As physios we often get asked which is better- the stationary bike or the treadmill.

Well, the answer will depend on your goals and your own individual requirements

Both increase cardiovascular health, boost mood and strengthen leg musculature. In so doing they help reduce pain, prevent injury and aid in the prevention of over 35 diseases!

Treadmills are a higher impact activity, as the weight of your whole body is loaded through one limb at a time. This increased exposure causes the bones to adapt and deposit more bone which improves bone density. However, sometimes people with knee pain can find this aggravating and may need strengthening to build tolerance for this higher load.

Stationary bikes don’t have the same loading impact. Consequently they won’t have the same positive effect on bone density but are less provocative when injured. This makes stationary bikes especially useful when recovering from an injury where running could exacerbate the symptoms.

Of course, it’s also important to consider enjoyment! Doing exercise you enjoy means you’re much more likely to stick to it and be consistent. So, if you don’t like running, consider a different form of cardio exercise. It’s that simple.

At JBS physiotherapy, our gym space is equipped with treadmill, stationary bike and much more. If you’re looking for more guidance, our physiotherapists can help you decide which cardio machine is best for your specific goals and provide you with an exercise program to assist you on your fitness journey. We can also assess your running or advise you on bike set up.

Visit us online today at https://physiolanecove.com.au/ to book your appointment or call our friendly staff on 94208802