Seniors, quite often have a hard time maintaining a healthy lifestyle and more so when it comes to physical exercise. For most, it is the fear that their bodies are too fragile or too stiff. This has lead most seniors to be couch potatoes which is more detrimental to their health. Thankfully, innovation has come to their rescue with exercise peddlers. These friendly, safe, flexible, and easy to use pieces of equipment are incredibly useful in keeping seniors active.
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| Price | Product | Our Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Cycle, Pedal Exerciser | 9.2 | ||
| Cubii Jr. Seated Under-Desk Elliptical | 9.7 | ||
| Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike | 9.1 | ||
| DeskCycle Under Desk Cycle, Pedal Exerciser | 9.3 | ||
| Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike for Legs and Arms | 8.9 | ||
| Vive Pedal Exerciser – Stationary Exercise Leg Peddler | 8.9 | ||
| Evoland Portable Exercise Bike | 8.8 | ||
| Kranich Mini Exercise Bike Pedal Exerciser | 8.7 | ||
| TODO Pedal Exerciser Medical Peddler | 9.0 | ||
| JFGUOYA Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser | 9.1 | ||
| Stamina Inmotion Elliptical Trainer | 9.2 | ||
| Wakeman Portable Fitness Indoor Exercise Bike | 8.5 |
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If you are reading this article then you are convinced that your loved one needs an exercise peddler. To make your purchasing process less overwhelming, here is a detailed buying guide and a selection of the Best Exercise Peddlers for seniors to keep your loved one active, healthy and happy.
What is a pedal exerciser?
A pedal exerciser uses a similar concept as bikes and is a perfect alternative for seniors with mobility difficulties or those unable to cycle but still want the experience of cycling to keep fit. It allows seniors to maintain a healthy physical lifestyle despite their challenges. A pedal exerciser is also a good option for seniors who are prone to falls as they won’t have to worry about injuring themselves, which is a common concern for most elderly people.
Being a piece of small equipment, it is portable and can be moved around the home or office. You can even travel with it. It is pretty safe to use and just as effective as other bike exercisers. However, this is for people who want moderate-intensity exercises to build strength and endurance on their upper and lower bodies.
A pedal exerciser can be used on the floor as well as on a tabletop. This way you get to comfortably exercise your lower body and upper body without any strain or risk of falling. You can choose to increase the range of motion, circulation, muscle strength or coordination. It is entirely upon you to adjust the intensity to what you can handle.
Exercise peddlers are fitness devices for everybody regardless of their age. In particular, doctors recommend them for healthy seniors as well as those undergoing physical therapy after an injury or surgery. They are beneficial in boosting blood circulation and strengthening muscles. Exercise peddlers are safe, easy to use, and less risky. Also, they are versatile and can be useful if you are looking forward to achieving fitness goals. Their compact size can fit in a car boot and so your loved one can tag it along when visiting friends and family.
How can seniors benefit from using exercise peddlers?
The best part about a pedal exerciser is that it allows seniors to still maintain an active physical lifestyle without compromising their safety. Even with mobility challenges, you still get to exercise without fear of further injury. When working out the lower body, the glutes, hamstrings, glutes, quadriceps and hip flexors are all engaged during pedaling. To engage even more muscles you can opt for a pedal exerciser with a resistance feature.
For the upper body, you will be targeting the biceps, shoulders, forearms, and triceps during pedaling. Basically, you can use this small-sized equipment for your full body work out. Here are some of the ways seniors can benefit from using a pedal exerciser:
- Strengthen and tone both the upper and the lower body.
- Help to build stamina and endurance
- Improve their blood circulation
- Help to lower their blood pressure
- Keep the joints strong and healthy
- Promote weight loss through burning down of calories
- Rehabilitation of certain leg injuries
- Better sleep and improved mood
- Encourages multitasking
One more thing about pedal exercisers compared to other biking exercisers, they are super affordable and are space-efficient.
Flexibility of joints
Most seniors believe that joint inflammation is normal and is due to the aging process and nothing can be done about it. However, chronic joint pain is a concern which may hinder mobility and diminish life’s fun moments. Caregivers usually encourage mild pedaling exercises as a remedy. By picking the best pedal exercisers, your loved one’s joints condition will be more responsive.
