Stepper bike
Holistic training with stepper bikes
Adequate amounts of specific exercise are one of the best ways of combating and avoiding backache. One piece of equipment that permits such specific movement sequences is the stepper bike. It looks like a bike but has no saddle, so that the user stands to cycle. In contrast to the normal bike, the stepper bike is not driven by turning the pedals but with the up-and-down movements of conventional steppers.
Training equipment with therapeutic effects
The upper part of the body remains upright while cycling and moves constantly to keep balance. This trains the deep muscles around the spinal column that are so important for a healthy, pain-free back. Cycling with the stepper bike also strengthens many other groups of muscles in the body. It therefore also offers good endurance and strength training for the whole body. Similarly, it trains and improves the user's coordination skills and sense of balance. This helps to prevent falls and tumbles during everyday activities.
Although stepper bikes are designed for all those who enjoy exercising, they also offer special advantages to people with health problems. Those who experience pain when running or cycling will benefit from the therapeutic effects, because stepper bikes offer very gentle, specific training for the muscles.
Safety first
Needless to say that all requirements must be fulfilled for safe training without the risk of injuries. Stepper bikes therefore need anti-slip protection on the paddles to make them safe for use. The frame also has to be ergonomically designed, and it must be possible to adjust the height of the handlebars. A suspension form is also a useful option. The brake system should be state of the art, with mechanical V-brakes or hydraulic disk brakes.
Checklist
- A stepper bike is not just a means of transport but above all, it can be used for exercising in natural surroundings in the fresh air, for endurance, strength and coordination training, particularly because it uses most of the muscles. The bike must have non-slip paddle surfaces, and the handlebars must be fully adjustable to the user's personal needs.
- The stepper must allow for an upright body posture.
- Like most mountain bikes, stepper bikes are often supplied in a condition that is not safe for road use and does not comply with the road regulations. It is therefore important that all corresponding add-on parts (lights, bell, reflectors etc.) are not just available but also easy to mount. This is the only way to ensure that the bikes can be used on public roads.
- A gear system not only makes the bike faster and easier to use but can also vary the training effect to suit the individual user's needs.
- The weight is also important, as it must be possible to lift or carry a stepper bike. It should therefore not weight more than 18 kg.
Minimum requirements
- Non-slip paddles
- Comfortable drive with two independently moving paddles
- Gear system
- Height-adjustable handlebars
- Brake system with front and rear-wheel brakes
- Ergonomic frame to support an upright posture
- Total weight maximum 18 kg
- Accessories such as light, bell and reflectors must be available for use on public roads
Also appropriate
- Bike stand
- Additional bike accessories must be available, e.g. various front section designs and handlebars
Products in this sector with the AGR seal of approval
Manufacturer
Streetstepper GmbH
Heinkelstr. 31
73614 Schorndorf
GERMANY
Phone +49 7181/97 84 242
Fax +49 7181/97 84 220
www.streetstepper.com