CrossFit Albuquerque – Home Workouts

View Public Whiteboard

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

Weightlifting

E2Mx5:

3 Back Squat

*starting at 5-10 lbs heavier than last week’s 5*

Back Squat

Metcon (AMRAP – Rounds and Reps)

15 MIN AMRAP:

25/20 calorie row

20 Chest to Bar Pull Ups

20 Thrusters

RX – 95/65lbs

Scaled L1 – 75/55lbs, pull ups

Scaled L2 – 55/35lbs, jumping pull ups or ring rows

Scaled L3 – Coach Directed

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CrossFit Albuquerque – Open Gym

View Public Whiteboard

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

Weightlifting

E2Mx5:

3 Back Squat

*starting at 5-10 lbs heavier than last week’s 5*

Back Squat

Metcon (AMRAP – Rounds and Reps)

15 MIN AMRAP:

25/20 calorie row

20 Chest to Bar Pull Ups

20 Thrusters

RX – 95/65lbs

Scaled L1 – 75/55lbs, pull ups

Scaled L2 – 55/35lbs, jumping pull ups or ring rows

Scaled L3 – Coach Directed

The post Open Gym – Mon, Feb 5 appeared first on Crossfit Albuquerque.

CrossFit Albuquerque – CrossFit

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

Weightlifting

E2Mx5:

3 Back Squat

*starting at 5-10 lbs heavier than last week’s 5*

Back Squat

Metcon (AMRAP – Rounds and Reps)

15 MIN AMRAP:

25/20 calorie row

20 Chest to Bar Pull Ups

20 Thrusters

RX – 95/65lbs

Scaled L1 – 75/55lbs, pull ups

Scaled L2 – 55/35lbs, jumping pull ups or ring rows

Scaled L3 – Coach Directed

The post CrossFit – Mon, Feb 5 appeared first on Crossfit Albuquerque.

Stationary exercise bikes are a classic workout tool for a reason. They allow you to complete a cardio workout indoors, but bikes are more compact and less expensive than many other pieces of cardio equipment, like non-folding treadmills or ellipticals. Not to mention, indoor cycling is generally beginner-friendly and low-impact, offering a variety of other benefits: It can help increase bone density and VO2 max (an important marker of cardiovascular fitness), lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and promote weight loss without the loss of muscle mass. (1) In fact, indoor cycling can also help increase leg strength, muscle endurance, and balance. (2)

If you’re in the market for an indoor cycling bike but you or a family member are bigger-bodied, you may be looking for an exercise bike for heavy people — one that you can trust to support you even when you’re out of the saddle. We’ve reviewed tons of the best exercise bikes and singled out the ones that work for riders who weigh over 250 pounds (a maximum rider weight for many models on the market). These exercise bikes can accommodate riders who weigh up to 300, 330, or 350 pounds and don’t sacrifice on features or value. Whether you’re looking for a recumbent bike, a self-powered air bike, or a studio-style cycling experience, there’s an option here for you. Here are our picks for the best exercise bikes for heavy people.

Best Exercise Bikes for Heavy People 

Best Overall Exercise Bike for Heavy People: NordicTrack S22i

Best Air Bike for Heavy People: Assault AirBike Elite

Best Compact Exercise Bike for Heavy People: CAROL Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Heavy People with Dynamic Programming: Bowflex VeloCore

Best Peloton-Alternative Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Schwinn IC4

Best Folding Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike

Best Budget Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Mobi Fitness Exercise Bike

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial R35

Best Exercise Bike for Heavy People with Peloton: Peloton Bike

How We Tested These Exercise Bikes for Heavy People 

Everyone’s workout needs are different, and the ideal way to find the best exercise bike for you is to try them all — but unfortunately, that’s just not possible for most people. That’s where the BarBend team comes in. Our experienced testers (a group made up of product reviewers, certified personal trainers, and even one Olympic lifter) hopped on more than 20 of the best bikes in the market (across all price points!) and carefully selected these nine as the best exercise bikes for heavy people based on the criteria below. Each tester scored the bikes between 1 (not great) to 5 (really great) in each of the following categories:

Footprint and portability

Delivery and setup

Durability

Customizations

Adjustability and ergonomics

Tech capabilities

Conveniences

Dynamic programming

Customer reviews

Value

Warranty, financing, and returns

Customer service

Best Overall Exercise Bike for Heavy People: NordicTrack S22i 

The NordicTrack S22i, our pick for the overall best exercise bike for heavy people, offers a unique workout experience. Our testers give it a perfect 5 out of 5 for its dynamic programming, customizations, and tech capabilities, which are really the stars of the show. This is a true smart device; it comes with an impressive 22-inch HD touchscreen, Bluetooth capabilities, iFIT integration, and automatic adjustment of resistance and incline during trainer-led workouts. That’s right: It can incline up to 20 percent, and decline to -10 percent, a feature rare in exercise bikes.

Moving the NordicTrack S22i

The iFIT integration is both an incredible draw and a potential downside. You get a free 30-day iFIT trial with purchase, but after that, it’ll cost you $39 a month or $180 a year. The platform offers a huge variety of classes, from studio-style workouts to immersive rides that take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth — “It really feel like I’m in Hawaii or sitting in a cycling class,” our tester and certified personal trainer, Kate Meier, says. The standout AutoAdjust feature means your bike tweaks the incline and resistance depending on the terrain for a truly lifelike experience.

“Without the iFIT subscription, I think the bike just isn’t very impressive,” Meier admits. You can use the bike in manual mode, and there are some classes you can access for free, but you can’t use the display to stream other workouts or watch TV. The good news is that the iFIT membership has added value even when you’re not on the bike; you can swivel the screen 360 degrees to do strength or mobility off the bike, or use the app on your phone or tablet.

The S22i can support riders up to 350 pounds (above the industry average), making it a great exercise bike for heavy people. “Overall, it’s a pretty sturdy machine, but I found that the handlebars and screen jostle slightly as you ride,” another tester noted — and there’s an increased risk of that when you have more weight behind every pedal stroke. (Perhaps the 10-year frame and two-year parts warranties can offer peace of mind.) Overall, our testers agree: If you’re psyched to use iFIT, it’s a 5 out of 5. But if that type of workout streaming isn’t your style, the $1K+ price tag may not be justified.

Read our full NordicTrack S22i Exercise Bike Review.

