The key to indoor training
Posted on: Friday, January 4th, 2008 at 2:17 pm by: Olufunmilayo Salami
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Biking outdoors, though a refreshing and exhilarating experience, can prove inconvenient at times. Stationary bikes give one the opportunity to bike before going to work, in the evening, or when the weather outside is brutal.
The ProForm Exercise Bike GR80 has a lot of features for a convenient price. This stationary bike has a Step-Thru design, its base-free structure allowing for easy access. It comes with a simple adjustable cushion seat and a 2-speed fan for basic comfort. This machine has 4 preset personal trainer workouts that help you achieve your goal, whether your aiming at aerobic health, weight loss, or improving your cyclical performance. It’s EKG Heart Rate Monitor and Target Pacer helps to keep track of your heart rate and measure the difficulty level of your exercise. Additional features include the large LCD window that displays your speed, time, calories, and pulse, as well as a frictionless resistance system that allows the rider to adjust their workout intensity without interruption. This nice package retails at most stores and websites for $249.
Schwinn, one of the world’s leaders in mountain and leisure bikes, has a strong footing in the realm of stationary bikes as well. One of its finest models is the 231 Recumbent Exercise Bike . Retailing at $549, this bike features the Biofit comfort system, consisting of a padded ergonomic seat with dual-position lumbar support. It includes a back-lit LCD display and keeps track of the biker’s time, rpm, distance, and heart rate. There are also 23 workout programs that store fitness and calorie goals, and even a tool for BMI measurement. The BioDyne performance engineering allows for a smooth ride regardless of intensity. For the biker’s comfort, there is a water bottle and magazine holders, an adjustable louver fan, and an easy storage option.
For the elite cyclist with $1300 to spend, the Nautilus NB 2000 Upright Bike may be the way to go. This stationary bike has the more rugged biker in mind—instead of a comfortable chair there is a padded leather bike seat and a fan is NOT included. However, there is a water bottle holder and reading rack. It has V-Force magnetic resistance, allowing you to go faster than most other stationary bikes allow. There are 16 workout levels, 6 preset programs, and it allows for 2 custom programs. It tracks heart rate through contact sensors and wireless telemetry. In addition, there are self-leveling pedals that keep feet in the proper position, while adjustable foot straps minimize pressure on the top of the foot
Whether you are a professional cyclist or an avid exerciser, there is great potential with stationary bikes. With the various intensities and features that they offer, stationary bikes are enough to quell the boredom and arouse the interest of anyone looking for a exciting and challenging workout.
