Recumbent Bike Vs Elliptical Machine

Recumbent bikes do a better job of cushioning and supporting the lower back.

Recumbent bike vs elliptical machine.

A recumbent bicycle differs from a standard stationary bicycle and elliptical machine primarily in how you position yourself on the device. The only difference between a recumbent elliptical and a recumbent bike is that the elliptical has a longer ellipse pedaling motion with a small range of motion when compared to a recumbent bike. Also referred to as cross trainers ellipticals have pedals like recumbent bikes. If you have suffered a back injury you may feel more comfortable on a recumbent bike.

Unlike the recumbent bike the elliptical trainer is a weight bearing machine. This means that you support more of your body s weight which leads to a higher caloric burn. But if you have knee hip or ankle pain the stationary bike might be a better choice for getting a cardiovascular workout without stressing the joints. Unlike the seated position of a recumbent bike when you are on an elliptical you are standing.

The difference is the ability to work the upper arms at the same time as opposed to one or the other on the entry level machines. An elliptical machine s pedals mimic the motion of running by gliding in an elliptical pattern instead of up and down a movement that is coordinated with handlebars moving back and forth as well. Like the exercise bike the elliptical comes in multiple types including the upright and recumbent elliptical. With an elliptical machine you stand.

The recumbent bike on the other hand has a slight edge over the elliptical when it comes to rehabbing features as it is an even lower impact machine that protects the back and hip of the user better thanks to its big and comfortable seat as you can see on the schwinn 270. The elliptical machine provides more weight bearing than the stationary bike so it may help improve bone health. Best recumbent elliptical reduces the pressure placed on the joints and makes you fit. Both are very similar with the main difference being that the recumbent elliptical has a seat to sit on.

They remove much of your own weight from the equation and allow you to exercise while remaining seated. A recumbent elliptical is a cross training machine designed to simulate motions of stair climbing running walking and even cross country skiing. Higher end recumbent ellipticals if you are looking for a true recumbent elliptical then you re talking about a cardio machine that is exactly like a stand up elliptical except you are sitting down.