Best Air Bike for Heavy People: Assault AirBike Elite 

Air bikes can be a literal blast. As you pedal, the fan blade wheel turns, creating resistance by pushing against the air and giving you a nice breeze. The catch? The harder you pedal, the more resistance you face. This makes it a great tool for HIIT training, as you can get into high levels of exertion without lifting heavy weights or putting impact on your joints. 

Air bikes are unique among exercise bikes in that they work your upper body, too; as you pedal, you perform a push-pull motion with the handlebars, engaging your triceps, biceps, chest, and back. You can “cycle” with just your arms, just your legs, or do both simultaneously for an intense full-body cardio experience — but that’s about all this machine does. 

You won’t find many bells and whistles, aside from some basic Bluetooth and heart rate monitor connectivity, performance stats (time, calories, distance, speed, watts, RPM), and some simple guided interval programs on the LCD screen. The brand also has an Assault Fitness App, which offers equipment-specific workouts and training guidance, though reviews say it needs some work.

Credit: BarBend

For heavy people, specifically, the Assault AirBike Elite may be a good choice because of the wider, more comfortable seat and higher rider weight capacity of 350 pounds compared to other Assault models. “I think the upgrades offered in the Elite model aren’t enough to justify the price, which is almost double that of the Classic model,” our tester and certified personal trainer says, and for that reason, gave this bike a 2.5 out of 5 score for value. (The AssaultBike Classic sells for $699 and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.) 

The Elite also scored lower in customizations, with a 3 out of 5, since there are only six seat post height settings (the budget pick here has nine). However, it scored a 4 out of 5 for durability. “If an Assault bike can last years in a CrossFit box (with high-volume use and usually sub-par care), it can probably last decades in a home gym with proper maintenance,” our tester says.

If you’re looking to hop on, crank out a workout, and get off, an air bike could be right up your alley. But if you like to do longer rides or stream workouts, this may not be the exercise bike for you — especially at a $1,500 price tag.

Best Compact Exercise Bike for Heavy People: CAROL Bike 

Exercise bikes are generally a stellar option for small spaces and apartment dwellers, but if every inch counts in your home gym, you’ll still want the most compact pick. At 45.5” by 22”, CAROL is the smallest bike here (aside from the foldable and budget picks), scoring a 4.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. 

It lands about 13 inches shorter than both the NordicTrack S22i and Peloton Bike, and is thin enough to slide into spaces next to couches and even into closets when not in use. “I found the bike to be extremely slim and easy to move thanks to the front roller hockey wheels with bearings,” our tester said. Though it’s compact, it can accommodate riders from 4’ 7” to 6’ 7” tall and weighing up to 330 pounds — 50 to 80 pounds more than many other bikes on the market.

Our tester rides a CAROL bike

Rider accessibility isn’t the only thing that makes CAROL small but mighty. This AI-powered bike was founded on the scientifically validated concept of REHIT, or reduced-exertion HIIT. Using AI, the bike learns where your personal maximum intensity is, and adjusts the resistance accordingly to make sure you hit it during your workout. A study commissioned by the American Council on Exercise tested the method, and found that 10 minutes of REHIT on the CAROL bike offers more cardiorespiratory and cardiometabolic benefits than 30-minutes of continuous moderate-intensity training. (4) 

The AI-powered REHIT workouts are unique to CAROL, and what our tester liked best about the bike: “The programmed workouts are amazing for HIIT, and I love that you don’t have to touch any dials. I suspect that’s what other people will use most, because of the expediency of the program.You can get incredible results in a super short amount of time,” they said. The CAROL workout program also includes longer interval rides, fitness tests, custom workouts, and free rides, and you’re not limited to their offerings. The bike’s 11” touchscreen is essentially an Android tablet, meaning you can also load your favorite workout and entertainment apps.

That said, CAROL is a state-of-the-art model and the most expensive bike on this list — $600 more than our overall best pick from NordicTrack, $1,150 more than a Peloton Bike, and nearly $1,600 more than a no-frills Schwinn — which is why our tester gave it a 3.5 out of 5 for value.

Best Exercise Bike for Heavy People with Dynamic Programming: Bowflex VeloCore 

The Bowflex VeloCore gets its name from a cool feature: The machine can tilt from side to side as if you’re on a real bike — which customers say adds a balance and core-strengthening element to their workouts. But it’s when you pair that feature with JRNY, the adaptive streaming platform integrated into the HD display, that the magic happens. After an initial fitness assessment, JRNY recommends classes based on your fitness level. 

As you level up, so will your recs, whether you prefer trainer-led or scenic “explore the world” rides. This personalized training feedback is one of the reasons our tester gave the VeloCore a 5 out of 5 in both tech capabilities and dynamic programming. Using the JRNY app on your phone or tablet, you can stream non-cycling workouts, too.

On the VeloCore’s display, you can stream Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+, but not other workout classes. “I feel the classes are lacking slightly (I prefer Peloton’s), so I wish the monitor supported other platforms,” our tester (who’s also a CrossFit coach) said, “and it’s important to keep in mind the ongoing cost of the JRNY subscription because otherwise, you can’t use a lot of the cool features the VeloCore offers.” There is a media holder on the display, so if you ditch JRNY and stream workouts elsewhere, you’ll at least have a place to set your device.

Hardware-wise, in addition to the leaning feature, this exercise bike has all the other capabilities you’d expect from a premium model, including 100 levels of quiet magnetic resistance. The only thing missing that you’ll find in competitor bikes is auto-adjusted resistance when taking classes; you’ll have to manually bump up or tap down the resistance yourself. 

To withstand the forces presented by the tilting, you know this thing has to be solid — and customers can attest that it seems like it’ll last, as does our tester. “I was impressed by the high-quality materials and minimal screen shaking while riding. Overall, it seems like a durable bike,” they said. The seat and handlebars are adjustable for a personalized fit, the screen can tilt, and the bike can accommodate users between 5’1″ and 6’5″ and under 325 pounds. That stability comes with one drawback: You’ll likely need a hand to move the boxes and/or the fully-built bike unless you pay Bowflex $199 for in-home assembly.

Best Peloton-Alternative Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Schwinn IC4 

Peloton has a stellar workout platform — and is especially beloved for their cycling classes — but their Bike and Bike+ both have a limiting rider weight limit of 297 pounds. If you’re just over that and want a home exercise bike that allows you to ride along with Peloton classes, the Schwinn IC4 could be just the ticket; it has a more generous maximum user weight of 330 pounds and can be connected via Bluetooth to your Peloton app. 

