Is the elliptical machine your favorite cardio equipment at the gym?
If you answered yes, you’re not alone. Lots of people appreciate the efficient and effective low-impact workout that an elliptical machine can deliver.
However, some of those people wish that they had the option to take their elliptical training outside. Thanks to the development of the elliptical bike, now you can!
An elliptical exercise bike is kind of an investment, so is it worth the money?
Most people who have an elliptical bike say “yes” because of the elliptical exercise bike benefits.
Keep reading to learn more about this revolutionary piece of exercise equipment.
What Is an Elliptical Bike?
You know what a bicycle is, and you’ve probably at least noticed the elliptical machines at your gym. An elliptical exercise bike is simply a hybrid of the two.
The most noticeable difference between a regular bicycle and one of these exercise machines is the lack of a seat. That’s because there is no sitting down during an elliptical bicycle ride.
The next thing you are likely to notice is that the elliptical exercise bike doesn’t use the same cycling motion that you are accustomed to on a traditional bicycle.
Instead, you will see that this bike is specially designed to mimic the motion of the stationary elliptical machine at the gym.
Why Choose Elliptical Motion?
Some people, especially those who are older or who may have a history of injuries, just find the oval-shaped motion of the elliptical to be easier on their joints.
It’s also perfect for those looking for low intensity and low impact cardio options for their home.
The elliptical motion helps you to preserve relaxed knee and hip angles, which can be much more comfortable than the circular cycling motion that is common to ordinary bicycles.
Elliptical motion also ensures a more balanced workout for both legs. The traditional cycling motion relies heavily on the quadriceps muscles, but when you choose an elliptical workout, all of the muscles in both legs are being recruited to complete the motion.
Another reason why people might choose elliptical motion over other alternatives is that an elliptical exercise bike successfully simulates running without any impact.
If you have been forced to give up running because it is too tough on your joints, then one of these bikes might be the perfect answer for you.
You’ll feel like you’re running, but your joints will be cushioned and comfortable.
Comparing Elliptical Bikes to Stationary and Traditional Bikes
Why do some people choose to ride an elliptical bike over a stationary exercise bike or a traditional bike?
They may have several reasons. The seated position that is common with all stationary and traditional bikes can make your hip flexors tight and weak.
At the same time, your shoulders and spine are slouched forward, which may only make your posture worse, especially if you spend most of your workday sitting at a computer.
With the elliptical bike, you maintain a vertical posture. This means that the glutes and hips have more freedom of movement to keep you upright.
This position also allows these powerful muscles to generate more force.
Thanks to the upright position that you have to adopt on one of these bikes, your body is better able to absorb impact across its entire breadth and height.
This enables your body to more efficiently diffuse and absorb these impacts.
Additionally, some people find that the circular cycling motion that’s required by stationary bikes or traditional bicycles is too hard on their knees or focuses too much on the quads while neglecting other muscles.
Elliptical Exercise Bike Benefits
People who choose one of these bikes as their main cardio exercise have many reasons to look forward to their workouts.
That’s because working out on elliptical bikes actually provides more muscle activation when compared with walking.
Moreover, an elliptical bike offers better strength training opportunities for the upper body and core. This means that these bicycles offer a full-body workout that is incredibly efficient.
As a result, you may find that you have built considerable muscle mass after spending a few weeks or months regularly riding your elliptical exercise bike.
Dial up the resistance to challenge your muscles even more. You’re building muscles in your arms, legs, abdomen and back all at once.
Keep in mind that while the muscles of both your upper and lower body are getting some serious strength training, you are getting a fantastic cardio workout as well.
As you engage in the full-body motions that are necessary to operate these bicycles, you are stimulating blood flow throughout your body.
Your heart rate automatically increases, providing a boost to your entire cardiovascular system.
Anyone who regularly engages in cardio exercise reduces their risk of developing heart disease and hypertension while also minimizing their chances of suffering a stroke.
Many elliptical exercise bikes even have adjustable intensity levels so that you can make your workouts harder or easier depending upon how you feel on the day of your workout.
Not surprisingly, one of the main benefits of using this piece of equipment is that you will burn a lot of calories.
You are working your entire body at once in a rhythmic pace. If you would like to burn more calories, all you have to do is increase your pace or the adjustable resistance on the bike.
One fun workout on an elliptical exercise bike has the rider increase their pace for one minute, and then slowing down to a more comfortable pace for two minutes.
Continue this pattern for 15 to 20 minutes to get a fantastic, calorie-burning workout in no time.
The Stationary Elliptical Bike Option
What about those days in the winter where the weather just isn’t cooperating? You love riding your elliptical bike, but you prefer to do so on days that are at least dry if not warm.
You may have an interesting alternative to explore.
That’s because some manufacturers are now making stationary elliptical bicycles that you can set up in your home and ride no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Additionally, if you are enjoying your outdoor rides on your elliptical bicycle but want to have a common-sense alternative when the weather is foul, then look for a model that comes with a stationary stand.
