Recumbent bike

With its low, chair-like seat, back support and pedals set out in front, a recumbent bike gives you a supported way to cycle indoors. You sit back rather than leaning over handlebars, which can feel stable and comfortable. Most models have handles beside the seat, a display and adjustable resistance, while the pedalling motion remains smooth and familiar.

You can use it for steady cardio sessions, gentle warm-ups or shorter bursts of quicker pedalling. Changing the resistance lets you make your legs work more or less while your upper body stays supported. It can also help you practise maintaining an even pace, and the display may let you follow time, distance, speed or other simple measures.

It may suit you if you prefer seated exercise, want more back support or feel unsure on an upright bike. The seat usually slides to fit your leg length, and resistance is easy to scale from the controls. Recumbent bikes take up a fair amount of floor space and are not very portable; a sturdy chair with seated marching is a simple alternative.