Cycling machines

[johnckirk]

As I've mentioned before, I'm trying to get back into shape by doing a bit more exercise. The Fitbug is working out quite well, since it gives me a specific target to aim for (revised each week): it started out at 5000 steps/day, and I'm now up to 6900. I don't hit my target every day, but that's ok; it acts as an incentive, and I do modify my

Comments

[susannahf]

On most exercise bikes, level=resistance. Usually the bars indicate changing resistance, but you probably wouldn't notice this if you were on level 1. Also, iirc, you're not meant to pedal faster, you're meant to keep a steady rpm (around 70-80 is good), and change the level to increase/decrease resistance.

[terpsichore1980]

The various inductions I have had at various gyms almost always start you off on at least level 4 or 5 on exercise bikes. You wouldn't feel "the burn" at level 1.

To offset boredom, you could either try taking a book / magazine (work particularly well on the type of bikes you sit back on) or some headphones for the gym's tv system. I presume a posh gym like Virgin has a tv system, most such gyms do.

[johnckirk]

There wasn't a back on the seat to lean against, but I was able to take my hands off the handlebars to drink water without any trouble, so I guess I could read a book/magazine easily enough. They do have a socket for headphones on the bike (apparently linked to the TVs), but they also play music over the general speakers in the gym; I'm a bit concerned that if I crank up the volume on my headphones high enough to drown out the music then it would be bad for my hearing.

Thanks for the tip on the levels, so I'll try that next time. When I first went to the bike, I thought it was broken, because none of the buttons (e.g. "Quick Start") turned on the main display. I asked one of the staff for help, and she explained that I had to start pedalling to turn it on; however, I also told her that I'd never used one before and she didn't give me a general overview or tell me that I shouldn't use it until I've been taught how it works (e.g. for safety reasons), so I just muddled through.

[susannahf]

Next time, may I suggest you ask someone? They may not necessarily volunteer information, but that shouldn't stop you from seeking it.