After a stroke your affected arm and leg won’t move? Muscles weakened from weeks of bed rest after surgery? An elderly relative spends their days in an armchair and you can almost see their muscles wasting away? Do you feel this can’t continue? Paralysis or severe muscle weakness won’t be fixed by "rest"; in fact, muscle rapidly loses strength and mass if it receives no stimulus (i.e., no movement) for days — this is muscle atrophy. That is why the MoVeS OxyCycle 3 was developed: its 80-watt motor will turn the pedal even if there is little or no strength in the limb. In passive mode the device moves the arm or leg, in active mode the patient pedals. The transition is gradual: as strength returns, switch increasingly to active mode. CE-marked rehabilitation ergometer, for home use. Why do rehabilitation physicians choose the OxyCycle 3? Passive mode: the motor moves for you If there is no active movement in the limb yet (e.g., immediately after a stroke or with severe muscle weakness), the built-in 80-watt motor automatically turns the pedal. That is twice the power of typical competitor models with 30 W motors — it maintains a steady cadence even when the limb "hangs" on the pedal. The motor can rotate forward and backward, so different muscle groups and joint movement patterns can be mobilized separately. Active mode: adjustable resistance to match strength As muscle strength returns, motor assistance can be gradually reduced and you can switch to active pedaling with adjustable resistance. There’s no need to buy a different device as rehab progresses — the same unit supports recovery from complete immobility to conditioning training. Pedal torque can be increased gradually, allowing strength to be rebuilt in a planned way. For both upper and lower limbs The package includes two types of pedals: a closed hand pedal (with a grip strap to secure the hand even if a strong grip is not yet possible) and a full-foot pedal (with a non-slip surface). The device can be used on a table to mobilize the arm and on the floor for leg pedaling — one device rehabilitates both limb groups. Compact, designed for home rehabilitation Dimensions 50 × 46 × 38 cm, weighing only 8.5 kg, with an anti-slip mat for stable positioning. Slide it under a table, next to an armchair, or beside the bed — no separate rehab room needed. The LCD display records every session (time, cadence, total rotations, calories), so progress can be objectively tracked by the treating physician or physiotherapist. Who is the OxyCycle 3 intended for? Post-stroke rehabilitation (hemiparesis, hemiplegia) With partial or complete paralysis of one side (hemiparesis/hemiplegia) the affected arm and leg initially move little or not at all. In passive mode the motor takes over the movement, preventing joint stiffness and preserving basic muscle flexibility. As active movement gradually returns, resistance can be increased and switched to active pedaling. Continuous pedaling can also favorably influence limb blood circulation, supporting long-term recovery. Post-surgery mobilization and recovery after prolonged bed rest After hip or knee replacement, following extended hospital bed rest, or after any prolonged immobilization, muscles quickly lose strength (up to 1–2% per day). Gentle, low-load pedaling can already be done while sitting in an armchair even when walking is still limited. Under the guidance of a physician or physiotherapist, the ergometer can be used as a supplementary mobilization tool alongside the prescribed rehabilitation program. Severe muscle weakness, neurological diseases (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s) In chronic neurological conditions (MS, Parkinson’s, ALS, peripheral nerve injuries) the regularity and gentleness of movement therapy are especially important. The passive–active transition allows the patient to use the device according to their current condition: on worse days the motor assists, on better days they pedal more actively. A specialist (physiotherapist, neurologist) determines the recommended daily duration and intensity. Older adults with limited mobility, home-cared family members Many families face the problem of an elderly relative spending days in an armchair or bed because it’s difficult for them to go out. Motor-driven pedaling maintains blood circulation and joint range of motion even when walking is no longer feasible. The device operates quietly and can be used while watching TV — exactly the type of daily small activity that can help prevent chronic deconditioning. How to use it at home? – Step by step 1 Positioning on a stable surface Place the device on a smooth, level surface on the supplied anti-slip mat. For leg pedaling position it on the floor in front of the armchair/chair; for arm pedaling place it on a table at a comfortable reachable height. Sit comfortably with a straight back and knees slightly bent. The distance between the pedal and your knee should allow a full rotation without the knee fully extending to a stop or bending excessively beyond 90°. 2 Fitting the correct pedal For leg pedaling use the full-foot pedals (non-slip surface). For arm pedaling switch to the hand pedals — the grip strap secures your palm to the pedal so it won’t slip off even with weak grip strength. The swap can be done by hand without tools. 3 Selecting the mode: passive or active In passive mode the built-in motor rotates the pedal at the set cadence (between 25–65 revolutions per minute). The patient simply rests on the pedal, muscles are elongated, and joints are mobilized. In active mode the motor stops and the patient provides the propulsion against the set resistance. The two modes are switched with a control. 4 Setting cadence and direction Cadence is continuously adjustable between 25 and 65 RPM. Start with a low value (25–30 RPM) — the goal is gentle, slow mobilization, not athletic speed. In passive mode the rotation direction can be selected forward or backward, and can be changed during the session (see next section). Changing direction activates different muscle groups, so it’s worth alternating within a session. 