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Stationary Bike Stand

Tulika Nair
Are you an avid cyclist? If yes, then you should opt to buy a stationary bike stand that will allow you to cycle on rainy mornings or in freezing temperatures in the comfort of your home.
A machine which allows avid cyclists to convert their traditional bicycle into a stationary one, a bike stand is also known as a stationary bike trainer. Buying this stand for a road bike will enable you to convert it into an exercise cycle. It is the best option for those cold winter mornings when cycling outdoors is next to impossible.
The difference between a traditional bike and a stationary bike is that in the latter, there are no wheels and therefore, no movement. The pedal arrangement that the bike stand comes with allows the user to use the machine as he would use an actual bicycle.
While they do not actually move, some models of these bikes do come with distance meters that allow a user to know how much distance they would have covered, if cycling actually. There are some advanced models that also allow you to mimic the experience of cycling on different terrains.

How They Work

Before we understand how this machine works and how it should be used, it is important to understand the two different types in which this bike is available. The first model is the upright model, in which the person sits on the bike and uses it just as he would use an actual bicycle.
The other type is the recumbent type, in which the user is a lot more relaxed, sitting as one would in a go-cart, and only the legs perform the actual exercise. The latter is preferred by a lot more people when compared to the upright type because the latter often causes stress in the lower back and groin areas.
Most trainers come with different difficulty settings that a user can set depending on his comfort level. They also come with notches in which you can insert rods to change the setting of the tension at which the bike is set.
As a beginner, it is advisable to start with the lowest of the tension settings and then move up to higher levels as you become more comfortable with the same. These settings work like the gears on an actual bicycle.
These come with adjustable seats allowing you to modify the seats according to their height requirements. Stationary bike trainers are very easy to operate in terms of functionality.

Benefits

Let us take a look at the many benefits of using this exercise equipment.
  • One of the biggest advantages of using this device is that your exercise schedule is not affected by the vagaries of nature. While the aerobic exercise is not as high impact as cycling outdoors, it does fulfill the need for exercise that your body has.
  • You do not need to buy any additional fitness equipment. It is completely possible to get a wholesome, complete aerobic fitness exercise by using a bike stand and you can use the same to cycle train as well.
  • Reviews will tell you that these stands are perfect low impact, exercise equipment for people who are ill or recovering from surgery, though it is important to consult a doctor before using one.
  • For people who have back problems, this can be the perfect piece of exercise equipment as it allows you to go easy on your lower back. While cycling outdoors, more often than not there are chances that the trails may cause havoc to your back. This can be avoided with this device.
Other than these, a user also gets all those benefits that are traditionally associated with biking or cycling. While using a trainer, there are some important tips to keep in mind. It is important that you stay hydrated through your exercise regimen. 
It is also important that you protect your bike by using a sweat shield as you would not want perspiration to corrode your bike machine. If you have bought a DIY kit, remember to follow the instructions given completely.
This is to ensure the stability of the bike before you start working out on it. If you are used to cycling, then using a stationary bike trainer should cause you no problem.