Get a great workout on a recumbent exercise bike

For true fitness enthusiasts, the prospect of altering their workout routines to include using a recumbent exercise bike may seem like a bit of a cop out. After all, how much can you really challenge yourself while sitting in one of TRUE Fitness's ergonomically designed mesh seats? Quite a lot, as it turns out. Recumbent exercise bikes are not only easy on the joints, they can be used by people of all fitness levels. Given the right tools, you'll get a workout so great that you may never go back to your normal fitness routine.

Make sure you have the right equipment
Like with any cardio fitness equipment, if you skimp on quality when purchasing a recumbent exercise bike you'll be more prone to injury and your workout may suffer as a result. If you're going to switch to using this machine regularly, try the TRUE PS50, which is specifically designed for beginners or anyone recovering from an injury. Its mesh seat can also be adjusted to fit every body type – so you can be assured of maximum comfort during your cardio workout.

Play with the resistance
To amp up your workout routine on a recumbent bike, you can easily increase the resistance to make sure your leg muscles are working hard enough for you to see results. You may need to continue to play with your bike's resistance level as your physical fitness improves. You can also give your heart rate a boost by increasing the speed at which you pedal.

Try interval training
Another way to upgrade your workout on a recumbent bike is by introducing high intensity interval training into the mix. This anaerobic exercise will help you burn fat and lose weight. The key to interval training is to push yourself as far as humanly possible – pedaling as fast as you can – for short spurts of time, then pedal slowly during each resting segment so you can recover. With interval training, you'll be able to see results even from short workouts.

Use proper form
Because the TRUE PS50 home recumbent bike is so comfortable, you may be tempted to be a bit lazy when it comes to form, but don't succumb! You can place your hands on the handles in front of you, but be careful not to lean forward. As you complete your workout, try to maintain a straight posture with your back tightly pressed against the seat. This way, you will be able to push harder while pedaling. If you lean forward, you may create a muscle imbalance.