Comparison TopTrack K8719RP-13 vs Nordic Track GX5.0

— Vertical. Traditional riding position similar to real bikes, with the saddle almost directly above the pedals. Exercise bikes of this type have a simple design and low cost, but they provide a minimum of comfort — in particular, because the mentioned saddle practically does not differ in design from a bicycle saddle and may turn out to be uncomfortable in shape. In addition, even a fairly comfortable saddle often causes discomfort during long workouts (in other words, it rubs), and the vertical position of the rider creates an additional load on the spine. Nevertheless, this scheme is quite suitable for both amateur training and professional training, and therefore has become widespread (mainly in the initial and middle price range).

— Horizontal. In exercise bikes with such a landing, the pedals are placed far forward relative to the saddle. Strictly speaking, the athlete in them is almost never located in a completely horizontal position — in extreme cases, reclining (on his back); however, this term is commonly used. The main advantage of horizontal models is an increased degree of comfort compared to vertical ones. For example, instead of the usual bicycle saddle, on which you have to sit astride, such devices use full-fledged chairs (often also with an adjustable back). The rider experiences a minimum of unnecessary stress on the spine and "uninvolved" muscles. On the other hand, the cost o...f horizontal trainers is quite high, most often they are premium models.

— Portable. As the name implies, the main feature of such exercise bikes is their small size. By design, they are actually a set of pedals, load systems and electronics, enclosed in a common housing; there are no saddle and steering wheel — accordingly, it is necessary to sit during classes on some additional piece of furniture. On the one hand, this narrows the possibilities of training — in fact, portable models are not designed for serious sports work, but for auxiliary tasks like keeping fit or rehabilitation. On the other hand, such a simulator is easy to install where there is no place for a full-size model, for example, in a cramped apartment or even a hospital ward. In addition, portable models allow you to train not only legs, but also arms.

The maximum user weight for which the exercise bike is designed, in other words, the maximum weight of the athlete, at which the unit is guaranteed to work for the amount of time stated in the characteristics without the risk of breakage. This parameter should be adhered to as accurately as possible, do not be mistaken about the fact that 3-5 kg in excess of the calculated weight will not affect the device. Yes, most likely, the simulator will be able to work for some time, but it will experience loads exceeding the calculated ones, and at best it will fail earlier than expected, and at worst it may break at the most unfortunate moment, which is fraught with injuries. In addition, this case is usually not covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and you will have to eliminate the consequences at your own expense.

The design of a system that creates resistance on the flywheel of an exercise bike and the corresponding load during training. The following options are currently in use:

— Mechanical. The operation of this system is similar to the brakes of a car: special brake pads are pressed against the flywheel, and by changing the force of pressing, the resistance to movement also changes. The advantages of mechanical load systems are simplicity and low cost, reliability, the ability to create high resistance for large loads, as well as battery life — they do not require power, and the design can be done with a small battery for auxiliary electronics (see "Power"). On the other hand, the pads, due to friction against the flywheel, create a certain noise, which can lead to inconvenience; they also wear and tear over time. The mechanical system is used mainly in inexpensive models of exercise bikes.

— Magnetic. In systems of this type, the resistance changes due to permanent magnets: bringing them closer to the flywheel or moving away from it, you can change the load during movement. Magnetic systems do not predominantly require power; at the same time they provide smoother adjustment and practically do not create noise. At the same time, this variety is poorly suited for training professionals — it is not capable of creating a serious load (although it is usually quite enough for domestic use)....>
— Electromagnetic. This type of system is considered the most advanced. The principle of their operation is similar to magnetic ones (see above), however, instead of permanent magnets, stationary electromagnets are used in this case. The load, on the other hand, changes due to a change in the strength of the current passing through the windings of the electromagnets: the stronger the current, the stronger the magnetic field and, accordingly, the higher the resistance to movement. Thanks to this, electromagnetic models are able to provide very solid load levels, while maintaining one of the main advantages of classical magnetic systems — complete noiselessness. The main disadvantage is the need for a powerful power supply, which is realized either by connecting to the network or by installing a built-in generator (see "Power"). Yes, these trainers are quite expensive.

