What Are the Benefits of Recumbent Bikes?

So, you're thinking of using a recumbent bike for keeping fit or living a healthier lifestyle, but what exactly is a recumbent bike? Recumbent bicycles may be stationary or maybe you have even seen them on the roads.

In simple terms, a recumbent bike places the rider in a reclined seating position compared to an upright position on a more traditional bike that you may be more used to.

There are many more variations, but the idea is the same. Many riders tend to favor recumbent bikes because the contact points between the bike and rider impose less stress on the body.

On a regular bike, there are three main points of contact the seat, the hands, and the feet. Most of the weight will be placed on the seat and thus the joints around that area will have the most amount of stress placed on them.

With a recumbent bike, the rider's weight is spread throughout a seat rather than the smaller surface area of a saddle. This reduces the stress on the body around the buttocks area.

What are the benefits of recumbent bikes?

Less stress that can lead to saddle injuries - The whole point of a recumbent bike is its ergonomic design. If you are a keen cyclist or wish to pursue cycling on a more regular basis, over time your body will become less resistant to the stresses and strains that cycling can place on your body.

By using a recumbent bike, you will start to use different muscle groups and relieve stress on the joints and ligaments that are used while in a saddle.

When you first start using a recumbent bike, you may start to feel more stress around certain areas. Although this is normal, as it will take some time to adjust.

Safety - although it is up for debate due to being less visible in a lower down position, a recumbent bike has many safety benefits over a traditional bike. If you do happen to brake too hard, you are not likely to go over the handlebars.

Also, if you take a sharp turn too fast, you are less likely to slide or lose control of the bike.

Cardiovascular Exercise - Exercising on a recumbent bike will use some of your larger muscle groups, which include quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Those who use recumbent bikes for exercise report an increase in lung and heart function as well as lower blood pressure.

Muscle Strengthening - Due to the seating position on a recumbent bike, you will use the same leg muscles as on a traditional bike. But, because of the reclined seating, this will lead to a more pronounced strengthening of the main leg muscles.

Increased Workout Times - It goes without saying the more comfortable you feel, the easier it is to stick to an exercise and fitness plan. Not only will you be able to stay on the bike longer, but it will also be a lot easier for you to use the bike on a more regular basis.

Conclusion

As you can see there are many benefits to using a recumbent bike. However, if you have specific health issues or you are working towards specific goals. It is recommended that you seek professional advice beforehand.