Wellness

[cotton4me]

I wanted to get one of these for my husband who has mobility issues.  I was wondering if they’re worthwhile, versus a full-blown exercise bike, and if anyone has any recommendations.  Thanks.

[GCR18]

My mother has mobility and balance issues.  I bought one for her.  I don't remember where I got it.  I think she used it once.  She probably would do it if someone was there to encourage her.  She lives alone and I live far away.  She usually tells me what she thinks I want to hear over the phone.  I thought it was a great idea.  If you think it's something your husband will do, go for it.  They aren't that expensive.

[hoosieroriginal]

Exercise bicycles are uncomfortable, even to me and I don't have mobility issues.  A recumbant bike might be better if you want to go that route.  I think one of the pedal exercisers that you just sit in front of his chair might be best.  I think they have them on the Q. 

[phoenixbrd]

@cotton4meI agree with @hoosieroriginal, the exercise bikes are uncomfortable unless you spend a boat load of money.  Are you medicare age?  The reason I ask is I was told that some insurance companies pay for gym memberships for free/very little (silver sneakers).  At my gym there are lots of people participating in this program.  I think it would be better to enjoy some exercise together on adequate equipment.  Or getting a good exercise video that you could do together and, of course, walking is a freebie.   I don't know how extensive his mobility issues are but, no matter, it is critical to move to the degree that he can.  Yoga (video) can be floor exercises and the club could be water exercises.  My club  provides chairs for those who need the support in the silver sneaker classes.  They work out with light resistance bands (another inexpensive piece of equipment you can buy at TJ Max) and light weights.  My guess is the exercise bike might become a clothes hanger. It might be fun to set up an area for both of you to use weights, bands, and a yoga stretching video at home.  Just my 2cents.

[hoosieroriginal]

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@phoenixbrd wrote:

I agree with @hoosieroriginal, the exercise bikes are uncomfortable unless you spend a boat load of money.  Are you medicare age?  The reason I ask is I was told that some insurance companies pay for gym memberships for free/very little (silver slippers).  At my gym there are lots of people participating in this program.  I think it would be better to enjoy some exercise together on adequate equipment.  Or getting a good exercise video that you could do together and, of course, walking is a freebie.   I don't know how extensive his mobility issues are but, no matter, it is critical to move to the degree that he can.  Yoga (video) can be floor exercises and the club could be water exercises.  My club  provides chairs for those who need the support in the silver slipper classes.  They work out with light resistance bands (another inexpensive piece of equipment you can buy at TJ Max) and light weights.  My guess is the exercise bike might become a clothes hanger. It might be fun to set up an area for both of you to use weights, bands, and a yoga stretching video at home.  Just my 2cents.

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@phoenixbrd - for OP - I think it's called Silver Sneakers. 

[phoenixbrd]

@hoosieroriginal  Thanks, I will edit,.

[cotton4me]

@GCR18

@hoosieroriginal

@phoenixbrd

Thanks for the feedback and ideas.  My husband is the one who mentioned an exercise bike.  However, based on prior experience I’m not sure he’ll use it so I wanted to start with something that has a smaller footprint.  I thought this might be a good starting place, something he could do while sitting and watching television.  

While researching the peddle exercisers I noticed they’re being made to fit under desks so people can peddle while they work.  I thought that was a nice idea.  

[SaRina]

I wouldn't just order one from a magazine. You should definitely try one out to see if it's sturdy enough, to see if the movement is fluid enough (not herky jerky), and to make sure it doesn't move across the floor as you pedal. If it moves, there is the potential for minor injury. Personally, I think a recumbent bike is the way to go -- it is definitely more comfortable than an upright bike and it will be easier to watch tv or read a book at the same time. A pedal exerciser will not provide the same degree of aerobic exercise or leg movement as a bike.

[GCR18]

I was thinking about this and remembered I bought a brand sold on the Q.  I searched and found it less at Wal-Mart.

[santorini]

I have been going to physical therapy and part of my therapy is on an elliptical.  I had never been on one before and I love how smooth it is.  I wrote the model number down and looked it up online when I got home.  I was shocked at the price - around $5,000.  Brand name is True.  If I had that at home, I think I would use it several times a day, but that's quite a price!