The number of training programs provided in the design of the exercise bike. Different programs have different purposes — strengthening the cardiovascular system, maintaining physical fitness, burning fat, etc. At the same time, the operation of the programme relieves you of the need to manually set and change the parameters — this is what the simulator does. Accordingly, the more training programs a particular model has, the wider its capabilities and the more convenient the training. And in some cases, it may even provide the possibility of self-creation of programs.

Pulse-dependent is a type of training programme in which the load is adjusted depending on the heart rate (pulse) of the athlete. Simply put, you just need to set the desired frequency — and the simulator will automatically adjust all the training parameters so that this frequency is maintained for the required time.

The simplest version of the heart rate programme is the constant heart rate mode, when the heart rate is maintained at the same level throughout the entire workout. However, this set of such programs is not limited. As in the case of training, the wider this set, the more opportunities you have to choose the best option for each specific moment.

iFit is a technology that provides access to a vast library of training programs designed for each specific machine and for specific fitness goals, as well as picturesque videos that allow you to diversify your workouts. Usually, iFit-enabled bikes are equipped with an LCD display and when you start a workout, an HD video appears on the machine screen with views of the terrain along which the route will be laid. The video sequence is complemented by thematic audio compositions. However, the possibilities of the technology go further than conducting workouts to video clips. Advanced models, which are equipped with a large screen and a module for connecting to the Internet, allow you to use the potential of Google Maps. That is, the user can independently lay a route through the streets of some famous city.

Information that the machine can display during operation.

— Training time. The display of training time can include both a total time counter and specialized functions — for example, the time spent in the “target zone” (working at a certain heart rate that is optimal for a particular mode), the total training time per day / week / month, etc. .P. Specific features differ from model to model.

— distance. Display of the "distance traveled" — the distance that the user conditionally traveled during the workout. By default, this feature displays the distance since the machine was turned on, but some models may have more advanced features, such as summing distances over a certain period of time.

— Speed. Displays the user's conditional movement speed (that is, the speed at which the user would move on a real bike at the current pedaling speed). Usually a function is provided to display the current speed, however, some models can also calculate the average speed for passing the distance.

— Revolutions per minute. The bike displays the actual cadence on the screen. Speed information is extremely important in evaluating the effectiveness of a workout. So, revolutions per minute are taken into account when calculating the distance traveled, and based on this indicator, calories burned are also calculate...d.

— Measurement of the pulse. The ability to measure the user's heart rate during training. This parameter is one of the most important, for different training goals (burning fat, maintaining tone, strengthening the cardiovascular system), the optimal heart rate will be different. It also depends on a number of other parameters: gender, age, physique, physiological characteristics, etc. And exceeding the maximum allowable heart rate is fraught with unpleasant health consequences. You can learn more about this in the specialized literature, and best of all, consult a trainer or doctor. To measure the pulse, special sensors are used, in different models of bicycles they can have a different design: an ear clip, a chest block with a belt, sensitive plates on the handlebars, etc.

— Recovery test. The exercise bike has a recovery test function (also called a “fitness test” or “fitness assessment”). This function allows you to determine the rate of recovery of the body after physical exertion and, accordingly, its general physical condition and fitness for such loads. Usually, for this, the pulse is measured twice — immediately after training and 1 minute later — after which the simulator gives an estimate, which is deciphered using special tables. Models with a recovery test function, by definition, have the ability to measure the pulse (see above).

— Calorie consumption. Displays the amount of energy expended by the user during the workout. This allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of the work to a certain extent, especially if it is aimed at burning fat and you need to track energy costs. Note that in most exercise bikes, the estimate of calorie consumption is made quite approximately, without taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, however, for amateur training, this accuracy is quite enough.

