Which BodyCraft Indoor Cycling Bike is for you? BodyCraft has four indoor cycles in two different categories- magnetic resistance and brake pad resistance. All bikes have weighted flywheels and durable frames with handlebar and seat adjustments for every level. To simplify this blog post, it is easiest to focus in on two of these cycles: The SPT, which has a pad brake and the SPT- Mag, which has a magnetic brake. While much of your decision depends on preference, there are differing benefits for each selection.
Magnetic Brakes require little to no maintenance. Magnetic Brakes are very quiet and have more levels of adjustment compared to the Pad Brakes. Some outdoor cyclists may not like the quiet or even the feel of the magnetic resistance compared to the Pads Brakes as Pad Brakes or more realistic to traditional outdoor cycling bikes. However, indoor and outdoor cyclists will enjoy the added levels of resistance of the Magnetic Brakes.
The Pad Brakes do require some preventative maintenance. You will need to check the pad for thickness as well as treat the pad periodically to avoid dirt build up and eventually, after high levels of use, replace the Pad Brakes. However, the Pad Brakes really gives the indoor cyclist the feel of the outdoor braking system. The Pad Brake system is focused on the resistance itself against the flywheel while the Magnetic Brakes are focused more on having more levels of resistance.
The SPT indoor cycle and SPT-Mag is a great addition to your home or club routine. Cycling on average burns 500 calories every 45 minutes. Cycling bikes also give you the creativity needed to keep working out. You have lifts, climbs, sprints, hand movements and so much more. Cycling is also a low impact cardiovascular routine. It is great for every level of fitness as well as for the runner’s off days. Keep reading for tips on setting yourself up on your current or new indoor cycle.
The first step is not your routine. Instead it is the ability to set yourself up correctly. Follow the below tips to get started safely. If you are able to check off the following from our list then your indoor cycling experience will be safe and enjoyable.
✅ Lower Body Adjustment: When you are seated on the bike you want to pay attention to your knees. Make sure your feet are fully in the pedals and the pedal straps are tight.
✅ Lower Body Adjustment: Now look at your knees. Is there at least a 30 degree bend when your foot is all the way down (if you are visual, picture a clock and place your foot all the way down to six o’clock)?
✅ Lower Body Adjustment: Now move your foot to three o’clock and lean forward placing your hands on the handlebars, can you look past your knee and see just the front of your foot?
✅ Upper Body Adjustment: Your handlebars height and lateral movement is all about your fitness level. If you are a beginner, make sure those handlebars are all the way up. This will be safer on your lower back. As you advance, this is when you can challenge yourself with more core work. The lower the bar, the more you have to think about your abs and back.
✅ Upper Body Adjustment: if you are a beginner, you will want your handlebars to be closer to you and more of a bend in the elbows. This eliminate the forward or leaning position which is less pressure on the lower back. As you advance, you can move the handlebar away from you laterally to engage the core even further.
Overall, you want to be comfortable and feel like all your joints are soft and your core can help you maintain your seated position. Good Luck!
And happy cycling!
Written by Guest Fitness Blogger and Certified Personal Trainer Michele Cannell
Read more of Michele’s work at her site fitgirl.us!