Exercise bikes need not occupy vast tracts of floor space, and, in many cases, are equipped with rollers, and fold away for storage. They provide support for the rider, and while the thighs, calves and gluteal muscles can all be exercised ? as gently, or as vigorously as you like ? there are no repeated, heavy impacts on the bones and joints of the lower body, a common cause of shin splints, and other problems.

Exercise Bike Features & Benefits

All exercise bikes provide resistance, in one form or another, against which you work; this, in turn, raises your metabolic rate, and fatigues your muscles. Less sophisticated, and less expensive, exercise bikes often employ friction as their means of providing resistance, via a braking system, or adjustable band. Some models also use air resistance, provided by an integral fan, which also serves to cool the rider while exercising. The smoothest, quietest form of resistance, however, is electromagnetic, or magnetic, resistance, which is often computer controlled. Magnetic resistance does, however, often come at a premium when compared to lesser forms of resistance. The Carl Lewis EXB777 Exercise Bike, for example, features computer controlled magnetic tension, for a smooth, quiet ride.

You can also choose from an "upright" exercise bike ? one that looks, and operates, very much like a conventional, outdoor bicycle ? or a "recumbent" exercise bike ? one that seats the rider in a more horizontal position, with pedals positioned out in front. This latter type is easy to mount, and dismount, than an upright exercise bike, provides more support for the lower back ? courtesy of a seat with a backrest ? and is generally easier on the knee and ankle joints. It may, therefore, be more suitable for larger, or more mature, riders, or anyone with joint problems, high blood pressure or recovering from injury.

An exercise bike should obviously be safe to ride, but should also be comfortable to get on, off and use. Maintaining a regular exercise programme can be hard enough without having to negotiate an awkward crossbar every time, or sit on a tiny, uncomfortable saddle for lengthy periods. Make sure that your chosen model is designed to support your body weight, or that of the heaviest person likely to ride it; an insufficiently sturdy bike may leap about during use, or fail, mechanically, and is a highly dangerous proposition. All exercise bikes carry a maximum weight limit for which they are designed, so take note of this from the specification. The Carl Lewis EMG51 Exercise Bike, for example, is suitable for riders with a maximum body weight of 23 stone, or 150 kg.

Conclusion

A carefully chosen, appropriate exercise bike can not only provide a safe, convenient and effective method of exercising in the comfort and privacy of your own home, it can also provide you with enough variety to keep you coming back for more. Computer controlled workout programmes can allow you scale, and vary, your exercise routine, and real time feedback ? pulse, speed, distance, calories ? means that you can measure its effectiveness, as you exercise.

Responsible Exercise

Any form of exercise, whilst potentially of great benefit, is not entirely without risks and the use of exercise bikes or any other type of exercise equipment may not be appropriate for you. To reduce the risk of any injury, illness or other adverse effects you should ALWAYS consult your doctor before beginning any form of exercise program. You should also seek advice from a suitably qualified fitness professional as to the suitability of your proposed fitness programme as this will be determined by your age, weight, gender, current fitness level, any medical conditions and other factors. As with any exercise, if at any point during the use of an exercise bike you begin to feel faint, dizzy, light headed or experience any other form of physical discomfort, you should stop immediately and consult a doctor.