Buying an exercise bike that will fully meet your requirements in terms of functionality and comfort is not an easy task.

What is the difference between belt, shoe, magnetic and electromagnetic devices? Which model is best for home: vertical, horizontal, hybrid or portable? What to pay special attention to when studying the technical parameters of exercise bikes and reviews about them? The answers are in our article.

Differences of exercise bikes with different load systems

One of the most important parameters of any simulator is the load system. The way the equipment functions directly depends on it. Based on the type of system, simulators are divided into four categories:

Classification of exercise bikes by design type

Depending on the specifics of the design, the following variations of exercise bikes are distinguished:

• vertical - classic models with a handlebar and a saddle that resemble similar parts of traditional bicycles. During classes, the same muscles are involved as in the process of cycling: abs, legs, back. In modern upright models, the seat height and steering wheel position are easily adjustable, so the models are comfortable to use.
• horizontal - exercise bikes with a special back, which serves as a support for the user and makes the exercise as comfortable as possible. Exercises on such equipment are performed in a sitting position. In this case, the load is focused on the muscles of the legs and the press.

Advice. Horizontal models are ideal for those who are not recommended to load the spine, since the back practically does not strain during exercise.

• hybrid - unique models that, thanks to their special design, allow you to practice not only standing or sitting, but even reclining. This is possible due to the fact that the chair is easily adjustable in several planes at once. Such simulators are called hybrid, as they combine the qualities of vertical and horizontal.

• portable - small-sized devices, which, although they are not full-fledged exercise bikes, are very useful for light physical workouts. These models structurally consist of a small load block with pedals and a simple computer. There is no seating here. The main advantage of portable models is their compact dimensions.

Additional options for exercise bikes

When choosing the right simulator model for your home, it is important to pay attention not only to the load system and type of construction, but also to the following three parameters.

The first is the load control system. It can be of two types:

• manual - involves changing the load by rotating a special handle located at the construction site of the simulator. The advantage of the system is ease of use.

• software - provides the ability to set the required load and adjust its level using a computer. The advantage of the system is high accuracy.

The second is pulse sensors. They are of two types:

• remote - attached to the earlobe, on the finger or on the belt. The received pulse signals are transmitted to the computer via a radio channel.
• contact - built into the handles of the device and take readings in direct contact with the user.

Advice. For people who plan to use an exercise bike for cardio training, that is, for whom accurate heart rate measurement is important, it is recommended to choose models with remote sensors. This is explained by the fact that contact elements do not guarantee the absolute reliability of measurements, since they require constant close contact of the human palms with the handles of the exercise bike, which is not always convenient.

The third is the functionality of the computer. The simplest simulators are equipped with computers that track exercise time, speed, calorie expenditure and distance covered. And more advanced models allow you to choose or independently create individual training programs, as well as evaluate the ergonomic indicators of the user's body.

Why is it important to take into account all the above design and technological features of modern exercise bikes? Because only in this way you will be able to successfully choose the right model for your home, which will delight you with its functionality and guarantee a high result of training in comfortable conditions.

How to choose an exercise bike: video