Fitness trends come and go, but pedaling in place on an exercise bike is a classic, low-impact way to nurture cardiovascular fitness. Whether you prefer to tool along at a moderate pace a few times a week or tackle intense, studio-style workouts daily, the bike you choose can help set you up for success.
After riding 19 indoor-cycling bikes over the past four years, we’ve found four that will please a variety of riders. Our recommendations include a top-notch, top-dollar connected-cycling experience; a less expensive magnetic-resistance bike for those who prioritize versatility (and wish to provide their own touchscreen); a model with friction resistance that’s made for streaming connected apps; and a sturdy budget option.
Anyone looking to improve or maintain their cardiovascular fitness could find value in an at-home exercise bike. The US Department of Health and Human Services encourages adults (PDF) to perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week. With the help of an exercise bike, you can get there, conveniently, without needing to leave home. Riding one could be your primary mode of aerobic exercise, a scalable cross-training option, or a form of low-impact rehabilitation of an injury. (Be sure to check with your health-care provider before starting a rehabilitation program.)
As we tested exercise bikes, we arrived at a key conclusion: When it comes to deciding which bike will best fit you and your lifestyle, know yourself. Here are a few questions to ponder:
- Will cycling at home please you, or is a studio environment ultimately more satisfying?
- If you’re taking a hiatus from a gym or studio setting to work out at home, how long do you envision your break to last?
