A recumbent bike is a low-impact exercise machine that will help you lose weight and get in shape. But if you want to improve your arm strength, then this article is for you. We’ll show the best recumbent bikes with arm workout so that you can make an informed decision about which one works best for your needs. Read on!
What is the Best Recumbent Bike With Arm Workout?
To find the Best Recumbent Bike With Arm Workout for you we have used several of recumbent exercise bike with arm workout and selected the absolute top 4 recumbent bikes with arm workout.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Bike with Arm Exercisers – SF-RB4936
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 68.7 pounds (31.16 kg) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 5 inches |
The RB-4936 model sets itself apart with arm exercisers that move, a feature not seen in the earlier Sunny Health and Fitness model. The arm movement relies on the pedals, a setup that might be awkward for some since you can’t stop one to use the other. But these arm exercisers offer more motion range than those on the RB-4631, providing a more vigorous full-body session. A nice addition is the media rack for your phone or tablet, allowing for entertainment as you work out. The RB-4936’s design is low, simplifying saddle access, but it takes up more space than other recumbents reviewed, important if you’re short on space. Overall, it’s geared towards low-impact workouts, perfect for those healing or older users. However, its lighter frame supports only up to 265lbs, not suited for heavier individuals.
Pros
- An ideal choice for seniors and rehab exercises,
- Sturdy construction prevents movement while cycling,
- Drive mechanism offers smooth and quiet operation,
- Affordable with a decent built quality
Cons
- Unclear instructions make it hard to assemble,
- Poor customer service from the manufacturer
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise with Arm exercisers
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 10 cm |
The Sunny RB4708 boasts a design enhancement that lets you engage your arms while cycling. It occupies more space and is about 36 pounds heavier than its counterpart, the Sunny RB4616. However, it shares features like the LCD display, seat adjustability, and sleek design. Priced slightly higher than the RB4616, it remains affordable for most, given its entry-level range. This exercise bike has received numerous positive reviews for its solid construction, stability, and comfy seat. On the downside, assembly can be a bit complex for some due to unclear instructions. A few users mentioned a squeaking sound during use, potentially a manufacturing issue. But Sunny’s customer service is commendable, addressing issues within the warranty period. The bike offers a 6-month parts warranty, double that of Exerpeutic bikes. Replacing parts, however, might be a DIY task. The arm exercisers are directly linked to the pedals, meaning they can’t be locked separately.
There are multiple advantages to this model. It features the same comfortable, easy-adjust seat as the RB4616. The addition of arm exercisers might help burn more calories, a bonus for those targeting weight loss. However, complementing with some light upper body exercises might enhance results. It also supports a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds, though it demands more room. Its resistance system and display are consistent with other basic models I’ve examined. Instead of the usual tension knob seen in similar bikes, the RB4708 offers a lever, allowing for eight distinct intensity levels.
Pros
- Includes moving arms for upper body workout,
- Heavy-duty construction supports higher maximum weight,
- Step-through design allows easy mounting,
- Burns more calories as you work your arms,
- It has a smooth and quiet pedal action
Cons
- Arms and pedals are dependent on the same system,
- Heavier build with a larger footprint,
- It does not feature side handlebars for support
3. Mousport Recumbent Foldable Fitness Cycle with Arm Resistance
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 46.41 pounds (21.05 kg) Size: 45.4 x 15 x 8.9 inches (115.3 x 38.1 x 22.6 cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 15 inches |
Combining the benefits of an upright bike, the Mousport stationary cycle boasts a semi-recumbent design and can fold up neatly for space-saving storage. Its saddle, reminiscent of recumbent bikes, is padded with a dense sponge and accompanied by an adjustable backrest, which can be modified in height using a knob. Its space-efficient, collapsible design is paired with transport wheels, making movement within your home a breeze. The pedal placement encourages a more upright cycling position, different from the typical recumbent posture. This design intensifies your workout sessions, leading to higher calorie burns. It even supports anaerobic activities similar to what one experiences on a spin bike, fostering muscle growth and faster fat loss. To top it off, the bike is equipped with tension ropes to target your arms and shoulders.
