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Best Spin Bike Seat for Most Comfortable Exercise
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The bike seat is arguably the essential part of a bike. If you take spinning seriously either as a beginner or a pro, you need a good seat that lets you work-out comfortably for long.
I think you will be fascinated to know they’re seats you can buy to replace your current bike seat and say goodbye to pain and discomfort. Ready? Here we go.
Any experienced rider will tell you how crucial a good comfortable seat is. The benefits of a good seat are endless to a biker, whether you are a beginner or a pro cycler. A comfortable seat relieves pressure, thus preventing you from getting sore and let you ride for long without feeling pain. More critical, the type of seat you have determines whether you will quit cycling or you will continue. We don’t want you to quit – and that’s why we have reviewed the best seats that can offer you a comfortable work-out environment.
Discomfort is a recurring issue in most cyclist. However, getting the right seat that suits your body mechanic and the ridding you do can be daunting. However, before you think of replacing your old seat and throwing that extra dollar, you might want to check whether your seat is well adjusted. Sometimes that’s all you need to do to achieve comfort.
Now if there is no improvement, don’t worry because we have reviewed the best spin bike seat you should buy to continue enjoying your spin bike.
Factors to Consider When Replacing Your Spin Bike Seat
Cover Material
The material used to make the cover can either be synthetic, leather, or cotton. However, most seats today are made of synthetic material. Synthetic saddles are the most popular as they are lightweight and require little to no maintenance.
Next, we have leather seats which are great but require a break-in period before they become comfortable – break-in period is the time it takes for the leather take to mould into your shape. One drawback of Leather seats is they are not waterproof and require maintenance. You have to treat it to protect it from cracking and from moisture. Last, we have cotton. Cotton seats are comfortable and take little time to break-in. But, it is rarely used.
Rail Material
The material of rails used in your seat determines the weight, flexibility, and the cost. Rails connect the seat to the bike, which makes them the essential part of the seat. Rails can be made of titanium, carbon, alloy and steel. Most seat rails come in steel because it less expensive compared to titanium or carbon.
Steel is strong but heavy, so if you want a light seat, then you might want to consider carbon or titanium. An alloy such as Chromoly is also a darling of manufacture because they are lighter than steel yet strong. Titanium rails are strong and light and absorb vibrations, but it is expensive. Lastly, carbon is super light and absorb vibration. However, it is the costliest amongst all. The lighter the material, the more expensive it is.
Centre Cut out
May ridders complain of pain and soreness in the perineum. If you are one of them, you might want to consider a seat with a cut-out. Cut-out seats eliminate the material in the centre to relieve pressure and provide airflow.
Cut-outs alleviate pressure on soft tissues in your private areas which is beneficial to both male and female riders. But not all riders require a cut-out seat because different people have different body structure. Seats with cut-out come in a variety of size, design, and relief channels. So, choose one that makes you feel comfortable.
Size
The width of the seat mostly determines the size that is right for you. An excellent fitting seat should support you’re your sit bone without rubbing and chaffing. Therefore, you want to avoid a seat whose width is too small that it fails to support or too wide to cause chaffing. Ensure you take the correct measurement of your sit bone and calculate the optimum saddle width before you buy. But remember, having bigger behind does not equate to a more prominent sit bone.
Padding and Cushioning
Seats can either come with padding or without. While there are competing theories on the best type of seat, it all goes down to what you prefer and feel comfortable. But first, we need to debunk a popular misconception that more padding means more comfort. A more padded seat may be uncomfortable on a long ride because it deforms and creates more contact and pressure area. Also, they are riders who prefer riding on bare carbon seat.
Now, when it comes to cushioned seats, most brands come with foam or gel cushioning. The nature of your ridding, your weight, and the duration you spend spinning will determine the type of cushioned seat to buy.
Shape
Bike seats come in different form and design. Different designs support different riders and different styles of ridding. Thus, you should choose the one that suits your body mechanic and ridding style.
Review: Comparison table for the Best Spin Bike Seat
Bikeroo Oversize Comfort Bike Seat
Bikeroo bike seat has thick and soft padding that will distribute pressure and lower back pain. This allows you to spin for long without experiencing pain. The seats are made to accommodate the physical structure of both men and women.
This bike has a wide design which makes it great for indoor bikes. This combined with soft padding, makes Bikeroo seat both balanced and comfortable.
It comes with a waterproof cover, a seat adapter, mounting tools, and manual instruction to take you through the step-by-step installation process. A waterproof cover is crucial if you sweat a lot because it makes it easy to clean. If you have an uncomfortable seat, then you should consider replacing it with Bikeroo.
This seat has a universal fit which means it is compatible with most well-known brands in the market. How is this possible? Because it has a universal seat adapter and a standard rails mount system that make them compatible with the world’s popular bikes.
The best part of this spin bike seat is it has excellent ergonomic design that makes it comfortable for men and women.
Pros
- Easy to mount on any spin bike
- Has an extra wide design for even distribution of pressure
- It has thick and soft padding
- Ergonomic design that fit both men and women
- Relieves pain and stress on the body
Cons
- Oversized; however, it is excellent if you have a big behind
Verdict
This is a great seat with features that distribute pressure so that you can work-out without lower back pain. The seat comes from a well-known brand. It will help you keep fit without discomfort, soreness, or pain.
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Daway C99 Comfortable Bike Seat
Daway C99 comes padded with high-density foam which makes it an excellent replacement for your current uncomfortable seat. Daway C99 is elastic, soft, and comfortable. Beyond that, it will cushion your behind and back against discomfort and pain.
I would highly recommend this C99 if you are looking for a seat that relieves the pressure on your private and perineum. This saddle let you enjoy your spinning without harming your health. The best part about this seat is it has good ergonomic design and hollow which makes it more breathable.
The other feature of this seat is it has dual spring suspension. This adds to flexibility and contributes to a smooth ride. If you are not a hands-on person and you’re worried about how to replace it, don’t worry because this seat is easy to install. Furthermore, it fits well in most spin bikes irrespective of the brand. However, it’s always prudent to confirm.
As a side note, this seat comes with a taillight. Now, while it is not useful in an indoor bike, you can utilize it if you decide to remove and place it on your outdoor bike.
Pros
- Made with memory foam to give you a comfortable ride
- It is waterproof
- Has a hollow design for more breathability
- Built with a dual spring suspension to increase flexibility
- Easy to remove and install
Cons
- The high-density foam may be stiff for some users
- Taillight use battery however you won’t need them for indoor cycling.
