How to Use the Stationary Bike
If you’ve never tried a stationary bike, you’re missing out on a fantastic cardio exercise that strengthens your legs and lungs at the same time. A stationary bike is a low-impact option that's easy on your joints.

Types of Bikes
Not all stationary bikes are alike. There are two main types, an upright bike and a recumbent bike:
  • The first option, an upright bike, is like a regular bicycle (your legs extend below your torso and your back is not supported), only stationary.
  • Recumbent bikes offer a more relaxed, supported sitting position. Like a chair, they have seat backs to support your back, and instead of pedaling below, your legs usually extend in front of you.
The Set-Up
Proper bike set-up will give you an effective workout and reduce your risk of injury. Adjusting a bike to fit you usually involves three to four variables:
  • Seat height: On an upright bike, start by adjusting your seat to about the height of your hip. Have a seat, placing your feet on/into the pedals. With one leg fully extended (foot flat and parallel to the floor), you should have only a small bend in your knee—about 5-10 degrees. You should be able to pedal comfortably without having to point or flex your feet to reach full extension. Adjust your seat again if necessary to reach this position. On a recumbent bike, your legs should almost extend fully, keeping a small bend in the knee. Recumbent bike seats adjust forward and backward along a track.
  • Seat fore & aft (for upright bikes): Once you have adjusted your seat to proper height, some bikes allow you to move the seat forward and backward for a more comfortable position. When pedaling, your knees should be closely aligned with your ankles. If your knees are coming forward close to your toes or beyond, adjust the seat backward.
  • Handlebar height (for upright bikes): Adjust the handlebars so that you are in a comfortable position. Raising the handlebars higher will alleviate lower back stress that occurs when you learn forward. You should be able to reach the handlebars easily, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
  • Foot straps: Most bikes have straps that you can place your feet into when pedaling. Take advantage of this feature, which allows you to both push and pull the pedals, creating a much more efficient pedal stroke. The straps should fit snugly but not too tightly.
The Workout
Once you're set-up, you can manually control your workout incline, resistance, and speed, or you can try one of several programs that bikes offer. Adding resistance simulates hills and inclines, and engages your hamstrings and glutes more than riding with light resistance. Pedal with very little ankle movement, and remember to both push and pull up on the pedals for a better ride. For more workout ideas, check out these SparkPeople workout programs:

Stationary Biking for Speed
Stationary Biking for Endurance
Stationary Biking Intervals

Other Resources:
What to Expect From a Spinning Class
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Member Comments

MUSICNUT
Thanks for the great article! :) Report
AMBER461
Thanks for sharing. Report
ALLTHINGSNEW81
My favorite exercise is playing video games with my kids while I'm on the recumbent bike. It's almost relaxing but I'm always drenched in sweat when we're done! They LOVE it and they KEEP MOM ACCOUNTABLE! Report
KHALIA2
Great info! Report
DJ4HEALTH
Great info Report
CHERYLHURT
Excellent Report
MILTONS_MAMA
I'm using an old stationary bike from the 80s or something, which doesn't have levels, like in the bike training programs listed at the bottom of the article. But I use it every day, and it helps me be fitter. Thanks for the info on adjusting your bike, very helpful! Report
KHALIA2
I love riding the stationary bike! Report
YMWONG22
Good article. Report
FISHGUT3
thanks Report
TOUGHLIKEOX
Thank you. I love my recumbent bike! Report
PAULA3420
Hoping this article helps me use my stationary bike. Great!! Report
KHALIA2
I use the stationary bike at least once each week. Wanted to see if I was doing it properly. Great article! Report
ALABAMASUSAN17
Great article! Thank you! Report
JHOLD0
Exercise Bike : Awesome article.Really for fitness or weight loss stationary bike is very important how to use and many thanks for the informative post article.I really use best stationary bike for exercise which I bought from Amazon and got review from this site http://exercisebi
keview.com/. Report

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About The Author

Nicole Nichols
Nicole Nichols
A certified personal trainer and fitness instructor with a bachelor's degree in health education, Nicole loves living a healthy and fit lifestyle and helping others do the same. Nicole was formerly SparkPeople's fitness expert and editor-in-chief, known on the site as "Coach Nicole." Make sure to explore more of her articles and blog posts.