Even if you’re not desperate for the Peloton hookup, the IC4 is also a solid pick for a simple, time-tested exercise bike without all the fancy gimmicks. It’s a classic, solid stationary bike in many aspects: It has 100 microlevels of smooth magnetic resistance (which you can digitally adjust via buttons on the screen), an LCD console with basic ride metrics (time, distance, calories, speed, RPM, levels, and heart rate), four-way adjustable seat and handlebars, two water bottle holders, and a 10-year frame warranty that practically guarantees it’ll last. 

Our tester riding a Schwinn IC4 exercise bike

To that point, our tester gave it a 5 out of 5 for durability. “It’s a well-built bike that feels very sturdy and durable (even while being small and lightweight), and it doesn’t shake at all while I’m riding,” our tester says — an important consideration if you want to ensure you’ll be supported by whatever bike you choose.

It may not excel in the tech department, but you’re getting all this for under $1,000 and nearly $500 cheaper than Peloton’s entry-level Bike. Our tester can vouch: “I found that the IC4 has a very smooth ride, much like a Peloton or other high-end bikes but for nearly half the cost.” That’s why they gave it a perfect 5 out of 5 rating for its phenomenal value: “I think you get a lot for the price.” 

Read our full Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike Review.

Best Folding Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike

If you’re limited by space or budget, you’ll be excited to know that there is such a thing as a foldable exercise bike — and it rings in at under $200 on Amazon. “This is a low-cost, no-frills bike,” Kate Meier, our expert tester and certified personal trainer, says, but if that’s what you want, then it’s a great option. It’s not as sturdy as a non-folding stationary bike, but it can support riders who weigh up to 300 pounds and accommodate heights from 5’3″ to 6’1″. And it’s surprisingly comfortable: “It has a really big seat (not like a regular bike seat!) and is very cushioned,” Meier says.

How fit can you get on this thing? Well, it’s not going to feel like a Peloton or luxe studio class, but it’ll do the trick if you want to get your legs moving while watching TV or add some low-impact cardio to your home workout routine. The easy-to-read LCD display cycles between showing your distance, calories burned, time, speed, and heart rate, which is collected via the hand pulse monitors on the handles.

Tester riding the Exerpeutic Folding Bike

“It offers eight resistance levels, which is below industry standard, but I found it to be enough to add variety and challenge to my workout,” Meier says, and “it folds up and rolls away as easily as a suitcase.” The latter is one of the biggest draws of a folding exercise bike, and why our tester scored it a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. Some reviewers even note that they’re able to fit it under or in front of their desk to use while working.

One drawback is the fact that there’s no media shelf or water bottle holder, which is why our tester gave this bike a 3.5 out of 5 on customizations. (There are some options sold separately on Amazon that may be able to attach to the handlebars.) It’s a “you get what you pay for” kind of purchase, but if you don’t want anything fancy, it could be just the thing you need.

Best Budget Exercise Bike for Heavy People: Mobi Fitness Exercise Bike 

Looking for a budget-friendly exercise bike for heavy people that isn’t so budget-friendly you can fold it up and stick it in your broom closet? This could be your match. The Mobi Fitness exercise bike has a surprisingly sleek look considering the fact that it’s under $500 on Amazon (that’s nearly $1,000 less than a Peloton and $500 less than a low-tech upright bike) and can support riders who weigh up to 330 pounds. There are also nine different levels of seat adjustments and 17 levels of handlebar adjustments so you can find the right fit — more than our tester expected for a budget pick, earning this bike a 4 out of 5 in adjustability and ergonomics.

Assembly is simple and takes about half an hour, and once the bike is fully built, it’s pretty easy to tip up and wheel around, our tester says. With an alloy steel frame, “overall, I think it feels pretty sturdy and I love that it can support up to 330 pounds,” our tester (and CrossFit coach) adds, “though it’s worth noting that the outer shell is made of plastic.” Mobi Fitness offers a one-year components and two-year frame warranty for the machine, which is significantly less than the warranties typically offered by higher-end models.

Amazon reviewers and our tester praise this bike for being whisper-quiet, and it packs some pretty decent tech for being a budget pick. It has a 26-pound flywheel and belt-drive system, which keep your ride smooth. The digital resistance control knob doubles as the display screen and shows all the usual metrics like distance, time, calories, and speed. You can even access free workouts on the Mobi Fitness app.

They aren’t industry-best (our tester gave programming a 3 out of 5) but they are free, and even auto-adjust the bike resistance for you — a pretty cool feature for an under-$500 exercise bike. The only other downside our tester noticed? “I hate that it doesn’t have a water bottle holder,” they said.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial R35 

If you deal with pain or are a total beginner to exercise, it may be smart to consider buying a recumbent bike vs. an upright bike. “For people with lower back pain, cycling [on an upright bike] may exacerbate that due to the positioning of the body on the bike,” says our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer, Amanda Capritto. “Seniors and individuals with limited mobility may struggle to get on and off of an [upright] bike, in which case a recumbent bike is recommended.” 

On a recumbent bike, the seat is behind the pedals rather than above them, which means more of your weight is in the seat instead of in your feet. That makes it easier to pedal and puts less force on your hips and knees. Recumbent bikes also have backrests — and the one on this NordicTrack Commercial R35 exercise bike is oversized and designed specifically to offer lumber (lower back) support, making it an especially comfortable option for heavier riders. “It feels really low-impact and is a good way to stay gently active while doing other things like reading a book or watching TV,” our tester and CrossFit coach says.

Like many other NordicTrack machines, this one has an HD touchscreen display and access to iFIT, a streaming workout platform with studio-style classes and scenic rides (which scored a perfect 5 out of 5 in dynamic programming with our tester). You’ll get a 30-day free trial with purchase, but afterward, it’ll cost $39 per month to keep streaming.

Without the iFIT membership, you can use the bike in manual mode, but won’t have access to many of the best tech features, like AutoAdjust resistance or progress tracking. Unfortunately, you also can’t use the screen to stream anything else, like shows or TV, and there’s no media shelf for you to BYO screen (though the brand does sell media shelf attachments separately).

Our tester on the NordicTrack Commercial R35

With a 350-pound user weight limit — the highest limit overall on this list — it’s a great exercise bike for heavy people. Our tester scored it a 4 out of 5 for durability and says the bike feels sturdy: “I didn’t feel any uncomfortable shifting or shaking during the ride.” It has a 25-pound flywheel, which is under the exercise bike standard of 35-40 pounds, but sufficient for a recumbent bike, and offers 26 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance, which is well above the industry standard of 12.

