Spin bikes are a type of stationary bicycle meant for indoor exercise use, and the magnetic spin bike is no different, except that in exchange for a steeper price, it comes with an assortment of beneficial changes and alterations that make it well worth the money spent.

Let’s delve right into these specifics and more!

What exactly is a magnetic spin bike?

A typical trait of many forms of exercise equipment, such as an elliptical or a treadmill is the resistance feature, which relies on a large metal part called a flywheel that enables the user to adjust the overall “feel” of the machine and how difficult it is to walk, pedal, move or operate in general.

Flywheels store the energy from pedaling or walking and are used to change resistance levels.

The higher the resistance setting, the more difficult the workout feels, which in turn increases your calorie burn, muscle toning, and stamina; your sweat, and heart rate will increase, you feel more tired, and all that jazz of a typical higher effort workout.

Lower resistance settings are ideal to use for those who can’t or do not wish to put their body through too much strain, either from just starting out and getting used to their machine, or don’t want to risk aggravating an existing injury or condition.

Regardless of your preferences and needs, there’s a resistance setting to suit your purposes and desires!

What a magnetic spin bike does differently is use magnets for its method of resistance, rather than brake pads which have contact with the flywheel and its parts to generate the resistance.

So how does it work? What’s all this talk about magnets?

Two large magnets and the flywheel itself are all that is required to generate the resistance in a magnetic spin bike, the result is the flywheel rotating and intercepting the two magnets when the user pedals, and blocking their magnetic field, which creates the resistive forces.

On higher resistance levels, the magnets are closer to one another, which gives the pedals that ‘heavy’ feeling making it harder to pedal as they push against each other.

Lower resistance has the two magnets further away, making the force less and it easier to pedal, just like in the same way when you play with magnets by pushing them together and pulling them away.

Watts? On a bike that doesn’t use a power source?

On your bike’s monitor screen, you may notice something confusing, a system of measurement described in “watts”, and this unit is essentially the “power” output of your pedaling.

Think horsepower, basically!

The watt system is a perfect way to track your progress in stamina and endurance, as it accurately shows you just how much power is being put into your pedaling, and how much energy you and your bike are producing.

The higher the watt number, the more energy is being emitted by your bike and by your movements!

It’s a great way to test your limits and experiment with how far you can go, and what goals you can reach.

Magnetic VS other types of resistance

Air

Air resistance is just as simple as magnetic, as the bike uses a large fan to generate air and wind resistance, which increases or decreases depending on the speed the user pedals. 

There are fewer moving parts on bikes using fans, often making them easier to maintain and longer lasting due to lower maintenance needs.

Some bikes do have rather noisy fans, however, so that’s something to keep in mind when looking at a bike using wind resistance.

Contact

The most common method used in contact resistance is brake pads that are set beside and above the flywheel, these come into contact with the wheel on higher resistance settings, slowing its movement and making pedaling more difficult, thus increasing the effort needed to gain speed.

Lower resistance settings have the brake pads ease off the flywheel, generating less friction and making it easier to pedal.

Magnetic

As mentioned above, magnetic resistance bikes use two powerful magnets beside and above the flywheel to generate opposing force when they are pushed closer together at higher resistance levels, and less force when farther away on lower settings.

There is no need for lubrication or general maintenance besides occasionally tightening screws or loose parts.

What benefits can a magnetic spin bike offer me?

Little to no maintenance in comparison to a bike using another form of resistance

I’m sure everyone knows that the more complicated and complex the machine is, the higher the chance that something can go wrong, like a loose bolt or a part going bad.

This is the issue when it comes to resistance forms such as contact because the brake pads wear down over time and need replacement, other bikes can also use friction bands, and the same is true for them as well.

Some replacement parts can also be a bit costly, which is annoying as well since you of course wish to spend more time using your equipment than fixing or repairing it.

The benefits of magnetic spin bikes are that they use very few parts, and these parts do not have to roughly brush against each other, so this lessens the wear and tear and potential damage they get put through on a regular basis.

There’s nothing you need to oil, chain, charge, or hook, making them the most maintenance-free stationary bike and some of the sturdiest equipment out there!

Provides a better range of smooth and more consistent resistance

Changing or adjusting resistance levels on spin bikes using magnetic resistance is simple and easy, typically just with the press of a button on the console or a turn of a knob!

Being able to easily get a feel for the resistance or see it displayed on-screen is a big help for tracking your progress and dialing up the intensity as you improve.

