If the headline did not get you interested buying a stationary cycle, then you are successful in avoiding temptation. There are many similarities between sex and cycles, but not all are positive. I will not go into detail, but will focus more on the cycling aspect so you can draw your own conclusions how it compares to sex…
- Have a proper warm up before speeding up – make sure that you heart rate goes up gradually before straining your muscles and getting completely out of breath. Cycling for about 5-10 minutes at a low resistance and medium pace will prepare your body more adequately for the challenge ahead.
- Be prepared to sweat – cardiovascular exercise taxes the body and stationary cycles are designed to be pounded. This is not for the faint hearted (literally and figuratively) as you will be working up more than a glow on your brow if it is done properly. Indoor cycle classes usually continue for about 45 minutes and at least 40 minutes is spent on the cycle before you disembark and stretch the tired legs. From the warm up to the cool down, the athlete should be out of breathe from exerting the leg muscles through various phases of work and recovery. Speed and resistance are the main variables in the workout.
- Expect sore muscles and other aches – your legs will often be slightly stiff after a good workout so it is important to stretch. Slight muscle stiffness and aches in normal and may continue for a day, but any ongoing pain should be investigated, especially in the knees and back. The sitting bones and muscles in the pelvic area get uncomfortable and it is important to sit back in the seat as far as possible.
- Endurance burns calories – cycling for 5 minutes will not a very positive weight loss benefit nor will you become much fitter. Cardiovascular exercise should continue for at least 20 minutes in order to gain the benefits. A quickie will not see much improvement in the waist, hips or legs, unless multiple quick sessions are planned during the day amounting to an hour of exercise.
- Enjoyment and the afterglow makes it worthwhile – the energy high and endorphins that result from an efficient cardiovascular session will leave you loving life and wanting to get back on the exercise bike as soon as possible. It encourages a lifelong habit and exercise becomes addictive and enjoyable.
