Exercise and arthritis. Adaptive bicycling.

Bicycling, both indoor and outdoor, seems to be an excellent exercise for most patients with arthritis because it meets the criteria for the ideal recreational physical activity. This article outlines the physical and biomechanical advantages of bicycling as exercise and familiarizes the reader with the types of equipment available for both outdoor and indoor use. The proper mechanics of efficient bicycling and appropriate fit of machine to rider are addressed. Finally, guidelines are offered to initiate both indoor and outdoor cycling programs.