These bikes also tend to come with pre-set programs to incorporate into your workout, generally working by having the bike change resistance settings on its own at set intervals, which keeps workouts less monotonous and repetitive.

Magnetic spin bikes are great for workouts, as well as maintaining weight and general fitness!

Spinning is a great form of exercise due to its high calorie burn for considerably lower effort than other higher intensity machines or exercise equipment.

Spinning on average can burn about 260 calories, but spinning classes are geared towards higher intensity, so you can expect to burn anywhere from 400 to 600 calories.

You don’t have to attend an in-person spin class however to see those results, as online and virtual spin classes are available to use so you can reap the rewards on your bike in the comfort of your own home!

The results are often apparent by week two or three if exercising 3 or 4 times a week, as by then you will start to notice changes in your stamina, muscling, and body shape.

 And considering many people are understandably in a rush to see changes and try to often brute force the process when using their new workout equipment, it’s a great choice for those looking for fast and consistent results without the risk of hurting yourself by overdoing it.

Easy and safe for anyone to use; for all fitness levels

A common question many might ask is: do I have to be fit to use a spin bike or get started with exercising? 

Luckily, the answer is no in the case of these bikes, as they’re low impact, meaning super easy on the joints and body, so regardless if you are older, have pre-existing injuries, are out of shape, or have any issues that can make exercising difficult and painful, a magnetic spin bike is guaranteed to be one of the safest options available!

They also tend to be a one size fits all type of scenario, making it so the whole family can make use of the spin bike if needed, with a quick adjustment of the seat or handlebars, each person is ready to get their workout in!

Magnetic spin bikes offer a quieter cycling experience!

A major benefit of exercising with a bike that uses magnetic resistance is that because of the lack of moving parts, such as clinking belts, chains, brake pads, or others, the operation of the bike is almost entirely silent!

This makes using the bike in any room of the home or time of day convenient and unobstructive for everyone, and much less distracting, making it easier to focus on enjoying using your machine.

Other considerations

Cost

It’s important to consider your budget like always when thinking about making a new purchase, and this situation is no different, as the cost of magnetic spin bikes is higher than other varieties that use contact-based resistance settings.

Typically, these bikes start anywhere from 600 dollars to 2,000, and that of course depends on any extra features and add-ons that the bike comes with, so evaluating any features you feel are a must, and none of the ones you don’t is the best way to save money.

In the end, you save money in the long run by purchasing a magnetic spin bike over other types because of the long term durability and lack of needing any regular maintenance or replacement parts.

Weight limits

Something that’s often forgotten about in the feverish excitement of purchasing a new piece of equipment is weight limits, and that metric is imperative to keep an eye on when scrutinizing which bike specifically to buy since this will guarantee your machine will last as long as possible and continue running its best.

Many of these bikes have limits of 300 pounds or more, so finding one to suit your needs typically won’t be an issue.

The best clothing to wear for your spinning sessions

These items are not necessarily must-haves but are very helpful for maintaining comfort during workouts, as the right clothing can make a big difference in how you feel at the end of your sessions, and feeling good at the end of each workout is a major key to consistency.

Bike shorts

These shorts are designed to wick away sweat and moisture, as well as having padding on the groin and bottom area to ensure maximum comfort during sessions, as the bike seat can leave you with soreness, especially when just starting out.

Bike jersey

Similar to the shorts above, these jerseys are made to keep the sweat from drenching you and the clothing itself not being stuck to your body as if you just took a dive into the pool!

Discomfort is never motivating or helpful, so having a bike jersey specifically to wear during spinning sessions is very convenient.

Padded tights

If you prefer something with more length or just want to switch things up and have a little variety, padded tights can offer similar benefits to bike shorts by keeping you cool and comfortable.

Padded underwear

Sometimes it’s worth going the extra mile, and this is definitely true when it comes to considering wearing padded underwear for your spinning sessions, as they add an extra layer of comfort and help keep down on moisture buildup, which can lead to bacterial growth and infections down there, especially for women.

Spinning tee or top

Similar to a jersey, but lighter weight and no zippers, so easier to slip on or off as needed, and still get the cooling and moisture-wicking benefits.

You could also wear them underneath the jersey as needed if the environment you are exercising in is on the cooler side.

Comfortable cycling shoes

Considering the main part of your body being put through the strain from pedaling, aside from your legs, are your feet, and you will probably be doing spin sessions lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour once or multiple times a week, having a comfortable and properly fitted shoe is essential to ensure maximum comfort and lessen the chances of any aches and pains.