Worth noting: At nearly 200 pounds and made of commercial-grade steel, this bike is stable but heavy, and bulkier than others on this list. “Based on the target audience for a recumbent bike like this, I wouldn’t recommend trying to move this on your own,” our tester notes. 

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial R35 Review.

Best Exercise Bike for Heavy People with Peloton: Peloton Bike 

Your wallet may not want to hear it, but the Peloton hype is real. If you love streaming Peloton’s workouts on your own device or have admired the brand from afar and are looking to buy a home exercise bike, it could be time to join the cohort. You can stream Peloton workouts on other exercise bikes, but most don’t offer the same seamless integration of real-time and post-ride metrics as the brand’s own machine. For example, the brand’s leaderboard feature (which allows you to compete with other riders during class) doesn’t work with non-Peloton bikes. 

With Peloton, you’re getting a solid bike: It has an alloy steel frame, 38-pound flywheel, and a smooth belt-drive system. “The bike itself is super quiet and quite sturdy. I didn’t feel any shaking while riding, and there are even stabilizers on the bottom if you need to adjust for your floor,” our tester and certified personal trainer says. However, you do have to manually adjust the magnetic resistance (of which there are 100 levels) with a dial, unlike the auto-adjusting feature on some of the competitor models near this price point or on Peloton’s own Bike+.

A man rides a Peloton Bike

And whether you purchase your bike from the brand itself or on Amazon, it comes with Peloton’s standard limited warranty — five years for the frame, one year for the touchscreen, pedals, and components — which is significantly shorter than the 10-year warranties offered by competitors.

The bike itself, though, isn’t what sets Peloton apart; it’s the content that takes the workout experience to the next level. “I think the programming is top-notch,” our tester says. “The huge, 22-inch HD display and instructors provide a unique experience in every ride.” The giant community of Peloton users can attest to how engaging it is; in reviews, customers say the bike has transformed their fitness routine and wish they had only purchased the machine earlier. 

That said, the content comes at a price: you’ll need to fork over $44 per month to access the brand’s classes on your Bike. While Peloton users used to be limited to streaming Peloton workout content on their equipment, the brand recently released a new entertainment feature that allows you to stream the NBA League Pass, Disney+, Max, Netflix, and YouTubeTV.

How We Chose the Best Exercise Bikes for Heavy People 

To give you a complete picture of each of the bikes above, we took everything into account while testing, from the user interface and workout streaming options to the comfort of the seat, and friendliness and ease of customer service. Finally, because spending more money doesn’t always equate to a better product, we’ve also carefully judged the value of each exercise bike to give you an idea of what’s worth spending on. 

Durability and Weight Capacity

When you’re spending money on an exercise bike, you expect it to last. There are a few key characteristics to look for here, including a durable steel frame, smooth drive belt system, and an iron, steel, or aluminum flywheel (the metal disc that spins as you pedal and provides resistance).

The bikes listed here also support riders from 297 pounds to 350 pounds, making them great choices if you’re specifically looking for an exercise bike for heavy people. And especially important in this category is the warranty. The most durable bikes offer a 10 year warranty (like many on this list). Our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer recommends: “Look for at least 5 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year for labor.” 

Price

When talking about heavy exercise machinery, to a certain extent, you get what you pay for. A sub-$500 foldable exercise bike just isn’t going to match the durability or experience of one that’s $2K+. That said, if you’re shelling out more than a thousand dollars on an exercise bike, you want to make sure it’s actually worth every penny. We took prices into account here to ensure that the bikes we’re recommending aren’t just good, but also worth their price tags.

Features

The techy features included in high-end workout equipment can be enticing — but that may not be what you need. We took a close look at the features of every bike we tested and pulled out their unique perks and drawbacks. Ultimately, it’s up to you which features matter for your individual workout needs and goals, but we can at least help cut through the juicy sizzle reels to get to the important facts. 

Benefits of Exercise Bikes For Heavy People

Although home exercise bikes cost a pretty penny, it can help to think of the purchase as an investment in your well-being. After all, regular physical exercise is one of the single best things you can do for both your mental and physical health. (6) Indoor cycling comes with a ton of physical and mental benefits, and purchasing a bike you like and want to use can make all the difference in getting you to show up and reap those perks.

Better Physical and Mental Health

Stationary biking has been shown to increase bone density, which reduces your risk of breaks or developing osteoporosis later in life; lower your risk of heart disease, which is the top cause of death in the US; and increase muscular strength, which helps you move well and prevent injury. (7)(8)(9)(10) 

Riding the Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike.

Aerobic exercises (aka cardio), in general, can help manage and prevent diabetes, and any type of exercise is linked to positive mental health outcomes including reduced anxiety, depression, and negative mood, and improved self-esteem and cognitive function. Indoor cycling with an at-home exercise bike can be an accessible way to get all those perks and more. (11)(12)

Low-Impact and Beginner-Friendly Cardio

If you’re a beginner to exercise, starting a weight-loss journey, or live in a bigger body, high-impact cardio like running or aerobics can take a real pounding on your joints. Indoor cycling is a fantastic, low-impact exercise option that allows you to get moving without putting tons of force on your body. Over time, indoor cycling can help you safely build lower-body strength and aerobic capacity while keeping your injury risk low. (10)  

Workouts That Keep You Coming Back

Experts agree: The best workout for you is the one you actually do on the regular. Logging time on cardio machines can feel like a total slog, especially if you don’t have any guidance or feel challenged. The good news about many of these exercise bikes is that they’re more than just a piece of equipment; they have dynamic, interactive programming that makes your rides more fun, personalized, and challenging. They offer scenic views, energy-boosting playlists, games, and entertainment so that you can create a workout routine that adds more joy to your day and keeps you coming back. 

What to Consider Before Buying an Exercise Bike for Heavy People 

An exercise bike is a big purchase: You’re sacrificing some significant square footage in your home to make a dedicated space for your workout needs, as well as handing over some serious cash — so you want to make sure you’ll like what you buy. Take a second to reflect on exactly what you’re looking for in an exercise bike. Do you want something high-tech or just a place to pedal? Will you need to move it around? Do you prefer guided workouts, or doing your own thing? Here are a few key characteristics to consider.

Workout Style

Because many of the best indoor cycling bikes come with their own built-in workout streaming platforms — which often come with their own cost — it’s important to decide if you want that kind of workout experience or not. If you’d rather stream free cycling workouts on YouTube, watch the workouts of your choice on your smartphone or TV, or pedal while reading or working, a bike with a built-in screen and workout platform may be a waste of money for you. 

