An exercise bike is only as good as the commitment to ride it, and having it be comfortable and useful may seem contradictory. However, riders as well as physicians and personal trainers recognize the benefits of a recumbent exercise bicycle.

Unlike traditional stationary bikes, on which the user is in an upright position, on a recumbent exercise bicycle the rider is seated low, in a usually comfortable seat, with their legs extended. Varying levels of resistance make the recumbent exercise bicycle an excellent choice for those who just starting an exercise regimen.

All too often, people buy an exercise bike with the best intentions, but quickly find the typically small, hard seat uncomfortable to sit on for even a short length of time. They also realize, usually too late, that side ways motions of riding an upright bike, can prevent the use of gaming equipment or even watching television.

Also too often, since the seat is hard and riding is uncomfortable, they choose to forego their exercise, turning the bike into an expensive clothes hanger. However, those who choose a recumbent exercise bicycle have been found to continue the routine they planned from the purchase.

Beginners Find Exercising Enjoyable

Even those who have lived a sedentary life style have not been overwhelmed by the effort required to use a recumbent exercise bicycle. Those who are overweight have also found the seats large enough to be comfortable and less painful. Most upright stationary bikes require you to stand while peddling, and has caused some to suffer back and neck pain.

On a recumbent exercise bicycle you are seated closer to the ground and remain seated making them less of a potential for neck or back injuries from pulled muscles. Options available on a recumbent exercise bicycle include adjustable resistance which can make even athletes in the best condition work hard.

Priced from $500 to up to $3,000 cost of a recumbent exercise bicycle is determined by the accessories. Programming is available to offer specific training routines which can be repeated daily, and include everything from going up hills to flat riding. There are even programs which, when coupled with a heart rate program, will read your heart rate and adjust the resistance and speed to keep the exercise within the preset heart rate range.

Despite a cost typically above the average for an upright stationary bike, the biggest advantage of owning a recumbent exercise bicycle is that it can provide you with an exercise program you are more likely to use for a long time, instead of giving up due to it being uncomfortable.