Wrap up!

Magnetic spin bikes come with a large variety of beneficial features and traits, as well as extra add-ons as desired, their only downside is being more expensive than other forms of spin bike and stationary bicycles.

However, the phrase “you get what you pay for” rings true here, and the long term durability coupled with the quiet and smooth operation of the bike makes them well worth the price increase.

I hope this was informative, thank you for reading, stay well!

Exercise bike seats are something that, while everyone knows about, not many people give them much more than a passing glance, let alone a second thought!

This carelessness is a mistake because the proper fitting, cushioning, and shaped bike seat is essential to a comfortable and efficient riding experience that’s soreness and pain-free!

So, here we will go over the significance of the exercise bike seat and its importance!

Why care about your exercise bike seat? Isn’t this an insignificant detail to sweat?

Actually, no! The right seat is one of the most important aspects of your exercise bike since it determines how smooth and enjoyable your riding experience will be, or it can do the opposite and make it painful, soreness inducing, and demotivating.

Common problems include things such as the seat not being the right shape for your butt, not enough cushioning or support, or the seat is angled too high or too low, causing back pain and putting more pressure on the lower body.

Suitable and fitted seats help absorb and reduce the strain and shock of the motions, helping you stay comfortable and pain-free!

Types of exercise bike seats

Indoor

The indoor bike seat is the type you commonly see perched atop spinner bikes and other related types of stationary bicycles, molded the most similar to regular bikes than the rest of this grouping, these seats are built to cushion and absorb shock.

It’s imperative to have these seats adjusted to just the right angle, however, to get their full benefits, as they need to be not too close or too far from the handlebars so that you have a comfortable lean and posture over them while riding.

Repeated adjustments of the seat’s angle can help you figure out what position feels the most natural and comfortable!

Recumbent

Recumbent bikes are well known for their low impact and very comfortable seated reclining position, making them amazing for people with back problems, and the seats of these bikes are no different.

The recumbent bike’s seat is pretty close to a traditional seat or chair almost, as it enables the rider to sit and lean comfortably while pedaling, giving them ample support and cushion all the way.

As always, proper riding form is essential to reap the most benefits, especially the comfort and ease of riding, but there is generally far less chance for user error and pain-related problems with this type of bike.

Basically, it’s the most novice or newbie foolproof, so the best choice for those wary beginners.

Upright

These bike seats are the standard for most exercise bikes, generally built like a more cushioned version of an outdoor bicycle, so they’re very comfy to ride for extended amounts of time.

A common issue to take note of, however, is the size and shape of the seat, as some can be too high or set at the improper angle so your thighs rub against the seat, which can cause irritation.

Another problem that can cause the thigh rubbing is the seat itself being too wide, so it’s important to gauge how it feels for you and if you might need to consider purchasing a different one.

What are exercise bike seats made out of, anyway?

Most seats have a hard plastic mold as a base and with an inner material that is often comprised of a thin layer of foam and can be combined with anything from leather, vinyl, rubber, canvas, and others.

A urethane-based spray adhesive or neoprene is generally used to bond all the materials together. 

Tips for a more comfortable riding and workout experience

1. Exercise bike seat cushion covers

It’s not the end of the world if your bike seat seems to inherently just be simply uncomfortable to sit on for extended periods of time, as seat covers can be used to offer extra padding and help with a more smooth riding experience.

They come in many shapes and possible sizes in order to accommodate all seats and saddle types.

2. Wearing comfortable and cooling clothing for your cycling sessions

An often forgotten about aspect is the clothing you wear while riding on your exercise bike, as that can make a big difference in enjoyable you find the ride to be.

Nobody likes the feeling of clothes sticking to you from sweat, annoying and bothersome chafing, or any similar annoyance, which is why loose and cool clothing, in particular, bike shorts to wear specifically when you’re riding, can be very helpful and go a long way to keeping you comfortable.

Some spinning bike shorts or other indoor cycling shorts have added padding in the crotch area to prevent friction and chafing, as well as to wick away moisture, which is especially important for women, as to lessen bacterial growth.

Spinning or cycling jerseys also can be worn and be very helpful for wicking away sweat on the upper body and keeping you cool, they also have a zipper which makes them easy to take off at the end of each session.

Finally, there are cycling shoes or cleats that are made specifically for exercise bike riding, making gripping the pedals smoother and easier.