Our tester Jake trying an iFIT workout.

On the other hand, if you love the vibe of a studio cycling class and want a bike that comes with plenty of guided workouts, a high-tech bike with a streaming platform membership may be just the ticket. Finally, if you’re buying an exercise bike to complement cycling outside or to train during the winter, you’ll also want to consider which exercise bikes have a look and feel similar to your outdoor bike, as well as pedals compatible with your cleats.

Weight Limit

If you’re on this page, it’s because you’re looking for the best exercise bike for a heavier rider, whether that’s yourself or someone in your household. While all of the bikes here have weight limits above the industry average, it’s important to check each one to make sure it’s suitable for the intended rider to use. Here’s a quick glance at all the user weight limits for all the bikes included here.

Workout Intensity

When considering at-home exercise bikes, you’ll need to consider how hard you want to work out. If you love doing all-out efforts or HIIT training, you’ll want an upright bike or air bike that’s stable, durable, and built to withstand that kind of aggressive movement. If you’re looking to pedal at a more leisurely pace, a recumbent bike or less heavy-duty upright bike might work for you.

Cost

Exercise bikes on the market come in a huge range of costs, from under $200 to multiple thousands. Which one is right for you will depend on the type of workouts you like to do and your goals, but it’ll also depend on what’s in your budget. It’s especially important to note that some bikes come with optional workout streaming services, which will become an extra monthly charge even after the initial investment. To help you get a better idea of the price differences, here’s a cost breakdown of all our top exercise bike picks for heavy riders.

There’s a wide range of prices here, and with that comes a wide range of product experiences. With the more affordable bikes, you’re getting the basics: a place to pedal, some resistance to work against, an adjustable seat, a limited warranty, and some simple metrics about your rides.The middle range will come with a more stable frame, heavier flywheel, smoother ride, longer warranty, and some tech, but leave the workouts up to you. The high-end exercise bikes will come with great hardware plus all the technological bells and whistles, an HD touchscreen display, streaming capabilities, workout programming, smoother and quieter pedaling, a 10+-year warranty, and in some cases, automatic resistance, tilting, or incline/decline. 

Kate riding a NordicTrack S22i

Find where you’re comfortable price-wise, consider which features call you the most, and then also consider: Do you want to be locked into a streaming subscription? If so, which one sounds like your workout style and comes at a cost you can justify each month? It’s a lot to think about, but it’ll help you find the exercise bike that’s worth your money. 

Types of Exercise Bikes 

Not all exercise bikes are created equal — and not all exercise bikes are even the same general type. There are three main categories to know about: upright, air, and recumbent. 

“Recumbent bikes allow people with mobility limitations or injuries to enjoy cycling, as they are reclined and take pressure off of the hips and back,” says our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer, Amanda Capritto. “Upright bikes are your typical stationary bikes, which are excellent for high-intensity exercise and tech-savvy cyclists who love to take fitness classes [as some have streaming capabilities]. Air bikes are powered by the user, with a fan flywheel that creates resistance. They’re found in CrossFit gyms and are popular among people who enjoy CrossFit and similar exercise regimens.” We get into the details of each type below.

Upright

An upright bike is likely what you imagine when you think about a stationary bike in a gym, cycling studio, or home gym setting. It has a single flywheel and handlebars and is meant to look and ride similar to a road bike. You can ride seated, with your butt in the saddle, or standing up. Typically, you’ll need to lean forward when you’re seated in order to reach the handlebars and mimic the feeling of riding a bike.

Air

You may have seen an air bike in a gym, functional fitness studio, or CrossFit box; it makes a big whooshing sound when it’s being used, so it’s hard to miss. You typically sit very upright on an air bike, and instead of handlebars, it has two large moving arms that you push and pull in addition to pedaling with your feet. For this reason, compared to other types of exercise bikes, an air bike tends to be more of a full-body workout. 

Recumbent

A recumbent bike offers the gentlest workout of the three types of exercise bikes. Instead of sitting upright or even leaning forward, a recruitment bike allows you to sit back, thanks to a full backrest in addition to the seat. Because you have less of your own weight in your legs while pedaling, and you don’t need to support your torso to stay upright, recumbent bikes tend to be easier overall and a great choice for beginners or people overcoming injuries. In fact, you’ll often see this type of bike in physical therapy offices.

Final Word 

Buying a piece of at-home cardio equipment can feel like a big step — and it is. No matter whether you decide to go for one of these exercise bikes or a walking treadmill, it’s important to consider what will work best for you rather than just buying the hottest workout toy on the market. After all, an industry-best exercise bike is only worth the splurge if you actually use it. Take time to consider what might work best for your body, home gym, family, and workout routine, before hitting “add to cart.” 

Are you looking to escape into a virtual spin class or picturesque ride, or would you rather pedal leisurely while watching your favorite Netflix shows? Do recumbent bikes feel better on your body, or would you prefer an upright bike that gives you the option to stand up out of the saddle? Where will you put the exercise bike, and if it’s smack dab in the middle of your living room, what sort of look will make you loathe its existence least? All of these questions factor into the decision of which exercise bike is best for you.

FAQs 

References

Chavarrias M, Carlos-Vivas J, Collado-Mateo D, Pérez-Gómez J. Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Aug 8;55(8):452. 

 Rissel C, Passmore E, Mason C, Merom D. Two pilot studies of the effect of bicycling on balance and leg strength among older adults. J Environ Public Health. 2013;2013:686412. 

Schlegel, Petr & Křehký, Adam & Hiblbauer, Jan. (2022). Physical fitness improvement after 8 weeks of high-intensity interval training with air bike. 

Cuddy TF, Ramos JS, Dalleck LC. Reduced Exertion High-Intensity Interval Training is More Effective at Improving Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Cardiometabolic Health than Traditional Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019 Feb 7;16(3):483. 

Recumbent Bike vs. Upright Bike: What’s the difference? International Sports Sciences Association. (2019, July 31). https://www.issaonline.com/blog/post/recumbent-bike-vs-upright-bike-whats-the-difference 

Benefits of Physical Activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, Aug 1).  https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm 

Petersen BA, Hastings B, Gottschall JS. Low load, high repetition resistance training program increases bone mineral density in untrained adults. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2017 Jan-Feb;57(1-2):70-76.

