What is the name of the exercise machine that is like a bike?

recumbent exercise bike seats image

What is the name of it instead of you sitting up it's lower but it looks like a bike just your legs or stretched in front of you not down. Also what are the benefits to it. What does it work out?

Answer
it is a recumbent stationary bike.

biggest issue is comfort, seat is bigger and your back and neck aren't as stressed. easier to read or watch tv. IMHO, you get a little bit less of a workout.

primary benefit is cardio (heart, lungs) also works quads, hamstrings and butt.

My bottom hurts while riding a recumbent bike?

George

I ride a recumbent bije once a day for 32 minutes at around 95 rpm (or as the bike says 20 mph) when I get to about the 25 minute mark my bottom starts to hurt. Is there anyway I combat this? It makes the last 7 minutes quite unpleasant.

Answer
I take it you're riding a recumbent exercise machine, not a true recumbent bike. Recumbent trainers have horrible seats. The hurt is because you're asking soft flabby muscles to work while they're being compressed by your weight. It'll get better as the muscles get toned and/or you lose some weight. On a REAL recumbent bike, you could alleviate the paint (it's called 'recumbent butt' or simply 'recumbutt') by reclining the seat more; but recumbent trainers usually don't allow it.

If the pain gets to be too much, just take a 2-minute break before doing the last 7 minutes. Once you let the blood back into the muscles, you'll be good to go again.

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How do i go about buying an exercise bike?

exercise bikes on craigslist image

Elise

Im looking to buy a used exercise bike, but honestly, i have no idea what to look for!
What qualities should i look for in the bike? I wanted to find something relatively cheap, but i also dont want something thats a complete piece of junk you know?
Any advice?

Answer
There are 3 general categories of exercise bike:
1. Upright resistance. The upright uses a flywheel or fan for resistance. Stay away from the fan since they are much louder. Flywheel types often use belts or other friction material so always check them if buying a used one.
2. Recumbent. This is the one where you sit low to the ground and put your legs out forward. These are good if you have a back condition. The only true way to see if you like them is to try them for a workout. They have similar resistance units to the upright types.
3. Spinner. These have a direct drive meaning they don't allow you to stop pedaling unless you have an emergency stop device. They are probably the best workout, but are definitely not for everyone especially if you have knee trouble.

A quick and dirty way to see the condition of the unit is to check ride it, check the pedals for wear and if they're bent. You'll also be able to listen and see if the resistance unit feels smooth and quiet. If not, something is wrong and walk away.

Try all 3 types out at a local health club. That's the best way to see what works for you. You can often pay for just one visit and not have to get a membership.
Try the local classifieds and CraigsList in you local for a used one and hopefully have a friend with minivan or pickup. Used is the only way that you'll get a worthwhile unit for low cost.

Is magnetic resistance or digital resistance better for an exercise bike?

Jennifer i

Hi. I am currently recovering from a knee injury and am unable to resume my regular form of exercise (walking and jogging). I have heard that bikes are one of the best forms of exercise for those with knee injuries (that and swimming). I am looking at buying a stationary recumbent bike for my house. I have been comparing a number of different models. A few have magnetic resistance and a few have digital resistance. Is one better than the other? Is one quieter than the other? I've always done most of my exercising outside and have never bought an indoor exercise bike. Also, what are some good brands for recumbent bikes ($300-$500). Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

Answer
Neither.
1) Real bicycle - preferably a road bike
2) FLUID resistance trainer w/variable adjustment handlebar mounted shift lever
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10054_10551_1094975_-1_400133__400133

So besides the normal gears on the bike, the trainer also offers a lever to increase or decrease resistance. You'll need a riser block for under the front tire.
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10054_10551_1028769_-1_400037__400037

Look through craigslist & other on-line sites for those selling slightly used equipment first. People often by indoor exercise equipment & then find out the hard way it's BORING & not for them. Then sell it for pennies on the dollar. Found mine for a mere $65 - including the riser block. You'll need a slick tread rear tire on the bike to minimize noise levels. Some type of mat or old carpet remnant under the unit also helps.

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