Recumbent ergometer

What is a recumbent ergometer?

The recumbent ergometer is a hybrid of a recumbent bike and an ergometer. It is a fitness device for indoor use. However, the sitting position is not quite as low as that of the recumbent road bikes. So there are subtle but significant differences between the recumbent bike and a recumbent ergometer.

Recumbent bike:

• Pedals are higher than the seat

• For riding on the road

• Usually no electronic assistance

Recumbent ergometer:

• Pedals are at the same height or slightly below the seat

• For training at home or in the gym

• Equipped with an on-board computer for numerous fitness functions

Instead of a classic bike saddle, you sit on a wider, comfortable seat with a backrest on a recumbent bike. This makes training particularly comfortable, but doesn't necessarily make it any less intense.

What you train with the recumbent bike

You can complete an effective muscle-building workout on a recumbent bike. It particularly strengthens the thigh and gluteal muscles. As the movement is the same as cycling, you also train your endurance on the recumbent bike with an effective cardio workout.

Who is a recumbent ergometer suitable for?

A recumbent ergometer is perfect for you if you want to strengthen your leg and gluteal muscles and improve your endurance in a way that is particularly easy on your joints. Thanks to the comfortable seat height and the support provided by the backrest, the recumbent ergometer is a wonderful way for seniors to improve their fitness.

However, this does not mean that the recumbent ergometer is a thing of the past. The high level of joint relief also enables longer, more intensive training sessions for anyone who wants to burn fat quickly and complete interval training.

The recumbent ergometer is therefore particularly suitable for ...

• ... people with joint or back problems.

• ... older people who want to stay in shape.

• ... training for the first time after an injury.

• ... beginners who want to build up a basic level of fitness.

• ... anyone who wants to train their leg and gluteal muscles in a way that is easy on the joints.

• ... intensive training sessions that do not have to be cancelled due to joint pain.

• ... an after-work workout in front of the TV.

Ergometer, exercise bike or recumbent bike?

Would you like to know whether a recumbent bike, an ergometer or a classic exercise bike would suit you better? We'll show you the main features of the three fitness machines below.

Ergometer

Precise training data: Ergometers measure power in watts and provide you with precise training intensity data.

Many programmes: With ergometers, you will often find pre-programmed training programmes and the option to create user-defined programmes.

Electronic resistance: The resistance is electronically controlled and is usually regulated by a magnetic brake.

Target group: Ergometers are often used in the medical field or for ambitious athletes who want to specifically improve their performance.

Ergometer

Exercise bike

Simple operation: Exercise bikes are generally simpler in design and less expensive than ergometers.

Basic programmes: You will usually find simple programmes on the exercise bike or train in an analogue way.

Mechanical resistance: The resistance is often mechanical or magnetic, but this may make it less precise than ergometers.

Target group: Exercise bikes are ideal for beginners and occasional fitness enthusiasts who do not require precise power measurement.

Exercise bike

Recumbent ergometer

Precise training data: Like the ergometer, recumbent exercise bikes offer precise power measurement and various programmes.

Special comfort: The recumbent exercise bike has a seat with a backrest, which is particularly beneficial for people with back problems or joint complaints.

Relieving ergonomics: The semi-recumbent position relieves pressure on the spine and offers a comfortable sitting position.

Target group: Recumbent exercise bikes are ideal for older people and anyone who wants to train their strength and endurance in a way that is particularly easy on the joints.

Recumbent ergometer

Conclusion: Ergometer, exercise bike or recumbent bike

All three fitness machines enable the movement of cycling and train your endurance and the muscle strength in your legs. If you are looking for a simple fitness machine without any additional technical equipment, the exercise bike is the right choice for you.

If you want precise training data and a choice of different programmes, ergometers and recumbent bikes are the right choice for you. The main difference between the two devices lies in the sitting position. So if you want to complete your training on an ergometer lying down, the recumbent ergometer is the right fitness machine for you.

What you should look out for when buying a recumbent ergometer

The decisive factors when choosing a recumbent ergometer are

• Flywheel mass

• Braking system

• Drive system

• Ergonomics and comfort

Flywheel mass

The flywheel mass is decisive for the training resistance and comfortable running. Basically, the higher the flywheel mass of a recumbent ergometer, the better. We recommend a minimum flywheel mass of 8 kilograms.

Braking system

Similar to classic bike trainers, recumbent ergometers are also equipped with different braking systems. Simple recumbent ergometers have a magnetic brake system. So-called eddy current braking systems are even quieter and more powerful.

Drive

Modern recumbent ergometers are equipped with Poly-V belts , which connect the flywheel mass to the drive shaft of the pedals. The big advantage over other systems is that the technology is maintenance-free. In addition, the system works almost silently.

Ergonomics and comfort

A recumbent ergometer only delivers its joint-friendly benefits if it can be customised. The saddle should be able to be moved forwards and backwards as well as up and down. In some cases, the inclination of the backrest and the height of the pedalling shaft can also be adjusted. Ideally, the latter should be at least 10 centimetres lower than the seat.

Buy recumbent ergometers at Fitstore24

Sit relaxed, train hard - with a recumbent ergometer from Fitstore24, you never have to compromise on comfort during your workout again.