That’s absolutely correct. Some manufacturers of elliptical bicycles actually make stands to which your bike can be attached.
This lets you enjoy the same elliptical motion in the comfort of your own home. Set your bike up in the living room or wherever it’s convenient and pedal away.
When the weather turns fine, it’s easy enough to unclip your bike from the stand and move your workout outdoors. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Of course, another option is to buy a stationary elliptical bike machine that is never intended to go outdoors.
It’s more like a traditional piece of gym equipment that you can hop on and use whenever you like. If exercising outdoors doesn’t motivate you, then this might be a sensible solution.
Recumbent Exercise Bike Elliptical Machine
Here is yet another option that might appeal to you if you prefer a more varied workout and you don’t mind staying inside.
It’s the recumbent exercise bike elliptical machine.
This hybrid piece of equipment lets you sit down for a recumbent bicycle ride or stand up for a traditional elliptical machine workout.
Either way, you still get the benefit of the elliptical motion that is easier on your joints.
In fact, this might be an excellent option for people who are just starting out on their fitness journey.
This piece of equipment has virtually no learning curve, and you are guaranteed a low-impact workout that is easier on your joints.
You can switch from being seated to standing up whenever you like, allowing you to build stamina at your speed.
Additionally, most of these models have several levels of resistance so that you can dial up or down on the effort required to suit your workout for the day.
These machines also tend to be a little more affordable than outdoor elliptical bikes, which may be attractive for people on a tighter budget.
What to Look for in an Elliptical Exercise Bike
Everyone will have slightly different needs and requirements, but here are a few guidelines to watch for.
Indoors or Outside?
Some people are super excited about the ability to take their elliptical workout outdoors. They get a boost of energy from being out in the sun and fresh air.
Maybe these rides even become an activity in which the whole family gets involved.
However, those same people might get less excited about outdoor workouts when the weather turns foul.
If you are one of these people, then make sure that you look for an elliptical bike that has the option to be mounted on a stand.
This makes your outdoor bike a year-round piece of exercise equipment, giving you additional bang for your buck.
Is Recumbent More Comfortable?
If you are dealing with an injury or otherwise find it difficult to be on your feet for extended periods of time, then you may want to consider a recumbent bike that works with elliptical motion.
This may be an especially attractive choice for someone who is new to exercise and wants to start in the most comfortable way possible.
If you get a hybrid machine that doubles as a stand-up elliptical trainer, then you have the option to switch between workouts whenever you wish.
What’s Your Budget?
Outdoor elliptical bikes can be fairly expensive. If you are a dedicated rider, this may not be a big deal. If you are riding your elliptical exercise bike most days of the week and are loving the experience,then the expense is absolutely worth it.
On the other hand, if you are a little concerned that an elliptical bike may not be the best option for you, then it makes sense to take your time and consider your decision.
Many manufacturers of these bikes offer test riding opportunities, so it may be wise to take advantage of these.
One of the best ways to enjoy an elliptical bike experience on a budget is to opt for a stationary elliptical bike. On average, these are far less expensive than outdoor models.
Do You Care About Training Programs?
Some of the companies that make outdoor elliptical exercise bikes provide the customers with some pretty enticing extras.
For instance, bike owners may have access to exclusive training content on the manufacturer’s website.
This would make it possible to set up your bike on a stand in your house and follow along with a recorded exercise session.
If you’re looking for a way to change things up during your workouts, this could be a really easy way to make a switch.
Manufacturers also may host regional events where owners of their bikes may get together to exercise and connect socially.
This might be a really big enticement to people who are new to a certain area or who are looking for people who are interested in fitness like they are.
Elliptical Exercise Bike Benefits Are Enormous
For someone who enjoys using the indoor elliptical trainer but wants to exercise outdoors, an elliptical exercise bike is an excellent option.
It provides a low-impact workout that nonetheless works the entire body. Accordingly, you are building muscle strength and mass while getting a terrific cardio workout at the same time.
The upright, vertical position that is required on one of these bikes is much more comfortable for many people, as is the elliptical motion.
If you are dealing with any injuries or can no longer take the strain of running or traditional bike riding, this offers an enjoyable alternative.
Check out the elliptical bicycle machine at your gym or look for a manufacturer that offers free test rides to see if an elliptical exercise bike is for you.
Best Elliptical Exercise Bike
| Body Rider Elliptical Trainer | Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer | HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT |
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| The Body Rider Elliptical Trainer made our list because of its 2-in-1 elliptical and bike combo design, allowing you to have two fitness machines for the price of one and representing great value. | The reason the Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer made it to our list is because of it’s innovative stride technology that reduces impact on your knees and joints without compromising the quality of your workout. | We like the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT because it’s made by HCI, a company that’s been around since the 1990s and provides high quality Physical Therapy and Rehab equipment to homes and healthcare facilities. |
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