— Generated power. Power generated — the amount of power that was transferred to the exercise bike during exercise. This parameter allows you to more objectively assess the energy consumption of the user, and also allows you to more accurately calculate the rate of calories burned.

— Workout chart. The exercise bike displays a training programme graph on the screen, which conveniently records the load level and duration of the workout. The chart allows you to visually assess the amount of energy expended, and at the same time calories burned, at various stages of the lesson. Additionally, this allows you to take control of the load rate. A decreasing or increasing schedule will tell you when it is desirable to increase the load, and when to reduce it, in order to evenly distribute forces throughout the entire training programme. Some models allow you to save the results of training in a graphical form and compare the diagrams of past sessions with each other.

— Fat analyzer. The presence in the exercise bike of the function of measuring the amount of adipose tissue in the body (in percent). The operation of such a metre is based on the use of a weak electric current passed through the human body: different types of human tissues have different resistance, and the amount of adipose tissue can be deduced from the characteristics of the discharge. This technology is not accurate, but to a certain extent it allows you to evaluate the features of the physique; and by measuring the fat content before and after a course of training, you can get a pretty clear result. The measuring current is considered harmless for healthy people, however, we note that there are a number of limitations here: in particular, the fat analyzer cannot be used by pregnant women, children under 10 years old, and people with electronic pacemakers installed. And anyway, before buying a simulator with this function, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

— Body mass index (BMI). The automatic calculation of the body mass index allows you to adjust the training modes for each individual user, as well as more objectively evaluate the result of training programs. Body mass index (BMI) is the ratio of a person's height to their weight. Calculated using the following formula: weight / height / height. Let's assume that the user weighs 70 kg and is 1.76 m tall. In this case, BMI = 70/1.76/1.76 = 22.6. The normal MBI is considered to be an index from 19 to 24. If the user's MBI is insufficient (less than 19), then the simulator will develop workouts based on gaining body density and increasing muscle mass. When the MBI is excessive (over 24), the machine will recommend using a training programme to reduce fat mass.

— Assessment of basal metabolism (BMR). Ability to calculate basal metabolism — the minimum amount of energy required by the body for normal functioning (for the respiratory, circulatory, nervous systems, as well as various organs). In other words, basal metabolism is the amount of energy that the body spends directly on functioning, without putting it off “for later” in the form of adipose tissue. This parameter is extremely important for organizing proper nutrition, especially when exercising to burn fat and reduce excess weight. There are formulas to determine BMR by weight, height, age and sex of a person; however, they allow you to get only an average result, while the simulator is able to take into account many additional factors that affect the metabolic rate. Usually, basal metabolism is determined by energy costs per day.

— Room temperature. Possibility of measurement and display on the display of the exercise bike of temperature indoors. This function will help you more accurately assess the conditions for training and choose the appropriate form of clothing, as well as, if necessary, take measures to ensure a comfortable temperature (open the window; turn on the air conditioner — or vice versa, the heater).

The above list is not exhaustive; other types of information may be displayed on modern exercise bikes.

— Management on the handles. The exercise bike control buttons are placed on the handles of the exercise bike. With their help, you can change the load without stopping the lesson. However, the control options in each model may be different.

— Fan. The exercise bike has its own fan. This feature is useful for cooling during intense workouts with copious “warm-up” and sweating, especially in warm weather.

— Bottle holder. The presence of a special stand in the design of the exercise bike, on which you can put a bottle or a glass. Thus, you will always have a supply of water at hand, and to replenish its amount in the body you will not have to be distracted from working with the simulator.

— Colour display. The presence of a colour monitor in the design of the simulator. This feature does not affect the main features of the device, however, such displays are considered more convenient and pleasant to view than black and white. And some models may include various additional features designed to make knowledge more interesting — for example, the ability to play DVD movies or virtual workouts (see above).

— Bluetooth. The presence of a Bluetooth wireless module in the exercise bike allows the exerciser to be synchronized with the user's smartphone, tablet or laptop /...PC. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to control the results of training in a convenient form. Additionally, Bluetooth wireless communication can be used to download new training programs to the on-board computer of the simulator and synchronize with the heart rate monitor via the ANT protocol.

