Cycling is one of the best ways to stay fit and healthy, and indoor cycling is a great alternative because you can enjoy it any day, any time no matter what the weather is doing.
But when it comes to indoor cycling, there are a few types of bikes to choose from. Two of the most popular are spin bikes and air bikes. So which one is best for you? Here we take a closer look.
Table of Contents
Spin Bikes and Air Bikes: Key Differences
Air bikes are indoor stationary bikes that are sometimes called fan bikes. They have been around for decades and are a common sight in gyms around the world. You can adjust the height of the seat until you are comfortable, and then you simply hold onto the handlebars and start pedalling. The handlebars also move forwards and backwards.
The major difference with these bikes is that they have a large fan incorporated into the design. As you start pedalling, the fan creates resistance. The harder you pedal, the stronger the resistance you face.
Spin bikes are indoor bikes that use a flywheel mechanism to simulate the resistance that you experience when riding on the road. They are smaller than air bikes, and they are designed for faster pedalling.
In general, air bikes are larger and heavier, and spin bikes are smaller and sleeker. Air bikes are often used for a harder workout, but both are great for burning calories.
Air Bikes: Pros and Cons
When trying to decide which is the best option for you, it’s a good idea to look at the pros and cons of each. Starting with air bikes, they have lots of benefits and a few disadvantages that it’s important to know.
Pros:
Air bikes are very solid and strong machines, which means they provide a good amount of stability, and they are also suitable for larger users.
They do not require an electricity supply in order to use them because there is no motor, making them a convenient option where no supply is available.
They are relatively simple to use, and you can get started without any special training requirements.
Air bikes provide a full-body workout, including the upper body, because you use your upper and lower body to maintain your pace.
Cons:
The main disadvantage of air bikes is that they are often large and heavy, which means they take up more space and are therefore not always ideal for the home. Moving them is also not always convenient.
They can also be expensive, especially if you decide to buy a high-quality model, so you may want to choose a second-hand model if you are buying one for a home gym.
Spin Bikes: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Spin bikes are a fantastic workout if you want to burn calories. Spin bikes are designed to go fast and to imitate road bikes, and they are perfect for high-intensity training and interval training.
They tend to be quiet to use, making them a good option for the home.
They are also quite small and light, which is convenient if you don’t have a lot of space.
Many spin bikes come with screens attached to provide extra information as you work out.
Cons:
High-quality spin bikes can be quite expensive, so that’s something to keep in mind when you buy one.
Some spin bikes may need an internet connection if you want to connect the screen while working out.
Which Is Best for You?
Both spin bikes and air bikes have pros and cons, and which one is right for you will depend on factors like the space you have available (if you plan to use it at home), your budget and your fitness goals.
But the fact is that both provide a great, low-impact workout – and they are both a lot of fun. So if you enjoy cycling, try them both out next time you go to the gym and see which one you prefer.
