Do you frequently suffer from discomfort and pain in the back and spine? This might happen from a lot of conditions, one being spinal stenosis. It’s a severe condition that occurs with a lack of space between the spinal discs.
The reason could be degenerative diseases, injury, or old age. But how can you improve the spinal issues? One way is by doing low impact aerobic workout, and the other is using the best exercise bike for spinal stenosis.
Exercise bikes are a convenient option for back problems. They help to let you feel more comfortable while standing or sitting upright. While there are so many models of exercise bikes on the market, how will you find one? Don’t worry as we have prepared this complete article with a buying guide just for that.
Table Of Content:
If you are curious about what this entire article is going to discuss, take a quick look at the tablet of content below.
6 Best Exercise Bike for Spinal Stenosis
Having understood the mechanics behind testing a bike for spinal stenosis, you can dive into finding the best bike for you! Take a look at the different reviews below!
1. Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
The Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike is a home workout machine. The machine itself is small and saves space but is foldable to store easily. Despite its small size, the bike can hold up to 300 lbs.
Anybody can utilize the Exerpeutic exercise bike as it is easy to adjust according to the height and intensity of the workout. It has an 8-level tension system that allows a user to single-handedly change the difficulty of the workout.
For comfort and convenience, the Exerpuetic bike has a large cushioned seat and LCD display. The LCD screen displays statistics such as heart rate. The heart rate monitor or the pulse monitor is one of the biggest advantages of this particular exercise bike.
Exerpeutic Features:
- You’ll get a pulse monitor and hand pulse sensors.
- Large LCD display to see statistics such as heart rate and calories burned.
- The space-saving design makes it easy to store.
- It is easy to adjust for any height and holds up to 300 lbs.
- There is an 8-level magnetic tension control system.
The Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike is a workout bike made for people who are looking to get more active. It is not made for heavy workout sessions. Regardless, it is a convenient, easy, and comfortable instrument to use for a quick workout. The bike can be used by multiple people regardless of height and weight.
2. Lanos Folding Exercise Bike
The Lanos Folding Exercise Bike is a 2-in-1 is a stationary bike with lumbar support. It has an upright exercise bike mode for cardio fitness and a recumbent exercise mode to help reduce body fatigue and muscle soreness.
There are also ten levels of tension that can be adjusted according to the difficulty of the workout. As you work out, you can watch TV, listen to music, or talk to another person because the flywheel is smooth and silent.
The foldable design of the exercise bike makes it the perfect workout bike for apartments and homes. It also has an LCD monitor, heart rate sensors, and anti-slip pedals for your comfort.
Lanos Features:
- 2-in-1 exercise bike with an upright and recumbent position.
- You’ll find an LCD monitor, heart rate sensors, and anti-slip pedals.
- The exercise bike is compact and foldable to save space.
- It has a 10-level tension system to adjust the intensity of workouts.
- You’ll experience a silent workout because of the smooth flywheel.
- It doubles as an Exercise Bike for Obese Person since it holds up to 330 lbs.
- Anybody between 4’5†to 6’5†can comfortably use the bike.
- There is space to keep your phone or water bottle for easy access.
The Lanos exercise bike is a convenient workout machine to have in smaller houses, apartments, and offices. It is silent and caters to a variety of heights, weights, and exercise requirements with ease.
3. Schwinn Upright Bike
For those who love technology, the Schwinn Upright Bike is a great choice for a stationary bike. The bike supports Bluetooth connectivity, has an app to monitor workouts, USB ports to charge devices, and a data-enabled console.
Apart from the technological features, the bike is silent and smooth, with speakers integrated into the bike. The heart rate receivers are strategically placed to get the best record.
The strategically placed workout fan and water bottle holder prevent any overheating. Despite all the features on the bike, it is relatively small and comes with up to 10 years of warranty.
Schwinn Features:
- Preset workouts are available.
- App-controlled data tracking allows users to monitor their exercise routine.
- The console and cushioned seats are adjustable.
- USB ports are available to charge devices during the workout.
- The console connects to data and provides 13 different types of data.
- You’ll find strategically placed heart rate receivers.
- Silence is guaranteed due to its smooth operation.
- It is a small bike that doesn’t require too much space.
- You’ll get up to 10 years warranty.
The Schwinn Upright Bike is a versatile and efficient stationary exercise bike. It caters to a variety of people. The preset workouts and efficient console make exercising a breeze for beginners and professionals alike.
4. Marcy Upright Exercise Bike
Anybody looking for a simple exercise bike for back pain will be enthused by the Marcy Upright Exercise Bike. It has no fancy screens or technological additions; just a simple frame to exercise on. The bike does come with a small, no-nonsense LCD screen for basic information about a workout.