Pros
- The semi-recumbent design provides a full-body workout,
- Has quick assembly as most parts are pre-assembled,
- Excellent tension on the pedals for HIIT training,
- Compact design for tight spaces
Cons
- Foldable design makes it unstable for heavy cycling,
- It may not be ideal for short people under 5-feet
4. Sunny Health Recumbent Bike SF-RB4631 with Arm Exerciser
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 52.5 x NaNNaN inches (133.3 x NaNNaN cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 10 cm |
If you have a recumbent bike with arm exercisers, it aids in toning the upper body and building sturdy shoulders. Throw in some weight-based exercises, and you can boost cardiovascular health. The RB-4631’s arm components help you focus on the upper body, aiding in higher calorie consumption. This bike can handle up to 350 pounds due to its durable design, making it apt for bigger users. Its user-friendly design facilitates easy access, and the built-in wheels aid in its mobility. Even though it’s a hefty 91 pounds, assembling it is simple. The weight also ensures it’s rock-solid during use. One great aspect is its independent arm and pedal mechanisms, allowing for versatile workouts. Its spacious seat can be easily adjusted, though its firmness might not be for everyone. The bike provides a moderate maximum resistance and features a straightforward LCD display.
Pros
- Delivers a smooth and quiet pedal action,
- Features arm exerciser with high friction resistance,
- Sliding saddle adjustment for a comfortable fit,
- Sturdy frame with a high user weight limit
Cons
- Saddle padding may be uncomfortable,
- Poor build quality and durability
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 4 Best Recumbent Bike With Arm Workout, our absolute top pick is Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Bike with Arm Exercisers – SF-RB4936.
If you have the money, you can go for Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise with Arm exercisers which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the Mousport Recumbent Foldable Fitness Cycle with Arm Resistance.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
- Best Recumbent Bike For Tall Person
- Best Recumbent Bike Under 500
- Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Under 200
What You Should Know Before Buying recumbent bikes with arm workout
Adjustability
Adjusting the saddle on recumbent exercise bikes helps match the bike to your leg length to access the pedals. Two types of adjustments are available depending on the bike’s design. A more budget-friendly type moves two frame parts to bring the saddle closer to the pedals, like the Marcy ME-709 bike. This design has pre-set holes for aligning the seat, secured with a pin and knob. Some bikes use a lever to lock the seat position, enabling saddle adjustment while sitting, though these are pricier and suitable for commercial use like gyms. The saddle design supports your back and lower joints, but proper positioning is crucial to avoid pain and injury. Ensure your knees aren’t too bent or stretched, and your legs are at or above hip level to protect your lower back.
Types Of Recumbent Exercise Bikes
There’s a broad variety in the construction of recumbent road bikes, whereas recumbent exercise bikes have slight variations in design features. These include digital versus manual consoles, different seat adjustments, drive mechanisms, and sizes. We have outlined these features in detail below.
Extra Features
Some recumbent exercise bikes come with added features like media racks for your devices, enabling you to watch or read while working out. Built-in speakers, Bluetooth, and USB drives are included in midrange models for connecting your devices for entertainment and uploading workout data to apps like MyFitnessPal. Look for comfort features like built-in fans to stay cool and gel padding on seats for comfort during extended workouts.
Comfort
The design of recumbent exercise bikes centers around comfort, making them ideal for people needing upper body support while exercising. Their low-profile design aids the elderly, overweight, and infirm in safely using the bike, and the bucket seats offer back support and balance, minimizing stress on lower body joints.
Drive mechanism
The drive mechanism is a common term when shopping for a recumbent exercise bike. It has the flywheel, a front disc for resistance, usually covered and tied to pedals by a belt or chain. It’s weighted to resemble outdoor riding. Two types are perimeter and center-weighted flywheels. Perimeter-weighted are heavier, close to road biking feel, and smooth out as you pedal. Center-weighted are lighter, easier to start/stop but may lack smoothness.
Pedals
Stationary bike pedals are of three types: clip-ins, flat, and hybrids. Clip-ins and hybrids are often on upright and spin bikes, while recumbent exercise bikes mainly have flat pedals made from steel or plastic. Most of these flat pedals are textured and feature a plastic strap or an adjustable toe-cage strap to hold the front part of your foot firmly on the pedal, stopping slips.
Maintenance
Like every machine, recumbent exercise bikes need regular maintenance, and it’s wise to have your bike checked for any wear and tear every six months or so. Ensure to inspect the bike often for loose nuts and bolts and oil the mechanical parts to keep it working well. Also, for hygiene, wipe down the handlebars, seat, and digital console with a soft cloth and antibacterial cleaner after each workout.
Resistance
Resistance sets the challenge of your workout, and economical recumbent exercise bikes typically offer 8 – 12 levels. Usually, exercise bikes use a resistance mechanism that alters the pressure on the bike’s flywheel to mimic cycling uphill or on flat ground. Different resistance systems like friction, magnetic, and electromagnetic are available. They operate similarly, but friction magnetic resistance offers an immediate resistance change like a road bike when you turn the knob. Magnetic bikes are manual and don’t need power, while electromagnetic ones do and are generally more expensive. Magnetic bikes also have a slight delay when changing resistance levels.
