The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes in 2023, According to Certified Trainers

RECUMBENT, OR reclined seat position, bikes are a more comfortable alternative to upright bikes. Whether you’re uncomfortable with an upright bike option or need more stability, a recumbent bike offers more support for both the upper body and lower back. Most offer a step through design, with wider, more padded seat options—and some even have lumbar support. These exercise bikes are a good option for older guys or anyone with more limited mobility. However, they can still provide a great workout.

“The recumbent bike provides a great low-impact workout that can aid with the rehabbing of injuries and can also help improve your range of motion,” says Mathew Forzaglia, NFPT-CPT, personal trainer based in New York, NY. “The position of the seat being reclined and behind the pedals reduces the tension in the core, minimizing back tightness, and it also reduces the tension in the joints of your ankles, knees, and hips, allowing you to target your bigger leg muscles. Plus, these bikes can help novice fitness enthusiasts gain confidence working out on a secure, safe exercise machine.”

With so many choices on the market—from high-tech options with all the bells and whistles, to more basic no-frills models—we’ve rounded up some of the best options for every category, fitness level, and price point.

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