Are you looking for a way to improve your cardiovascular health without impacting your joints? Look no further than a stationary bike. These bikes are excellent for boosting aerobic endurance and leg strength while eliminating the pounding and wear and tear that other high-impact exercises can deliver.
Aside from low impact, stationary bikes allow you to torch some calories and strengthen the lower body and are an excellent option for both elite athletes and novice exercisers alike. Stationary bikes can even be used for active recovery and are a safe option for exercise on those days when the weather is inclement.
There are several different stationary bikes on the market; air, recumbent, upright, and even dual-action bikes. It can be confusing as to what type of bike might be best for you and your fitness goals; we will compare and contrast the Studio Bike Pro 22 from ProForm and the SB900 Exercise Bike from Sole! Let’s check out both bikes, and then you can decide if one fits your needs and goals better.
ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
The Studio Bike Pro 22 is currently $1,299 and includes a 30-day trial of iFit for your family (membership is $39 a month after the trial). iFit allows access to thousands of on-demand and streaming workouts worldwide. Virtual trainers encourage and motivate you through classes and adjust your resistance automatically – so all you need to do is pedal. Each workout is recorded, allowing you to see your progress over time.
These resources through iFit can be viewed on the 22” smart high definition touchscreen display. The ergonomic padded bike seat and adjustable handlebars can make your ride as comfortable as you want. With 24 digital resistance levels and an inertia-enhanced flywheel, you’ll notice that you’re riding as smoothly and quietly.
The Pro 22 also comes with accessories! You’ll have a set of 3-pound dumbbells, which fit into the dumbbell holder on the bike when not in use. With easy-to-use transport wheels, you can move this upright bike around and out of the way when not in use, making it the perfect fitness accessory for your home.
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
The SB900 has an MSRP of $1,799.99 (but is often on sale). Riders can add on a monthly or yearly membership to Studio (with a monthly membership price of $39), allowing access to thousands of on-demand workouts, both on and off the bike. With class times ranging from 10 to 60 minutes long, you’ll have access to virtual trainers, a real-time leaderboard to kick up the competition, and music that will encourage and motivate you.
These workouts and trainers can be viewed on the 3’x 4′ LCD, and the integrated tablet holder is available for holding your phone or iPad. The seat and pedals can be adjusted to fit each rider. This upright bike uses a magnetic braking system that allows you to ride in silence without disturbing family members. With a display that shows your calories burned, distance traveled, RPM, and time, you can reach your fitness goals in no time.
The Bottom Line
Both bikes are of excellent quality and have all the features you need for a great addition to your home gym. Which one you pick will depend on your budget and workout preferences.