Boosts circulation
Circulation of blood is essential in pumping nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. When it comes to seniors, the low flow may make their limbs feel numb and tingly. Pedaling improves the circulation of nutrients and oxygen to all areas of the body.
Toning the muscles
Pedaling helps to tone legs, arms, bottom and stomach muscles. Also, the chest, shoulders, and back muscles will get a special treat due to sequences created by using the leg exercise peddler. Alongside keeping the body in shape, they also help in burning calories and shed some weight.
Reduce the risk of heart disease
The Pedal Exerciser ensures that the rate of metabolism is good by increasing the circulation of blood. It also helps reduce risks such as heart attack and stroke. Studies reveal that biking regularly reduces the chances of other chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Simple workout
These devices are also useful for simple exercises at home. Using them is like taking a light walk or running. Seniors mostly stay indoors during winter when the weather is terrible. An exercise peddler is like a mini exercise bike which will allow them to exercise in the house. They can also perform a workout without having to worry about the weather.
Buying guide
Types of peddler exercisers
When shopping for these devices, you will note that there are dozens in the market that come in different shapes and sizes.
Under the desk exerciser peddler
This option is compact and will fit under the table or desk. It may also have a monitor that helps the user concentrate by observing the figures on the screen.
Folding exerciser peddler
This option is more like a standard bike and has an ample seat rest and a backrest for extra comfort. It can be folded for easier storage and transportation. Seniors can use them for light exercises at home, although they can increase the intensity of the workout.
Mini exercise bike peddlers
These are also useful for rehabilitation and physical therapy. They are just like the normal exercise peddlers; however, they have advanced features that are quite useful if the senior is looking for an intense challenge. Most of them are either battery-powered or electric.
Medical pedal exerciser
If the doctor recommends a peddler for a senior, you may consider buying them the medical exercise peddlers for therapy at home. They help in toning the muscles, improving circulation and coordination. They are ideal for working out the legs and arms muscles.
Factors to consider when buying peddler exercises
Before you part with your money, there are some things to consider.
LCD monitor
Modern devices come equipped with an LCD screen that displays the reading, time, distance, calories, count, and much more. This data is useful since the seniors can track fitness goals while noting the progress.
Portability
The best device should be lightweight and portable. Also, foldable design is ideal since it allows for easier transportation and does not take much storage space. A portable fitness pedal has comfortable handles for easier grip, and elders find them user-friendly.
Adjustability
Most of the options available in the market come fitted with knobs for adjusting the resistance levels. Seniors, therefore, can set their preferred level depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
High quality
When shopping for an exercise peddler for your senior, it’s essential to buy a high-quality device that will last for many years. The best machines are those made from sturdy metal construction such as steel and chrome.
The material of construction is crucial in determining both its durability and sturdiness. Most bike exercisers are made of a steel frame and others will have a chrome plating. Both materials are known to be durable and strong.
Safety
The safety of your loved one should always be a top priority. Luckily, most options available on the market have safety straps that hold the legs preventing them from slipping. Also, the feet should be -nonskid to prevent slipping and ensure high traction on all types of surfaces.
Quiet operation
Elders will most likely exercise at home, and it’s essential to buy a device that will not disrupt their healthy lives. A smooth and quiet peddler is necessary since they can go about their activities such as reading a book or watching the TV while exercising.
Stability
A pedal exerciser for a senior should be very stable. It should not wobble when placed on any flat surface whether carpeted or not or when it is being adjusted. It should, therefore, have a wide base area as well as rubber caps on the legs to make it stable. The anchor straps also keep the legs secure to increase stability as well as comfort and for safety’s sake. They should, therefore, be sweat resistance, adjustable and non-slippery.
Size
As mentioned earlier, the best part about the pedal exerciser is its petite size. It makes it portable and light enough for an aged person to move around with. And even more, since you have to lift it up to place it on the tabletop. These leg machines come in different sizes (length and height) so go for a size you can comfortably carry around and lift for a long time.