Blond K, Jensen MK, Rasmussen MG, Overvad K, Tjønneland A, Østergaard L, Grøntved A. Prospective Study of Bicycling and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Danish Men and Women. Circulation. 2016 Nov 1;134(18):1409-1411.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, January 17). Leading Causes of Death. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm 

Ozaki H, Loenneke JP, Thiebaud RS, Abe T. Cycle training induces muscle hypertrophy and strength gain: strategies and mechanisms. Acta Physiol Hung. 2015 Mar;102(1):1-22. 

Sheri R. Colberg, Ronald J. Sigal, Jane E. Yardley, Michael C. Riddell, David W. Dunstan, Paddy C. Dempsey, Edward S. Horton, Kristin Castorino, Deborah F. Tate; Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care 1 November 2016; 39 (11): 2065–2079.

Sharma A, Madaan V, Petty FD. Exercise for mental health. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2006;8(2):106. 

Chavarrias M, Carlos-Vivas J, Collado-Mateo D, Pérez-Gómez J. Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Aug 8;55(8):452. 

American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. American Heart Association. (2024, Jan 19).

The post The 9 Best Exercise Bikes For Heavy People of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.

With “Reconsidered,” customers can buy and sell used New Balance kicks online and in-store

The old shoes dwelling in the back of your closet could be worth more than you realize. If they’ve got the letters “NB” sewn into them, they’re likely worth digging up.

New Balance announced the launch of its footwear resale program, powered by Archive. Dubbed “Reconsidered,” participants can mail in or drop off gently worn shoes at store locations in exchange for New Balance vouchers.

Voucher amounts are determined by the age and condition of the returned shoes. Then, after cleaning them up, New Balance makes those shoes available for purchase online.

“We know the footwear industry has a significant environmental impact, including too many products ending up in a landfill,” said John Stokes, director of sustainability at New Balance. “There are many things that have to shift. Launching Reconsidered is one piece of the puzzle with a program objective to help extend product life for some of our products and get the most from what is already made.”

The program uses Archive as its foundation — a technology platform specializing in branded resales for apparel and footwear companies. Archive makes launching and scaling re-commerce operations simple for brands to drive customer loyalty and acquisition with a variety of models applicable to different kinds of businesses. Archive’s logistics partner, Tersus Solutions, provides product cleaning, fulfillment and warehousing services.

“Reconsidered was designed to give customers an easy, accessible way to keep New Balance shoes in circulation, as well as to provide consumers with a better buying experience for pre-loved shoes at an accessible price point,” said Emily Gittins, CEO and co-founder of Archive. “We’re proud to partner with New Balance to launch a full-service recommerce program that keeps shoes out of landfills, attracts new customers, and builds on existing customer loyalty.”

The Reconsidered launch speaks to New Balance’s broader environmental intentions. The sports footwear and apparel company wants to achieve 1.5°C-aligned emissions reduction through the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and source 100% renewable electricity for owned operations by 2025. The Boston-based brand also aims to continue sourcing lower-impact materials, transitioning to lower-carbon transportation and engaging with governments to help enact better climate policy.

Customers in the United States can access Reconsidered at www.newbalancereconsidered.com. In-store trade-in opportunities will begin at eight retail locations before expanding to more U.S. stores later this year.

The post New Balance Launches Sneaker Resale Program in Sustainability Push appeared first on Athletech News.

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK or PRK) produces some of the best weightlifters in the world. Case in point: One day after 45-kilogram Won Hyon Sim set her class’ first-ever world records at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships (AWC), 49-kilo Ri Song Gum continued the trend by setting records of her own.

Gum set a clean & jerk world record of 125 kilograms, or 275.5 pounds, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where this year’s AWC runs from Feb. 3 to 10. She also logged a new best Total of 220 kilograms (485 pounds), another world record.

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes To Buy in 2024]

Ri Song Gum | 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships

The 49-kilogram category will be showcased in the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France later this summer. As such, it is among the most competitive classes in the sport. But here’s the kicker — Gum already owned two out of three world records in the division (the 96-kilogram snatch record remains in the hands of China thanks to 2020 Olympic Champion Hou Zhihui). 

Gum bested her own 1-rep-max clean & jerk by one kilogram and advanced her Total world record by a whopping four kilos. Here’s how she did in Tashkent:

Snatch: 90, 95x, 95 

Clean & Jerk: 117, 122, 125 | World Record

Total: 220 | World Record

To the Top

The International Weightlifting Federation’s (IWF) top-10 ranking leaderboard is the primary metric that will determine which athletes are eligible to compete at this year’s Olympic Games. Prior to the 2024 AWC, Gum was already tied for first position with Chinese weightlifter Jiang Huihua, with both women having put up a best Total of 216 kilograms.

Gum’s 220-kilogram world record Total will confirm her place at the top of the women’s lightweight division. Team China, having withdrawn from the 2024 AWC, will not have an opportunity to respond until they compete at the IWF World Cup in April. However, the DPRK is not eligible to send any weightlifters to Paris 2024, since they failed to appear at a number of requisite qualifier events earlier in the Olympic cycle.

[Related: The 12 Best Weightlifting Belts on the Market (Personally Tested)]

The People’s Republic may boast the strongest 49-kilogram woman in the world (for the time being), but China is assuredly going to win gold at the Olympics this year. 

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North Korea continues its dominance. Having already set new world records in every session held so far at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships (AWC), the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) maintained its momentum in the evening of Feb. 4, 2024.

This year’s AWC is held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from Feb. 3 to 10. There, during the Women’s 55-kilogram Group A session, athlete Kang Hyon Gyong set a new world record in the snatch of 104 kilograms, or 229.2 pounds.

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes for Squats, Flat Feet, & More]

Gyong currently holds all three world records in the Women’s 55-kilogram category (130 kilograms in the clean & jerk and 233 kilos in the Total). Her 104-kilogram snatch from Tashkent bested her previous record by a single kilogram, which she had set last autumn at the 19th Asian Games. Here’s a breakdown of her performance at this year’s AWC where she handily won her class overall:

Kang Hyon Gong (55KG) | 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships

Snatch: 90, 98, 104 | World Record

Clean & Jerk: 115, 123, 130x

Total: 227

Why She Wins

Gyong is undoubtedly one of the best weightlifters in the world. Unlike many athletes currently rostered on Team DPRK, Gyong boasts a long and impressive competition resume. Her first appearance at an International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) event was way back in 2013, where she placed fourth at that year’s Youth World Championships.