3. Adjust the exercise bike and seat’s position and angle

This is one of those obvious and simple fixes that make you feel stupid for overlooking them, but sometimes, it really is just as simple as adjusting your handlebars, seat position, or even the base it connects to’s angle differently than before.

Changing one or all of these features can make a whole world of difference, so it’s best to rule this out before trying anything more extensive.

4. Consider purchasing another seat

Sometimes the issue is simply the seat itself not working out rather than some form of user error. 

This problem can be a result of it not being the right shape, size, or offering enough cushion and support for the individual, either way, there’s nothing wrong with experimenting on various seat types to find one that reduces or eliminates the soreness.

5. Make sure you’re not leaning excessively on the seat

One of the most common problems that can create soreness is very preventable as well, and it’s caused by leaning excessively far back or forwards on the bike seat.

This posture problem can create soreness in the butt because of the bones and muscles bearing too much of the body’s weight without proper cushioning and support.

6. Change up your riding position every so often!

 Yet another one of those more “obvious” solutions, but still very important and essential to keep in mind!

Changing your position and checking if you are overly hunched over the handlebars or leaning too far can help a lot to keep the body from getting stiff and sore.

Varying your riding position every ten minutes or so can be a big help.

7. Give your body time to adjust to the new routine!

Soreness, stiffness, and any other unpleasantness that comes as a result of riding your exercise bike is more than likely just temporary, so it’s important to let your body adjust before throwing in the towel or feeling like you have to be stuck with a painful workout forever!

Generally, these issues resolve themselves with a few changes such as the ones mentioned previously and a little bit of time for you to adjust to your new routine.

Exercise bike seat discomfort: Tips and helpful tricks for women!

• Wear breathable and moisture-wicking fabric riding shorts as this will, in turn, prevent the moisture buildup that can cause bacterial growth and infections in and around the groin area.
• A painful and itchy problem, but thankfully preventable!
• Riding shorts or mountain biking shorts can also increase the grip and give better traction if friction and sliding around on the seat while riding is a problem.
• Many cyclists recommend not wearing underwear underneath your riding shorts to lessen possible chafing of the chamois pad and the seams of your underwear. 
• This can also couple with sweat buildup, so it’s important to wash them as you would your undergarments after finishing.
• Showering after a heavy cycling session to rinse off the sweat and drying your body well can also go miles to preventing the beforementioned difficulties of moisture buildup and bacterial growth!

Wrapping up:

Exercise bike seats can be deceitfully complex but important features of your indoor cycle, so ensuring the right fit, size, shape, and angle is essential to an enjoyable riding experience.

Combining this with the proper clothes and footwear, and you’re all set to have many comfortable spinning or biking sessions!

I hope this has been informative and helpful, thank you for reading!

The biceps are a common focus for many strength trainers, bodybuilders, casual weightlifters, and workout enthusiasts alike, and it’s no wonder, considering they’re one of the most visible muscles of the body, often shown off in movies, magazines, and other forms of media. 

As well as in person, of course!

As a result, the demand for the best tips, tricks, techniques, and equipment to achieve this much sought after goal of bigger biceps has only amplified over time, drawing many to modern and old devices.

Here we will go over two of these methods and explore their similarities and differences, and let you decide which of the two will be the most beneficial!

What is an Arm Blaster?

The arm blaster is a simple and straightforward device, worn with straps around the neck and a flexible metal band around the midsection, enabling the tool to help to restrict the more unproductive movement of the arms to make curls more effective, preventing the user from “cheating” during them.

Which is to say that cheating is whenever your body takes the ‘easy way out’ and lifts unproductively, but more comfortably and with less effort than what would be exerted otherwise using the proper form and technique.

The arm blaster is designed to maximize the efficiency of the bicep curl exercises by aiding the user in keeping the proper form, as well as isolating the biceps themselves.

It is an old school device, but one that has been returning to the mainstream again in recent times.

What is a Preacher Curl?

Technically, the preacher curl is not a device in and of itself, unlike the arm blaster, but is a particular bicep building activity belonging to a group of lifting exercises known as bicep isolation exercises. 

However, there are rack mounts and preacher curl station machines meant to aid in doing the curls and other related activities, which is especially helpful for beginners and novices rather than trying to go it alone.

The preacher curl can be performed using a weight bench at a 45-degree angle and a barbell, or either of the above attachments or machines, other weights are also usable options.

