Elliptical Vs. Stationary Bikes: Which is Best For Your Workout?

April 16, 2019 3 min read

Now that it's spring, you're probably thinking ahead to swimsuit season. In other words, it's time to focus on your exercise routine. There are generally two types of exercise equipment you can buy at a sports store Lynnwood residents rely on -- cardio equipment and strength equipment. Most people will require some type of cardio machine, but there are so many to choose from. If you've gone into fitness stores in the past and immediately felt overwhelmed with all your choices, it may help to narrow down your home fitness equipment choices.

In today's post, we'll take a closer look at ellipticals and stationary bikes. These two machines are both popular in their own right, but there are important differences between them. Let's examine their unique benefits and the considerations you should keep in mind when you visit a sports store in Lynnwood to make your final decision.

Stationary Bikes

Stationary bicycles can allow you to improve your endurance and help you to burn a high number of calories during your workout. In fact, statistics show that working out on a stationary bike will allow exercisers to burn calories more quickly than what they'd experience with an elliptical workout. That said, your stationary bike workout will be a bit more limited. Although you'll be able to stay seated while exercising (which can be a huge perk for older folks), you'll mainly be working out your lower body. In other words, you won't benefit from a full-body workout. These bikes are, however, great for smaller spaces and are safe for those with joint issues.

There are a few different kinds of exercise bikes you can choose from when you visit a high-rated sports store Lynwood families trust. Recumbent bicycles are what most people think of when they picture a stationary bike -- they have a chair-like seat and are lower to the ground. There are also upright cycles and indoor cycles, which allow you to either stand while pedaling or to obtain a more realistic bicycle experience. For some people, using a stationary bike can quickly become monotonous, especially if you don't enjoy reading or watching television while you exercise.

Ellipticals

You've probably seen elliptical machines if you've ever gone to a gym or the best sports store Lynnwood has to offer. They're a bit like a bicycle-treadmill hybrid, in that they have separate foot pedals that move in a circular motion but they require the user to remain standing. Because they have both footrests and arm handles, they do provide a more complete workout than what you can expect to achieve with a stationary bike. You can also target specific muscle groups by following pre-programmed workouts or by switching up the way you utilize the pedals and handles.

Elliptical machines do allow you to burn a high number of calories, though you'll probably have to work out longer and harder in order to burn the same number of calories as you would with a stationary bike. You may not have to put as much thought into getting a great workout with an elliptical though, as the moves can be easily varied and you're likely to work up a sweat. While ellipticals aren't typically as compact as stationary bikes, they're often preferred due to the variety of possible workouts they offer.

Now that you know a bit more about ellipticals and stationary bikes, you can visit the highest rated sports store Lynnwood has to provide with confidence. For more information on our exercise equipment, please contact us today.


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