magnetrainerIf you’re like me, there are two main concerns that appear after the New Year—saving money after holiday spending and shedding pounds after holiday eating. Finding an affordable and entertaining exercise solution can be difficult, but the Magnetrainer ER Mini Exercise Bike is perfect for getting back on an exercise regimen while you are still trapped inside by the cold.

The Magnetrainer is a stationary exercise bike with both leg and arm workout capabilities. Its magnetic resistance feature is a smoother alternative to traditional friction systems, allowing for fluid motion in both forward and reverse. It also makes the bike virtually silent—ideal for use while watching television or in the office.

The resistance can be fine-tuned within a range that is almost twice that of other pedal exercisers. The 15” base and sturdy design increase stability during use on a floor or table, and the pedals have straps and special grips for both hands and feet. Optional extra-large, Velcro-strap pedals and ergonomic handholds are also available.

Another great feature of the Magnetrainer is the digital display, by which you can monitor speed, distance, time, and calories burned. You can expand this feedback by purchasing the optional PC Interface system, which transfers data to your home computer via USB cable. With the software you can visualize your progress in real-time via plots and store a history of your daily sessions. You can also add another dimension to your fitness feedback with the Cardio PC Interface, which has all the same benefits of the traditional PC Interface but comes with a wireless Polar chest-strap heart rate monitor. Your heart-rate is logged in real time and can be visualized over previous sessions as well.

The most exciting aspect of the PC Interface kits is that they both come with novel biofeedback games in which you control a virtual character using your real-life cycling speed. The professional fitness game, NetAthlon2, simulates riding in a virtual bicycle race while the IslandWorlds software allows you to create worlds and explore them using an avatar controlled by pedal speed. IslandWorlds also allows you to share your virtual environments online and interact with other Magnetrainer owners through a free website.

If you already have a favorite PC driving or racing game you can get fit while you play! The Magnetrainer software has compatibility with many popular PC racing games. You can control your virtual car speed by pedaling faster on the Magnetrainer while keeping your steering and other in-game controls the same.

With all these features there’s almost no excuse for not sticking to a workout routine. It’s as easy as pedaling while you watch TV, work, read, or play video games. Whether you or someone you love has a New Year’s resolution to get fit this is the perfect product to get started with.