It is performed by first holding the barbell with the palms facing upwards, then placing the armpit on top of the bench and lowering the barbell to a 45-degree angle.

Head to head, Arm Blaster VS Preacher Curl:

The Breakdown!

Summary of the differences between the two tools

The differences between either a preacher curl station, a preacher curl rack mount, or the arm blaster are generally apparent just from taking a small glance at them.

A preacher curl station is a large machine, a staple in many gyms and fitness clubs alike, the tool has a seat, a pad for the arms, and a holder for the barbell to slide into, giving everything the user needs to perform the exercise.

The mount is attached to a power rack and resembles the pad that is typical of preacher curl stations, which is a good option for those who are limited in space and don’t think that they may be able to fit a full station.

The noticeable difference in the arm blaster is that it’s basically as long as a belt, lightweight, and easily slipped on, straps attached, and stored.

It is a great choice for those who are limited in space or want something that has less chance for user error, such as the preacher curl station, given it allows the user to ‘cheat’ if not used correctly.

Arm blaster VS Preacher Curl: comfort and ease of use

There is an advantage to the preacher curl station over the arm blaster for comfort, as some users report soreness in the muscles when first using the blaster because it uses and puts a strain on parts of them that are often not used.

The preacher curl only requires you to sit and lean at an angle when lifting your weight, while the arm blaster has you restricted to keeping your arms against the trunk of your body and may put pressure on the triceps potentially, which can range from slightly uncomfortable to annoying for some.

Using either the preacher curl station or arm blaster is very simple, considering with the blaster, you slip it on and pretty much are restricted to doing only the movements it lets you perform easily, and with the station, you just sit, lean, and lift.

This added freedom can be an advantage, or disadvantage, depending on how you look at it, however.

Considering your body is unrestrained, unproductive movements and improper form are much easier to do, thus making mistakes and user error more of an issue than with a blaster, so novices to doing curls may choose to use an arm blaster instead if they want to lessen the chances of doing them incorrectly.

Arm blasters can cause soreness in the muscles of the back, arms, and elbows though, especially for people not used to using them, because the position is somewhat unnatural.

They can also be irritating for those with larger biceps if the size and shape of the arm blaster are incompatible with the body type of the user, though this problem can be solved by finding a better fitting blaster.

Generally, though, preacher curl stations are considered better for the newbies as a rule since they’re more comfortable and less awkward to use.

Arm Blaster VS Preacher Curl: versatility

As a whole, curling using various weights, such as an EZ-bar or dumbbell, is less awkward with an arm blaster, and again, fewer chances for user error and unproductive lifting, given the restriction of the body, as opposed to doing the same using a preacher curl station.

It definitely can be done using a curl station, but the proper technique and form are needed to ensure the accuracy of the results and efforts of your time.

It depends on what your aim is, so I recommend experimenting with both and seeing which one better suits your comfort and experience level, while still getting satisfactory results.

In conclusion

Generally speaking, arm blasters are more affordable and less prone to improper use than a preacher station but are considered to be less comfortable for beginners and novices, however.

Cost-wise they’re not vastly different from each other, with many arm blasters ranging from 30 to 150 dollars max, and preacher stations starting at 70 to 350, so neither is break the bank expensive, so your choice may likely come down to simple preference for either of the two.

As mentioned, preacher curl mounts for power racks are also an option and generally are anywhere from 50 dollars and up, so they’re also fairly affordable for the average joe on a budget.

Those low on floor space may find the arm blaster or the mount to be better options for their situation, especially if you already have a power rack in your arsenal.

As a whole, both preacher curl stations and arm blasters share many of the same benefits and a few disadvantages, but both tools are highly effective for bicep isolation and muscle building, so generally, it comes down to personal preference in a lot of cases.

Thank you for reading, and I do hope this was informative and helpful!

Best wishes!

Spin bikes are a popular form of exercise equipment for numerous reasons; they are easy to use, great for people of all ages and fitness levels, and generally aren’t overly bulky, large, or pricey.

Spin bikes may be simple in their design and concept, but modern technology has added quite a few new tricks and features for this old toy, and one of them is the spin bike computer.

What exactly is a spin bike computer, and why use one?

The use of the console is quite simple, as it either comes preinstalled to some models of stationary bikes, or in wired or wireless versions that can be attached by the purchaser.

These little computers track many different stats while the spin bike is in use, such as speed, cadence, calories burned, time, and distance.

