Home gyms have proven to be very effective during the past few months of lockdown. Like many people you probably were glad to find out that you don’t need a fancy gym membership to get your workout in and stay in good shape. Even when you go back to your office, you no longer have to feel guilty about never making time for the gym. Investing in building a home gym today is the smart thing to do. In addition, it’s a fun project to spend the extra time you have at home nowadays. However, it’s worth mentioning that the process can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. For starters, you need to decide what equipment you will be adding to your home gym. If you only have the budget for one gym equipment, make it the stationary bike. Spending half an hour every day on your bike will work all your body muscles and help you shed the extra weight faster. There are a lot of options on the market for you to choose from.
In this article, we will give you some tips on how to get an ideal stationary bike for your needs:
Consider Your Space
How bulky or compact the stationary bike you get will depend on the available space you have at home. Normally, the bigger the bike is the more options and features it has to offer. However, you can still find an average-sized one that serves your specific needs. Before you can make a decision, make sure you have all the necessary measurements instead of risking being stuck with a humongous machine that you can’t find enough space for. If you are already limited with space and want a bike that you can easily take out and store it when you are done, then you need to look for a lightweight bike that is easy to handle.
Think About Versatility
Stationary bikes have come a long way, especially in the last few years. The best bikes on the market now have built-in screens and grants you access to different instructors for live classes. The Peloton bike is one of the most popular indoor spin bikes, however, it’s quite pricey. But you don’t have to go bankrupt to get yourself an equally incredible bike. There are different options available that come with equally versatile class options similar to the Peloton. The live classes are an incredible feature if you are someone who doesn’t like working out alone and prefers to follow a professional instructor. With some research, you will be able to find what you’re looking for when it comes to the style of instructors and how often the library is updated with new classes.
Check the Resistance Options
Depending on your level of fitness and how intense you prefer your workouts to be you will be adjusting your resistance levels on your bike. Find a bike that offers multiple resistance options to keep you challenged, but at the same time lets you take it down a notch when needed.
Stick to Your Budget
It’s very easy to go over your budget when the salesperson overwhelms you with lots of information about the amazing features of the bike they’re trying to sell you. Before you know it, you will be unnecessarily maxing out your credit card and considering taking on a new loan. Alternatively, you can decide on your budget first, then do a quick price scan of stationary bikes online to narrow down your list of options. Make it a point to check out the ones on your list in person before you can make a purchase. Besides the price of the bike itself, you should also remember to factor in the subscription fees for the live classes in order to make an accurate decision. Of course, you can still go and check out the expensive bikes that are over your budget just for fun! But when it’s time to buy, stick to your budget, you will be thankful you did.
Check the Allowed Maximum Weight
Many people forget to take the allowed weight into consideration when purchasing gym equipment. You need to find a bike that is sturdy and won’t break after a few uses. Check the seat and the handlebars and make sure they aren’t made of flimsy material that can snap if you push against them. Even though this might be an uncomfortable topic to discuss with the salesperson if you are self-conscious about your weight, it’s an important piece of information that can save you from wasting your money.
Think About Maintenance and Aftersales Options
Buying a stationary bike is considered an investment, so you want to make sure that it will last you for a long time. When you are choosing the bike, ask about the after-sales service the seller offers and whether the spare parts are available for if/when you need them. Modern stationary bikes are more complicated than the traditional ones so it’ll be hard for you to troubleshoot and fix the issues you face with your bike. It’s better to steer clear from a brand that doesn’t come with a proper user’s guide and clear customer support information.
Choose a Bike that Looks Good
You might not necessarily think about it, but appearance matters when it comes to indoor workout equipment. You want a sleek design that doesn’t mess with your impeccable home decor. Especially if you don’t plan on storing it away and have to look at it all the time. Fortunately, you will be able to find tons of options nowadays, from expensive-looking designs to pastel-colored seats and handlebars, you will surely find one that goes with your interiors.
Stationary bikes offer a fun and efficient way to exercise from the comfort of your own home. Use the above tips to help you in your quest for finding the ideal stationary bike. You should also remember to take the time you need to research and ask all the questions that you deem important. Read online customer reviews to get true information and understand what you need to look out for. Before you know it, you will be able to find the perfect bike and embark on your fitness journey.
Photo by Erlend Ekseth on Unsplash
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