Cycling is one of the best ways of staying fit. It's accessible, low impact, builds functional strength and supercharges your cardiovascular endurance. But then you're faced with a big question: should you invest in an indoor exercise bike or go out into the world and cycle on a real bike?
This can be a big decision.
Which Gives you the Bigger Workout?
This is the main question a lot of people seem to be curious about. Do you get more of a workout from an indoor exercise bike or riding out in the real world? The short answer: you're probably getting a slightly more intensive and varied workout on a real bike, however an indoor bike workout is much more efficient.
Outdoor cycling will include a lot of natural variation and surprise, keeping you on your guard and making you work harder to remain stable. Indoor cycling is more controlled, so you'll never have to go harder than you can manage just to keep going. You can also stop anytime you want during an indoor cycling workout, whereas real world cycling forces you to keep riding and to push through difficult sections.
Having said all that, the physical workout you're getting from each is mostly comparable.
In 2016, Aussie cycling pro Matthew Hayman spent five weeks in the leadup to the Paris-Roubaix road race recovering from a broken arm. This meant he had to do most of his training on an indoor bike. Despite this, he defied the odds and managed to win the Paris-Roubaix for the first time in his career. This is a great real-world example showing that an indoor exercise bike can produce a workout that's just as effective when done correctly.
Click here to read more on how bike riding can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Benefits of Real-World Cycling:
Interest & Engagement
Cycling outside offers so much more to keep you interested throughout your ride. The constantly shifting scenery keeps your mind active while pedal away. It's a great way to explore your local area and find little hidden gems you never knew were there. A lot of cyclists say that this feeling of discovery and engagement makes them forget entirely that they're even exercising, creating a positive feedback loop that keeps you coming back for more.
Click here to read more about the mental health benefits of bike riding.
Nature
These days, we could all afford to get out into nature more often. Cycling creates a great excuse to just spend some time in the outdoors, enjoying the breeze and checking out some cool local parks. If you're someone who spends most of their day indoors already, cycling may be one of the best ways of getting more time in the sun.
Natural Variation
A real bike path with include natural incline and decline, as well as different types of paths and material. It forces you to deal with more complex challenges that you won't necessarily be expecting, keeping you on your toes throughout your ride.
Time
Many of us struggle to find the time to squeeze in a full workout. By making cycling a part of your daily commute, you're able to work in so much more incidental exercise that you can do without thinking.
If you're new to riding out in the real world, check out our guide on essential tips for bike riders.
Benefits of Indoor Cycling
Weather
Probably one of the biggest benefits of cycling indoors is that you never have to worry the weather. This means you're able to maintain a more consistent workout. For most people, consistency is truly the most important aspect of any workout, so this can make a huge difference.
Full Control
You can precisely calibrate your workout to your exact needs and fitness goals so you're never over/under exerting yourself. You're able to properly layout a workout plan and mark out fitness goals. This is especially true on a modern spin bike that gives you a wide range of resistance levels, as well as workout metrics and pre-programmed workouts.
Safety
With an indoor exercise bike, you're in the comfort and safety of your own home. For a lot of people, this is a very important aspect that will make a huge difference.
Access to Bike Paths
Not all of us have great bike infrastructure or cycling trails nearby. Instead of toughing it out in an area that's unsafe or unpleasant for cyclists, you can simply enjoy the comfort of your personal fitness space. With some smart bikes, you can even ride virtual trails from around the world, meaning you're actually getting a better view from inside.
Entertainment Options
At home, you have easy access to any form of entertainment you like. You can catch up to TV shows, podcasts or enjoy your workout playlist without having to worry about headphones. Some modern exercise bikes will even have Bluetooth access and/or device holders for an optimal entertainment experience.
Get in Touch if You Have Any Questions
Hopefully by now we've helping you decide which option is best for you. Remember that any bike ride you go on is only as good as the bike you're riding. For more help and assistance choosing the perfect bike for your ride, don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team and we'll be happy to help you out.
