The Stairmaster AirFit bikes are new additions to our fitness rooms at the Sport Centre and Falmer Sports Complex, offering a different workout to some of our other cardio machines.

AirFit bikes provide one of the most effective and demanding methods to increase cardiovascular fitness and work using the same principle as a rowing machine.

A large fan located at the front of the bike creates resistance; the harder you push and pull, the greater the resistance created. The AirFit has an advantage over a rowing machine, as it is less technical to use: simply adjust the seat position and work.

The AirFit differs from other bikes by combining both upper body and lower body to generate resistance. This creates a greater response from the body in order to supply muscular demand. The effect on heart rate means that the energy cost of five minutes on the AirFit bike is generally greater than just using your lower body on a spin bike or similar.

Performance enhancement expert Alwyn Cosgrove describes AirFit bikes as giving the: “maximum metabolic disturbance with minimal muscular disruption.” In short: you can work really hard, train the cardiovascular system and not injure yourself on a stationary bike, due to low loads and lack of skilled movement required. This makes the AirFit a great tool for a HIIT workout, creating a high heart rate in a short space of time, while utilising as much muscle and energy cost as possible.

The upright nature of the AirFit is also more comfortable on the lower back area and is therefore safer to work at higher intensities, particularly for those that may have existing problems or injury of this nature.

If you choose, the bike allows for an upper-body-only workout, as legs can be rested on footrests. The machine is therefore a great piece of equipment for those that are recovering from a lower limb injury but want to still achieve some cardiovascular work and maintain fitness.

But remember, HIIT isn’t for everyone. If you are just starting to exercise then the demands may be too great and you may be better off building your fitness and cardiovascular levels before attempting this method of training.

If you are interested in finding out more about HIIT, the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines provide an excellent overview of the method. For sport science fans, Martin Gibala’s work offers scholarly insights into the training.

In addition to the new AirFit bikes, we have also replaced our table tennis tables. This new equipment has been made possible thanks to generous donation by the Sussex Fund, which supports Sussex students by providing scholarships (including Sport Scholarships) and hardship bursaries, in addition to funding other activities that enhance students' time at Sussex.

Watch the video below to get an idea of how to use the bikes, or ask a Sussexsport staff member for advice next time you visit.