That said, her uncontested reign over the 55-kilogram division comes with a fairly large asterisk attached — there won’t be a Women’s 55-kilogram event at the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. Many of the world’s best weightlifters around that body weight have moved to either the 49-kilogram or 59-kilogram categories instead:

2023 World Weightlifting Championships | Women

Women’s 49-Kilogram Winner: Jiang Huihua, 215KG Total

Women’s 55-Kilogram Winner: Chen Guan-Ling, 203KG Total

Women’s 59-Kilogram Winner: Luo Shifang, 243KG Total

Editor’s Note: Team DPRK was barred entry from the 2023 World Weightlifting Championships due to failing to adhere to drug testing protocols. Had Gyong competed at that event and put up a comparable Total, she’d have won by a large margin.

China, the DPRK’s chief rival in weightlifting, opted not to send an athlete to compete in the Women’s 55s at last year’s Worlds. At the time, Chinese athletes owned all three world records in that division.

[Related: The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Workout Supplements]

With the most dominant country in women’s weightlifting focusing almost exclusively on the Paris-recognized classes, an opportunity has emerged for the DPRK to gain some ground across the divisions of the sport that won’t be showcased at the Olympics. World-record caliber athletes like Gyong are proving that the People’s Republic can contend with the best in the world.

More Weightlifting News

Weightlifter Won Hyon Sim Sets First-Ever World Records in 45-Kilogram Division

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The post Kang Hyon Gyong (55KG) Breaks Snatch World Record at 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships appeared first on BarBend.

Tiny, but mighty; on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, weightlifter Won Hyon Sim made history in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The city is hosting the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships (AWC) this year from Feb. 3 to 10, one of the final major competitions before the 2024 Olympic Games.

Kicking off the competition in spectacular fashion, 45-kilogram Sim set inaugural world records in the snatch (86 kilograms, or 189.5 pounds) and Total (192 kilograms or 423.2 pounds, the sum of her best snatch and clean & jerk).

[Related: 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships Full Results]

How It Happened

Prior to this year’s AWC, no featherweight woman weightlifter in the world had been able to crack the world standard benchmarks: 

85KG snatch

108KG clean & jerk

191KG Total

Editor’s Note: Sim lifted 106 kilograms or 233.9 pounds in the clean & jerk, which was enough for the gold medal at the AWC but did not exceed the standard. 

“World standards” are figurative numbers put forth by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) in 2018 when the organization remade its weight categories. Establishing world standards prevents athletes from setting an avalanche of new records when a new weight class is rolled out. An athlete must exceed the value of the standard by a margin of at least one kilogram in order to set the first official world record. 

Despite existing for roughly six years, the Women’s 45-kilogram category does not contain the same breadth of talent found in other divisions, since there are simply fewer qualified athletes with the requisite stature. Furthermore, the 45-kilo class won’t be showcased at the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris. As such, some weightlifters may view competing in the division as unproductive if they aspire to the Olympic Games. 

North Korea Runs the Table

At just 21 years of age, Sim has inarguably established herself as the best women’s featherweight weightlifter in the world with her performance in Tashkent. The 2024 AWC was also only her second-ever appearance on an international weightlifting stage:

Won Hyon Sim | Competition History

2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships: 1st | 45 kilograms

2019 Asian Youth Weightlifting Championships: 1st | 49 kilograms

[Related: The 10 Best Weightlifters of 2023]

But Sim is far from the only North Korean weightlifter to reach international acclaim in recent months. After a years’ long hiatus from the sport, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) returned in force at the 19th Asian Games last autumn.

Then, in Dec. 2023, The DPRK won nine out of 20 weight classes at the IWF Grand Prix II across the Men’s and Women’s divisions. More than usual international leader China, who are not attending the AWC this year. With China nowhere to be found, the DPRK has a rare opportunity in Tashkent to lock in new world records without objection from its most competent rival. 

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It’s finally here. The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France inch closer by the day. But before then, the best weightlifters in the world will continue to fight for those few precious Olympic qualification slots across a handful of international competitions. 

Kicking off the 2024 season of competitive weightlifting is the International Weightlifting Federation’s (IWF) Asian Weightlifting Championships (AWC). This year, the best athletes in the Asian region descend upon Tashkent, Uzbekistan from Feb. 3 to 10. 

BarBend will continually update this page with live results from each Group A session at the AWC. Check back right here to find out who’s making it to the top of the podium in Tashkent, and who will secure their ticket to Paris! 

[Related: Team China Withdraws From 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships]

2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships | Women’s Results

Below are the results of each Women’s category at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships.

Editor’s Note: The notation below reads as, “Name (Country) — Total (Snatch/Clean & Jerk)”

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45 Kilograms

Won Hyon Sim (PRK) — 192 (86/106)

Siriwimon (THA) — 163 (72/91)

Hong Zi-Yu (TPE) — 162 (72/90)

49 Kilograms

 

55 Kilograms

 

59 Kilograms

 

64 Kilograms

 

71 Kilograms

 

76 Kilograms

 

81 Kilograms

 

87 Kilograms

 

+87 Kilograms

 

2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships | Men’s Results

Here are the results from each Men’s category at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent.

Editor’s Note: The notation below reads as, “Name (Country) — Total (Snatch/Clean & Jerk)”

[Related: The Best Barbells You Can Buy in 2024]

55 Kilograms

Pang Un Chol (PRK) — 266 (116/150)

Natthawat Chomchuen (THA) — 264 (119/145)

Lai Gia Thanh (VIE) — 250 (116/134)

61 Kilograms

 

67 Kilograms

 

73 Kilograms

 

81 Kilograms

 

89 Kilograms

 

96 Kilograms

 

102 Kilograms

 

109 Kilograms

 

+109 Kilograms

 

How To Watch the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships

Written results are one thing, but the best action in Olympic lifting happens on the platform. If you want to catch all the action in Tashkent live, here’s how you can access the event:

Weightlifting House will stream all Group A sessions live through its media portal, Weightlifting House TV. Monthly access to the portal costs $9.99 on their website. Access is available in the following countries: 

United States

United Kingdom

Canada

Germany

Austria

Italy

France

Ireland

Netherlands

Belgium

Finland

Denmark

Norway

Sweden

Australia

New Zealand

South Africa

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Belts You Can Buy (Personally Tested)]

2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships Schedule

Below are the start times for all Group A sessions at the 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships. Note that times are in Eastern Standard Time (EST). 

Saturday, Feb. 3

W45: 3:00 a.m.

M55: 7:00 a.m.

Sunday, Feb. 4

W49: 2:30 a.m.

M61: 5:00 a.m.