Keeping tabs on these stats is not only helpful to ensure you are meeting your goals, but many find being able to see the numbers in real-time, such as the calories burned during their spinning sessions, to be highly motivating.

Using a spin bike computer is also helpful at aiding the user in tracking their speed and time to make sure they are on target with the length and duration of their training sessions.

In general, higher intensity exercise offers many benefits such as higher calorie burn, better toning and building of muscles, and faster and more efficient weight loss, all of which are able to be tracked using the computer’s speed and distance section of the module.

How to use a spin bike computer and its features

Typically, the computer is attached to either the flywheel or handlebars of the bike, and many have compatibility with the vast majority of smartphones, enabling you to track and store your data and stats on your personal device.

As stated earlier, considering your monkey brain enjoys seeing tangible numbers, and those trends ebb and change over time, especially going higher with more consistent use and your improvements, it can be very beneficial for motivation and sticking to your exercise routine, thus making a spin bike computer or console a worthwhile investment.

Now, onto the features!

Calorie count

This handy feature calculates your calories burned by measuring your speed, distance, and overall intensity of your spinning session, although, like all calorie counters on workout equipment, these numbers can have a slight margin of error, so its best to use it as a rough estimation.

Always remember to stick to your calorie goal or other diet plan, do not eat more specifically to ‘treat yourself’ by having worked out or overcompensate for the number of calories you assumed you burned!

This is what often has people undo or entirely negate their progress and be confused about why they’re either not seeing results, or that their weight has “plateaued”.

Timer

From the moment you turn it on and start pedaling, this feature starts a timer and calculates how many seconds as well as minutes your spinning session has been going on, very useful for trying to keep the length of your workouts exact, especially when only having time to squeeze in 10 or 15 minutes on your bike.

Also very beneficial for pushing your sessions to be slightly longer each time, and improving your max.

Mileage

The mileage module of the spin bike computer calculates the general “distance” traveled of your spinning session, basically, the equivalent to the number of miles traveled if you were on a traditional bicycle, another great metric to be able to track and compare between workouts to bolster motivation.

Speed

The speed section tracks your current, average, and max speed during your workout, its a great metric to watch when you wish to push yourself and see what the highest max and average you can get to! 

Very encouraging and fun to use on any machine!

Cadence

Cadence is a measurement of the number of pedal stroke revolutions per minute (RPM) in all forms of cycling, including traditional and spinning.

An example would be that a cadence of 50 would mean that the pedals make a full revolution 50 times in one minute.

Spin bikes themselves often come with computers that monitor this, but you can also do it by hand by counting the revolutions of one of your legs for 15 seconds, and then multiplying by 4.

Other methods include using a stopwatch and counting the number of times your leg pushes down on the pedal for around 30 seconds and multiplying that number by 2.

A simple option if this is too confusing is to count for 10 seconds and then multiply by 6 with the use of your stopwatch.

Spin bike computer: important notes to remember

Buying a wireless cycling monitor is much simpler than a wired one if using for a spin bike because installation is far less of a pain in the neck than having to play around with wires and adjustments, and is more convenient if it can be synced with a device such as a smartphone, for better data keeping, logging, and storage.

In general, however, to cut down on user error and the amount of technical know-how needed, its a better idea to purchase a spin bike computer specifically made for your machine rather than modify an existing traditional bike monitor, as this increases the risks of inaccuracies and issues setting it up, as well as making sure it continues to work and track accurately.

Another helpful tip is to, as mentioned earlier, consider purchasing a heart rate monitor, such as one that attaches to your forearm, as this enables you to better keep tabs on the intensity of your exercise session. Mainly because this information can be very useful and helpful if doing HIIT(High Intensity Interval Training) or simply trying to ensure you keep pushing yourself.

Remember to read the fine print of your potential spin bike computer to make sure it’s properly compatible with your specific model and type of bike, the phrase “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” rings true here as it saves you the headache of being stuck with something you can’t use or have to return. 

Many of these computers are made specifically for use on traditional bikes, which makes them inaccurate and inconsistent often when using them for spin bikes or other stationary bicycles.

A word of caution regarding monitors and fitness trackers of any sort, some people can become a tad bit obsessed with their progress and watching those numbers go up, which can cause them to push themselves unnecessarily and risk injury and burnout.

I had this experience when using my elliptical and staring at the calories burned option, aiming to burn a certain amount each session, and making it last a set amount of time while watching the timer, regardless of how I felt because that’s what my brain decided felt overall the most pleasing to me.

