If you’re looking for a way to boost cardiovascular health while also strengthening the legs in a low impact way, look no further than training with a stationary bike. Not only can you torch a ton of calories on a stationary bike, but you can also do it without pounding on the joints – a plus for many people that have issues with their knees or hips.
Stationary bikes can also be considered to be a safer alternative to riding on the road or sidewalk and can be an excellent choice for cardiovascular endurance training if the weather is not adequate for riding outside.
From beginners to elite athletes alike, stationary bikes – and the corresponding training programs and workouts that one can do on a bike – are an excellent choice for just about anyone looking to strengthen the lower body while building a stronger heart and lungs! But with all the options out on the market today for stationary bikes, it can be challenging to determine which brand is best for you and your goals.
Let’s take a look at both the ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 and the Peloton Bike +, and from there, you can determine if one is better suited for you!
ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
With a price tag of $1,299, the Studio Bike Pro 22 from ProForm gives riders the ability to get a full workout, all from the comfort of home. The purchase of the bike includes a month-long membership for the entire family to iFit (and then retails for a cost of $39 per month after that).
The iFit platform is perfect for those looking to get a well-rounded workout. Not only do you have access to multiple trainers and coaches, but you can also choose from a plethora of different workouts. From intervals and HIIT to stretching and strength exercises that can be performed off of the bike, iFit gives you access to streaming workouts that will allow you to progress as needed and hit goals simultaneously!
These trainers and workouts can be viewed on the 22” touchscreen, which can also swivel side to side so you can see your activities even when you aren’t on the bike. With up to 24 levels of resistance, you’re sure to find a level that works for you. The handlebars and seat are adjustable to fit every person in your family comfortably, and the front-mounted wheels make it easy to move the bike from one room to the next if needed.
The Studio Bike Pro 22 comes with a set of 3 pound dumbbells to aid in your resistance training off of the bike, and has a weight capacity of 250 pounds.
Peloton Bike +
Coming in at $2,495, the Peloton Bike + is slightly different from the regular Peloton bike in that it includes options for strength training instead of just cardio. The bike purchase does not include the all-access membership, which is required to purchase all Peloton bikes – so keep that in mind when purchasing. The membership is $39 a month and allows access to thousands of streaming workouts. Whether your goal is to get stronger legs, a toned torso, an improved cardiovascular capacity, or just improve your overall health, the all-access membership can get you there!
Trainers and subsequent workouts can be viewed on the rotating 23.8” touchscreen, which can rotate 360 degrees so you can see your activities from any angle in the room. Resistance is controlled digitally, and the handlebars, screen, and seat are all able to be adjusted to fit everyone in your family.
The Peloton Bike + does have some user requirements; the height range of the given individual is 4’11 – 6’4, and the maximum weight capacity is 297 pounds.
The Bottom Line
We feel you really can’t go wrong with either of these bikes. Both are solid options for getting in miles at home, but we like the Proform Studio Bike Pro 22 with the lower price point and iFit option. The Peloton screen is slightly larger, and overall it’s a high-quality machine. We just feel the Proform delivers a better value for the money.