W55: 7:30 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 5

M67: 2:30 a.m.

W59: 5:00 a.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 6

W64: 2:30 a.m.

M73: 5:00 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 7

M81: 1:00 a.m.

W71: 3:30 a.m.

Thursday, Feb. 8

M89: 12:00 a.m.

W76: 2:30 a.m.

M96: 5:00 a.m.

W81: 7:30 a.m.

Friday, Feb. 9

W87, +87: 2:30 a.m.

M102: 5:00 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 10

M109, +109: 3:30 a.m.

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The post 2024 Asian Weightlifting Championships Full Results appeared first on BarBend.

In the mid to late 2010s, many bodybuilding insiders and experts considered women’s bodybuilding to be a distant memory. This was thanks to the demise of the Ms. Olympia contest in 2014 and little exposure for the shows that were taking place. Then in 2020, Wings of Strength promoter Jake Wood bought the Olympia Weekend and revitalized the Ms. Olympia title.

Out of that contest, a new star emerged and became the face of the division — Andrea Shaw. In the following years, Shaw has only tightened her grip on that torch and has kept it burning brightly. As of January 2024, she has secured three more Olympia titles and has her eyes set on making her own history while trying to help the division grow. 

[Read More: Lenda Murray Vs. Andrea Shaw: Comparing Two of the Greatest Women’s Bodybuilders of All Time]

Shaw’s journey to bodybuilding greatness has been one that serves as inspiration to young athletes just as former Ms. Olympia Lenda Murray served for her in her years of development in bodybuilding. Here’s a brief glimpse of Shaw’s road to bodybuilding superstardom.

Early Life

Shaw was born and raised in the Detroit, MI area, and she took part in both gymnastics and cheerleading as a kid. Her first encounter with bodybuilding came when her mother was training in the same gym as the legendary Lenda Murray. Even after their paths crossed, Shaw remained focused on academics during her high school years.

She recommitted to training at age 15 and was even offered guidance on how to compete, but Shaw’s original intent was to be a fashion model. After seeing a copy of Oxygen Magazine at her gym with a Figure competitor on the cover, Shaw opted to start competing in that division. 

Due to how her body responded to training, she would ultimately compete in a newer division called Women’s Physique, which represented a smaller and more streamlined shape than those of the bodybuilding division.

Career History

Shaw earned IFBB Pro League status at the 2018 NPC National Championships, where she placed second in the Women’s Physique Class C category. The top two finishers in each class earned their pro cards. She made her pro debut at the 2019 Toronto Pro Supershow, where she placed 11th in the Women’s Physique division. 

Shaw switched to Women’s Bodybuilding in her next show, the Chicago Pro, and finished second. She has remained in that division ever since, and her legacy only continued to grow in the following years. Shaw has competed in 12 pro shows across both divisions and won nine, including eight recognized world championships. Her entire pro contest history is below, courtesy of NPC News Online. 

2019

Toronto Pro Supershow (Women’s Physique) —11th place

Chicago Pro — 2nd place

Rising Phoenix World Championship — 7th place

2020

Omaha Pro — 1st place

Rising Phoenix World Championship — 1st place

Ms. Olympia — 1st place

2021

Rising Phoenix World Championship — 1st place

Ms. Olympia — 1st place

[Read More: Andrea Shaw Goes Back-To-Back, Wins 2021 Ms. Olympia]

2022

Rising Phoenix World Championship — 1st place

Ms. Olympia — 1st place

[Read More: Andrea Shaw Three-Peats, Wins 2022 Ms. Olympia]

2023

Rising Phoenix World Championship — 1st place

Ms. Olympia — 1st place

[Read More: Andrea Shaw Wins 2023 Ms. Olympia, Scoring Fourth Consecutive Title]

Andrea Shaw’s Offseason Training

Shaw’s style of training could be seen as higher volume than most other bodybuilders. She is an advocate for using as many angles as possible while executing each rep with the best form possible. As is the case with many bodybuilders, her workouts vary based on her needs at the stage of the year she is in. 

In 2021, Shaw shared a week of offseason training notes with BarBend, including this back workout below. She and her training partner traded sets quickly and kept rest periods to a minimum, which kept the workout shorter and helped with endurance.

Rack Pull: 5 x 8-12

Pendlay Row: 4 x 8-10

Barbell Shrug: 4 x 8-12

Barbell Upright Row: 4 x 8-12

Bent-Over Barbell Shrug: 4 x 8-12

Wide-Grip Pull-Up: 2 x 6

Narrow-Grip Pull-Up: 2 x 6

Bent-Over Straight Arm Pulldown: 4 x 12

Wide-Grip Pulldown: 4 x 12*

Face Pull: 4 x 12**

* On an incline weight bench.

** Shaw uses the low pulley and performs the move on an incline bench.

She is also a big believer in doing cardio, and she has said in past interviews that she will even walk on a treadmill or ride an elliptical after winning contests so she stays in the shape she feels she needs to be. Even though she adds some weight to her physique in the offseason, she doesn’t allow herself to get too heavy so she can make the most of her time preparing for her next show.

[Read More: The 9 Best Walking Treadmills of 2024]

Business Ventures and Social Media

Thanks to her success and efforts to grow her division, Shaw has been able to capitalize by working on the business side of the sport. She is sponsored by multiple companies, including Mutant Supplements, Pro Tan, and Grindstone Blends. She also makes guest posing and seminar appearances and sells her own merchandise and autographed photos on her website.

She is also active on social media. Her @mzprettymuscle Instagram page has over 129,000 followers as of January 2024, but the majority of her activity comes as contributions to her sponsors’ pages. She can be seen regularly on Mutant’s YouTube channel as well as on podcasts and interviews throughout the fitness space.

Future

As of January 2024, Shaw is expected to defend the Ms. Olympia title at the 2024 Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV on the weekend of Oct. 10-13, 2024. If she wins her fifth title, she will join Iris Kyle, Lenda Murray, and Cory Everson as the only women to have won at least five titles.

At the time of this article’s publication, the Rising Phoenix event is not on the 2024 IFBB Pro League schedule. It’s unknown if Shaw would be committed to or interested in competing in any other shows outside of the Olympia going forward, but bodybuilding fans certainly hope she stays in the sport for a while longer — she has become one of the most popular champions in bodybuilding, and will likely hold that status for quite some time.

Featured Image: @mzprettymuscle on Instagram by Jeff Binns (@jeffbinns)

The post Andrea Shaw Biography — Early Life, Career, Training, and More appeared first on BarBend.