Resistance
Every person has different workout needs. As well, their intensity capacity differs. This is why pedal exercisers come in different resistance settings from smooth to vigorous. A good pedlar should have a resistance knob that allows the user to set the resistance amount they require.
Usability
Well, this is a no brainer really. No aged person wants to deal with a complicated small machine. Even young people with all their curiosity have no patience with complicated machines. So make sure pedlar is easy to use and gives the user a seamless workout experience.
Extras
These are optional features and may be found in some pedlars. They basically just increase comfort and safety. These features may include LCD monitors to monitor your time, rpm distance and calories burned, weighing scale to monitor your weight, water bottle holder, sensors, extra handlebars and so much
Other factors
You may consider other factors such as whether it is foldable, or whether it makes any noise during pedaling and how much noise.
Best Exercise Peddlers for Seniors 2023
#1 DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Cycle, Pedal Exerciser
This under desk bike by DeskCycle features an adjustable leg as well as an LCD 6-function display. It uses a patented magnetic resistance mechanism with 8 magnetic resistance levels. Its smooth and quiet-pedal motion makes it very convenient to use at your workspace as it allows you to focus while keeping you fit. The under desk bike is portable and fits low desks that are up to 27 inches low. You can therefore comfortably carry and use it. Also, it has an adjustable front leg that you can set to up to 10 inches. It provides a healthy pedal motion that keeps you active, focussed and highly productive. Its 8 calibrated resistance settings allow you to adjust and use any level you want.
The DeskCycle 2’s display has a large viewing area, records a maximum of 160 hours of activity and includes revolutions per minute. Its display is hence an improved version of DeskCycle’s display that records 16 hours of activity and has a smaller viewing area. It weighs 24.7 pounds and comes with 2 AA batteries and a Kensington Slot that helps you fix the under desk bike to your desk. It’s pedal motion and magnetic resistance works well for joints and this makes it among the best pedal exercisers for legs and especially for seniors.
Pros
- It is smooth and quiet during use
- It is portable and hence can be moved from one place to another
- It is easy to use and assemble
- Its resistance range is twice that of other pedal exercisers
Cons
- It is not useable under a normal-height office desk
#2 Cubii Jr. Seated Under-Desk Elliptical
Cubii Jr. is built for comfort and efficiency at home and at the workplace as well. With a built-in display monitor, 8 levels of resistance and smooth and whisper-quiet motion, this product has been ranked highly in most pedal exerciser reviews. Its display monitor not only records time but calories, strides, distance, and RPM as well. The 8 levels of resistance let you increase or decrease your activity. It has minimum impacts on joints and connects to mobile apps hence providing a community experience. It weighs 29.8 pounds and is very effective in building muscle strength.
Pros
- Comes with an LCD monitor
- It is low impact on joints making it safe for aged seniors
- It has 8 resistance levels to choose from
- Its app connectivity enables you to interact with other users
Cons
- It has fragile pedals, it is best for lighter users
#3 Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
This mini exercise bike by Sunny Health and Fitness incorporates safety and efficiency. It features safety straps, adjustable pedals, a magnetic system and a display monitor that tracks speed, calories, time, distance and ODM. Its 8 levels of resistance allow you to explore and use different levels of tension from moderate to intense hence providing an effective and versatile workout. The adjustable pedals are fit for both hands and for this reason, it is convenient for both arms and feet exercises. This mini exercise bike can hold up to 220 pounds, weighs 21 pounds and is built to last. It also has an LCD that is easy to read and a handle for portability.
Pros
- It works for both feet and arms
- Easy to read LCD screen
- Has safety straps to keep one safe while pedaling
- It is easy to use and assemble
Cons
- The LCD screen is not removable
#4 DeskCycle Under Desk Cycle, Pedal Exerciser
With a smooth, quiet pedal motion, 8 calibrated resistance settings and a 5 function LCD display, this pedal exerciser keeps you productive and fit both at work and at home. It functions well with low desks that are up to 27 inches low. It uses a patented magnetic resistance mechanism that helps your joints and has 8 level resistance setting that enables you to adjust to any level of tension, from easy to intense. Its LCD display helps you keep track of calories, distance, speed, scan and time.
