Elliptical trainers are no longer confined to the gym. Step outside and experience the revolution of the Outdoor Elliptical Bike, a unique fitness machine that combines the low-impact nature of an elliptical with the freedom of cycling. If you’re a cycling enthusiast seeking a workout that addresses the limitations of traditional bikes, or simply looking for a fun and effective way to exercise outdoors, the outdoor elliptical bike might be your perfect match.
As someone who appreciates the joy and efficiency of cycling, I understand the drawbacks of prolonged time in the saddle. Tight hip flexors, neck stiffness, and back pain can become unwelcome companions for avid cyclists. The quest for a solution that maintains the outdoor cycling experience while mitigating these issues led me to explore the world of outdoor elliptical bikes.
About a decade ago, a friend introduced me to the ElliptiGO, describing it as a fascinating hybrid of a bicycle and an elliptical trainer. Seeing it in action, the description was spot on. It features handlebars and wheels like a bicycle but replaces the seat and pedals with the familiar foot platforms of a gym elliptical.
The popularity of outdoor elliptical bikes seems to be surging. I’ve observed them more frequently in my neighborhood and even noticed prominent athletes like 4x Obstacle Racing World Champion and Ultrarunner Amelia Boone endorsing them. This growing trend sparked my curiosity to delve deeper into the effectiveness and appeal of these unconventional fitness machines.
Are Outdoor Elliptical Bikes an Effective Workout?
To understand the effectiveness of outdoor elliptical bikes, it’s helpful to consider the research on their indoor counterparts. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research compared traditional bikes and elliptical trainers during a Wingate test, a high-intensity 30-second sprint designed to measure power output. Researchers measured energy expenditure from the body’s three main energy systems and tracked oxygen consumption and blood lactate levels.
The study concluded that the elliptical trainer, due to its engagement of the arms, increased core activation, greater leg muscle recruitment, and the standing riding position, led to faster exhaustion compared to a standard bicycle.
This research highlights a crucial point: for a highly effective cardiovascular workout, engaging your arms, core, and legs simultaneously is key. Outdoor elliptical bikes excel in this aspect, providing a comprehensive full-body workout in an outdoor setting.
Top 3 Reasons to Embrace Outdoor Elliptical Bikes
Beyond their effectiveness in cardiovascular training, outdoor elliptical bikes offer several compelling advantages that make them a worthwhile consideration:
1. Low-Impact Exercise for Joint Health
Elliptical trainers were originally designed to mimic running motion while minimizing joint stress. Users often attest to their success in achieving this. The smooth, elliptical motion significantly reduces impact on ankles, knees, hips, and the lower back.
A study from the University of Missouri compared elliptical exercise to treadmill running and found them to be nearly identical in cardiovascular benefits, but with significantly less joint impact on the elliptical.
For individuals concerned about joint health but eager to maintain high cardiovascular fitness, outdoor elliptical bikes present an ideal solution, allowing for vigorous exercise without the jarring impact of running or traditional cycling.
2. Enhanced Muscle Engagement for a Stronger Physique
Research from Canada comparing elliptical training to walking revealed that elliptical machines activate more muscles, particularly in the glutes and hips, compared to walking.
If building stronger glutes and powerful hip muscles is your goal, outdoor elliptical bikes can be a valuable tool. Furthermore, a study at Willamette University indicated that pedaling backward on an elliptical can specifically target the quadriceps and improve coordination.
Whether you aim to sculpt your lower body or enhance overall muscle strength, the varied motion of an outdoor elliptical bike offers diverse muscle engagement.
3. Full-Body Workout Integrating Upper Body and Core
Unlike traditional bicycles, outdoor elliptical bikes eliminate the seat and often incorporate arm levers, engaging your arms, shoulders, and chest during your ride. This transforms your workout into a full-body experience as you navigate your neighborhood or local trails. The absence of a seat also necessitates greater core muscle activation to maintain balance and stability.
By integrating upper body, lower body, cardiovascular, and core training into a single activity, outdoor elliptical bikes offer an efficient and time-saving approach to fitness.
Exploring the Best Outdoor Elliptical Bike Options
While the market for outdoor elliptical bikes has expanded in recent years, the selection is still relatively focused. The variety in designs and features can make choosing the “best” model subjective, but here are some noteworthy options:
The StreetStrider stands out as closely resembling the traditional elliptical experience. With its moving handles, it maximizes upper body engagement. Its versatility extends indoors with an optional stand, converting it into a home elliptical trainer.
The ElliptiGO Arc 8 is recognized for its sleek design and features 8 gears, making it suitable for varied terrains, including hilly areas. ElliptiGO’s long-standing presence in the market provides a degree of reliability and a wider range of models to consider.
The Halfbike presents a unique and compact design, almost tricycle-like in appearance. Its foldable nature makes it highly portable for commuting or storage in smaller spaces.
The Wingflyer, marketed as an “adult scooter,” emphasizes fun and a playful riding experience. However, it is less suited for rough terrain and may be harder to find in some markets.
Get-Fit Guy’s Recommendation
Among these options, the StreetStrider resonates most with my preference due to its enhanced upper body workout and distinctive design. Its stability at higher speeds, reportedly up to 20 mph, is also a notable feature for those seeking a more intense workout. However, it’s advisable to build confidence and skill before attempting high-speed riding on any outdoor elliptical bike.
Ultimately, the appeal of outdoor elliptical bikes extends to various fitness enthusiasts. Whether you are a runner seeking to reduce impact while maintaining endurance, a general fitness seeker tired of indoor workouts, or someone like myself who appreciates innovative fitness equipment and outdoor activity, the outdoor elliptical bike offers a compelling alternative. What once seemed like a fleeting fitness trend appears to be gaining traction and winning over even dedicated cycling enthusiasts.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized health guidance and before making decisions related to your health or exercise regimen.