Verdict
This seat is well padded with quality memory foam making it soft, elastic, and comfortable. You will have a smooth ride as the seat is ergonomically designed with hollows for increased breathability. As if that is not enough, you will get a seat that is flexible because it has a dual spring suspension.
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Xmifer Oversized Bike Seat
Xmifer is an extra wide bike seat that comes with dual spring suspension meant to relief your tailbone and prostate tension. It is well padded with density foam to ensure you get a pain free work-out while spinning.
It comes with two tools to help you mount the seat. You can adjust the height and angle of the seat when installing. If you are looking for a seat that will let you enjoy a smooth ride, this is an excellent seat because it is equipped with a dual anti-shock to absorb vibrations and shock. Besides, it is designed with airflow vent at the centre to increase breathability and heat-dissipation.
Xmifer is made of microfiber synthetic leather making the seat wear resistant and waterproof. This will ensure you have a smooth seat that is anti-scratch. Now if your bike is prone to water spillage, the waterproof will come in handy because you simply wipe and continue with your work-out. in other words, this seat is low maintenance.
This seat weighs 545 grams and measures 10.4″x 8.3″ x 4.5.”
Pros
- The seat is waterproof making in case you spill water on it
- It has anti-scratch features which guard it against wear
- Comes with a dual rubber spring ball for shock absorption
- It is easy to install
- This seat has a universal fit which means it can be installed in most bikes
Cons
Verdict
It is a great seat that comes fitted with a dual anti-shock to reduce the level of vibration on your behind as you ride. You will find airflow vents to for breathability and heat reduction when working out. The seat is wide for extra comfort and has anti-scratch to keep it looking new for longer.
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Bikeroo Bike Seat for Men
A product from Bikeroo, this seat designed specifically for men. Besides being made with the male anatomy in mind, my favourite part about this seat is the middle cut-out, narrow design and soft padding strategically placed to relieve pressure on the delicate area of your body. Essentially, this means that you can work out on your spin bike for longer without getting soreness, pain and chafing.
This seat comes with shock absorbers to help reduce the risk of prostrate complication and erectile dysfunction. This is an appealing feature for men who want to replace or upgrade their current uncomfortable bike seat.
This product uses stainless steel rails. Steel while strong tend to be heavy. So, if you are looking for a superlight seat, then this might not be your first choice. Overall it is comfortable and durable.
Bikeroo enables you to accomplish your ridding target without pain by eliminating sit bone pain and relieving pressure around the perineum and the lower back.
This seat comes with video mounting instruction and bike adapter to help make the process of assembling easier and fast.
Pros
- Comes with high-quality padding
- Has a centre cut-out for pressure relief
- You have access to video mounting instruction for easy installation
- Shock absorber for a smooth ride
- The seat is excellent for men based on their physical anatomy
Cons
- This seat is made for men specifically; however, some women find it comfortable
Verdict
A great seat with everything you need in a man seat. It comes with a middle cut-out that makes it comfortable for men. The design of the seat is made with the male anatomy in mind. This means you don’t have to worry about pressure and soreness in your private areas.
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Bikeroo Women Bike Seat
Now something for the ladies.
Weighing at 1.54 pounds, this seat is going to make sure that you have a painless ride. This is one of the few bike seats explicitly designed to fit the girl’s anatomy.
If you are a woman and your current seat is exerting excess pressure on vagina area and thigh, then you might want to try out this seat. This seat is well cushioned and has sufficient pressure relief channel to help women ride for long without experiencing pain or discomfort.
A crowning feature of this seat is the dual spring suspension that increases the level of comfort significantly. Also, the seat is wide, which make it an excellent choice for women who love spinning.
Now, if you want to upgrade your current seat, this seat makes the whole exercise easy because it is easy to mount and fit on most bikes, I bet even the one you are using right now.
Pros
- Specifically made for women
- You can ride in the seat for hours without discomfort
- The seat comes with soft padded cushion
- Dual spring suspension makes the seat flexile
- It has enough pressure relief channels
- Best for women use
Cons
- The seat adapter does come pre-installed which may make it hard to install
Verdict
If you are a woman looking for the best spin bike seat, then Bikeroo is the seat for you. It will increase your comfort and let you enjoy a painless ride. It is made with woman anatomy in mind and comes with abundant pressure relief channel to reduce discomfort and pain.
View price on Amazon
Final thoughts
Finding the best seat can be a challenge because the market is flooded with choices. However, only a few will give you the comfort you have been desperately longing. In our review, we paid close attention to the comfort of the seat, adjustability, and the value you get for your money.
The list in this review contain only the best bike seats you can find in the market – both for men and women. But we can only have one editor’s choice. Bikeroo Women Bike Seat is made by a reputable and is rated highly by users around the world. It is designed to cater to the women who love to spin and keep her health in check. This seat will reduce pressure on your thighs and sensitive area as it is well-cushioned and has pressure relief channels.
People visited this page searching : comfortable exercise bike seats, most comfortable spin bike seat
Wattbike Atom review – Spinbikeexpert
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The Wattbike is an indoor cycling bike that is effective for people with weight loss objectives. The cycling bike is prominent for giving accurate measurements of power output in watts, it can, therefore, be adopted for use by virtually everyone and that is from the teenage kids to people who work from home and the Olympic gold medalists.
The development of the Wattbike was driven by the desire to replicate the sensation of riders riding on the road, which later led to the bike being used to identify talent and develop a big number of elite athletes. Since the bike is performance-oriented it offers users an indoor training experience that closely resembles an outdoor road experience.
Gym owners can adopt the wattbike in their gyms, and trainers can also place them at the side of the pitch or at home. Important to note is that a lot of time, research and technology has been invested in the development of the wattbike and it is only normal that upon the first interaction you get the chills on how to effectively use it.
What to expect from the watt bike
The atom comes with an included watt bike application that is split into two; first is the updating of firmware and the check on settings. The app, therefore, updates the Atoms firmware and this is done every two weeks. Since you will be connected to the atom via the Bluetooth smart, you will always be informed when there is an update.
Users of the Atom are also treated to the Bluetooth FE-C and the ANT +, which enables them to connect to different training applications like the Wattbike hub and the Zwift. The manufacturers have also included the FE-C technology that enables third-party applications to automatically control resistance that simulate gradient changes and climbs.
