Exercise Bikes
A Good Way to Lose Weight

Who would not like to lead a diseases free and fit life? The answer is probably none of you. However, the primary factor, which can demotivate you to workout, is lack of time. The lifestyle of every person is so hectic in this modern era, that finding time for your own health is very difficult. This is why many people opt for workout machines to be used at home. There are numerous exercise machines, which can help you get back in shape. These are elliptical trainers, treadmills, and rowing machines which you can use to get rid of unwanted body fat. However, one of the oldest workout machines used by many is an exercise bike.

There are various types of exercise bikes available in the market made by different manufacturers. Due to the wide array of models available in the market, it may be a bit tough for you to choose a suitable one for your own use at home. This is why it is always advisable to take some time, compare different models and then decide upon the right one.

Many people wonder why use a spin bike when there are many other workout machines available for you at stores. Well, unless you work out on a spin bike, you will fail to understand the benefits. Here are some advantages of using an exercise bike discussed for you.

1. Get in Shape with Ease
   

   According to a recent data, if you work out on an exercise bike for approximately 40 minutes, you can easily burn between 400 to 600 calories. However, the amount of calories burnt can differ from one person to another. Factors such as effort put into the workout and individual body weight play vital roles in determining the amount of calories to be burnt in a person. In other words, workout for 2 sessions of around 40 minutes each and you easily get rid of 1 pound of your body weight without restraining yourself to any type of diet.

2. Enhance The Fitness Of Your Cardiovascular System
   

   Using an exercise bike is just like using a normal bike. However, the only difference is that you actually reach nowhere on a spin bike. It is needless to say that cycling everyday can easily improve the condition of your overall cardiovascular system. It helps to make your lungs, heart, and vascular system strong. This results in better blood circulation and enhanced endurance and energy levels.

3. Suitable for People from Different Age Groups
   

   While performing heavy workouts, there are many people who injure themselves. They are not allowed to carry heavy weights due to their injuries. However, spin bikes do not put any type of pressure on your joints. Repeatedly cycling with your legs will surely strengthen your knees and hips. Cycling does not involve excessive muscle stretches. As a result of this, the question of sprains and muscle tears do not arise at all.

4. Strengthen Your Legs And Core Body
   

   Many of you probably feel a paining sensation while standing or walking for long hours. This means that your legs are weaker than the rest of your body. Since your legs have to carry the entire weight of your body while standing or walking, it is very important to strengthen them. Cycling helps to make your legs strong over time. It also helps to strengthen the core of your body. It is mandatory for you to enhance the resistance levels of your spin bike in order to get better results over a period of time.

5. People from Different Fitness Levels Can Use It
   

   No matter your age or how fit you are in your real life, cycling is one such form of exercise which is suitable for all. You can alter the speed of your pedaling depending upon your age and fitness level.

Unless you visit a few sports shops in town or a few online shopping websites, you will not get an idea about the various types of spin bikes available in the market. If you go unprepared to buy one, you may literally end up getting confused. At the same time, choosing one without proper considerations will result in a bad investment. Here are some points to ponder upon, while shopping for an exercise bike.

1. Price Tag
   

   Not every exercise bike is priced the same. There are several factors which determine the actual price of a spin bike. While looking for a suitable spin bike, always make sure that you choose one which does not burn a hole in your pocket and also comes with a majority of features you wished for in your exercise bike. For newbies, choosing a cheaper bike will be a good idea. However, professionals can opt for a feature rich and sturdy bike. However, the latter will obviously cost much higher.

2. Flywheel Weight
   

   The flywheel of a spin bike forms one of the primary parts of the entire machine. Depending upon the model you choose, you may find the flywheel either in front of the bike or at the rear. The flywheel is the source of resistance and the harder you pedal the faster the flywheel turns. It is important to note that bigger flywheels are always favorable than smaller ones. The bigger it is the smoother it will be during its rotation.

3. Easily Adjustable
   

   When it comes to any form of workout machine, the adjustability factor is very critical to consider. Since not every person is of the same build and height, a spin bike should be easily adjustable. Check about the adjustability of the seat and handlebars before you make the final purchase. If your entire family is planning to use it, then this becomes equally more important.

