As important as cardio is in maintaining an inspiring exercise routine, it can be a bit boring. Finding ways to instill a sense of motivation and energy during a cardio workout can make even the most hesitant fall in love with the struggle.
For those who have access to a stationary exercise bike, we have some great news! We have discovered ways for you to keep your workouts fun, diverse, and motivating. Here we introduce some of the most popular exercise bike mounts and holders for your handy tablet or smart device.
What To Look For In A Tablet Holder
If you are somebody who needs little motivation during your workout, you might be able to disregard this entire article. We have nothing but respect (and envy) for those who only need the sweat, the increased heartbeat, and the positive inner monologue. But for the rest of us who can use a bit of assistance to get through the grueling cardio workout, having a place to safely mount our smart device can help. Here are some awesome benefits of having a mount for your tablet or smartphone on your exercise bike and some key things to look out for when deciding on the perfect model.
Versatility
Unfortunately, devices upgrade quickly. Finding a universal tablet holder that will accommodate your current device, and your future upgrades, will save you some money later on. Tablet holders offer varying degrees of versatility, with some limited to only select sizes. The more versatile the design, the longer it can last.
Additionally if you have multiple machines for your indoor gym such as a stationary bike, spin bike, treadmill, or elliptical , you may want to find a bike mount that is easy to install and will fit each piece of equipment.
Durability & Shock Protection
It goes without saying, you get what you pay for. Budget tablet holders made of the cheapest materials won’t last as long as those made from more expensive stuff. Depending on the type of exercise you will be using the tablet for, you might want to invest in a more durable model. For example, if you’re planning on doing rigorous spin classes, get a holder that will be up to the challenge.
The more vigorous the activity, the more likely your device will be damaged with the inevitable small movements. Tablet holders that are equipped with shock-absorbing material will ensure maximum protection.
We know saving a few bucks is always tempting but when compared to the price of that ipad pro or samsung galaxy, it’s well worth the extra investment to protect it.
Price
It’s always about finding a balance between a product you can rely on while still not breaking the bank. We will help you evaluate your options to find the best practical value. After all, there is no need to invest in an indestructible model if it will only be used once a week, with mild wear and tear.
The Best Tablet Holders And Mounts For Your Exercise Bike
Without further ado, we introduce you to some of our favorite tablet holders for your exercise bike. Each model is evaluated by the criteria above (Versatility, Durability, and Price) out of a score of 10.
Tacx Handlebar Bracket for Tablets
This popular model is built for durability, so it carries a slightly higher price tag than some of the other models. Reviews of this model point out that their device is always safe, with adequate shock absorption and structural support. It is also cleverly designed with a “no sweat” space to distance those pesky sweat droplets from the valuable screen.
While this holder may be perfect for your tablet, it is not the most versatile and can’t accommodate mobile phones or small tablets. Be sure to check to make sure your desired tablet fits with the specifications.
Versatility: 5/10
Durability: 9/10
Price: 7/10
TACKFORM Universal Tablet Holder
The TACKFORM universal holder comes through with rave reviews, checking all the boxes regarding durability, shock protection, and design. It’s easy to set up and sports a screw clamp rather than an adjustable band to attach to the bike. The screw clamp is preferred by many users who are afraid of the band slipping with rigorous movement. It comes complete with a 360° ball joint that allows compatibility in landscape and portrait screen modes.
With a price similar to the Tacx, both models are for those looking to invest in reliability and device support.
Similar to the Tacx, the TACKFORM holder lacks the versatility to accommodate smaller devices. It is compatible with devices with screen sizes ranging from 7” to 18.4” which will accommodate anything from an ipad air all the way to the gigantic Samsung Galaxy View.
Versatility: 6/10
Durability: 9/10
Price: 7/10
JUBOR Bike Tablet Holder
With a significantly lower price point than any model thus far, the JUBOR bike tablet holder scores relatively high in value. It also ranks slightly higher in versatility, able to accommodate screen sizes as small as 4.7”. This makes it a great mount for ipad mini or a similar tablet of sorts. Its ball joint design is similar to the TACKFORM and offers easy angle adjustment for varying bikes and activities.
While the pros of the JUBOR tablet far outweigh the cons, some customers complain of the grip adjustments as wearing a little more quickly than desired. For those who are regularly removing their tablet holders from their bikes, or using the tablet for more than just your workouts, it might be worth looking into a bit more durability.
Versatility: 7/10
Durability: 7/10
Price: 9/10
Arkon Tablet Mount
Even though this Arkon tablet mount is not explicitly designed for use on an exercise bike, it does the trick for appropriate models. The Akron mount can be mounted to desks, tables, workbenches, or even wheelchairs. It provides a very stable and secure mounting clamp system and a 12-inch neck that can be adjusted for the optimal angle. It also holds a 2-year limited warranty.
Customers rave about the quality of design, the strength of the clamping system, and the fact that for many tablets, it is not necessary to remove the case. This is an excellent bonus for those who are using their tablet for exercise and work.
Similar to the first models, the Arkon tablet mount is limited to tablets only, 9-12” in screen size. Sorry mobile phone exercisers, this model won’t work well for you. As this model is not designed solely for exercise equipment, it might be necessary to plan and ensure a viable way of attaching it to your particular piece of equipment.
Versatility: 5/10
Durability: 9/10
Price: 7/10
AboveTEK Universal Phone Tablet Holder
If you’re looking for a low price point and high versatility, the AboveTEK holder is a perfect choice. Unlike many of the models above, this holder accommodates a wide range of screen sizes, from smaller mobile devices to Ipads and tablets. While users are often wary of a “one size fits all” model, the AboveTEK takes pride in this feature.
It also comes in with one of the lowest price points of all models. Customers seem happy with the design and durability, so it doesn’t seem like quality was sacrificed for versatility from first glance.
Some users voice small concerns about this model being able to handle devices on the high end of its range, particularly heavier devices that seem to threaten its structural integrity. For those who want to use a large tablet, other models might prove safer and more secure.
Versatility: 10/10
Durability: 7/10
Price: 9/10
Roam Universal Premium Exercise Bike Phone Mount
For mobile phone users, here’s one for you. The Roam mount is designed specifically to hold mobile phones and claims to be universal in its size compatibility. With a secure grip and two points of contact, customers are more than satisfied with its durability, and have confidence in their devices’ secureness. Roam also instills confidence in their product by offering a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty should anything go wrong with the phone mount.
While this product ranks high in durability and average in price, it is only designed for phones. Tablet users will need to look elsewhere.
Versatility: 5/10
Durability: 9/10
Price: 7/10
CTA Floor Stand
The CTA floor stand is a bit of an outlier on this list but provides a valued solution to a common problem. For some with older or more unique models of exercise bikes, finding a holder that works well with your system can be difficult. The CTA floor stand is a tablet holder that sits independently from your exercise bike and can be adjusted for optimum height depending on the activity.
The CTA floor stand is average as far as price point, and high in durability. It also ranks highly in versatility for slightly different reasons; it can be used across all sorts of supplemental activities. This stand can accommodate exercise bikes, treadmills, rowing machines, or even more leisurely activities. While it is only for tablets (no mobile phones), it certainly provides the user with a wide range of flexibility in use.
Versatility: 10/10
Durability: 7/10
Price: 8/10
Additional Considerations For Buyers
On top of the standard metrics listed above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing the right tablet holder for your exercise bike.
- Proximity to high sweat area
- Handlebar ro attachment compatibility
- Wear and Tear from constant readjustment of movement
- Grip Resistance
Our team at The Fitness Tribe often collaborates together to produce content. Many times the content is not written by a single author, instead it is usually a team effort.