While using the wattbike, users can adjust resistance through the shifters, which enables a real road like gear change. To power, the atom wattbike users will have to plug it into the main power source via the internal step monitor. And unlike the Wattbike the Atom does not incorporate a head unit, therefore, a majority of the controls are run through a smartphone.
Users who want to engage in workouts, can easily set the ergo mode and choose the resistance that they are comfortable with after which the bike will match their cadence. And for the steep climbs or heel workouts, the incremental step motor can be used to enable simulation.
What information should you expect from the wattbike?
Some of the popular metrics that you are bound to interact with are the left/right leg balance, the bike will measure the balance of your left and right leg, the power output of both legs will then help your to cycle effectively. You can link your wattbike with a heart rate monitor and it will present to you your heart rate as you work out. The importance of this feature is to help you measure the physiological intensity of the exercise.
As indicated earlier that wattbike is technology-infused and it, therefore, allows you to measure your pedaling technique. Data is collected 100times per second so the wattbike will come up with a graph that is representative of your pedaling technique.
There is also the power or kg option, and here while setting your user profile you will have to give your weight information and the effective performance monitor will help calculate the power to weight ratio, the feature is vital for people who plan on engaging in climbs. There is also the average power metric that will be used to track changes in your performance.
The significance of the power metric is that it will monitor your average power across different sessions and alert you of any impending illness. The Strava users can also track the distance that they have traveled while engaging the wattbike complete with speed.
Key Features of the Wattbike
Resistance systems- with the wattbike atom you get access to two modes of resistance the gear and ergo mode. The gear mode is also the default mode, which gives the sensation of riding a bike and the ergo mode is where the atom will hold you to a target wattage. Users can, therefore, shift between modes via the action button located in the right shifter.
The Polar View- the feature allows you to apply force in each of the pedal strokes as you optimize your techniques with the analysis tools. By using the polar view to train your pedaling efficiency, the power output will improve.
Adjustments- the wattbike is highly adjustable to provide a comfortable platform to its users. There is also the real ride feel technology that replicates the sensation and resistance of riding on the road, which implies that the bike seeks to offer users the most authentic road feel though used indoors.
The atom is made with 22 gears and a 25% gradient range, which lets users push through the toughest of climbs, the above features can be found in the wattbike hub.
Pros
- Sensational pedaling enables a real road-like feel
- Provides accurate and comprehensive data
- Users have other options for bikes that is the wattbike pro and trainer
- Offers dual resistance systems
- Features an intuitive wattbike hub
Cons
- Comes with a pricey tag
- Saddle not too comfortable
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Final thought
The wattbike comes in different versions apart from the atom, and we also have the pro and trainer. The trainer offers low to medium resistance while the pro offers medium to high. This, therefore, means that the smaller and novice athletes can use the trainer whereas the powerful and team sports athletes can use the wattbike pro.
Wattbike remains to be a performance bike, it has been scaled by the inclusion of new features, and the reduced prices make it affordable. Though it does not offer a one on one interactive training, it will keep you in the loop by running updates at least after every two weeks, so you can be sure you are getting the best current service.
Best spin bike under 200 – Spinbikeexpert
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There are three different types of exercise bikes, which are the recumbent, the upright and the spin bike. They all offer different work out strengths. The indoor cycling bike (spin bike), mimic’s the outdoor bike and aims to offer a similar exercise. The bike is mostly used by cyclists or people who want to work on their Abs, calves, and thighs.
The recumbent bike has back support and will have your legs positioned at an angle, the sitting position is convenient for people with back problems, as they aim to achieve an effective cardiovascular exercise. The upright exercise bike, on the other hand, features a high placed handlebar such that your sitting position is upright.
The difference between the upright and spin bike is their sitting position, the spin bikes will have you riding in a bent position when compared to the upright bike. Enough with the varieties let us now focus on the Best spin bike under 200 that will help you burn up to 750-1000 calories with regard to your fitness level, weight, and gender.
Comparison Table
Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike
Apart from having some of the most significant features, the Marcy foldable exercise bike occupies little space because of its ability to fold. The bike is budget-friendly but very functional and has been made with durable material.
Specs
- Features a computer screen display
- The frame design folds up
- Made with adjustable foot straps
- Can be adjusted to fit different heights
- The seat has incorporated a high-density foam
A well-toned body portrays an enviable physique and to achieve it you have to know which exercise combination will be effective. The type of training machine has a lot to do with getting the right results, and to this end, the Marcy exercise bike comes equipped with a manually adjustable resistance; the feature will enable varying degrees of exercises for your body goals.
Most people are used to timers when working out or some would set time to perform a specific workout, the downside of this process is that you won’t be able to know the exact calories that you have shed and since you will be alternating between exercises, keeping track of your workout routines and progress could be a challenge.
The reason why the Marcy exercise bike has incorporated the LCD panel, which will display for you the number of calories burned, the time, speed and distance covered with regard to your workout routine and you can also easily monitor your progress.
Marcy spin bike has been constructed with a 14 gauge high-quality frame, a feature that encourages resiliency against your body weight, thus enhancing the durability of the bike. The pedals have been made with foot straps that will hold your feet in place as you work out. Important to note is that the foot straps are adjustable to fit your foot size.
A well-padded spin bike seat contributes to comfort and extended working out hours; compare that with a less padded bicycle seat. You will barely go two blocks if you are riding for exercise because your bottoms will either become numb or sore, which will make cycling a nightmare. The same applies to a less padded spin bike seat.
Pros
- The spin bikes help tone the legs
- Has eight preset levels of magnetic resistance control encouraging varied workouts
- The foldable nature allows easy storage
- The pedals are counterweighted complete with adjustable foot straps for comfort
- The spin bike comes at a fair price
Cons
- Though padded the seat comes out a bit hard thus uncomfortable
- Seat height adjustment is not convenient for tall people
Verdict
Marcy spin bike can help you achieve your body goals considering the combination exercises that the machine can handle. The eight preset levels complete with magnetic resistance control allows users varied workouts with regard to resistance.
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Body Rider Fan Bike
After incorporating the right diet, you will need a good working out spin bike that will help you tone the muscles, prevent cellulite and also sculpture your Abs among others. The body rider fan bike can offer you the above and a lot more.
