The Pros and Cons Of A Mini Exercise Bike
The development of the mini exercise bike certainly added quite a bit of convenience for people looking to get some ‘spinning’ into their busy schedules. This isn’t a tiny bicycle like you would ride to work, nor is it a small version of the stationary bikes at the gym.
Instead, the mini exercise bike is a small device that is essentially just the pedal part of a bike. It is mounted on a small gear base enclosed by a case, and is small enough to fit under a desk or table.
If you’re considering buying one, here are some of the pros and cons, to help you decide if this is a good decision for you (and if it’s something that you’ll get significant use out of).
Positive benefits of the mini exercise bike:
- Small and convenient to be used anywhere
- Multi-task by pedaling while working, watching T.V., surfing the web, etc.
- Pedaling is easy on the joints
- Low exercise throughout the day is not strenuous
- Burns calories
- Sitting in a chair makes it easier for balance (good for older people)
- Far more affordable than a land or stationary bike
Possible downsides:
- Not as fun as riding a real bike
- May not have as many functions as a stationary bike with computer
- Could be distracting to office mates
So clearly, there are more benefits than there are possible downsides. The key is determining whether these downsides are significant enough to make a difference for you, and to make sure you will use the bike once you buy it. Exercise equipment has a legacy of being bought but not used by the person or people who bought it.
But in this respect, the mini exercise bike really has a lot going for it. People who don’t use the treadmill they bought claim that they don’t have time to use it. But because the mini bike fits under the desk at work, or under the breakfast table, that excuse holds no water. Working out at home has never been easier, so even if you just pedal away a few calories at a time, it’s better than nothing!