Are exercise bikes helpful?

[Court]

Having seen the recent reports on cycling and Parkinsons, I have got myself an exercise bike. I have cycled on a normal bike for many years. However, recently whilst I can still start cycling, cycle without a problem, I cannot stop and get off the bike. This has caused much laughter in my family, but was not much fun for me.

So when I saw the reports on static cycling helping people with Parkinsons, I decided to get an exercise bike. I figure if it does nothing else, I should lose weight!

However, I was wondering whether anyone had found cycling beneficial in reducing their symptoms - it is said to lessen a tremor, for example. Would be grateful for any comments. Thank you.

[jillannf6]

HI SUE

AS U KNWO I DO NOT HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A TREMOR BUT BALANCE IS SUPPOSE DTO BE MUCH IMPROVED BY CYCLING

(A RECUMBEBT BIKE WOULD BE BETTER AND NOT INJURE THE BACK)

LOL jILL

[etterus]

Stationary bikes are probably the single best event. It is beneficial for aerobic conditioning as well as leg strength/endurance. It is best to try to maintain a high rpm... 80-90 is the best but that's fast. Increasing resistance is good but it takes a while to work up to it. Start slow and comfortable trying to progress with speed and resistance over time.

From what I've read, the greatest benefit is walking and balance. I don't know about tremor.

[ronn]

Sue, I use a Roadmaster reciprocal bike, with handlebars that move opposite to the pedals. It is old, but works well. My family gave me a music player, programed to play Sousa marches at 120 beats a minute. I use this, set at minimum resistance, hopefully for 25 minutes at a session. It is possible, by changing the angle of the feet, (toes down/toes up), to slow the on-set of rigidity in the ankles. The most difficult part of this workout is trying to find or create a bicycle seat which will accomodate a boney backside for a half-hour workout

within tolerable limits of pain.

[hilarypeta]

Does anyone know where you can just buy the pedals only and use them seated? I find exercise bike good but tiring! As i travel a lot hard to take it with me in the car..pedals would be easier!

[Eileen9 in reply to hilarypeta]

I have a Pedlar Pro that I found on line. If you google it you will find a variety to choose from. I take my peddles with me when I go to someone's house. When the dystonia kicks in, I use the peddles. It helps me control the movement of my leg rather than have the dystonia control me.

[Court]

When I was looking for an exercise bike, there were some with pedals that you used when seated. Could these be what you are looking for? I googled exercise bikes and these were included with them.

[hilarypeta]

Thanks both of you. Will try. When i looked there were only heavy looking things!

[Dajudge]

I bought a Theracycle (somewhat expensive) and found it to be quite beneficial----While I cannot say with certainty that the bike is solely ----my tremor is gone --also my balance and gait have improved. The bike is rugged, comfortable, and utilitarian. It will last forever too!