Are you looking to start working out but can’t decide what workout equipment to get? One of the biggest hurdles to weight loss isn’t the weight loss itself, but trying to figure out the best way to do it for your body.
If you’re just beginning your exercise journey you may currently have a limited range of motion, making it difficult to do most kinds of exercises when starting. Stationary bikes offer a great starting point to get moving, burn calories, increase metabolism and joint fluid.
Recumbent bikes in particular are a great option for those looking to begin their weight loss journey. They allow you to sit back, decrease pressure on the spine, and overall give a more comfortable riding experience.
Upright bikes put a lot of pressure on your arms, wrists, and back. If you are on the heavier to obese side, leaning forward positions your body in a way that adds more pressure from your extra weight.
There are a lot of recumbent bikes on the market so we hope this helps narrow down your search so you can focus on the exercise itself and not the products!
Comparison Chart
Best Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Programmable Recumbent Bike – SF-RB4850
Sunny Health & Fitness is a well-known and reputable exercise equipment company. They offer a range of products all within a mid-range price point.
The SF-RB4850 includes all the bells and whistles you would expect a stationary bike to come with. This includes pulse sensors, performance monitors, device and drink holders, and manually adjusted resistance. The seat is adjustable and the backrest is made with breathable mesh making your workout very comfortable.
It includes both floor stabilizers and transportation wheels. That means it stays put when you want it to but can also be moved when you want it to. You also have a very low risk of rocking it as you pedal, making it suitable for intense workouts.
Pros
- 300lb weight capacity
- 12 Workout presets
- Manual resistance option
- Step through center
- Comfortable and breathable seat
Cons
- Not the highest weight capacity possible
- Customers report customer service may not be reliable
Best Features: 3G Cardio Elite RB 350
3G Cardio is an American-based company from Arizona and has great features, but with great features comes high prices. The 3G Cardio Elite RB 350 is the most expensive out of the three we’re suggesting today but it’s worth every penny.
To start, this recumbent bike comes with a lifetime warranty on the bike frame and a 7-year warranty on parts. The bike itself is comfortable, too. It comes with a broad, mesh backrest accompanied by a wide cushioned seat. The pedals are wide and adjustable.
Both the seat back and the seat itself can be adjusted for a tailored fit to each user. This is extremely beneficial as well if you’re sharing this bike with another person. The heights can vary from 5’ to 6’ 5”.
To top it all off it has a compact base that is easily moved by lifting the rear and rolling.
Pros
- 350lb weight capacity
- 16 Levels of resistance
- 12 Pre-set Programs
- Adjustable Seat and Back Rest
- Built-in shelf for your devices
Cons
- High price point
- Raised center (not step-through)
Smallest Footprint: Slim Cycle Stationary Bike by BulbHead
BulbHead may be an unfamiliar company to those familiar with stationary bike companies. The Slim Cycle Stationary Bike is an “as seen on tv” product that is popular for its versatility. It’s very highly rated and a great budget option.
What adds to its versatility is that it can be either a recumbent or an upright stationary bike. It also includes resistance bands for your arms and can turn this into a full-body exercise machine.
It’s well suited for apartments as it can be folded flat to be stored away, when set up has a very small footprint, and it’s quiet.
Pros
- 300lbs weight capacity
- 8 levels of resistance
- Folds flat for storage
- Resistance bands for upper body workout
- Low price point
- Recumbent and upright options
Cons
- Not the best for those with balance issues
- The backrest and seat are somewhat narrow
What to Consider When Buying a Recumbent Bike When Obese
Comfort
Will this bike be comfortable to use consistently, maybe even daily? This may be your main form of exercise for a while. Make sure you are comfortable when using it. If you’re not, you may end up not riding it as much as you’d like.
Weight Rating
Take into consideration your current weight. How long do you anticipate being at this weight? It’s possible that if you are dedicated to your weight loss you may lose enough to keep you comfortably within the weight capacity. Consider a bike that your weight is at the highest capacity for the bike, this can cut down on cost as heavier weight capacity bikes can cost more money.
Durability
Exercise equipment can be expensive. Your investment must be worthwhile and last a long time. Durability is important especially when you will be using this consistently not to just lose weight but to maintain it as well.
Versatility
As this is an investment, it’s also important that it be as versatile as possible. Do you live in a small apartment? Are you sharing this with someone else in your family? Your choice of recumbent bike will likely stay with you for multiple years. You need it to be as useful to you at the beginning of your weight loss journey as it will be to maintain your weight in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Recumbent bikes are one of the best ways to increase your activity levels. They’re extremely comfortable as they decrease pressure on your knees, back, and arms.
After reviewing many options, our choice is the 3G Cardio Elite RB 350. It does everything you’d hope a stationary bike will do. The seat is comfortable and very customizable. We also appreciate that it’s an American-made product with an amazing warranty.
It can be hard to choose which equipment to buy since there are so many options. We hope this helps you progress to your fitness goals!
