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The Benefits of Indoor Cycling
The Benefits of Stationary Cycling
Stationary cycling, also known as indoor cycling, is one of the most popular methods of cardiovascular exercise. This form of physical activity provides a fun, consistent, and reasonable means of exercising for those battling arthritis.
Today we will be speaking with Helen Tilden on the benefits of stationary cycling and how you can incorporate it into your daily activities.
What are some of the benefits of stationary cycling?
Relieving stress on joints is key when people with arthritis are choosing physical activities to engage in. Indoor cycling provides a means of low-impact cardiovascular exercise which has much less impact on knees, hips and other joints than walking or running. It is also a great way to relieve stress on weight-bearing joints and can improve balance since there is no need to lean the bike to turn or maintain control of the apparatus. Another general fitness benefit is an increase in stamina as any consistent activity will strengthen your heart and improve your cardiovascular health.
Also stationary bicycles can be used at any time and at your own convenience without having to worry about weather conflicts or location. They are also generally quiet in operation and are efficient with their use of space.
Any specific features people with arthritis should look for in a stationary bicycle?
There are two general features a person with arthritis should look for when choosing a stationary bicycle. The first is the seating position. Typical bicycles are either the standard upright or recumbent bikes. I recommend the recumbent bike as this option is best for people with low back pain or for those who are otherwise uncomfortable on an upright stationary bike. The seats are very wide and comfortable (like an automobile bucket seat), and you sit in a reclining position with your legs in front of you to reach the pedals.
Another feature is pedal straps. The use of pedal straps increases stability and works the leg muscles on both upward and downward strokes.
What are your recommendations for someone who wants to start a routine?
Go for it, but start slowly, perhaps with a five-minute session at a comfortable pace three times per day.
Once you can ride with no pain for five minutes three times a day, try bumping up to seven minutes, then to 10, 15 or 20 three times per day, with the ultimate goal of getting to 30 minutes or more of exercise per day. Initially, adding five minutes can seem like a big jump, but once tolerance builds, larger gains are made in shorter time frames.
Stationary cycling, also known as indoor cycling, is one of the most popular methods of cardiovascular exercise. This form of physical activity provides a fun, consistent, and reasonable means of exercising for those battling arthritis.
Today we will be speaking with Helen Tilden on the benefits of stationary cycling and how you can incorporate it into your daily activities.
What are some of the benefits of stationary cycling?
Relieving stress on joints is key when people with arthritis are choosing physical activities to engage in. Indoor cycling provides a means of low-impact cardiovascular exercise which has much less impact on knees, hips and other joints than walking or running. It is also a great way to relieve stress on weight-bearing joints and can improve balance since there is no need to lean the bike to turn or maintain control of the apparatus. Another general fitness benefit is an increase in stamina as any consistent activity will strengthen your heart and improve your cardiovascular health.
Also stationary bicycles can be used at any time and at your own convenience without having to worry about weather conflicts or location. They are also generally quiet in operation and are efficient with their use of space.
Any specific features people with arthritis should look for in a stationary bicycle?
There are two general features a person with arthritis should look for when choosing a stationary bicycle. The first is the seating position. Typical bicycles are either the standard upright or recumbent bikes. I recommend the recumbent bike as this option is best for people with low back pain or for those who are otherwise uncomfortable on an upright stationary bike. The seats are very wide and comfortable (like an automobile bucket seat), and you sit in a reclining position with your legs in front of you to reach the pedals.
Another feature is pedal straps. The use of pedal straps increases stability and works the leg muscles on both upward and downward strokes.
What are your recommendations for someone who wants to start a routine?
Go for it, but start slowly, perhaps with a five-minute session at a comfortable pace three times per day.
Once you can ride with no pain for five minutes three times a day, try bumping up to seven minutes, then to 10, 15 or 20 three times per day, with the ultimate goal of getting to 30 minutes or more of exercise per day. Initially, adding five minutes can seem like a big jump, but once tolerance builds, larger gains are made in shorter time frames.