The basic bike comes with aptly placed handlebars that work for anybody regardless of height. The adjustments available for the seat allow a myriad of users to be comfortable. It can handle up to 300 lbs.
Simplicity and efficiency are the core of the Marcy exercise bike. It can be easily moved because of the wheels and does not take up too much space. The steel tubing and powder-coat finishing ensure that it withstands heavy use without denting or scratching.
Marcy Features:
- It is made of steel tubing that is functional and durable.
- The magnetic resistance system is useful for any skill level.
- You’ll find a functional LCD screen that is simple to read.
- An adjustable seat makes it accessible for any body size, height, and weight.
- A user will have the maximum amount of control with the counterbalanced pedals.
If you’re someone who prefers a simple exercise machine over-complicated consoles, then the Marcy exercise bike is perfect for you. The frame is functional and easy to transport, allowing it to serve its purpose. For simple home workouts, the Marcy Upright Exercise Bike is perfect.
5. ATIVAFIT Stationary Exercise Bike
The ATIVAFIT Stationary Exercise Bike is perfect for those looking for something simple yet effective. The X-type design is close to a recumbent style bike to allow for some ease during the workout.
Unlike other stationary bikes for a bad back, the ATIVAFIT isn’t complicated to use due to its 8-level intensity, convenient digital monitor, and compact design. The exercise bike caters to a wide range of heights and supports up to 265 lbs.
The bike is the ultimate space saver. The x-design allows for a smaller footprint and balance. The foldability makes it easy to store, and the wheels on the bottom make it easy to transport!
ATIVAFIT Features:
- Digital monitor to show all the workout data.
- A versatile and adjustable seat for anybody to use.
- The x-design makes the bike stable and balanced.
- It is easy to move and saves space in any home.
- You’ll find yourself comfortable with the semi-recumbent style.
- A magnetic flywheel ensures a silent and smooth workout.
- There is a phone holder conveniently placed.
- Switching between the 8 tension levels is easy with the knob.
The ATIVAFIT Stationary exercise bike combines comfort and exercise to appeal to a larger base. Despite certain placement issues with the pulse monitors and phone holder, the bike is easy to use and transport. The comfort the bike offers makes workouts longer and efficient for users.
6. Echanfit Indoor Cycling Bike
The Echanfit Indoor Cycling Bike is focused on providing a personalized, effective, and comfortable cycling experience. With the stable S-frame and oversized seat, the experience of exercising on this bike is unlike any other.
Apart from the comfort, the bike has 16 levels of tension to provide a range of exercise difficulty options. The arms resistance bands that come with the machine help you exercise your back, arm, and shoulders.
The hallmark of a good indoor cycle is a smooth and silent workout. The Echanfit bike requires no maintenance and is completely silent. Since the bike folds, it is easy to store as well. It is the most convenient machine for apartments and smaller homes.
Echanfit Features:
- An S-frame ensures stability and comfort.
- Oversized and adjustable seating.
- 16 resistance levels for different workouts.
- Silent magnetic resistance for a quiet workout.
- Arm resistance bands for a full-body workout and deep relaxation.
- You’ll find it easy to store as it is foldable.
If you’re looking for a convenient, efficient, and stylish indoor cycle, then the Echanfit exercise bike is perfect for you. The ease of use, coupled with how quiet the machine is, makes it perfect for any home.
Is Exercise Bike Good For Spinal Stenosis?
Patients with spinal stenosis often find themselves wondering whether exercises are good for spinal stenosis. As a matter of fact, there are exercises that you should avoid if you have spinal stenosis, such as weight lifting, stretches, etc. On the other hand, low-stress workouts like walking, swimming, and other aerobic exercises are really helpful to deal with the pain.
Exercise bikes for back pain are a great example of how aerobics can help reduce spinal stenosis. This method of exercise does not stress out your spine, nor aggravate lower back pain. In fact, using an exercise bike helps strengthen your back muscles and promotes a better spinal structure overall.Â
For example, patients with lumbar spinal stenosis find an upright stationary bike with a forward-leaning position more comfortable effective for their back problems.
7 Tips For Setting Up Your Exercise Bike Properly
Having the best exercise bike for spinal stenosis is essential for your back and spine muscle, but it is equally important to a set up your exercise bike properly. The proper adjustment will not only provide the right workout posture but also help to avoid any injuries.
Therefore, we present you with seven tips for setting up your exercise bike properly.
1. Adjust The Saddle Angle
The seat angle should be adjusted in a way to support your body weight. If there is excess upward and downward tilt, it can exert more pressure on your joints.
