, and I like to climb things. Usually trees at the park I live next to, but other things as well. It's a good way to get exercise, and it's fun! Unfortunately, such things can cut the skin when you do them, so I need gloves. (can't play guitar and wotnot with cuts all over my hands)

I have some gloves, and I do believe they were meant for dirt bike riding, but they now have a hole in one of the finger places. They wore out. Probably because of the bark on the pine trees. I used them for other things besides climbing, like for sports and such.

So what I'm looking for is some nice looking, durable climbing gloves that won't wear out within a few months. I googled for climbing gloves, and I came up with this, http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/shop/climb/climbing-gloves/crag-glove

I don't have a lot of money, so this is the top of my price range. I don't know much about gloves, so I don't know what the best materials would be. Any info would be helpful! :D Thanks!

Answer
Rock climbers don't wear gloves because you can't grip with gloves on. They simply toughen the skin on their hands with use. There was a company that sold "climbing gloves" back when I used to sell mountaineering gear but they were fingerless, like bike gloves and made of a rough crocheted waxed cotton twine so they provided grip to the palms of the hands on abrasive rock like sandstone.

I would suggest you get a pair of the heavy duty workmans gloves that they sell at stores that have DIY and construction materials. I have used those for years for heavy yard work and chopping firewood and moving big rocks. They have velcro closures at the wrist to keep them tight on your hands. Most are synthetic roughened rubberish material but if you can find leather palmed ones they will hold up better. Try them as is at first and then try cutting the top halves of the fingers off, This will give you better grip while protecting the parts of the hand that usually get battered.

Another option if you can find them (they will most likely be at a hardware or farm supply store) is goatskin gloves. These are heavy light grey leather that is almost indestructable. If you find a pair, soak them in water and let them shrink before wearing them -- they will mold to your hands.

You can also check with a chemist (or, in the USA, drug store) and see if you can buy tincture of benzoin. It is a harmless liquid that some athletes coat their skin with to prevent friction and blisters. I knew climbers who used to paint it on their hands to create a protective covering to protect their skin.

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how can i use a exercise bike to convert electricity using a turbine ?

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Marcos

1 i have the exercise bike
2 i know where to get the turbine
i just need to know how to convert it
i also know its very easy
.... then why the fuck am i useing yahoo answers ?...
i dont know i need some help

Answer
presumably you mean generator, not turbine.

run a belt around the wheel and the generator shaft.

for most folks, you'll get somewhere around 50 watts out.
riders in the Tour de France can get around 300 watts out.

Best way to lose weight on a exercise bike?

Q. i brought this new exercise bike and want to know the most effective method in weight loss.
Obviously i'm gonna use it!
I MEANT HOW LONG AND HOW OFTEN...
i thought it was pretty self explanatory
clearly not to some people.

Answer
No matter how you slice it, diet is a dirty word. It smacks of deprivation and hunger pangs. To overcome the pain, you need a plan.

So WebMD asked the experts for advice, and put together their quick tips on how to get your weight lossgoing.

1. Know Your Weight Loss Goals

2. Understand Your Weight Loss Personality

3. Double Up: Diet & Exercise

4. Make a Firm Weight Loss Commitment

Finally, be sure you're committed to losing weight for yourself -- not because someone else is pressuring you to do so.

Then, take things slowly, keep these tips in mind, and you should be on the road to weight loss in no time.

How do i lose fast weight? - Healthy life every day!
search :http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&newwindow=1&as_qdr=all&q=%22How+do+i+lose+fast+weight%3F%22+-answers.yahoo+loseweighthappy&btnG=Search

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Looking for a recumbent exercise bicycle for my home. Any suggestions?

recumbent exercise bike brands image

Samuel Tay

Looking for a recumbent exercise bicycle for my home. Any suggestions?

Answer
Wal-Mart. I bought my Stamina brand recumbent bike from there about two years ago for $128.00. the price might have gone up a little since then though. It's great! Here's the link to it on Wal-mart.com...

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7680164

It looks like the price is $134.00 now but it's well worth it. Stamina has a superb customer service department and excellent warranty coverage.

I hope this helps.

Looking for a PC Compatable exercise bike?

Greg D

I am looking for a recumbent bike that has the ability to interface with a computer via usb to track my exercise results. Even a good piece of software to do this would be appreciated (mac osx)

I have found a few bikes, but I am looking for something in the sub $750 range.

A few things popped into my head..

How hard would it be to modify an existing exercise bike to transmit the stuff it dumps into it's computer into mine?

