Today was a speed interval training day so I decided to use my Kickbike and get outside and enjoy the breeze and the sunshine.
I use the Kickbike as a form of “running” since it’s closer to running than riding a bike. But, it has much less joint pounding than running and requires much more balance and coordination.
The principles of a speed interval are the same: a short work period (about 30-35 seconds) followed by a longer period of easy work – in this case just coasting on the bike or slowing the propulsion.
To propel the bike, you use one leg and paw the ground for three to five repetitions then switch legs. You’ll see in the video how I use the bike and how to switch from one leg to the next.
Here’s a general video on the kickbike to give you a sense of what it’s about:
[youtube_sc url=”http://youtu.be/ftMUuCzrUsE” modestbranding=”1″ autohide=”0″ rel=”0″]
Below is a short video about how I use my kickbike:
[youtube_sc url=”http://youtu.be/QqekggyWFwI” modestbranding=”1″ autohide=”1″ rel=”0″]
How To Get Started With A Kickbike
I bought my Kickbike from KickBikeAmerica (and I have no financial involvement with the company just to be clear). I love it. It’s simple to use, hard work but soft on my joints.
The Kickbike seems to be more popular in Europe. Cross country skiers tend to use it in the off-season for training. Some people complain that for a “bike” without a seat or gears, it’s more expensive than a regular bike but as far as I’m concerned, it’s worth it. You have to know what you’re buying. It’s not a bike.
When you start, find a stretch of quiet road and plan on a short “run” – maybe ten minutes. It takes a little while to learn how to switch your feet so take your time. You’ll figure it out.
Once you have the idea of how to switch feet, you can then use the bike for Steady State Endurance training or, as I did, for Speed Intervals. Be aware that even the slightest incline greatly increases the work. it’s okay to step off and walk.
My session was 45 minutes and I had to walk once up a hill that was just a little too steep to “run” up. Also, I usually wear a helmet if I’m in a populated area with traffic. The bike is very easy to dismount and very hard to fall off but drivers are unpredictable.