Storage Space
Some recumbent exercise bikes come with added features like media racks for your devices, enabling you to watch or read while working out. Built-in speakers, Bluetooth, and USB drives are included in midrange models for connecting your devices for entertainment and uploading workout data to apps like MyFitnessPal. Look for comfort features like built-in fans to stay cool and gel padding on seats for comfort during extended workouts.
Display
Comfort is a significant design element of recumbent exercise bikes, perfect for individuals needing upper body support while working out. The low-profile design is beneficial for the elderly, overweight, and infirm to safely get on the bike, while the bucket seats provide back support and balance, reducing pressure on the lower body joints.
The Key Features Of Recumbent Exercise Bikes
The primary design element of recumbent exercise bikes is the reclined seat that can be adjusted, with a backrest for comfortable lower body workouts. Other significant features are the bike’s size and weight, durable materials, a screen to monitor your workout, and resistance levels. Most recumbent bikes lack the handlebars seen on upright bikes, instead having support bars near the seat or moving handlebars for arm exercises like on the Sunny Recumbent Exercise Bike. Dual-action bikes like the Xspec Dual Exercise Bike provide the choice of using it as an upright or recumbent bike, with handlebars for the upright stance and support bars for the recumbent stance.
Arm Exercisers
Dual-action exercise bikes are recumbent exercise bikes with moving arms. They help you exercise both your lower and upper body. These bikes are great for weight loss because you burn extra calories and they help make your shoulder joints strong and shape your arm muscles. The mechanism makes the handlebars and pedals move at the same time.
Adults
Recumbents exercise bikes provide cardiovascular fitness in adults and increase flexibility in the lower body by strengthening the leg and joint muscles. The bikes can also help with weight loss in overweight adults and rehabilitate atrophied muscles to improve the range of motion.
Kids
Recumbent exercise bikes are generally not ideal for young kids due to the design structure of the bikes. However, the bikes are excellent exercise machines for improving cardiovascular fitness in youth and provide knee and leg rehabilitation for young adults recovering from injury.
Questions and Answers About recumbent bikes with arm workout
Are recumbent bikes a good workout?
Certainly, recumbent exercise bikes can give worthwhile cardio workouts. Entry-level versions provide softer intensity, but the top-tier ones are tailored for serious cyclists. They’re beneficial for leg growth and are ideal for folks preferring gentler workouts.
Do recumbent bikes work abs?
When you cycle, you’re working your core and abs. Moreover, it’s a cardio exercise that helps reduce fat, showing off your abdominal muscles.
How Do I Choose A Recumbent Bike?
When hunting for a recumbent bike, your fitness milestones play a role. Vital features encompass resistance levels, with those exceeding 12 suiting intense regimens. Aspects of comfort, such as seat adaptability and plushness, are central. For folks who value ease, a step-through model is ideal. Although cost considerations are pivotal, they should be weighed against quality, endurance, and warranty offerings.
Do You Need Extra Features?
While many advanced recumbent bikes offer bonus features, they’re not always necessary. What’s crucial is the resistance, as that’ll help you achieve your fitness aims.
Are recumbent bikes any good?
Over the upright variety, recumbent exercise bikes hold distinct advantages like augmented upper body support and workouts that are easier on the body, favoring seniors, those with extra weight, and individuals with health concerns. Yet, they don’t fall short in providing the top-tier training that an accomplished cyclist would desire, ensuring minimized back and joint discomfort.
How long should I ride my recumbent bike?
Your workout length on the bike correlates directly with your health goals. For the elderly or those in search of gentle workouts, 30 minutes every day is recommended. Conversely, if aspirations are weight reduction or an upswing in fitness and cycling abilities, slotting in 60-90 minutes five times weekly can set you on the right path. However, being cautious and working within your limits is key to preventing overstrain.
Can I lose weight on a recumbent bike?
Yes, you can lose weight by biking. It’s a great way to do cardio and burn calories, and when combined with a good diet, you’ll see results.
What’s better recumbent bike or upright?
Both bikes serve different fitness needs. Recumbents are more relaxed and friendly to those with physical discomforts, while uprights offer a tougher challenge.
Does the recumbent bike tone legs?
Typically, cycling helps in defining the legs. Recumbent bikes, even if they seem more comfortable, are working your leg muscles, including thighs and calves, and also benefit the butt and hips.
Is recumbent bike as good as walking?
For cardio and weight loss, both recumbent biking and walking work well. The bike’s resistance can offer more calorie burn, but walking briskly might beat a casual bike routine. While bikes are easier on the joints due to the reclined seating, walking shines in helping bones stay strong.
