Elliptical trainers have long been a gym staple, praised for their low-impact cardio and full-body engagement. But what if you could take that workout outside? Enter the Elliptical Bike Outdoor – a novel fitness machine that’s gaining traction for its unique blend of cycling and elliptical motion, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional outdoor workouts.
As someone who loves cycling for its enjoyment, efficiency, and fitness benefits, I’m also aware of its drawbacks. Long hours in the saddle can lead to tight hip flexors and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back. This got me thinking: is there a way to enjoy the outdoors on wheels without these postural issues?
Years ago, a friend introduced me to the ElliptiGO, describing it as a hybrid of a bicycle and an elliptical trainer. Intrigued, I saw him riding it soon after, and the description was spot on. It looked like a bike with handlebars and wheels, but instead of pedals, it featured the familiar footpads of a gym elliptical – and crucially, no seat.
Outdoor elliptical bikes seem to be popping up more frequently now. I’ve noticed them around my neighborhood and even spotted elite athletes like 4x Obstacle Racing World Champion Amelia Boone mentioning hers. It was time to delve deeper into the world of outdoor elliptical machines and see what they’re all about.
Are Outdoor Elliptical Machines an Effective Workout?
In my previous article, “The Benefits of Using an Elliptical Trainer,” I referenced a study from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research that compared elliptical trainers to traditional bikes using the Wingate test. This intense 30-second sprint test measures peak power output. Researchers measured energy expenditure across different energy systems – oxidative, phosphorolytic, and glycolytic – and tracked oxygen consumption and lactate levels.
The study concluded that participants reached exhaustion faster on the elliptical trainer compared to a regular bike. This was attributed to the elliptical’s design, which engages the arms, core, and more leg muscles, combined with the standing position (due to the absence of a seat).
For those seeking a cardiovascular workout that maximizes effort, a machine that incorporates the arms, core, and legs is key. Outdoor elliptical bikes fit this description perfectly. They offer a more comprehensive workout compared to traditional cycling, engaging more muscle groups and pushing your cardiovascular system harder.
3 Key Benefits of Outdoor Elliptical Bikes
Beyond their effectiveness in pushing your limits, outdoor elliptical bikes offer several compelling advantages that make them worth considering:
1. Low-Impact Exercise
Elliptical trainers were initially designed to mimic running but with reduced joint stress. Anyone who’s used one knows they succeed in this. The smooth, elliptical motion minimizes impact on ankles, knees, hips, and the lower back.
A University of Missouri study compared elliptical machines to treadmills. The findings revealed that elliptical workouts were nearly identical to treadmill workouts in terms of cardiovascular exertion, but with significantly less joint impact.
If joint health is a concern but maintaining cardiovascular fitness is a priority, an outdoor elliptical bike is an excellent choice. It allows you to enjoy an intense cardio session without the pounding associated with running or high-impact activities.
2. Enhanced Muscle Activation
Research from Canada comparing elliptical machines to walking showed that elliptical training activates more muscles, particularly in the glutes and hips, compared to walking.
If building a stronger posterior chain or boosting hip muscle power is your goal, outdoor elliptical bikes can be a valuable tool. They engage these muscles more effectively than walking, contributing to better lower body strength and definition.
Furthermore, a study from Willamette University highlighted that pedaling backward on an elliptical particularly targets the quadriceps and improves coordination. This adds another dimension to muscle engagement and workout variety on an elliptical bike outdoor.
3. Full-Body Workout Including Upper Body and Core
Unlike traditional bikes, outdoor ellipticals eliminate the seat and often incorporate arm levers. This design naturally engages your arms, shoulders, and chest, providing an upper body workout as you ride. The seatless design also forces your core muscles to work harder to maintain balance and stability.
This means you can efficiently combine upper body, lower body, cardiovascular, and core training into a single workout session with an elliptical bike outdoor. It’s a time-saving and highly effective way to achieve a full-body fitness routine while enjoying the outdoors.
Choosing the Best Outdoor Elliptical Bike for You
While the market for outdoor elliptical bikes has expanded since my friend’s early ElliptiGO, the options are still relatively focused. The variety in designs, features, and functionalities makes it challenging to pinpoint a single “best” model. However, here are some standout outdoor elliptical bike options to consider:
The StreetStrider stands out as closely mimicking the gym elliptical experience. While many outdoor ellipticals have bike-like handlebars, the StreetStrider features moving handles that synchronize with your stride, maximizing upper body engagement. If upper body workout benefits are a priority, the StreetStrider is a strong contender. It also offers indoor stand compatibility, converting it into a home elliptical for year-round use.
The ElliptiGO Arc 8 is arguably the most aesthetically appealing option. Equipped with 8 gears, it’s well-suited for varied terrains, including hilly areas. Its relatively affordable price point for its features and the brand’s long-standing presence and diverse model range make ElliptiGO a reputable and accessible choice.
The Halfbike presents a unique and stylish, albeit unconventional, design. Resembling a cross between a tricycle and modern art, it’s the most compact and foldable option, ideal for commuting or easy storage in vehicles.
The Wingflyer, marketed as an “adult scooter,” is the most playful-looking of the bunch. However, it’s less readily available and cautioned against rough terrains. While none of these bikes are designed for serious off-roading, if light trail capability is desired, exploring alternatives might be necessary.
Get-Fit Guy’s Recommendation: Embrace the Outdoor Elliptical
My personal preference leans towards the StreetStrider due to its enhanced upper body engagement and distinctive design. Tests also suggest it offers superior stability at higher speeds (up to 20 mph or 32 kph), although caution is advised until you’re comfortable with outdoor elliptical riding at such speeds.
Ultimately, outdoor elliptical bikes cater to a diverse range of fitness enthusiasts. Whether you’re a runner seeking low-impact endurance training, a general fitness lover tired of indoor workouts, or simply someone like me who appreciates innovative fitness gear and outdoor adventures, these machines offer a compelling alternative. What once seemed like a fleeting fitness trend a decade ago is proving its staying power, even winning over a dedicated cycling enthusiast like myself. The elliptical bike outdoor is here to offer a fresh and effective way to enjoy fitness in the open air.
Disclaimer
All content here is for informational purposes only. This content does not replace the professional judgment of your own health provider. Please consult a licensed health professional for all individual questions and issues.