4. Resistance Levels
   

   Speaking about the resistance levels of an exercise bike, there are 4 types to reckon with in such cases. The resistance of a spin bike can be altered with manual screws, electro magnets, cables, and electromagnetic. Bikes, which have resistance generated by cables, are usually quite affordable and are usually used at homes. On the other hand, bikes with electronic magnets have an additional motor, which helps the magnet to move towards and away from the flywheel. It also shows the level of resistance used during a workout session. However, these are costly bikes and generally designed for professionals.

5. Bike Frame
   

   A spin bike with a solid frame is always preferred over any other frame. Shopping for an exercise bike from stores makes it very simple for you to check the frame. However, online purchases may make it difficult for you to determine this factor.

Most of you may think that exercising on a spin bike is one of the simplest jobs on earth. Just sit on the bike and pedal away to get a great workout. Although this may be true if you have an old spin bike and use it every day, it is definitely not true for new bikes. There are several steps to follow when it comes to using a new spin bike.

• Bike Position for Riding Comfort
  

  When it comes to exercising on a spin bike, you have to feel comfortable while using it. Just by visual inspection of a new bike will not help you understand whether you will feel comfortable using it for long hours. The handlebars should be aptly positioned and the seats should be equally comfortable. The best way out is to sit on your bike. Alter the seat position, as well as, the height and the distance of the handlebars from the seat in order to feel comfortable while riding it.

• Adjust The Pedals
  

  Once the seats are at comfortable height and distance, check the pedals. Place both the legs on the pedals. Make sure that the widest part or the middle of your feet are on them. This will help you enjoy your ride. Tighten the belts around your feet so that they do not slip off while pedaling.

• Seat Height Adjustment
  

  While sitting on the seat of your new spin bike make sure that your knees are bent at an angle of 25 to 35 degrees and the height of the seat is exactly the same as your hip bone. Once you are confident that the height is at its best as per your needs, tighten the knobs.

• Handles Adjustment
  

  Many people ignore the need to adjust the handles of their new spin bikes. Although it may seem less important to you, nevertheless, it is crucial for you to adjust the handles before you start your workout sessions on it. If the handles are not adjusted properly, it may cause severe neck pains and back aches.

You may use your exercise bike as much as you like. But, if you do not take good care of the machine, it may not run smoothly after a few months. This is true for any workout machine you use. If you do not provide periodic maintenance to the machine, it will not operate smoothly. Here are some tips to maintain your spin bike properly.

1. Wipe The Bike After Every Use
   

   When you work out, you tend to perspire. This perspiration may drip on various parts of your spin bike while exercising. It is needless to say that perspiration contains salt, which can easily corrode any part of your exercise bike if left unattended. It may also pose as a major hindrance to the lubricants from making your bike operate smoothly. This is why it is always a good idea to wipe your bike dry with a dry piece of cloth after every use.

2. Periodic Cleaning Is Also Important
   

   Even if you wipe your bike dry after every use, it is important for you to clean the machine on a periodic basis. Twice a month of proper cleaning should help your bike run smoothly for years. Simply remove the cowlings and clean each and every part with the help of a good quality de-greaser. Every moving part should also be lubricated at least once or twice a month.

3. Tighten All The Screws
   

   If you use your spin bike every day, it may result in several screws getting loose. For the safety of yourself and the bike it is very important that you tighten every screw minimum once every week. Ignoring this may result in a serious accident, which you can avoid very easily.

4. Clean The Chain
   

   Just like any other bike, your exercise bike also comes with a chain. It helps to rotate the flywheel. You also need to clean this chain on a regular basis. You will come across many users, who use soap and towel to clean the chain. This is something to avid under any circumstances. The best way out is to use a brush, since this will easily get rid of any debris, which may be stuck in the chain.

5. Licensed Technician Can Take Good Care
   

   If you ever find something wrong with your spin bike, do not make the mistake of repairing it on your own. This may aggravate the problem. The best solution is to allow a licensed technician to fix it for you. He will have the necessary expertise and tools to fix any type of technical problem with your spin bike.

When it comes to a spin bike, there are numerous types in the market. Similarly, there are also various manufacturers of such bikes. In order to choose the best as per your requirements, it is very important that you take some time, compare amongst a few good models, and then finalize the right one. If you take a hasty decision, then you may end up choosing the wrong model and this may also prove to be a bad investment for you in the long run. Thus, careful considerations are crucial to help you choose the right spin bike.