Difference between recumbent or upright?

lindssaurus

Is there a real difference in terms of toning more versus the other?

fitnotskinnyxo

bump

HappyStack

Cycling?

It takes a lot more effort to cycle uphill, but that's moot if you're using a stationary cycle.

Neither has an advantage over the other, the effort comes from the legs... the pivot point of the hips isn't of any consequence.

auzziecawth66

I will note that seems like recumberant ones aren't built well for short people (even with adjustable seats I could never use on comfortably)

tavenne323

I think the upright uses more core and glut muscles because you aren't leaning on anything. I find the recumbent to be very awkward and not a natural movement. Plus, on an upright, you can add in standing v sitting, go up and down.

The only time I ever use a recumbent is if I'm feeling sick.

icimani

Source: http://www.bicycleman.com/recumbent-exercise-bikes/upright-vs-recumbent-exercise-bikes.htm


"Although both upright and recumbent stationary bikes provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout, these two machines differ in their details. While upright bikes mimic the form of a traditional bicycle, featuring simple saddle-like seats without backs, recumbent bikes provide back support with low, chair-like seats. Neither style is innately "better" than the other -- the ultimate choice between recumbent and stationary bikes boils down to your own personal exercise needs and preferences."

Source: http://woman.thenest.com/recumbent-vs-upright-stationary-bikes-2357.html

HappyStack

I think the upright uses more core and glut muscles because you aren't leaning on anything. I find the recumbent to be very awkward and not a natural movement. Plus, on an upright, you can add in standing v sitting, go up and down.

The only time I ever use a recumbent is if I'm feeling sick.

I don't think it matters if you're using a high enough resistance to stress the musculature in the legs. I don't know if recumbent bikes offer an incline option, but that would do it, too.

Ultimately it's all cardio anyway. Chris Hoy didn't get tree trunks for legs by cycling...

Rak0ribz

Source: http://www.bicycleman.com/recumbent-exercise-bikes/upright-vs-recumbent-exercise-bikes.htm


"Although both upright and recumbent stationary bikes provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout, these two machines differ in their details. While upright bikes mimic the form of a traditional bicycle, featuring simple saddle-like seats without backs, recumbent bikes provide back support with low, chair-like seats. Neither style is innately "better" than the other -- the ultimate choice between recumbent and stationary bikes boils down to your own personal exercise needs and preferences."

Source: http://woman.thenest.com/recumbent-vs-upright-stationary-bikes-2357.html

I've also heard that you need to be careful not to push too hard (strength-wise, not effort-wise) on a recumbent, because the seating position makes it easier to injure your back and knees. Probably worth considering.

lindssaurus

Thanks. I'm tall and I found the upright more comfortable.

PrairieRunner2015

I don't think there is much of a difference between the two, besides personal preference. For me, the recumbent is less prone to give me a wedgy.