Specs
- Features a knob to help adjust the tension
- Incorporated a fan wheel
- Made with a digital display
- The frame of the bike comprises of a sturdy steel
- The handlebars are dual-action
Given the design of the body rider fan bike, no one expects it to feature a fan but guess what! You won’t be sweating the entire time you work out, because the manufacture of the body rider has incorporated a fan that will help cool you off. You can also track the progress of your routines and the calories that you have managed to burn through the digital display.
Your weight in relation to that of the spin bike is a matter of concern because if it exceeds the amount that the bike can handle then you won’t be able to reap the full benefits. The body rider can, therefore; handle up to 250 pounds maximum weight. The bike also features a sturdy steel frame that can comfortably support different heights.
Another interesting functional feature is the dual-action handlebars, which will work on your upper and lower torso during training. Whereas, the cycling comes in handy for the elliptical exercises, works on the whole body more so, on the upper torso. The adjustable seat and handlebar enables users to combine and alternate varied workout exercises
Pros
- The resistance levels are easy to adjust
- The updated cushion offers comfort
- The bike is stable given the sturdy steel h frame
- Comes at a fairly affordable price
- The bikes ergonomic design also works on the arms and upper body
Cons
- High-intensity exercises will have the bike wobble
- Makes clunking and chunking noise during use
Verdict
The best thing about the body rider fan bike is that it cools you off as you work out, the incorporated features work on the various parts of your body and the study h steel frame will have you achieve a successful work out session.
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Sunny SF-B1001 Indoor Cycling Bike
The Sunny SF cycling bike comes convenient for the days that don’t include hitting the gym. For one it does not occupy a lot of space and the wheels enable it to be mobile, you can, therefore, move it to any room or location of your choice.
Specs
- Features a smooth chain drive mechanism
- The flywheel is a recommended 30 pound
- Maximum weight capacity is 220lbs
- The seat and handlebar are adjustable
- The steel frame and crank are heavy-duty
Among the many spin cycling bikes that you will come across the Sunny SF will surely catch your attention, because the incorporation of the heavy-duty crank and steel frame makes the bike stable enough for you to carry out a myriad of exercises for extended hours.
What’s more, is that the adjustable seat allows people of different heights to successfully achieve their workout routines. The handlebars are also adjustable and offer comfort during workouts; people who live in apartments know how annoying it can be when your neighbor wakes you up at 4 am in the morning with the sound of a training bike.
To this end, the Sunny SF incorporates a 30-pound flywheel complete with a quiet chain drive mechanism that will not have you making noise for your neighbors in the mornings and evenings. With this bike, you can also adjust the intensity of your workouts with regard to your body goals via the resistance knob.
The bike also features wide and flat transportation wheels and the foot pedal is caged to offer you comfort thus preventing any incidences of slipping.
Pros
- The seat is adjustable to enable proximity to the handlebars
- The flywheel enables momentum for extended working out hours
- The tension knob allows the increase or decrease of resistance
- Users can incorporate varied routines that help stimulate the muscles
- The textured foot pedals incorporate different foot sizes with enhanced grip
Cons
- Seat not very stable as it wobbles
- Manual for instructions is a bit vague
Verdict
The difference of the Sunny SF to other types of spin bikes that come at a price of 200 and below is that it has a chain drive system while most of the others comprise a belt. It, however, works well given its sturdy frame and the 30lb flywheel.
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MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
I must say that drum rolls are necessary for this trainer, not only does it offer versatility but it is affordable and can be used by patients in hospitals.
Specs
- Made with heavy-duty precision sealed bearings
- Features a dual pully belt system
- The construction is solid steel
- The flywheel is machined
- Features a 3piece crank
The Magne Trainer, unlike other spin bikes, allows the heavyweight individuals to work out on it, the machine might be light in weight but it is for sure compact. It features a sturdy steel frame and a base that is 15inches wide to enhance its stability during use.
In the beginning, I mentioned that the bike can be used in hospitals! Well, that is not easy for everyone to believe; as we all know the hospitals don’t entertain noise that might agitate patients. Not for the Magne trailer however, the reason being the patented magnetic resistance, which apart from providing twice the resistance it also enhances the bikes smoothness during operation.
On the sides, you will see the pedals but don’t stand on them, instead make yourself comfortable by sitting down and insert your foot in the Velcro straps on the pedals. Mind you the pedals can comfortably contain various leg types.
To work on your hands you will use the same pedals that you used when working your feet, and to monitor the progress of your workout exercises. You have also been provided with a single AA battery, which operates an electric monitor and it is here that you will get information on the calories that you have burnt, the distance you have covered and the amount of time that you have used in training.
For a competitive edge, the spin bike is not destined for home use alone but rather the offices, nursing homes, and the physical therapy offices. It can also be used in assisted living facilities and the chiropractor’s offices. Heavyweight and tall individuals might have to find alternative spin bikes because the Magne trainer could be a bit limiting.
Pros
- Training is bidirectional thus can be pedaled backward or forwards
- The pedals feature finger grooves thus the hands can fit comfortably
- Offers enough resistance for a cardio workout or the light physical therapy exercises
- The Velcro straps easily adjust to the user’s feet
- The incorporated 5 rotational dial allows the selection of a suitable resistance
Cons
- The spin bike lacks traction thus moves on different surfaces
- The digital monitor does not work consistently
Verdict
The best way to make the machine functional and durable is to limit excessive usage, also do not perform intense exercises because it lacks a rubber bottom to enhance traction when placed on different surfaces. By observing the above you can enjoy a quiet working out session as you read your book or watch TV.
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Important factors to consider before adopting a spin bike
Lean proteins, fats, and carbs have been determined to nourish the body, this then enables intense training; a person’s nutrition greatly determines the amount of training that they can engage in. When people eat balanced nutrition and in the correct portions it will help dictate how much exercise they can engage in and the specific types of workouts that their bodies can comfortably handle.
People who constantly engage in intense working exercises are prone to muscle injuries, therefore, the best way to work out is by reducing the frequency of training with regard to the intensity of the workout exercises.
Each body part gets allocated a set of training workouts therefore if the sets allocated to the different body parts are of a large volume then you might want to reduce the exercise sessions. Also, be mindful to incorporate recovery sessions in your workout plan. The number of activities that you carry out will be used to determine the time that you will require for recovery.
Lastly, gym-goers are fond of using mineral supplements and vitamins, which help them, recover during the recovery session. Therefore, you might want to invest in the Bio-active peptides that will increase the speed at which your body recovers, as they aim to increase the process of protein synthesis and metabolism thus having a positive effect on the musculoskeletal system.
