Recumbent Vs. Traditional Stationary Cycle

**L&AirC** · 06-08-2008, 04:27 PM

Does one work as good as the other for rehab. I would guess that my butt would be more comfortable in the recumbent therefore I would spend more time in it. I'm just trying to make sure I haven't missed something prior to making a purchase.

Thanks,
Ken

**SponsoredByDuctTape** · 06-08-2008, 05:02 PM

When I first started on the bike, it was to gain more ROM by stretching my knee. For that, the recumbent worked much better and was much easier. When I finally got to where I could pedal the bike backwards, I could only do it on the recumbent. Now I'm able to pedal forwards, but I'm still using the recumbent because of the comfort. For rehab purposes, I think the recumbent is the way to go.

**L&AirC** · 06-08-2008, 08:00 PM

Thanks. My wife is leaning for me to get a recumbent anyway.

**drmark** · 06-08-2008, 08:48 PM

No doubt the recumbent bike is easier. There is more hip movement and less thigh muscle strenthening and knee flexion. It depends on what you need to rehab.

The easy way out is not necessarily the best if you are not rehabbing the right part.

**L&AirC** · 06-09-2008, 05:10 AM

I have a completely torn ACL, grade 1 (maybe 2) MCL and a medial meniscus tear. I'm working on range of motion so I I will have full range prior to surgery and then the rehab for post surgery (ACL reconstruction and possibly meniscus).

If I'm going to buy something, I would rather get something that is good not just for this event and I can continue to use to keep my mid-life pudge in check. Not to mention building the endurance for my legs for skiing. If a traditional bike works better than a recumbent for strength AND will work for rehab, then I would rather do that.

Thanks,
Ken

**drmark** · 06-09-2008, 05:23 AM

You are making a good decision.
I have all our total knee replacement folks (average age 70) on the recumbant bikes. If you participate in this website, it may not be the right one for you.

**Vinman** · 06-09-2008, 07:37 AM

'bent bike work is ok for ROM but I generally find that peeps feel that they can get a better stretch on a traditional bike. But either is an acceptable choice for that kind of work you just need to move the seat much closer on the 'bent to get the same knee ROM as on the upright. As for fitness they are likely equal.

**whisky** · 06-09-2008, 03:08 PM

The Schwinn Airdyne has worked wonders for me. You can easily control how much your knee bends. In the beginning stand alongside the bike and pedal it backwards. The more you step forward, the more the knee bends.

Another benefit is that you can sit on the bike, rotate the assembly with you arms and just let your knee go round and round till your able to pedal it. Once one leg goes around comfortably you can attempt two. (Harder to use both legs at once since it forces you to keep your hips from rotating).

After rehab the Airdyne can be used for cardio and an all around workout. It can be used with just your arms or just your legs.

Run the Airdyne at 60 rpm's for 30 minutes...if you can.