Exercise bikes provide a great home cardio workout that puts less strain on your joints than running on a . Out of the different types of exercise bikes, recumbent bikes are best for beginners, seniors, or people who don’t want to put as much pressure or weight on their joints.
What is a recumbent bike?
A recumbent bike is an exercise bike that positions you in a reclined form while pedaling. Think of it sort of like a , but your feet pedal instead of your arms pulling back a cord. And unlike a typical stationary bike, the pedals are in front of your body rather than underneath it. Because you are leaning back, a recumbent bike can feel a bit awkward before you master it.
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IMAGE: NordicTrack
BEST FOR PROS
NordicTrack Commercial VR25
With plenty of bells and whistles, this recumbent bike is great for cycling veterans.
- Levels of resistance: 26
- Display: 7-inch HD touchscreen
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Schwinn 270
With training programs and virtual trails, the Schwinn offers a lot while still remaining relatively affordable compared to the competition.
- Levels of resistance: 25
- Display: Backlit LCD screen with panel
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Stamina Recumbent Exercise Bike 1346
This bike isn’t too fancy, but has enough features to make it effective.
- Levels of resistance: 8
- Display: Small digital monitor
IMAGE: Amazon
MOST AFFORDABLE HIGH-END BIKE
NordicTrack Commercial VR21
A great, affordable counterpart to the NordicTrack VR25.
- Levels of resistance: 25
- Display: 5-inch backlit display
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST SPACE-SAVING OPTION
Stamina InStride portable cycle
This small folding cycle works best for small homes or office use.
- Levels of resistance: N/A
- Display: LCD monitor