Is there any sort of kit I can attach to any recumbent bike to track the statistics?

Thanks for your time.

Answer
Several ways to go but the recumbent might make things difficult. A power meter is the best system. Check out the link for several brands and prices. A PowerTap rear hub could be built up for the recumbent which will tell you everything you need to know and then some. The cheapest PowerTap system is less than a grand. Look on EBay for deals. Software is free with the PowerTap system. Cycling Peaks software ($100) also works with any power meter system currently available.

There is also plenty of trainers that hook to a computer. Performance and Nashbar both carry one. Your recumbent would work on them too.

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How to make life feel more comfortable?

exercise bike jokes image

jamalina

I feel like my existence is a joke. Nothing has went well for me. I usually mess things up and try to learn from it. I went through so much to understand myself, but I end up questioning myself even more in the process. Everyday, I feel unfulfilled. Not sure who I am anymore. Even doing a simple thing, like answering the phone, is a challenge for me. I think I need to be secured with who I am to be happy, but how do I find out who I really am? I have problems with my self-esteem and happiness although I am 23 year old. I feel like I am not meant to be here. Maybe I should just stop trying and just go with the flow of life.

Answer
no one has any idea what they're doing. some people pretend to know but really were just at the mercy of life.
My advise is the get more exercise, bike, walk ,swim whatever
and find something you're really passionate about
it could be anything
and devote a lot of time to it
you'll feel better ;)

Richard Dawkins graduated from Oxford University and he has excellent ideas. How many years?

Leo Domito

would it take me to complete a course in juggling, riding a mini-bike, squirting water from a flower pendent, looking funny, and blowing a horn in Oxford University?

Answer
In the eternity of eternities, there is a dimension called âfaith.â The realm of faith. The thing called âscienceâ is contained in this dimension/realm. Not all science is a joke. Faith is: action-in-a-context-or-matrix-of- not-perfect-knowledge.

Faith is actionâ¦

Faith is your will moving things, such as mind and matter in the midst of an eternity of eternities, the not-perfect-knowledge portion of these eternities. If you knew what was going to happen before it happened, if your knowledge was perfect, then faith would be âdormantâ¦â

Since your knowledge is not perfect, and since you donât know what you are about to read on the page, the page of your future (all things have their likeness), you keep moving. Good job. Seek and ye shall find.

Faith is movement or action, will. Your eyes move over these words, your brain moves over them. You act upon these words not knowing before hand what youâre going to read. Learn to read the future if you have faith to do so, to learn to do so. Your faith would be dormant in such a case of knowing the future eternityâ¦

Faith is movement of the mind.

Movement in the dimension of the Changeless is what it is. Freedom in the Changeless is what it is. Knowledge is the light of truth; intelligence was not created or made, it canât be created or made. You were in the beginning with God, that which is Spirit, even the spirit of truth. Truth is knowledge of things as they Are.

All contradictions in the Changeless are what they are. These are words; they may refer to something if you have the faith to bring to pass the meaning, even the true meaning thereof.

One of your long term goalsâtrillions upon trillions of eonsâmay be to transcend Experience. For now, you may just want to focus on saving your money and getting enough exercise.

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What's the difference between stationary and recumbent exercise bikes?

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Adam M

I've been using stationary exercise bikes for years at the gym, mostly for cardio and warmup, but lately I've been thinking of switching to recumbent bikes. I've heard that they are better for your back muscles and spine. Is this true?

Answer
Yes, recumbent bikes are better for your back and actually promote back health. Like another person stated, you will experience joint, back and buttock pain with stationary/upright bikes. Recumbent bikes take the pressure off your back by not forcing the curvature of your spine into an unnatural position.

If you have any back problems, definitely go with a recumbent bike! If you'd like to see which bikes are the best right now, check out http://recumbentexercisebikesreviews.net/

Hope this helps!

Are recumbent exercise bikes good for young people looking to tone muscles?

13987356

Are recumbent exercise bikes good for young people looking to tone muscles?
And for weight loss?

Answer
lift weights and run

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What exercises can I do for thinner legs and a smaller butt?

exercise bike quadriceps image

Ashley

My legs and butt are getting big to the point where I get stretch marks! I would like them smaller so I can fit into jeans better. Everywhere else on me is really skinny!

Please be specific on the excercises. For Ex: Don't just say Cardio, because I don't know what that'd be.

Also, don't give me any exercises that makes them bigger or more muscular!

Answer
For "thinner" legs, you mean a more defined, firmer and sleeker legs?