So if you’re someone with those sorts of potentially OCD like tendencies, it’s best to keep an eye on yourself to be certain you’re not overdoing it with your exercise, as burnout and quitting is a far worse end result than slowly taking your time and gradually getting to where you wish to be.

Another note is to keep an eye out for a good warranty with your purchase as well since you never know if the computer you purchase could be defective and die on you within the typical year-long warranty period, and since these devices are around 60 to 200 dollars a pop, that can be fairly irritating.

Wrap up!

In general, spin bike computers aren’t an absolute necessity but are an extremely helpful and very motivating tool when it comes to tracking your fitness progress and setting and accomplishing goals for yourself.

They’re not super pricey and you can get plenty of long use out of them, so they’re worth considering for any spin bike owner.

Thanks for reading, and happy riding!

Air Bikes are known for their exceptional muscle toning and calorie burning potential, and the same goes for rowing machines. In the case of Air Bike Vs Rower, how do they compare? Let’s find out!

What is an air bike?

The air bike, also called the fan bike, is a type of stationary bicycle meant for indoor based use and exercise.

They are notable for the large fan attached that generates varying amounts of wind force the harder you peddle, which is what creates the bike’s resistance.

Unlike other exercise bikes, the air bike does not have any adjustable resistance settings, buttons, or gadgets, because, as mentioned above, the resistance is determined entirely by how fast the user peddles, making the workout easy to tailor to the individual.

It is also equipped with handles that move as you peddle, aiding in working out parts of the upper body as well.

They are also known for their exceedingly high calorie burn, commonly burning anywhere from 20 to 30 calories per minute, and the record being held at 87 calories per minute! 

What is a rower?

A rower also called a rowing machine or indoor rower is a type of exercise machine meant to simulate the motion and benefits of rowing a watercraft, minus the need for a boat, a paddle, or a source of water!

Rowers are known for their low impact benefits and coupled with being easy to use, makes the machine a great choice for those with joint problems such as arthritis, or those recovering from injuries.

Head to head: air bike vs rower breakdown!

It’s time to get into the real meat of this article, and that is, how do air bikes and rowers stack up and compare to each other?

Do they share similar benefits, general pros, and cons? 

How do their costs reflect their high quality and popularity; can the average Joe afford either of these beasts of a machine? 

Let’s get right into it!

Air bike vs rower for calorie burn

Both rowing machines and air bikes burn a lot of calories, so when considering the purchase of some new gym equipment for losing weight, either can be an excellent choice and more than satisfactory for the task.

But to be specific, let’s look into just how many calories they can burn in a session.

The air bike can burn as many as 300 calories in as little as 20 minutes of pedaling, and rowing machines are no slouch either, burning up to 200 to 300 calories in 30-minute sessions.

These details on how much the individual will burn do vary widely with the height and weight of the person using the machines, so it’s best to keep this in mind when trying to calculate your specific calorie-burning goals.

Thankfully, calorie burn calculators exist plentifully online, allowing you to input your height, weight, type of exercise, intensity, and the length of your workout session to get a firm, rough estimate on your particular stats.

The main point to remember about burning calories during exercise is that more vigorous and higher intensity workouts burn more calories and at a faster rate, with or without machinery.

Exercise equipment that tends to involve more muscle groupings that get worked on during sessions also can make a difference in how many calories, and subsequent pounds can be lost.

Also important is that the more muscle you put on, the more calories you burn, so both of these aspects combined can substantially accelerate your weight loss!

Air bike vs rower for cost-effectiveness

Everyone wants high quality and effective exercise equipment, and upon seeing the multitudes of benefits touted by rower and air bike enthusiasts, many will be tempted to hop right on the bandwagon and purchase their own without a second thought.

However, unless you’re Daddy BigBucks, budgets are an unfortunately common and realistic sticking point for the vast majority of people, especially for big-ticket items, so it’s important to consider costs when contemplating your next purchase.

In regards to the rower, the cost can vary depending on the specific type, especially ones with more “modern” features such as a built-in heart rate monitor or calorie burning tracker.

The single pull rowers tend to be on the pricier side at an average cost of generally 200 dollars or more, capping out at around 2k depending on the specific build and features, of course.

While machines that are closer to their watercraft rowing simulation origin are referred to as oar machines and generally cost upwards of anywhere from 150 to 700 dollars, making them slightly more affordable than the above type. 