— Wi-Fi. The presence of a Wi-Fi wireless communication module in the design of the simulator. The Wi-Fi interface was originally intended for connecting to computer networks (including Internet access), but more recently it has also been used for direct connection between different devices, without using a network. The specific features implemented using this module may be different. So, some simulators are able to interact with training programs installed on tablets and smartphones and transmit information to such programs about the details of the training (distance traveled, calories burned, etc.), others allow you to update the firmware or change the settings remotely, etc. .P.

— USB connector. USB itself is a universal interface designed to connect external peripherals to a computer or other control device. Actually, for the same purpose it is used in modern simulators; but the specific application in different models may be different. So, USB can be used to connect heart rate sensors and other specialized accessories, to play music and/or video from external media (for example, “flash drives”), to update the firmware using the same media, etc.

— TV tuner. The presence in the design of the simulator of a TV tuner — a device designed to receive television broadcasts. This feature is useful for those who would like to be able to watch their favorite TV programs, series, etc. right in the process of training: usually, models with TV tuners also have colour displays and speakers (see below), which allows you to watch the broadcast directly on the simulator. However you need to remember that tuners can be designed for different broadcast standards; therefore, before purchasing a model with this function, it is advisable to make sure that it is compatible with local TV broadcasts.

— mini-Jack 3.5 mm (Aux). The 3.5 mm mini-Jack (Aux) connector is designed to connect an MP3 player or a smartphone/tablet. Thanks to this, you can output the sound signal from multimedia devices to the speakers built into the exercise bike. Some models may additionally have a mini-Jack connector for connecting headphones. The sound output to the headphones will allow you to train to your favorite music without disturbing other users in the same room as you.

— Speakers. The presence in the design of the exercise bike of its own speakers. They can play music, the sound of a movie playing on the display (see "Colour display"), as well as various service messages — for example, a warning about exceeding the maximum heart rate.

— Tablet stand. Allows you to securely and safely mount a tablet with almost any screen size on the exercise bike. Thanks to this, the user can enjoy watching TV shows or movies directly during training. Usually, the stand is located under the main screen of the simulator. Advanced models are often equipped with a stand with the ability to adjust the angle of the tablet.

The type of power used in the exercise bike.

— Network. Powered by a standard 230 V power supply (in other words, a regular home outlet). Such power allows you not to worry about replacing or recharging "dead" batteries — the simulator will work as long as there is light in the house. In addition, it is suitable for models with any load system, even electromagnetic (for more details, see "Load System"), while such devices are much cheaper than similar generator ones (see below). The main disadvantages in this case are the dependence on the outlet and the need to use a network cable, which can limit mobility and get in the way. However, in most cases, these shortcomings do not cause significant inconvenience.

— Battery. The exercise bike is powered by replaceable batteries or batteries. The main advantage is the complete battery life of the device — it can be installed anywhere without worrying about the availability of sockets and laying the power cord. On the other hand, the power of the batteries is very limited, and they are only suitable for models with non-volatile load systems (mechanical or magnetic, see "Load System" for more details), where power is required only for the computer. In addition, the battery life is not infinite, and they need to be changed or recharged periodically (and in the case of batteries, only changed).

— Built-in generator. The exercise bike...is powered by its own built-in generator, which is driven by the rotation of the flywheel. In other words, when using such a model, the user himself generates the energy required for work. To turn on the generator simulator, it is enough to turn the flywheel several times. This type of food combines the advantages of the two above. On the one hand, it is autonomous, on the other hand, it has sufficient power even to provide energy to electromagnetic load systems (for more details, see "Load System"). Yes, and you won’t have to change anything, unlike batteries, because. the service life of the generator is comparable to the service life of the simulator itself. At the same time, this feature significantly increases the weight, and most importantly, the cost of the device, and therefore is found only in premium models.