The 6 Best Ergometers

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Bicycle ergometers are for many the most popular devices for effective training of the cardiovascular system. It does not matter whether you use a bicycle recumbent ergometer or a normal bicycle ergometer for the training result. Which type of ergometer you choose depends essentially on your personal preferences. Both devices do not require much space and can be installed in practically any apartment. When buying an ergometer of any type, however, you should pay attention to a few points so that the training gives lasting pleasure and brings the desired success.

Our Top Ergometers Pick

Fitness: Ergometers Video Guide

Braking system & flywheel mass With an ergometer, the braking of the flywheel mass functions with a magnetic field. The magnetic field is generated by an electric coil. The more voltage is applied to the coil, the stronger the magnetic field and the braking force. In contrast to mechanically braked devices, an ergometer with a so-called eddy current brake runs much rounder. It is important that the braking power is evenly and sensitively adjustable. The second important criterion for an even load during training is the flywheel mass of the ergometer. The larger the flywheel mass, the better the concentricity of the ergometer. Without a flywheel mass, one would have to climb into the pedals again and again with every turn at the upper and lower points of the pedal movement, just like when riding a normal bicycle. A sufficiently large flywheel mass causes the pedals to move easily over the reversal points and enables a smooth, round motion sequence. To ensure this, the weight of the flywheel mass should be at least 10 kg.

An optimal sitting position is indispensable for physiological training. In order to sit upright, the handlebars and saddle must be sufficiently height-adjustable. It is optimal if the handlebars also allow different grip positions and relaxed positioning of the forearms during training. Those who want to train should also make sure that their legs are comfortable and that they do not have to be lifted excessively. Ergometers with saddles that can also be adjusted forwards and backwards offer special comfort. On some models, the standard saddle can also be exchanged for your own saddle in just a few simple steps.

Since ergometers are mainly used for endurance training and for training the cardiovascular system, the possibility of heart rate measurement is an absolute must for every ergometer. Without maintaining a certain range of the pulse rate, the hoped-for training effect will hardly occur in order to achieve a training success. Under unfavourable circumstances, training without pulse rate control can even be dangerous to health. Many devices measure the heart rate by means of an ear clip or via the hands by means of corresponding electrodes on the handlebars of the ergometer. It is perfect when the heart rate is measured with a comfortable chest strap that transmits the data wirelessly to the ergometer.

Cheap ergometers often do not have the TÜV/GS mark for tested safety. The deficiencies in these devices usually become apparent quickly during training and can lead to injuries or a total failure of the mechanics/electronics of the ergometer. When buying an ergometer, therefore, do not save on safety for the sake of your own health.

Last but not least, the operation of the ergometer should be easy to understand, clear and as simple as possible. Some machines are overloaded with countless features that most users are unlikely to use. It all sounds nice, but it doesn’t have to be. Nobody will enjoy having to study the instruction manual for several hours before the first training session. In this case, less is really more. More comfort and more pleasure in training.

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