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Product Buying Guides: Ab Machine
These are great way to keep in shape at home. They can provide a good workout that’s low impact and so easy on the joints. Ideal for those who want to keep fit without the hassle of going to the gym. Their price varies considerably largely based on frame size and strength, programmability and extra features. When choosing yours think about the cycling position first, as bikes are available in two main types; upright and recumbent.
Upright
This is, as the name suggests, an upright seated position on a saddle; very much like riding a regular bike. The advantages are that your arms as well as your legs can get a workout and you can tackle more difficult routines because you can stand up to pedal if necessary. The disadvantage though is that they can be quite uncomfortable if you’re not used to riding (even with their padded seats) and are not so easy on you back muscles.
Recumbent
This is a laid-back style of seating, meaning that you pedal with your legs out in front of you rather than below. It feels like cycling while in a chair. This can be a very relaxing way of exercising, easier on your butt and back although your arms will not be getting so much of a workout, so the overall experience will be less intense. These are much easier for people who are not used to riding bikes but still want to enjoy the benefits of cycling. Semi-recumbent cycles are also available which endeavour to offer the best of both worlds; what you lose in intensity of training you make up for in comfort.
Comfort
This is a crucial aspect to any piece of exercise equipment as you’re more likely to use a machine that’s comfortable. The handlebars and seating should easily adjust to suit you, so that you are not putting unnecessary strain on your body. Consider opting for the most comfortably model that you can afford as this will be money well spent. Make sure, also, that you check the maximum weight limits given on the different machines to get one that is robust enough for your weight.
Resistance
This is provided on exercise bikes by one of two ways; tensions belts or magnetic resistance. Tensions belts are usually provided in cheaper models and can be more prone to wear. Magnetic resistance tends to be on the more expensive models but can give a smoother ride for longer so may be worth considering. The tension will be adjustable my means of a button or knob, depending on the model.
Heart Rate Monitor
This is a critical element in any exercising; increasing your heart rate is one of the main reasons for exercising so you need to know that this is happening and to what extent. Look for machines with heart monitors; either grip pads on the handlebars of by way of strap-on monitors (which can be wired or wireless). These will help to inform, motivate and keep you safe from over-exertion. Machines at the top of the scale will have programmes that can alter depending on your heart rate readings. This can be a useful, though quite expensive extra.
Power
Many machines now are self-driven which means that they do not need mains power to operate them. These usually have an operation time of about six hours a day. While this may seem like a long time, it may prove a problem if you are going to be sharing your machine with several other people. Other models need mains power to drive them which will limit, slightly, where you can use them. This type may be better if you’re not sure that six hours a day pedalling will be enough!
Programmes
This is one of the main factors in determining the price of the bike. Very basic models tend to come with none, or few pre-set programmes. The more that you pay, the more programmes you will get. This may be a good investment as a wider variety of programmes may help you to beat the boredom that exercising can bring, and help you to stay motivated. The console on them varies too, depending on how much you pay. Cheaper ones will not give much information, while more expensive ones can show you your heart rate, the calories that you’re burning, how fast you’re going, how far you have ridden etc. This feedback can be extremely useful in helping to keep you interested and focussed on your routine.
Space
Most models will give dimensions of how much floor space they take up for easy comparison. You can however, if space is limited, buy fold-away versions that can be stored in a cupboard when not being used. This will limit the models that you can choose from though, but should present a problem as there a quite a good selection of fold-away types.
General
A good exercise bike can represent quite an investment so try out lots of machines to see which suits you best. Look for quiet, smooth operation, a sturdy frame (many come with a lifetime’s guarantee), comfortable seating and enough programmes to keep you interested. If you really want to be pampered while you ride you could even buy a machine with a built-in CD player!
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