If that's so, here's a leg routine that'll help you to strengthen, sculpt and chisel your leg muscles into leaner shapes:

http://www.perfect-body-toning.com/leg-workouts.html

It zeroes-in on your hamstrings, quadriceps and calves so you get to work out the whole length of your legs for a better balanced shape.

For butts, this butt routine might help you to "size down":

http://www.perfect-body-toning.com/butt-workouts.html

Also, throw in a routine of cardio exercise (like running, walking, swimming, biking, dancing.....) 3-4 times per week for at least 30 mins per session, to help you speed up metabolism to burn off excess fat from your entire body (and that includes fat in your butts and legs too.....)

Best way to exercise with a strained LCL?

greendayfr

I recentlly strained my LCL, and so I need a new way to exercise without hurting my knee again. Do any of you have ideas on how to exercise with a knee injury.

Answer
Exercises to Strengthen a Strained MCL in the Knee

Injuries to the medial collateral ligament can be serious, as the MCL helps to keep the knee stable. However, with treatment, an MCL injury doesn't have to be debilitating. Adequate recovery depends partly on quick diagnosis and aggressive treatment. The MCL itself can't be strengthened, but after the first stage of treatment, which is RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation of the injured part), exercises to strengthen the other muscles in the knee can help prevent a reinjury.



Initial Recovery
1. Wear a knee brace when first doing exercises to rehabilitate an MCL injury. Do isometric quadriceps exercises sitting down with your legs extended. Push your leg down against the floor, hold it for five seconds, and repeat. Do the exercise for both legs. Another good exercise is straight leg raises. While lying flat on the floor, extend your leg and lift it from the hip, holding it in the air for five seconds, then lowering it. Do this exercise 10 times with each leg, and do it twice a day.
Stationary Biking
2. As your MCL begins to recover, stationary biking can be done to exercise your knee and get good range of motion. Raise the seat of the bike so that you can fully straighten the leg out on the down-pedal. Start by doing 15 minutes a day and gradually increase the length of time on the bike, aiming for 30 minutes.
Final Exercises
3. As the MCL improves, you should start running as well as do such lateral agility exercises as horizontal jumps. Running should be done in a normal straight line, as well as in circular patterns and a figure eight pattern. In addition to running, stair climbing can help strengthen the muscles in the knee and improve the chances of avoiding reinjury.

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How should I exercise on the exercise bike????????

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irish_lass

I am trying to lose 10lbs through a fitness and healthy eating regime. Unfortunately I am quite unfit, and I find that walking very briskly is the best way for me to exercise without giving up due to tirednes. However, it is coming into winter and it gets dark here at about 6 o' clock, so it not really safe for me to walk at this time, also I am taking an important exam this year, so exercising in the house would be much easier to fit into my schedule.

My family has an exercise bike, and try to make an effort to use it, however unfortunately I find it extremely boring. I cannot do vigorous peddling for more than 20 secs without giving up. Can anybody give me some tips about what way to exercise on it, that is I would REALLY appreciate it if you could give me a detailed plan of how exactly to do it, e.g. 3 minutes at this many rpm followed by..The functions on my bike are rpm, speed , time and distance (doesn't say what unit used,I presume km as this is Ireland) Please help me!!!
Sorry, forgot to add that my bike also has up to 15 levels of resistance! As I mentioned before, I really would appreciate help!

Answer
I hate going to the gym because it's so boring, so I bought an exercise bike. I watch TV when I use it. I ride the bike for an entire show (about 45 minutes). The TV is a great distraction, so I don't feel like I'm really exercising. Also, I put a fan in front of the exercise bike so I don't get too sweaty (I hate to sweat).

I usually start out at a lower resistance, then try to work my way up a bit until I start breathing more heavily. This shows that I'm actually working out, not just sitting on a funny looking chair watching TV. Try switching it up though, low resistance, medium, high, medium, low, medium, high, etc.

How much weight will I lose on an exercise bike?

Andy S

I have been consistently 182 lbs and im 20 years old 6' 0'' male . If i ride an exercise bike while i watch tv for about 1.5 hours everyday, how long will it take me to lose 5-10 lbs? I will not be vigorously exercising, just trying to keep moving instead of sitting while i watch my favorite shows

Answer
i rode about 10hrs a week and would lose 1 to 2lbs a week depending on if i ate extra or not.
so if you do it every day and don't increase your calorie intake you might lose it all in one or two months.
i rode just a normal pace most of the time and every once in a while i would pedal really fast for about a minute a couple of times a ride. plan on your behind being really sore too.
also, i rode outside. it's best if you have a fan blowing on you if you ride indoors.

