Can fan bikes be used for low intensity cardio

[swaj]

Hi, just wondering if fan bikes are ok for low intensity sustained cardio as well as the interval training if we want piece of cardio equipment. Any particular brand of fanbike that is better suited for this dual purpose? We just want to start with one piece of cardio equipment to start with and this seemed versatile.

Edited December 31, 2021 by swaj

[Kristen - Guru Team]

Great question! There are two kinds of fan bikes. Concept 2 makes a fan bike called the Bike Erg that features an air resistance fan similar to that on their rower. It sucks air into the fan which generates resistance. But it doesn't have the rotating handles like larger fan bikes. You can certainly ride the Bike Erg as part of a low-intensity cardio session. It's a bit noisier than standard indoor bikes, but it's lightweight and easy to move. 

There are also larger fan bikes like the Assault air bike that have the rotating handles. These bikes are very difficult to use and are designed to increase your heart rate quickly. You could use this bike without rotating the handles if you wanted to use it for a sustained session, but it is challenging to use. These types of air bikes are quite large and heavy and are difficult to move. Certainly, by moderating your intensity you could use an air bike for a long cardio session.