When it comes to a bike workout you’ve got a couple of options, the two main ones being a spin bike or exercise bike. An exercise bike, or stationary bike, is typically used in general fitness programs and tends to be good for anyone who is wanting to improve their cardiovascular fitness levels, tone up and see better weight loss results. Upright exercise bikes cause less strain on the lower back, shoulder and neck making this bike a suitable low impact cardio machine. Exercise bikes are fitted with a lighter flywheel which will carry less momentum and you will find that pedalling is not as consistent. More display and tech features are available to you on an exercise bike including pre-set workout programs and automatic resistance changes.
A spin bike, on the other hand, is common to spinning group fitness classes, they are great for intensive cardio workouts to achieve weight loss and increase stamina. Spin bikes are preferred by on-road cyclists as they closely mimic the natural riding position of a push bike with the handlebar almost level to the seat. This style of riding supports high calorie burn exercises and interval workouts that require lifting out of the seat. Spin bike flywheels tend to be heavier compared to upright exercise bikes, making them better suited to exercises that involve quick resistance changes. Spin bikes have relatively simple components with a small LCD display offering basic workout statistics from time, distance, calories and RPM.
The main difference between a spin bike and upright exercise bike is the riding style and goals you will achieve from these bikes. Exercise bike workouts focus on the core and lower body, they require you to be seated resulting less strain on the joints and more support to your body. Exercise bikes are more suitable for those looking for a casual, easy to use bike to improve your fitness levels. On the other hand, spin bikes cater to more intensive interval workouts with high to unlimited levels of intensity allowing further progression and improvement from users. Spin bikes are great for riders wanting to push themselves through tough hill climbs or long sprints to burn calories and improve stamina.
Find out more about the difference between a spin bike and exercise bike here