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My knees keep hitting the handles on my exercise bike?

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Iconic ABH

I have an exercise bike at home, and when you sit there is a little screen in front of you with a built-in fan and handles to hold onto. The problem is, when I start to use the bike and pedal my knees go up too high and hit the handles. The weird thing is I'm not even that tall, only about 5'4". Is there some way to lower the seat or raise the handles or something, or is the bike just not the right size for me? I have a CrossTrainer56 Pro-Form if it helps. Thanks.

Answer
You are probably sitting too far forward. Move the seat back until your legs are fully extended at the farthest part of the pedal stroke

Will exercising with the fan off (More sweat) help me lose weight?

Just-know

Hi there,
Will exercising (Exercise bike) with the fan off help me lose weight by creating more sweat?
Or should i be more relaxed and ride with the fan on?

Thanks!

Answer
You will lose more water weight, not more fat weight if you exercise without cooling. Actually, studies from many athletic events prove that cooling a body before a work-out preserves stamina longer, so more calories are burned if you maintain a cool body temperature since the work-out lasts longer.

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What are some strengthening exercises for PCL injury?

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j h

The injury occurred in 1990, and was diagnosed in 1999.

Answer
PCL tears are usually not debilitating and should not prevent you from doing anything you want to do. These injuries are seldom surgically repaired (only grade III injuries with significant instability are surgically repaired). There are professional athletes performing at a very high level that are PCL deficient. I am currently treating a high school player that is a division one football and baseball prospect that has a PCL tear. He sat for two weeks and then returned to playing baseball and football off-season workouts.

Reggie Bush - New Orlean Saints
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3149260

Jose Valentin - LA Dodgers
http://www.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20050504&content_id=1038661&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

You should focus of quad strengthing. If you are have not been doing anything start with the exercises on this web site

http://www.athleticadvisor.com/Injuries/LE/quad_strengthening.htm

After those exercises are done for a couple of weeks or when you feel like you are ready , then you can start squats, legs press and stationary bike. Start slow then progress...

http://www.ssoc.co.za/pcl-injuries.html
http://www.athleticadvisor.com/Injuries/LE/Knee/pcl_injuries.htm

Why did I get spider veins on my legs after biking? What's the cure?

Fr

Why did I get spider veins on my legs after biking? What's the cure?
It looks like the after picture http://www.vivacite.co.za/images/Sclerotherapy.jpg I don't want it to turn like the girl's before picture! I'm just 14!

Answer
It's a weakness in the vein valves (technical name: chronic veinous insufficiency). I've had them since I was nine. If you're getting them this young, sclerotherapy isn't going to do it. Exercise is good, even though a few activities can immediately aggravate the appearance of veins. Running helps my circulation overall, for instance, but can make the veins on the side of my legs a bit inflamed.

The key to countering CVI is really lifestyle: exercise, very limited sitting/standing, a really healthy diet, and supplements. One really good supplement is Reserveage "Beautiful Legs" (which is mostly That has taken care of almost all my spider veins, and I had them all over both legs.

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How accurate inaccurate are the calorie counters on exercise bikes?

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MSI Magus

Every day I hope on an exercise bike for about an hour or so. It usually says I burn somewhere between 1,000 and 1,500 calories. I am wondering how close to this number I actually might be hitting. Are these bikes often off by a small amount like 100-200 calories.....or are they frequently off by 100s of calories?

Answer
totally inaccurate, they are a rough estimate based on a certain gender of a certain height and weight of a certain age all of which probably dont apply to you unless you are mr or mrs average, i take absolutely no notice of them at all, i would say that on average someone would be burning off approx 600-1000 calories per hour but you would have to be really putting some effort in to get anywhere near that amount of calories burnt.

What are the benefits of using an exercise bike?

xx_xx

If i use an exercise bike for 45 minutes a day, what benefits will i see. I just want to slim down my legs and tone them up. I don't want to bulk my legs up even more. So, what benefits will i see if i use one?

Answer
It depends.

but if your diet sucks or is not well designed, you won't see much fat loss. Especially if you have a lot to lose.

Oh wait, you said you just want to slim down your legs. Then do HIIT training on the bike.

It goes like this:

5 min warm up at 100-120 bpm heart rate
45 sec 120 bpm + 15 sec as fast as you possibly can
repeat 14 more times
5 min cool down at 100-120 bpm heart rate

DONE.

Do this 3x per week. The other days you can do regular 120-130 bpm riding on the bike for 45 mins.

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