Considering a recumbent elliptical bike? One of the latest trends in fitness equipment is machines that allow you to do more with less.
And one of the best ways to do that is with a recumbent bike/elliptical trainer combination. This 2-in-1 machine basically acts as either a recumbent bike or an elliptical trainer.
With a few quick adjustments, you can switch from bike mode to elliptical trainer mode. Some of the most popular recumbent bikes/ellipticals are the Proform Hybrid Trainer and the Confidence 2-in-1 elliptical.
So is this the right machine for you? Well, here are some of the benefits (and drawbacks) to help you decide:
Benefits of recumbent elliptical trainers:
#1 Get 2 machines for the price of one
These days, everyone wants to get more for less. And if you can get 2 machines for the price of 1, that’s even better, right?
Most elliptical trainers cost between $500 and $600. Now if you were to buy a decent bike along with a well made elliptical, you would probably be spending around $1500. So this is a fantastic way to save money and get more for less.
#2 Great way to train
Do you want to burn calories? Simply use the elliptical for a general workout to burn body fat. Do you want to work a little stress? Kick back in the reclining seat and head out on your bike while watching TV.
An elliptical combo is a great way to switch things up and cross-train. There are technically 3 moves you can do (not including cross training that gives you resistance).
You can pedal forward in bike mode. You can also pedal/run forward while standing in elliptical mode. And you can pedal/run backwards while in the elliptical mode.
So if you have a bit of ADHD when it comes to working out, a recumbent elliptical can help by giving you lots of different things to do during your workout time.
# 3 Great for family exercise
This is a great machine for families as everyone has their own preferences when it comes to working out. So if your teen wants to cross-train for the long-distance running team over the winter, he might want to use the elliptical.
If your spouse wants to stay in shape but has a bad back, they may prefer the recumbent bike.
By having these options, you ensure that more people in the home are using the exercise equipment you are investing in, which is always a good thing!
Those are 3 of the main benefits you’ll get with a recumbent elliptical. Are there any drawbacks?
Well, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Due to design limitations (and depending on the model), you can’t always use the movable handbars when in bike mode. Also, the pedals on these machines usually do not come with toe straps. They are more like elliptical pedals than bicycle pedals.
Also note that the consoles for these units tend to be very simple with fewer built-in workouts and feedback options. They don’t give you as much as a normal elliptical or a normal bike would give you.
So those are a few things to keep in mind before you buy. Regardless of what you decide to get, research is key.
Take your time, think about what you need, and research different brands and options before you buy. That way you are guaranteed to get a better machine that you will love to use!