Whether you’re trying to get in shape or you’re trying to maintain your weight, finding a good exercise routine as well as using the right equipment is essential. We all exercise to establish a healthier lifestyle, and nowadays, training has never been easier.  Exercising equipment, like the stationary bike, is now available to us either at our local gym or we can even buy a home version of it to train regularly in the comfort of our own home. If you’re in the market to buy a new exercise bike, then this guide will help you through the decision-making process to choose the right exercise bike for you.

1. Know What is it for 

The first thing you should know is that bikes are extremely beneficial to your workout plans and fitness goals. Exercise bikes hold a myriad of benefits like giving you a chance to strengthen and tone your muscles, it’s effective for weight loss training, it improves blood circulation, and it can offer low-impact exercise or high-impact.   

2. Understand the Types of Bikes 

Understanding the many types of an exercise bike will help you in the process of finding the right exercise bike for you and your workout plan. These stationary bikes are one of the most preferred equipment to use at gyms or homes. Many of these cater to a variety of different exercise plans as well as meet your fitness goals by offering varied results. 

  • Spin Bikes

Spin bikes force to sit aerodynamically which resembles a real bike. The whole point is to make you feel like you’re riding a mountain bike in the great outdoors. They’re more of a high-intensity bike as it pushes you to pedal hard and fast; it’s ideal for those who want to burn fat, especially in the lower area of the body. 

  • Upright Bikes

They might resemble spin bikes in terms of giving you the feel of a mountain bike, but upright bikes function differently. The handles are a bit higher than the seat, unlike the spin bike, which allows for a much more relaxed cycling experience. However, this seating arrangement gives you more balance and an intense workout as well. 

  • Recumbent Bikes 

Unlike the previous two bikes, this one provides the ultimate relaxation through its convenient seating, giving you a much more comfortable exercising experience. You sit on a chair with back support and paddle away, and the best part is that it provides the same level of quality in terms of calorie burning. However, they’re best used with low to medium intensity workouts. Check out these best recumbent exercise bikes. Recumbent bikes are also available for seniors at Fitnessabout

3. Define Your Goals 

There are many types of bikes to choose from, but to truly narrow down your choices, you need to define your fitness goals realistically. Why do you need the bike? How often will you use this bike? And how intense do you want your workouts to be? Most times people overestimate their ability in the way they exercise, and they end up buying the most expensive one in the market, only to leave it collecting dust in the corner of their room. When you realistically figure out your fitness goals, you’ll be able to match it with the bike type, its function, and the fitness rewards it will offer you. 

4. Look for Comfort 

Bike seats can get a little uncomfortable, so before buying your bike, consider testing out the seat first and your cycling position. Choose bikes with handles and seats that can be easily adjusted to your height and your seating position. You also need to make sure that you can easily hop on and hop off the bike. Also, consider the type of foot paddle as it drastically affects your workout. Pedal straps with an open frame, for example, are more comfortable. 

5. Opt for an Advanced Console 

Almost all bikes come with a fitted console that shows you your progress. Some of them are very basic while others are digitally advanced. They can show you the speed you’re exercising at, the distance you’ve traveled, and the average of calories burned.  Some bikes also come with a heart monitor belt so you can follow up on your heart rate as you train. The advanced consoles have built-in features that allow you to analyze your performance and compare your progress. 

6. Extra Features 

The more updated bikes come with a variety of entertaining features; some have built-in entertainment systems and video screens where you can plug in your music or watch a movie. Others have water bottle handles or cup holders. Try to choose one that isn’t too noisy as well when you cycle.  

7. Check the Weight 

It’s best to check the bike’s weight limit before you buy one because you don’t want to injure yourself or fall off. The stability of the bike is one of the essential aspects you can check. The heavier the bike is, the sturdier it will be. This way, you’ll be able to exercise without the worry. 

8. Safety Measures 

If the stability is in-check, then make sure the enclosed mechanics of the bike are tightly sealed to avoid any harm. Most bikes at home are a safety hazard for people, especially children. Make sure the paddles, chains, or handles aren’t loose and that the wheel is covered. 

9. Test it Out 

Even though it’s more convenient to shop for your bike online, it’s always best to test it out first. Try the seating position, its resistance, and stability. If you’re buying it online, make sure the online store has a return policy. 

10. Expensive Isn’t Always Better

Not all expensive models are the best, but that doesn’t mean you go for the cheap ones as well. Use all the tips mentioned above and decide which exercise bike you want. Check online reviews and make sure the one you’re getting, no matter the price, has been recommended by someone. 

When it comes to workout equipment, don’t take shortcuts. Deciding on the right bike for you will be a great addition to your workout routine, especially if you choose one for your home. Besides, what you really want is a homey way to burn those pesky calories, and opting for the perfect bike means you’re already halfway there.