It is quiet and hence you can use it while working or watching your favorite show without distracting yourself or others around you. Its large pedals have adjustable straps that make it comfortable to use and fit for people with different feet sizes. This leg machine weighs 24.3 pounds and includes a Kensington slot in front that allows you to fix the under desk cycle to your desk securely.
Pros
- Makes no noise when pedaling
- The LCD monitor can be attached and detached
- It has sturdy and adjustable pedal straps
- 8 adjustable resistance levels from low to intense
Cons
- It has no handles for transportation
#5 Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike for Legs and Arms
This mini-cycle bike by Hausse is fit for both arms and legs exercises and helps to relieve stress and improve circulation. Its LCD monitor is easy to read and shows speed, time, calories, RPM and distance all of which are easy to interpret. It also features adjustable resistance that enables you to regulate resistance tension levels by simply rotating a knob. It has handle features that makes it portable and can be used under a desk that measures up to 47 inches.
This mini biker has an adjustable foot band that makes it convenient for users of different shoe sizes. It also comes with a 180 days warranty and a reliable customer support team. Lastly, it weighs 8.8 pounds, measures 13.7 x 15.7 x 11.6 inches and comes with 1 AA battery. Going by the numerous positive reviews from other users, we can confidently say it is among the best and safest pedal exercisers for seniors.
Pros
- It is very lightweight
- Comes with a handle for easy transportation
- Has an adjustable foot band to accommodate different feet sizes
Cons
- Cannot fit under low desks
#6 Vive Pedal Exerciser – Stationary Exercise Leg Peddler
This mini-cycle bike by Vive helps to tone muscles and strengthen both arms and legs. It is a very user-friendly pedal exerciser machine as it is easy to assemble and to use. This pedal exerciser benefits those who work for long hours behind a desk as it helps to improve concentration, increases circulation, relieve tension and improves stamina. Its smooth and quiet motion also makes it very convenient for both home and office use since it lets you focus and does not cause distractions. Besides using it at work, you can also use it at home when playing video games, knitting or watching television. It is 12.5 inches high and can therefore comfortably fit and function under any table.
It also features pedals with non-slip surfaces, adjustable toe loops and molded finger grips that keep the pedal exerciser firm, steady and safe for use. It is therefore designed for safety and efficiency. It has adjustable resistance that lets you use any resistance level that works for you. Its large LCD screen is not only easy to read but multifunctional as well. The screen shows speed, time, calories burned and distance. It has low impact and good safety features and is, therefore, fit for rehabilitation after injury and is a suitable pedal exerciser for elderly people as well.
Pros
- Multifunctional LCD screen
- Adjustable resistance
- Non-slip pedals
- Molded finger grips for safety
Cons
- The pedal motion is not smooth
#7 Evoland Portable Exercise Bike
This pedal leg exerciser by Evoland is made of plastic and has adjustable resistance that lets you use any resistance level that suits you by using a tension knob. It also has a large multifunctional display that shows RPM, speed, time, calories burned as well as distance. The screen is also easy to read and to use making it ideal for seniors with declining eyesight.
The 12.6” high electric pedal exerciser can easily fit under most desks and is sturdy with a non-slip surface and adjustable toe loops on its pedals. It is therefore firm and steady and safe to use. It is effective in toning and strengthening muscles, improves circulation, stamina, and concentration and relieves tension.
Pros
- It is safe and comfortable to use
- Easy to set up
- It works for both arms and feet
Cons
- It has small pedals
#8 Kranich Mini Exercise Bike Pedal Exerciser
With adjustable straps and a multifunctional display screen, this pedal exerciser machine is fit for physical therapy for injuries, especially to the hips, knees, and ankles. It is also a great pedal exerciser for seniors. This product is very easy and quick to put together as it comes with most of its parts already assembled. It is also light and therefore easy to carry from home to work and back. Its multifunctional display screen shows calories burned, time, speed and distance. It also allows you to adjust to various tension levels when working out since it has an adjustable tension level.
You can use this pedal exerciser for legs and arms at home when reading a book or watching tv or at work. Its adjustable strap makes it great for both arms and legs exercises. It is black, made of steel and plastic, weighs 7.7 pounds.