Air bikes, as a general rule, are more expensive, however, generally costing upwards of 700 dollars, maxing out at 3k!

While there are smaller models of bikes with a fan attached that can be purchased for under 600 dollars or so, those tend to not have as durable a build nor allow for as much intensity with exercise sessions. 

Similar, but not really at all the same.

Air vs rower for user-friendliness

Both rowers and air bikes are fairly easy to use for most people, as in the rower’s case, the user grasps the ‘oar’ and pulls and pushes in a linear motion, which engages many muscles of the lower and upper body in the process.

It’s important to remember and make use of proper rowing form when using the machine though, as rowing can be a high-intensity exercise, and as such, soreness and aches are a common problem if the user hunches and uses the rower improperly.

Gripping the oar too tightly can also cause soreness and pain from increased tension in the hands and arms.

More common mistakes when using the rower also include lifting the oar too high, which puts unnecessary strain on the arms, and letting the legs and knee bend outward to the side, rather than keeping them firmly straight and in line with the hips.

The air bike is simply used by pedaling and grasping the movable handlebars as you go through the workout, making it a low strain on the body and easy to use.

Many air bike veterans note that it’s important to not overtax the arms and use them too much, but to put most of the focus of your energy on the lower body and legs for pedaling, as this prevents upper body soreness and tiring yourself out too fast.

Adjusting the seat to ensure you’re in a comfortable position is also important, as, like the rower, proper form is essential for preventing extra soreness or pain from workouts.

Keeping the ball of your foot on the pedal rather than the whole foot also aids in putting more power in your pedaling, and taking as much strain off your lower legs as possible by not overworking them with overly strenuous strides.

A neutral and straight head position focused on looking forwards is also helpful for keeping one’s form optimal, and preventing neck soreness from glancing down at monitors or other areas of the machine.

Air bike vs rower for toning and muscle building

Rowing machines are estimated to engage up to 85 percent of your muscles when the ideal form is used, making them amazing machines for building and toning muscle, which will, in turn, help you lose weight faster and more effectively.

Due to this, rowing is considered a full-body workout and an excellent way of getting and staying in shape!

Even the most relaxed rower can burn calories and get effective cardio benefits from the use of the machine, as in general, rowing is high intensity and best of all, is low impact, making it easy on the joints and body, with none of the negatives.

While air bikes may not engage as many muscle groups as the rowing machine, they are no stranger to high intensity and low impact exercise.

Air bikes are still amazing at toning the body and building muscle, but mainly the lower and some of the upper portions, though the potential cannot be overstated due to the limitless resistance and intensity controlled by the user’s pedaling ability.

Air bikes are considered some of the most top-notch equipment for cardio and stamina training as well, mainly due to how intense the workouts can be when the user is going at full throttle on the machine.

In general, both take considerable work for the body to use, so are highly efficient at getting you in shape and strengthening any existing muscles.

What are their main differences and similarities?

Rowing machines can be more physically taxing on the body than air bikes, as the use of the equipment requires considerable bending of the knees and stretching of the body, which can be strenuous on many new rowers.

In contrast, cycling on an air bike is a lower impact form of exercise because of less strain placed on the body, primarily the legs and back, and requires fewer physically taxing movements.

Both also have the potential of providing full-body workouts, but the rower requires most of the body to use on a regular basis, while the air bike has optional uses of other parts such as the upper body.

Both machines tend to be larger in size and build, so they take up a decent amount of floor space each, but the air bike takes up less considering its upright position in comparison to the rower’s elongated one.

Who should buy a rower?

Those with no knee or back related issues, a tighter budget, and a bit more space in their homes may find the rowing machine to be a better buy than the air bike.

Individuals who wish to strengthen and tone muscle for better sports-related performance and aerobic conditioning may also prefer the rowing machine.

Who should buy an air bike?

If you have knee or back pain, especially in the lower back, then an air bike is a better choice in exercise equipment if you have the budget for it, because unlike the rower, it doesn’t strain the knees or back as much.

If you enjoy stamina training and high-intensity interval training, then the air bike is also an ideal choice for situations like this as well, provided you have the budget for it.

Wrapping up

Air bikes and rowers have many similarities; they both provide amazing workouts, burn impressive amounts of calories per session, and are highly effective for toning muscle and cardiovascular conditioning.

However, each machine has its pros and cons, as well as differences, so it’s important to evaluate the individual factors and features and make the decision for which one will work best for your circumstances.

Thank you for reading, and best wishes!