I am currently in the process of "gearing up" for Spring! Since I enjoy bike riding, particularly medium distance (40-80 miles) group rides, this generally means a mix of strength training and cardiovascular exercise.

My current exercise machine of choice is the TotalGym 1000. I felt this was a steal when I bought it at Target for $120. I really want a BowFlex, but since it starts at $700, I opted for the cheaper machine! You have probably seen ads for the TotalGym featuring Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley and wondered whether it worked. It does! You would be surprised at how many different exercises you can do, how quickly you can change from one to the next, and how effective it is. Plus, my kids can use it, and there are no weights to deal with.

This machine is perfect for toning and strength training without bulking up unnecessarily. Even though mine is a cheaper version of the one they sell on TV, it works fine.

I also have a TravelTrac stationary trainer that I hook my recumbent bike to for cardio and leg work. It's not too bad when you can watch TV or listen to the stereo, but moderation is the key to avoiding burn-out. Thirty minutes or so is about all I can stand without getting bored. I always make sure I have the fan blowing right on me so I don't overheat, and I change pace frequently.

My pride and joy is my V-Rex recumbent! You can see a picture of the newer model, very similar to mine, at www.rans.com/Bikes. Mine has a red/yellow/orange paint job, and has the old style Rans seat, which I find VERY comfortable. I decided to either switch to a recumbent or quit riding after experiencing numbness. After reading and researching, I found that I was not alone. An article in Bicycling Magazine helped me make the decision. Now, I'm not saying that recumbents are for everybody, but it was the best decision for me.

I decided on the V-Rex after some extensive research on types of recumbents (there are MANY different designs), and test-riding several of them. The V-Rex was the only choice for me - it is a blast! My bike came from a Texas bike shop, and I bought it used, sight unseen, based on the dealer's description, and quite a few conversations with the owner of the bike. It arrived via UPS and was exactly as described.

The benefits and pleasures of riding a recumbent bike have made news recently. If you are interested in seeing a huge collection of links to recumbent manufacturers and articles, check out recumbents.com or National Bicycle Greenway. There are also many home-built plans and supplies for those who want to build their own dream machine.

Bicycling magazine has some very useful articles on training and nutrition.

This page was last updated on December 5, 2001.

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