Factors to consider before buying a spin bike
The first thing that you should look for is the warranty of your spin bike; this is because the gadgets might develop a problem within the warranty period. So to avoid spending money to repair a new spin bike, ensure your warranty is functional and covers an extended period.
The construction of a spin bike has to incorporate durable material that will offer stability as you work out. Also, check on the levels of resistance, fewer levels will mean that pressure be applied on the wheels to increase resistance thus encouraging tear and wear. To counter the problem consider adopting a spin bike that has magnetic resistance.
The seat and handlebars should also be adjustable to enable proximity to the wheels and to accommodate different arm lengths thus a comfortable working out session. Consider the spin bikes flywheel, which is supposed to be large to enable a smooth and outdoor like riding experience.
An LCD console will be an important feature to help you monitor the progress of your workouts and the calories that you have burned. The pedals are also meant to be fitting complete with a toe cage; the feature will prevent your foot from slipping out thus improve your workout sessions.
Most probably you will want to clean the area that your spin bike is stationed, therefore, be sure to find one that has wheels, which will assist in movement either to another location or to clean the surface.
Conclusion
As always cheap is expensive, you may end up buying about three spin bikes in one year yet you could have saved up and purchased one that is durable and functional. The above spin bikes have different features, which are all effective and budget-friendly; therefore, all you need to do is choose one that is convenient for your workout sessions and will fit in the available space.
Reviews Archives – Spinbikeexpert
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When it comes to indoor training what matters most is the technology used and functionality of the spin bike, the rider needs to reach their objectives, either professionally or on a personal level. Exercise combinations help build resistance, tone the body, and burn calories. And by combining the non-cycling workouts, …
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The best thing about an indoor cycling bike is that you get to go anywhere and run through different terrains without leaving the house. You also interact with a gym class and instructors from the comfort of your home. And what benefits do you stand to gain from doing all …
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The competency that is translated to the cycling road has much to do with an effective indoor cycling bike and the combination of exercises therein. Look at the cyclist in a race for example; they have to contend with both smooth and rough terrains. Climb steep roads and go down …
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Read More »
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If you happen to get into any gym, spinning class, fitness club, or cycle studio, you are likely familiar with seeing an entire group of people pushing their sweat glands and muscles to the limit, as well as an entire section of people using indoor bikes for hours. Chances are, …
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There are many low-impact exercises you can do, and cycling happens to be one of them. In fact, compared to other exercise routines, it will still give you quite the challenge you need to stay fit and healthy. If you are reading this, chances are that you are one of …
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When it comes to indoor bikes, you definitely want the best possible exercise machine that allows you the best experience in your fitness journey, but that does not mean all indoor bikes will fulfill this purpose. When we say ‘all’, we mean it – there are so many brands out …
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Fitness is an increasingly important aspect of people’s lives today, and it is not hard to understand why – after all, more people are increasingly aware of the health dangers present today, and that a fit lifestyle increases your lifespan in many ways. However, not everyone has the money to …
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Spin bike good for cardio? Exercise Bike for Cardio Workout
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Exercise bikes have been part of the fitness world for a long time, and they do not show signs of disappearing any time soon. There are several types of these bikes, from the stationary to the spin and elliptical bikes, which have all changed the fitness industry.
Part of their appeal, especially for spin bikes, lies in the fact that having them in the house is more affordable than building an entire gym in the home, in addition to being very easy to use and being a low impact exercise regime (that is, you do not need to suffer injuries in the joints). However, this also raises the question: are they good for a cardio session, or should you abandon them and try other aerobic exercise forms like running on the treadmill?
The answer in summary is yes, but there are several factors to keep in mind. There are some things you can do to make them as effective as possible in your workouts.
What are the benefits?
It offers a low-impact exercise
You likely do not want to suffer injuries to various body parts during an exercise session, but spinning is a low-impact exercise so you will not need to worry about that. It will not put a lot of pressure on the joints, unlike normal running exercises – so it is useful to staying fit even when you have knee injuries without making the pain worse.
Helps you to tone up
Even though the exercise does not risk damage to the joints, it forces multiple muscle groups in your body to get to work – your core, quads, bums, arms (depending on the workout), legs and thighs. Therefore, that 45-minute session eventually leads to toning of these areas, especially if you work hard on them.
If you also increase the resistance levels, it will give you extra power to become as toned as you wish, even on your arms and abs, and the introduction of weights will also force extra muscle groups to work. In fact, this is one advantage they have over stationary bikes, which will primarily work the legs, quads, thighs and bum only.
Burns calories
It is important to remember that spinning and exercise in general is not the only way to burn calories, but it helps in the process. In particular, spinning itself is a good way to burn them quickly – a typical class will last about 45 minutes, and you will burn up to 500 calories in one session.
However, this will also depend on your cycling frequency and how you do it, so this means that the calories you burn will be higher if you increase the resistance levels.
It helps you track your progress
Spin bikes have a great advantage over many exercise bikes – they have a monitor, which assists you to keep track of your progress. This includes your cycling speed, the calories you are burning, and the distance you are covering.
It has a similar feel to a road bike
Unlike stationary bikes, spin bikes have a similar feel to road bikes since they allow you to adjust the handlebars and seat, which means you can even do the exercise sessions while standing and leaning without looking awkward.
Comparing it with other exercise equipment
The ultimate decision to help you know whether a spin bike will give you good cardio is knowing what your goals are in terms of workouts and fitness, as well as if you have any injuries. Spin bikes are versatile enough to allow you to get a low-impact workout, while treadmills are great if you want to walk or run, and so on.
To help you make the most of your workouts on a spin bike, you need to set the bike to a certain level – some tips to help you on that include:
- Controlling the frequency and intensity – in order for you to get the most of your workout, it is important to select a bike that has various resistance levels that you can adjust. Start with a warm-up session for five minutes, then do moderate cycling for 150 minutes per week or vigorous cycling for 75 minutes a week. To make it even more effective, space out the moderate and high-intensity cycling sessions by alternating them between days, so that you can get the best cardio workouts. As your fitness increases, you can work them within the same day using intervals of 20 to 30 minutes.
