How do recumbent exercise bikes compare to treadmills?

Answer 1

It doesn't really matter much. What's far more important is how hard, how long and how often you exercise. Pretty much every activity that gets you equally sweaty and winded will burn the same amount of calories and provide the same workout.

I find it harder to get a good pedal stroke on recumbents, as you end keeping some pressure on both feet in order to keep the feet on the pedals. Likewise the big backrest to brace against may prompt a person to pedal slower but harder, which isn't such a hot idea.

Answer 2

An upright is, well - upright. It has a handlebar ahead of the saddle, and the saddle is sitting above and slightly behind the the pedals. Riding position looks just like on a "normal" bike. On a recumbent the rider sits on a wide seat and leans back, and the pedals are almost at the same level as the seat but farther ahead. With the rider well supported on his butt a recumbent stationary bike usually hasn't got a proper handlebar, but just a place to grip when getting on and off the bike. It's a bit like sitting in a reclining chair while pedalling.

Answer 3

It has a wide seat as opposed to a narrow saddle

it won't put any strain on your arms, shoulders and neck.

You can get a bit of strength training in by bracing yourself against the back rest - don't overdo it though, kness might not like that much.

Answer 4

While on a recumbent bike the body position is more horizontal with the riders feet positioned in front of them. Traditional exercise bikes have the rider positioned more vertically with feet under their body.

Answer 5

Due to the comfortable "bucket-seat" saddle, recumbent exercise bikes are good for those that do not work out often or are just starting out. Furthermore, the majority of medical practitioners and personal trainers tend to recommend recumbent bikes, no matter the fitness level of the client.

Answer 6

Both treadmills and recumbent exercise bikes offer aerobic exercise. Using a treadmill also exercises the whole body while running whereas in a recumbent bike the body is mostly stationary. However, recumbent bikes cause much less strain on weak knees and ankles.