Pros
- Can be used to work out both legs and arms
- It comes pre-assembled
- It is lightweight and portable
Cons
- It is unsteady and wobbles
#9 TODO Pedal Exerciser Medical Peddler
The main reason why we choose the TODO Pedal Exerciser as our top pick is its versatility, high-quality material, and sturdiness. Your loved one will find it extremely easy to use as well as useful for arms and legs exercises. It’s the most important feature is the rotating knob used for adjusting tension levels depending on their tolerance. Doctors often recommend it for seniors undergoing rehabilitation after a surgery or recovering from injury. It is quite useful in boosting blood circulation and relieving muscle tension.
The silent operation feature on this device gives your senior the convenience of exercising while talking on the phone, working, watching TV and much more. And the fact that is compact and portable means that they can do it anywhere in the house or even when seated at the patio knitting. Also, the LCD screen allows the senior to read the time, distance, RPM, and monitor the number of calories. A perfect way to watch their progress and weight.
Pros
- Ease of use
- Versatility
- High quality
- Strong and durable
Cons
- Has a plastic smell when new that may put your loved one-off
#10 JFGUOYA Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
With a compact design that fits under a desk and saves on space, you will not regret picking this exercise bike. The JFGUOYA is a state of the art device for toning arms and legs muscles and boosting circulation. Your loved one does not have to visit any gym to exercise; this device will provide all the exercises that he needs. Its lightweight design allows for use at home and outdoors at the patio.
Your senior can use it in the living room watching TV or even playing video games; it does not make any noise when in use and one does not need to concentrate on using it. Safety is the epitome of this bike since its feet have a non-slip material that makes it safe to use on tiles, carpets, and any other type of floor. One more thing, it promises a personalized workout experience since the knobs allow the senior to adjust the strain level.
Pros
- Compact design
- Lightweight
- Noiseless operation
- Non Slip feet
Cons
- Pedals do not have straps and feet can easily slip
#11 Stamina Inmotion Elliptical Trainer
If you are looking for an affordable exercise bike for your loved one, then the Stamina Inmotion Elliptical Trainer should be top on your list. It is reasonably priced and will give you value for money. This strider features a lightweight, compact, sleek design that makes it easy to transport from room to room and from indoors to outdoors. Your loved one can use it any time of the day without worrying about disturbing the rest of the household with noise since it’s incredibly quiet. They can even use it while watching their favorite show or reading a book.
With the Stamina Inmotion Elliptical Trainer, it’s possible to adjust the intensity of the workout. It only requires monitoring and setting the stats on the LCD to your tolerance level. This device is stylish and comes in three different colors. Besides, it is quite versatile, and your loved one can use it while seated or standing which allows your senior to exercise while targeting various body muscles.
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Stylish
- Versatile
Cons
- Some people find it too noisy
#12 Wakeman Portable Fitness Indoor Exercise Bike
The control mechanism of the Wakeman Exercise bike allows for adjustability. It is a good device for low impact exercises, quite practical for a senior. The low profile design will fit perfectly under a desk allowing the seniors to exercise even when reading their favorite book. Most therapists recommend this product due to muscle toning and stimulating blood circulation.
Unlike the previous models, Wakeman Exercise Bike has an LCD screen that makes it easier for your senior to monitor time, calories, total count, and distance. Good thing is that the numbers are large and so easy to read without straining their already failing sight.
Pros
- Compact design
- Adjustable setting
- Lightweight and portable
- Ease to use
Cons
- Not sturdy enough
Conclusion
Pedal exercises are perfect for seniors because they are moderate-intensity and allow for a full-body workout with low impact. They are also convenient as they allow one to choose which body part to work out at a time. From our research, there are many pedal exercisers out there, however, few meet the needs of the elderly and this is where our review comes in pretty hand for you. All of the exercisers we have reviewed are safe and easy to use, affordable, durable and are well constructed for an excellent performance. If your goal is to lose some weight, get one that lets you adjust tension level will help you especially if you are looking to lose weight and stay fit. It enables you to start slowly with the level of tension that you can manage and lets you increase over time.
Order any and you will not regret it.
