Alright, granted. A recumbent tricycle may look a bit ... different. But it is that very unique and radical design that makes a recumbent trike so worthwhile.

You wouldn't want it to resemble an upright bike, would you?

After all, something different is what's needed to prevent the pummelling caused by conventional bikes upon the human body.

Recumbent tricycles may not be a common sight on the street -- yet -- but in the gym it can be a different story.

That's at least in part because the recumbent tricycle is a surprisingly comfortable way to get a vigorous workout. Just lay back and relax while you are pedaling your heart out.

The pressure and discomfort generally endured on a conventional bicycle will soon become nothing but a bad memory when you're reclining on a recumbent trike.

Your circulation will be allowed to flow unimpeded, once you have been liberated from the rigors of a conventional bicycle.

Settle into the comfortable bucket seat and say goodbye to your old back pain, your chronic knee strain, as well as your stiff neck and shoulders.

In this state of bliss, you can pedal longer and stronger than you ever could on a conventional bike.

The recumbent trike may come on as the innovative new thing but it's actually been around in various forms for a long time.

The version of 1896 had a few bugs in its design. It was a heavy machine, weighing about three times as much as the person riding it -- or attempting to ride it.

Different designs over the last century or so have all had their own unique pros and cons.

One thing they've had in common is an undeserved reputation for being slow. Perhaps the posture, laying in repose, as opposed to leaning forward over the handle bars and pedals is responsible for this.

Recumbent tricycles have a supportive bucket seat. Their pedals are lower than those found on a conventional bike.

Even the most confirmed couch potato can make the transition from the couch to this tricycle.

This deceptively laid-back piece of equipment can pack a powerful workout. It provides the means for vigorous cardio exercise and toning for legs and thighs.

Many recumbent trikes also offer dual-action capability. They are equiped with bars for upper body workouts, increasing your options for fitness.

A woman who weighs 150 pounds can burn 550 calories during a half-hour session. So work hard, and lay back.

Sources:

Elliptical Exercise Equipment Vs. Recumbent Bikes
http://www.ehow.com/about_5499584_elliptical-equipment-vs_-recumbent-bik...

Recumbent Bike -- Recumbent Cycles History
http://www.bicycleman.com/history/history.htm

The Advantages of Recumbent Exercise Bikes
http://www.pioneerthinking.com/mw_ebikes.html

Visit Jody's website and blog at http://www.ncubator.ca and http://ncubator.ca/blogger