- Set up the bike correctly before starting your cycling session – this may seem like a minor task, but it is very important to set up your spin bike correctly so that you can make the most out of your spinning session and avoid the chances of struggling later due to pain. Some of the things to look out for when setting up include: Saddle height (the knees must be slightly bent when the pedal is at the bottom and the ball of your foot should rest completely on the pedal), saddle angle – must be in a horizontal position, backwards and forward position of saddle, and the position of the handlebars.
- Combine it with other exercises – some studies show that an average spin class will burn between 400 to 600 calories, and the average class lasts about 45 minutes. If you spin three times a week, it means you are burning about 1200 to 1800 calories, but keep in mind that a pound of fat has about 3500 calories (you need to burn 3500 calories to lose a pound). Therefore, if you want visible results in weight loss, you need to combine it with other exercises and not allow any wiggle room.
- Balance things out – keep in mind that spinning will never be a substitute for weight training, even if you add weights to the training schedule. In fact, if you are not careful, it can result in injuries when you have improper form, hunch too much, or over-emphasize on the lower body. It is important to balance things out as much as possible.
Final thoughts
Spin bikes can give you plenty of cardio that helps you build your fitness and stamina, but it is also important to balance things out and be careful with how you incorporate it into your regime to avoid overdoing things.
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Is Keiser M3I compatible with Zwift? – Spinbikeexpert
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So you own a Keiser M3I bike and have big plans for it. Part of the plans you might have is checking whether it is compatible with various hardware that you might want to install, such as the Zwift. However, does it allow you to do so? Read on to find out.
What is the Keiser M3I bike?
Among the bikes that you notice in indoor cycling, the Keiser M3I is among the groundbreaking ones as it features several advantages that other models lack, such as the M3 and M3 Plus. These include:
Belt drive system
You are able to use it quietly without much disturbance due to its use of the belt drive mechanism, which also increases its smoothness and efficiency.
The belt mechanism works by transferring the cycling power from the smaller pulleys to the larger one, which makes the flywheel start turning. This eventually results in a high-gear ration that gives it a similar feel to an actual road bike.
Consoles
If you want to track your progress, consoles are very important in the job – and the M3I has both a light sensor and a digital display. However, the display is not in a touch-screen form, so you have to power it by pedaling instead of relying on pressing some buttons to check your progress.
Resistance
There are 24 resistance levels in the system, which caters to multiple cycling intensities – ranging from light, to medium and intense. Most bikes will have 20 levels at most, so the M3I beats out many similar bikes for its price range.
The resistance will mainly use a system of Eddy currents, which also means that the flywheel will not come into contact with the other parts. Instead, the system uses two magnets on both sides of the flywheel to control the resistance levels, and they will not be vulnerable to wearing out (unlike the brake pads and friction pad that can generate plenty of noise when they wear down).
The display screen will also show you the current gear you are using. There is also a shaft at the lower part of the handlebars that you can use to adjust your seat – in contrast to the tension knob that is in many models and does not indicate where your optimal seat position is. If you want to use the emergency brakes, it is also possible because the screen will display the gear levels – just move the shaft upwards and hold it in place to make the flywheel stop turning.
Maintaining the bike
It is quite easy to keep this model in working order as its strong frame (entirely steel) allows you to use it in a variety of environments. The dimensions also remain steady and durable, while the shape of the frame prevents sweat accumulation. Overall this is a great bike for beginners and advanced users alike.
What is Zwift?
If you are searching for a way that makes your indoor cycling sessions more interesting, then Zwift is among the top contenders, and has numerous people singing its praises. If you have no idea what it is, it is a turbo trainer game that you can use to link to other cyclists in a virtual setting, through the turbo linking of your iPad, computer, Apple TV or iPhone. This eventually reduces the boredom that you might experience when you are indoor cycling alone.
In addition to competing against additional cyclists in Zwift races, you can also access specific workout programs, which are all designed from the ideas of professional coaches. You can then complete these programs in a group, and get the same intensity of training as other riders.
All of these features make the game better than outdoor riding, at least according to the company. The reasoning behind it is that external factors such as traffic, other cyclists and time constraints can take the fun out of riding outdoors, and this might be true for you, so you might prefer doing your exercise in an indoor environment.
An interesting feature that comes with the game is that you can choose your location from a range of virtual worlds, such as London, New York and Watopia. You can also access the route maps that cover various rides on the Strava part of the game, as well as the leaderboard scores to make it more interesting.
Is the game free?
It is not, as you pay close to $15 every month, but the advantage here is that you can cancel your subscription at any time. You neither need to commit immediately, since there is a free trial lasting 7 days and is available to new members.
In order to use it optimally, you require a turbo trainer – especially a smart one if you prefer the idea of doing immersive gameplay. The trainer will have a design that takes on a direct drive appearance, along with variable resistance and a power meter. The turbo then measures your power output, and then Zwift receives this data in order to power up your avatar.
If you do not have a smart turbo trainer though, you can also use any older turbo trainer – as long as you combine it with a Bluetooth speed sensor or ANT+. Combine this with an ANT+ dongle, a small stick that you connect to your computer through USB, which then communicates with the system.
If you are using a computer to power the system, then you can use iPad, Windows, Apple TV, or iOS.
The variable resistance also gives your riding experience a real-world feel, so the resistance increases when you go uphill and reduces when you go downhill.
Can both of them work?
While the Zwift and Keiser M3I are great in their own separate ways, they unfortunately are not compatible with each other. The M3I relies on a Bluetooth mechanism, which allows you to connect your devices using this method, but it does not have a specific slot in its frame to handle the Zwift dongle or the software associated with it. There are other models that can do the same, as the Zwift website has a list of compatible models.
How much weight can you lose after spinning for a month? – Spinbikeexpert
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If there is one form of exercise that will not die in popularity anytime soon, it has to be spinning. There are so many studios around the country that have been in operation for years, and still attract new people every day as the spinning craze has increased its reach. This raises the question of why many people are increasingly obsessed, and it all has to do with the secret that they offer – transformation.
They are never monotonous in their energy, especially thanks to the high intensity, affirmations that the participants are continuously shouting, and the high enthusiasm that the trainers provide. However, there are some questions you might understandably have about the whole thing, such as the weight you will lose at the end of each session, the calories you are burning, and so on. Read on to find out.
Some facts you need to know
The workout is quite impressive, but it doesn’t burn as much
While many people associate spinning with reducing your fat stores and helping you in the process of reducing your weight, it does not burn as many calories as you might think – even studies confirming this notion.
