Type of stationary bike

[Tarheel Tink]

Well, I can't avoid my need for exercise any more (diabetic and overweight). After discussing with my doctor and considering what I feel I would commit to and works for me I've decided on a stationary bike.
I plan to check out Salvation Army thrift store since the New Year resolution donations seemed to arrived . Can someone recommend a type for me? I am leaning towards a recombinant (spelling?) due to lower back problem but would love any imput on what to look for (or look out for).

 

[WalkingintheFog]

Tarheel Tink

I have one of each.

Let the comfort of the seat be your guide on this one:
--Recumbent bikes generally have a wider & comfy seat.
--Upright bikes generally have a seat that's narrower than that!
Until your butt is used to the upright bike's seat, you'll find it hurts when you get off.

A recumbent is more comfortable.
In a recumbent, be sure that you can move the seat closer to/further from the pedals.....your back will hurt if distance is not right.
Also in a recumbent, be sure that there straps of some sort to hold your feet in place on the pedals (lol, I keep typing "petals"... please, stay off the petals!)

An upright is great, if you can ride it in comfort (see above re: seat!).
You do need to be sure to adjust the heights as well.

Depending on your size & ability, I bet you might be better starting off w/ a recumbent bike. And once that's done its job, bring to the thrift shop and pick up an upright. (or even keep 2 for a period of time while you transition over).

My 2 bikes are each in front of a TV. And the treadmill has a wall tv in front of it. I find that I can read pocket novels most easily on the recumbent, and watch TV on all 3.
It's great to bike while watching a show, because that's an hour ... or two that I would have just sat.

Start off with something easy that you can stick with, without dreading it because it will hurt.

AND! always wear sneakers or sturdy footwear on the bikes... barefoot or slippers seem to invite foot pain later.

CHALLENGE yourself to bike the distance between your house and the Happiest Place in the World!

You can do it!

 

[Tarheel Tink]

Wow! Walkinginthefog; you gave me exactly the information I needed! Thank you so much for the "inside scoop" on the differences and what to expect and look for such as seat adjustment, pedal straps, comfort, etc.
I'm going to plan on a recumbent bike that meets my needs at the moment and plant that baby in the living room in front of the big screen! I think timing it for the length of a program will get me to stick with the program. Thank you for taking the time to describe things.

 

[cewait]

The only reason I would agree with the recumbent is better is due to your lower back issue. Otherwise, the upright bike is far superior from a physiological aspect. You require more muscle to turn the crank and more muscle = more Kcal... and that is what you are looking for. The upright is works more of the hip girdle and quads than the recumbent.

I would suggest getting on all bikes you see at the store and trying them... for a while. An upright may be perfectly good for your reach. Fit is important...

I would really suggest a spinner bike for you as it adjusts in all directions. The only reason I would discourage you is that it is way too easy to hop on with no load.

Good luck with your choice. Remember that your bike is a tool and you will need to use it. The reason you are looking for a used one in a second hand store is the reason many folks fail with an at home tool. DO NOT let it become an expensive clothes hanger. Sounds funny today, but I can almost guarantee that you will find something hanging on it at some point in time. Mine does on occasion.

Finally, nbot sure about NC, but have your doc write a script for a bike and take that with you to the store to avoid sales tax.

 

[Tarheel Tink]

cewait, thank you for your input. I think your suggestion about trying out different models is an excellent one. The clothes theory is an excellent one and is the reason it will be in the living room- I know myself and am too proud to let company see that, lol! I really appreciate the possible tax info and will get a prescription to try that. Thank you!