2. Adjust The Saddle Height
You need to adjust the saddle height as per your leg length and height. You can do so by standing alongside your bike and then adjusting it to your hip bone height. To do this, sit on the bike while placing your heels on the pedal. Then, extend a foot towards the pedal stroke. If your knees feel a slight bend, then the height is perfect for you.
3. Adjust The Backward And Forward Position Of The Saddle
Your knees should be aligned with your feet. To adjust the seat’s forward and backward position, place your feet on the pedal center and hands-on handlebar. If you see the kneecap over the pedal center, the seat is now adjusted.
4. Adjust The Handlebars
Adjust the position and height of handlebars to avoid putting pressure on your shoulders. It will help if you level your shoulders with hips and elbows. It will also help relieve pressure from the neck and back.
5. Adjust The Pedal Position
While riding the bike, your foot’s ball should always remain on the pedal center. Your foot’s ball and foot stroke should be in level with each other so that there is no excess pressure on your toes.
Tip: Keep a check on your heel position and wiggle your toes while riding to avoid numbness and stress on your ankles, knees, and feet.
6. Adjust Pedal Straps Or Clips
Most exercise bikes come with pedal straps to secure the feet on pedals. The straps make it easy for you to move the pedal and create an efficient and smooth stroke. Make sure there is a small space left between your shoe and strap.
7. Adjust Resistance
After you are done setting up your exercise bike, you can adjust the speed and resistance manually. If you add resistance, it will simulate the inclines and hills. Always pedal with slower movements of your ankle. For a smooth ride, do both pull and push up on the pedals.
Buying Guide: Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Exercise Bike For Spinal Stenosis
Before you buy a stationary bike for back problems, you need a better understanding of what makes an exercise bike best for spinal stenosis. Let’s find out.
Exercise Bike Type
Upright exercise bikes are best for spinal stenosis, according to most patients. This is due to the low-impact design that puts minimal stress on your spine area. Though some senior citizens may find this type a bit difficult as upright exercise bikes have no back support.
However, recumbent exercise bikes are also good for other back problems that need spinal and lower back support. But due to the design, users need to keep their spine curved which is not preferable with spinal stenosis.Â
Additional FeaturesÂ
Features such as customized resistance, secured foot straps, and LCD screens can take your exercise to the next level. So, look out for these additional features as well.Â
Compact DesignÂ
Your stationary bike needs to be compact if you are exercising at your home. Look for a model that comes with a foldable design. Also, you do not need a stationary bike with lumbar support for spinal stenosis.
Handlebars
The handlebars need to stay in such a way so that your spine is in a neutral position. So, to maintain an upright position, look for adjustable handlebars that you can set higher than usual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have some confusion about the best exercise bike for spinal stenosis? Maybe after reading the FAQs, all your doubts will be cleared.
What Is The Difference Between A Recumbent Bike And Upright Bike?
The upright bikes are made to keep the body of the user in a straight position to protect the abdominal muscles. The low-impact design of these bikes does not put much pressure on the muscles of the spine. On the other hand, the recumbent bike comes with a bucket seat to support the spinal region and lower back. Also, it is mostly tender on your joints.
Will I End Up In A Wheelchair With Spinal Stenosis?
You will end up in a wheelchair in a few cases. If you experience numbness, weakness, or chronic pain in your legs, you might have to take the help of a wheelchair. Secondly, pseudo claudication can make it difficult for you to move your legs. In that case, you need a wheelchair.
What Activities Should Be Avoided With Spinal Stenosis?
For spinal stenosis, you should avoid high-impact exercise that could make the symptoms more severe. Therefore, you should not walk or stand for long periods, avoid contact sports and also jogging. All these exercises can harm your spine.
Is Yoga Good For Spinal Stenosis?
Yes, yoga can help relieve the back pain of patients suffering from spinal stenosis. You should apply ancient yoga techniques such as bound angle pose (Baddhakonasana) for lower back pain and Mountain Pose (Tadasana) to stretch your spine.
What Type Of Stationary Bike Is Best For Spinal Stenosis?
Upright exercise bikes are best for spinal stenosis as they are less stressful to your spine. Exercise in itself can be harmful to spinal stenosis if you do not do it right. And the right way is an upright position that also helps with overall spinal structure and muscle formation.
Bottom Line
To remain healthy and fit, exercise is always the solution. And for spinal stenosis, it is crucial to do routine exercise with these exercise bikes. But, there are hundreds of indoor exercise bikes online. So, a comprehensive guide like this one is necessary for you.
The best exercise bike for spinal stenosis has to be the Schwinn Upright Bike. The features such as the preset workouts, small footprint, and 10-year warranty make it the ideal indoor bike for both beginners and athletes.