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Exercise Bikes

Exercise Bikes For The Elderly

exercise bikes for the elderly

Whether you have recently passed one of those birthday milestones or you are shopping for a relative,  exercise bikes for the elderly are an excellent way for you or for them to keep in shape. Aging is one of those reality bytes that most of us would prefer not to think about, but the years or even illness or accident will catch up with us sooner or later. Falling down might no longer be a case of getting up, dusting yourself off, and getting on with your day. Sitting on the floor, cleaning a bottom shelf, or (sometimes) walking across the room can be a little harder than it was last year. Healthful exercise is one way to stay in the best shape possible for as long as you can. Exercise bikes are frequently an economical, easy way to obtain healthful exercise.

Bike for the Elderly

When shopping for a bike for the elderly, you will want to keep the health condition of the person in mind. Some elderly people are quite active and in good health well into their 90s, while others might encounter health challenges much earlier. People who experience dizziness or general weakness might find it difficult to balance on a bicycle seat that resembles an upright road bike. Although upright bikes are good for maintaining core muscle strength, people who have difficulty with balance, who have some sort of back problem, or have even had recent abdominal surgery, might benefit from a bike that does not require quite as much active participation from the rider.

Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors

A recumbent exercise bike for seniors is the simple answer. Most such bikes offer a “step-in” design that makes mounting them almost as easy as sitting in a chair. This could be especially beneficial for people who use a wheelchair, walker, or crutches. Recumbent bikes have seats rather like a well-padded kitchen chair. These give good back support, and some even have tall backs that provide good neck and head support. For anyone with balance or skeletal challenges, this little bit of extra can help them feel secure while using the bike and can minimize wear on the whole body. Exercise bikes, in general, provide low-impact exercise. Recumbent bikes offer that little bit of extra support while providing the opportunity for a good cardio workout.

Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors

To find the best recumbent bike for seniors, let’s do a little comparison shopping. Here are three recumbent bikes, each with its own advantage.

1/ Schwinn Recumbent Bike series, especially the 230 and 270

With Schwinn in the name, you know it is going to be a good bike. All Schwinn recumbent bikes have step-through seat mounted on a track, making it super easy to adjust the bike for most adult users. The 230 has 22 programs, can be set with programs for two users (ideal for a couple to share), and the maximum user weight is 300 pounds. The 270 has the same features as the 230, plus adding 7 more programs, more resistance levels, plus telemetry, and the “Explore the World” app. While some seniors might find all the tech confusing, others (especially those whose education developed right along with the Information Age) might enjoy the added features and opportunities for socialization through the various programs.

Offer
Schwinn Fitness 230 Recumbent Bike
9,875 Reviews
Schwinn Fitness 230 Recumbent Bike
  • With enhanced Bluetooth connectivity, users can set, track and monitor progress with popular app-based tracking tools
  • Discover 100+ global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed (Explore the World subscription required)
  • Designed to work with popular cycling apps such as Zwift (Seperate subscriptions required)
  • 5.5" LCD offers 13 workout programs
  • 16 levels of magnetic resistance for a wide range of workout intensity options

2/ Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike ME-709

If you or your senior would like something with a few fewer bells and whistles, as well as a little more budget-friendly, Marcy comes through with their usual aplomb. All Marcy bikes are built to be sturdy, and easy to use, with few embellishments. The ME-709 exercise bike is no exception. The bike can be adjusted by moving the seat back and forth, although the process is a little more hands-on than the Schwinn. It has an easy, step-through mounting design, eight resistance settings, and contoured armrests to assist with balance. The LCD screen will help track progress. It is rated as useable for people up to 300 pounds.

Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
20,589 Reviews
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
  • STEP-THROUGH DESIGN – Featuring heavy-duty construction 14-gauge steel tubing with a powder coated finish, the step-through design allows maximum mobility during training for quick mounting and dismounting that is created easier for the knees and back. Please note: This item requires assembly
  • EIGHT RESISTANCE LEVELS – This stationary bike uses a magnetic resistance mechanism with 8 levels of resistance. The tension knobs control the difficulty to simulate riding on different terrains and customize your workout according to fitness level
  • EASY-TO-READ COMPUTER SCREEN – The ultra-functional LCD computer screen acts as a odometer and has a sharp panel display that shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned in extra-large numbers for great readability.
  • COMFORTABLE PADDED SEAT – The equipment has an ergonomically designed saddle furnished with comfortable high-density foam. It features contoured foam-covered handles for extra support of the back and arms to help maintain proper form when exercising.
  • COUNTERBALANCED PEDALS – Weighted pedals designed to provide maximal foot support while offering ultimate control. This bike is equipped with adjustable foot straps to create the perfect fit for your feet.

3/ Exerpeutic Gold 525XLR Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike

Exerpeutic is another one of those names that indicate you are getting a quality product. The Exerpeutic Gold 525XLR will support up to 400 pounds. It does not have the convenient step-through design featured by the Schwinn or Marcy models mentioned above, but it does fold up. For people with a small apartment, this could be a super advantage. It has side handles for extra balance, a comfortable seat for people of any weight, and can easily adjust for riders from 5’2” to 6’5”. There is an upgraded model that features Bluetooth technology, but this one is available at an attractive price.

Exerpeutic Gold 525XLR Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike, 400 lbs
1,803 Reviews
Exerpeutic Gold 525XLR Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike, 400 lbs
  • 400 pounds extended weight capacity utilizing heavy duty and high durability steel frame. 27% more steel than the Exerpeutic 400XL folding recumbent bike for more maximum performance
  • 8 level magnetic tension control system. An easy to read large LCD computer display indicates distance, calories burned, time, speed, pulse, odometer and scan
  • Large seat cushion and back rest for users of any size. Seat adjustable to fit 5'2" to 6'5" user height which is great for taller people.
  • Semi-recumbent design allows you easily to get on and off the bike. Dual transmission flywheel allows for higher resistance workout
  • Folds to almost 1/2 the size. Folded dimensions: 27" L x 18" w x 48" H. 1 year limited warranty. Larger pedal design with safety strap prevents any foot slippage when exercising

Stationary Bike with Back Support

A stationary bike with back support is a good choice for many people who are experiencing health challenges. There are a variety of designs from which to choose, and technology levels are suitable for almost any expertise.

Exercise Bike for the Elderly

To sum up, if you are selecting an exercise bike for the elderly, a recumbent bike is a good selection. It offers good cardio while giving support and convenience. As always, if you are picking out a gift, keep the needs and technology expertise of the recipient in mind.