In fact, studies show that an average spin class will burn between 400 to 600 calories, and the average class lasts about 45 minutes. If you spin three times a week, it means you are burning about 1200 to 1800 calories, but keep in mind that a pound of fat has about 3500 calories (you need to burn 3500 calories to lose a pound). Therefore, if you want visible results in weight loss, you need to combine it with other exercises and not allow any wiggle room.
While it is great for any age, you also need to be careful with how you handle it
Since spinning happens to be a low-impact workout mechanism, it is great for both trained athle3tes and beginners, as well as older people. The only thing you need to be careful about is how much you actually do it and its intensity.
There is a study, for instance, which found that high intensity levels of spinning exercises can be a major factor in the decline of your body performance, instead of increasing your stamina.
In addition, you need to keep in mind that spinning will never be a substitute for weight training, even if you add weights to the training schedule. In fact, if you are not careful, it can result in injuries when you have improper form, hunch too much, or over-emphasize on the lower body. It is important to balance things out as much as possible.
You might also not know it, but the over-training of your thigh muscles can impact other muscle groups negatively. If you fail to do cross-training (incorporation of other exercises), it creates imbalances between opposing muscles, and increases the risk of injuries due to overdevelopment of certain areas. That brings us to:
It is important to change things sometimes
Spinning is great because it is a form of cardio training, therefore leads to the strengthening of your heart, and it is fun to be in a studio atmosphere filled with fun. However, it is also vital to have variety in your life if you are serious about losing weight.
Aside from the classes, include some sessions of personal training and practice them on your own after getting advice from your instructor. For instance, the use of weights forces the muscles to tone up, which makes you look smaller, and makes your body more efficient at burning calories even while you rest.
What are the advantages of spinning though?
It helps you track your progress
Spin bikes have a great advantage over many exercise bikes – they have a monitor, which assists you to keep track of your progress. This includes your cycling speed, the calories you are burning, and the distance you are covering.
The usual instance, especially in a spinning class, is that the instructor will use the data to set goals for you to reach, which makes it easier for you to keep track of your progress as you go every week.
It has a similar feel to a road bike
Unlike stationary bikes, spin bikes have a similar feel to road bikes since they allow you to adjust the handlebars and seat, which means you can even do the exercise sessions while standing and leaning without looking awkward.
Helps you to tone up
Spinning forces multiple muscle groups in your body to get to work – your core, quads, bums, arms (depending on the workout), legs and thighs. Therefore, that 45-minute session eventually leads to toning of these areas, especially if you work hard on them.
If you also increase the resistance levels, it will give you extra power to become as toned as you wish, even on your arms and abs, and the introduction of weights will also force extra muscle groups to work. In fact, this is one advantage they have over stationary bikes, which will primarily work the legs, quads, thighs and bum only.
It offers a low-impact exercise
You likely do not want to suffer injuries to various body parts during an exercise session, but spinning is a low-impact exercise so you will not need to worry about that. It will not put a lot of pressure on the joints, unlike normal running exercises – so it is useful to staying fit even when you have knee injuries without making the pain worse.
Helps in stress relief
Any kind of exercise you do can count as a method of stress relief, but being in a spinning class can be good for you since it allows you to talk to other people – especially if you are in the same weekly class. It will also help you relax from tough days, since the classes also have some upbeat music, while the instructor can offer plenty of motivation to help you feel better.
Spin bikes also allow you to exercise multiple muscle groups, which also helps to release tension and help you relax.
Final thoughts
Using a spin bike in your fitness regime is great because it helps you tone up your lower body, but it does not burn as much as you might want to. The best solution for weight loss goals is combining spinning with other exercises to burn as many calories as possible, and follow healthy eating habits in order to cut down your weight.
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Why is spinning so hard? – Spinbikeexpert
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You probably love cycling, and going out for bike rides whenever you can. So you automatically assume that taking a spin class will have the same freedom that outdoor cycling gives you – only to discover that it is not as easy as you thought. As much as it can be challenging, it does wonders for you in helping you increase your speed and power.
However, you do not need to feel like a lost student on their first school day when you get into spinning class. Here are some reasons that your spinning sessions are likely less than ideal, and what you can do to improve on them.
Mistakes when preparing for spin class
Your clothes are too loose
If you think that your buggy sweatpants will cut it in your spin class, you are already starting on the wrong footing. Preparation is just as important as the class itself, so make sure to wear proper workout clothes. In particular, leggings that are form-fitting are best on an exercise bike, as you do not wan clothes flailing around when you are in the middle of an exercise session.
You are wearing a weak sports bra
While spinning is a low impact activity compared to a high-impact sport like running, you need a firm sports bra that keeps your breasts in place – you do not want to feel uncomfortable while keeping fit.
The shoes you are wearing are not clipped in
When you use cycling shoes, they allow you to connect them directly to the pedals, which give you more secure strokes and allows you to focus on your cycling, breathing and body posture. At the end, this will help you get the most from your workout and keep your focus on correct pedaling (the foot needs to be neutral and flat).
Mistakes when getting set up
You arrived to class late or on time
While arriving on time sounds nice compared to arriving late, it still does not provide you with sufficient time to pack your things away, get the correct weights and set up the bike for your optimal use. This will leave you uncomfortable throughout the entire session, and you will struggle to catch up.
When you have a spin class, always make sure you arrive there at least 15 minutes before it begins. This will allow you to set up everything you need, including making adjustments to the bike, before you get started.
The seat is too low
One of the first things you must learn before using a spin bike is learning how to set it up properly – otherwise, you will run into a host of problems when using it, including the risk of injuries.
For instance, waking up the morning after a spin class and noticing you have muscle soreness in the knees and hips – it is likely due to the seat being too low. When the saddle is too low, it makes you lose the range of motion you have in your pedaling, which forces the body to not make the most of each stride and causing pain the following day.
If you are unsure, ask your instructor to help you find the correct setting for your height (which is why you need to arrive early). Another alternative is to use the rule that the maximum height of the seat must be at the height of your hipbone. When you are seated, your foot must remain flat, and your knees slightly bent, when the pedal is at the bottom.
Fortunately, seat adjustments are quite easy, since many bikes will have a number that they will associate with specific seat settings, so take note of your own adjustments so that you can change things quickly for the next session.
The handlebars are incorrect in their height
One common mistake many people make when adjusting the handlebars is using the elbow-to-fingertip measurement system, when correct adjustment requires you to ignore the elbow measurement. The reason this rule does not work is because the arms are not always in the same proportion as the torso.
