Fitness
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Magnetic Exercise Bike?

L. Roux
L. Roux

A magnetic exercise bike is a stationary bike that works on a magnetic resistance instead of the older, manual belt style. It provides various levels of resistance that can easily be adjusted with the push of a button. These bikes can usually be found in the cardiovascular section of health clubs with the other cardio equipment, such as elliptical trainers and treadmills.

A magnetic exercise bike is more technologically advanced than the previous manual bikes. It typically has an LCD screen where one can easily keep track of exercise statistics. The resistance can also be easily increased or decreased at any time with the touch of a button. A magnetic exercise bike is usually very quiet compared to older bikes as well.

A magnetic exercise bike may feature an LCD screen and an ability to increase and decrease levels of resistance.
A magnetic exercise bike may feature an LCD screen and an ability to increase and decrease levels of resistance.

Many of these exercise bikes have preset programs similar to those found in treadmills and cross trainers. A fitness program can be selected based on a specific fitness goal; these may include fat loss, endurance and interval training. This allows for more flexibility with cardiovascular training, and progress can easily be monitored. One can also manually adjust the speed and resistance without using a preset program.

Magnetic exercise bikes can usually be found in the cardiovascular section of health clubs with the other cardio equipment, such as elliptical trainers and treadmills.
Magnetic exercise bikes can usually be found in the cardiovascular section of health clubs with the other cardio equipment, such as elliptical trainers and treadmills.

A magnetic exercise bike may be ideal for home use as well because it is very quiet. These bikes can be used in any room of a home, even while watching television. It might be an ideal solution for individuals who do not want to train outdoors. A home exercise bike can be used any time of day, making it convenient to fit a training program into a busy schedule.

Magnetic exercise bikes may feature programmable workout routines.
Magnetic exercise bikes may feature programmable workout routines.

Aside from upright bikes, one can also use recumbent exercise bikes. These bikes offer a different training angle. Instead of sitting upright on the bike, the seat is located parallel with the pedals. This results in the pedals being pushed forward and backward with the individual's legs at a 90-degree angle to the rest of the body. The upright bike and recumbent bike may be used together to add variety to a cycling program.

A magnetic exercise bike may be bought from various fitness equipment outlets as well as online retailers. The pricing will greatly depend on the type and model of the bike. One can also consult health clubs to find out if they have any extra stock they might be willing to sell.

Discussion Comments

Populartesi

I’m an avid athlete and I typically run on the treadmill or elliptical five times a week for about an hour. I’ve stayed away from these exercise bikes in the past because I figured it wasn’t really targeting my core as much as I want. However, the treadmill and the elliptical are causing seriously tight hamstrings that I just can’t seem to shake no matter how much I stretch. Someone recommended using the exercise bike. So for all you exercise bike lovers, can you really get the same type of cardio workout on these machines as you would the treadmill or elliptical? Also, do you notice tight hamstrings or issues with weakened hip flexors if you use these bikes often? I really want to get some amazing cardio workouts in without making my hamstrings suffer.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A magnetic exercise bike may feature an LCD screen and an ability to increase and decrease levels of resistance.
      By: starush
      A magnetic exercise bike may feature an LCD screen and an ability to increase and decrease levels of resistance.
    • Magnetic exercise bikes can usually be found in the cardiovascular section of health clubs with the other cardio equipment, such as elliptical trainers and treadmills.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Magnetic exercise bikes can usually be found in the cardiovascular section of health clubs with the other cardio equipment, such as elliptical trainers and treadmills.
    • Magnetic exercise bikes may feature programmable workout routines.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      Magnetic exercise bikes may feature programmable workout routines.