This brings the risk of you setting the handlebars too far backwards, which leads to you hunching more in order to position the body, and a tendency to bounce as you cycle.
Instead of this technique, hop on the bike instead, then adjust the handlebars from your seat. You must ensure you are close enough to comfortably hold the handlebars – never slouch, avoid lunging, and the body should not feel compressed between the saddle and handlebars.
The handlebars are at an incorrect height
Yes, in case you were not sure what makes bike setup important, this should convince you even more. Comfort is essential when you are doing your workouts, and handlebar height plays an important role in that.
When the handlebars are high, it is easier for you to keep your shoulders away from your ears, since the waist and spine are elongated. If you want to boost your abs workout, the handlebars should be as close as possible to the height of the saddle.
Regardless of what height you want them to be, always make sure they are never lower than the height of your seat, as this will make you slouch too much and place unneeded pressure on the groin, shoulders and lower back.
The knees bang into the emergency brake
This can only mean one thing – you are slouching too much. Regardless of whether you are out of or on the saddle, banging your knees means that you are sinking into your body joints instead of exercising your core and other muscle groups. The solution here is simple – just push your hips so that your weight remains over the saddle.
The resistance levels are too low
The resistance is part of the success factor – so you need to follow through with the workout carefully. When it is too low, you risk getting pain in your joints due to a pace that is too high – so watch out for signs like a shoe popping out of the pedal clip, or a pedal stroke that is too loose.
Final thoughts
All of these points are meant to increase your workout efficiency, which will bring you better results and make your workouts easier. Many of them are avoidable mistakes, yet are part of the reason that makes spinning sessions difficult – but you can also correct them quickly.
Can I cycle with lower back pain? – Spinbikeexpert
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Many people enjoy cycling, as it is a form of low impact exercise – which means that it does not place undue pressure on your joints, even as it still keeps you fit. However, that might raise questions about whether it is safe for you if you happen to have back pains, which can be a major struggle as your body strives to relearn its balance.
The answer to this is not as straightforward, as it depends on a number of factors – and there can be multiple reasons for back pains developing as well. Regarding the safety of your back while cycling, there are a number of factors to keep in mind, so it is always helpful; to ask your doctor about it. Read on for some of our tips regarding this issue.
Why is cycling a good exercise routine?
Cycling happens to be among the most popular aerobic exercises, and it is for good reason – it is also favored by people who experience back pains. Some of the reasons for this include:
- It is less irritating to your spine compared to the other aerobic exercises like running. In fact, stationary biking is quite gentle on the spinal cord, and there are quite a variety of spinning classes that can give you a good workout without putting undue stress on the lower back
- Certain back conditions will make some people enjoy the position of leaning slightly forward on the handlebars of a bike seat, such as Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Certain back conditions can make someone more comfortable in a reclining seat, such as Lumbar degenerative disc disease, so they can use recumbent bikes
How biking causes pain in the back
Even though your legs are the ones doing most of the work as you cycle, lower back pain ends up being one of the risks that come with it, not knee pain as you might initially assume. Studies have even been done on various cyclists, such as a Norwegian one that focused on a group of about 120 road cyclists, and looked at their injuries, eventually finding the following results:
- 41% of cyclists had sought treatment for back pain
- 45% of injuries were on the lower back
- 58% of the cyclists had gone through lower back pain within a year
- 23% of injuries were in the knees
This might seem surprising, but there are a number of reasons that lead to lower back pain among cyclists, even though it is a low impact sport. They include:
- Muscle fatigue – you might set up your bike correctly and follow all the instructions, but still come out with discomfort, however, muscle fatigue plays a role in this. A study revealed that when a cyclist pedals until they get exhausted, their calves and hamstrings will get tired as expected – however, this results in changes to the movement patterns of muscles, resulting in changes to the lower back (lumbar regions). In other words, the spinal posture becomes worse when your legs are increasingly tired.
- Impairments in the spinal movements – a certain study focused on the effects of a forward-bending position on the extensor muscles (the ones that help your lower back stay in correct posture). When you prolong the periods of bending forward, these muscles eventually struggle to generate the force that keeps your spine in its proper position.
Even though cycling is good, it can sometimes lead to issues with your back and neck areas, through:
- The little conditioning that it gives to the muscles in your back
- The posture you take can end up straining the lower back, since the spine is always pulling up or flexing
- If you cycle in rough terrain, the spine can suffer from compression, which results in pain
- The neck can undergo strain, especially if your position is making it arch backwards (as is the case with bikes that have aerodynamic bars)
How can you solve the problem?
Do core strengthening exercises regularly
Based on the evidence from the studies above, cyclists need to do plenty of exercises that strengthen the core and lower back to avoid the pains associated with these regions. There are three main exercises that can help:
- The founder – this activates the lower back, and you should do it before cycling. The result should be feeling a burn through the lower and upper back, hamstrings and glutes
- Woodpecker – like the founder, it is best to do it before you cycle. It activates the muscle fibers that are deeply embedded in your gluteal region, and you should eventually feel a burn in them
- Planks – this engages the muscles that make up the core, and you should do it before cycling to activate them.
Deal with your posture
Whether you are a recreational or pro cyclist, you need to always address your posture when sitting and walking or standing, without slumping. This particularly affects recreational cyclists, especially if you spend hours at an office desk – which can havoc your posture if you are not careful.
Select bikes that have the correct frame geometry
While this might seem like a minor issue, it is still important to consider. When you select a frame that has the correct geometry and ensure that you have a correct body posture on it, it will help to reduce unnecessary loading on the knees, lower back, neck and shoulders.
Some of the elements to keep in mind are: fork offsets, seat tube length, head tube angle, top tube length, seat tube angle, wheelbase, rear center, and head tube length.
Optimize the bike set-up
There are a number of things to look at when setting up your bike to ensure you ride optimally, which include:
- Saddle height – the knees must be slightly bent when the pedal is at the bottom and the ball of your foot should rest completely on the pedal.
- Saddle angle – must be in a horizontal position
- Backwards and forward position of saddle
- Position of the handlebars
Final thoughts
Lower back pain is a common problem that happens to cyclists, and the solutions depend on several factors that you need to consider. If you are not sure whether you should use a bike, talk to your doctor about it and get proper advice on the issue before knowing where to adjust.