5 Using the timer and LCD display The 15-minute timer automatically stops the device after the set time elapses. The LCD display shows, either simultaneously or alternately: elapsed time, current cadence (RPM), total rotations, and estimated calories burned. These data are useful for the physiotherapist or treating physician to objectively follow progress. 6 Training rhythm: 1–2 hours daily, 30 min blocks Manufacturer recommendation: maximum 1–2 hours daily, in 30-minute training blocks. Shorter 5–10 minute blocks are appropriate initially. The exact rhythm should always be determined by your treating physician or physiotherapist based on current condition and rehabilitation goals. Active and passive modes: how does the 80-watt motor work? The principle of pedal rehabilitation ergometers is the combination of continuous, gentle joint mobilization (continuous passive motion, CPM) with progressive loading as muscle strength returns. The difference between the two operating modes is as follows: Passive mode: the motor drives the pedal In this mode the 80-watt motor rotates the pedal axle at a steady cadence (between 25–65 RPM) — the patient’s leg or arm merely rests on the pedal and does not exert active force. Continuous passive motion can favorably influence joint range of motion, muscle length–tone relationships, and limb circulation. The CPM principle has been used for decades in post-surgical rehabilitation and neurological recovery. ↔️ Rotation in both directions (forward and backward) In passive mode the OxyCycle 3 does not rotate in only one direction: the motor drives the pedal forward (clockwise) and backward (counterclockwise), and direction can be changed during operation. This is important because the two rotation directions produce different muscle activation patterns: Forward rotation: during leg pedaling this emphasizes the quadriceps (knee extensors) and hip flexors in the upward phase. Backward rotation: places more emphasis on the hamstrings and gluteal muscles, and the joint movement pattern differs. The same applies to arm pedaling: the shoulder and elbow move through different ranges in the two directions. Alternating direction within a session can support varied muscle-group mobilization, which is often a clinical goal in rehabilitation practice. Active mode: against adjustable resistance In active mode the motor stops and the patient pedals using their own muscle strength. Mechanical resistance is continuously adjustable, so as muscle strength increases the training load can be measurably raised. This typically corresponds to the second–third phase of recovery when active movement has begun. ️ Built-in safety system (cramp-stop) The device detects sudden increases in resistance in the limb (e.g., spastic cramp, muscle contraction) and automatically stops to avoid joint or muscle injury. This is especially important for post-stroke patients, where spasticity may occur at any time. What is included in the package? Everything needed to start using the device is in the box: 1 pc MoVeS OxyCycle 3 pedal trainer (80 W motor, LCD display, timer, adjustable resistance) 1 pair full-foot pedals (non-slip surface) 1 pair hand pedals with grip straps (secure hold even with weak grip strength) 1 pc anti-slip mat (for stable positioning) 1 pc EU-plug power cable (50 Hz) 1 pc user manual Maintenance and cleaning After use wipe the pedals and the area around the display dry. Pedals can be wiped with mild soapy water; for disinfection use a 70% alcohol wipe — only on surfaces, not on connectors! Occasionally soak the anti-slip mat in warm water. Never open the motor housing and do not pour water on it. Unplug the power cable before long periods of disuse. Frequently asked questions about the OxyCycle 3 Does passive mode rotate in both directions – forward and backward? Yes. The OxyCycle 3 (and the newer 3+ versions with the same logic) is capable in passive mode of rotating the pedal forward (clockwise) and backward (counterclockwise). Direction change is not fixed: it can be modified during operation with the switch. The device is intentionally designed this way because the two rotation directions activate different muscle groups and joint movement patterns: Forward rotation: emphasizes quadriceps and hip flexor work during leg pedaling. Backward rotation: emphasizes hamstrings and gluteal muscles. The same applies to arm pedaling: the shoulder and elbow traverse different ranges in the two directions. Alternating direction within a session can support varied muscle-group mobilization. How big is the difference between the 80-watt and 30-watt motors compared to competitor devices? Significant. Motor power determines how much torque can be delivered to the pedal. A 30 W motor may cope with a healthy, thin limb, but if the affected limb is spastic, cramping, or the patient is more severely deconditioned, the motor will “stall” as resistance increases. The 80 W provides substantially more reserve: a constant cadence can be maintained even if the limb’s passive resistance is high. This difference makes the OxyCycle 3 suitable for clinical use while remaining home-sized. Can it be used for a bedridden patient? Only to a limited extent. The OxyCycle 3 is designed for a seated position (sitting in an armchair or chair). In a supine (lying) position positioning is difficult because the pedal and limb axes may not be at the correct angle and the device stability is not ensured. For severely bedridden patients, special bed-mounted rehabilitation devices are recommended — discuss these with the treating physician. The OxyCycle 3 is intended for the phase when the patient can already sit (even for 30–60 minutes continuously) — e.g., time spent in an armchair, hospital chair, or at home in front of the TV. How long can it be used daily? Manufacturer recommendation: maximum 1–2 hours per day, up to 30 minutes per training block. In the initial phase 5–10 minute blocks may be sufficient — excessive use can cause joint inflammation, muscle-soreness-like states, or flares of spasticity. The exact daily duration should always be determined by the treating physician or physiotherapist based on current condition and rehabilitation goals. The device is intended for home use only and is not suitable for continuous institutional (hospital, spa) loading. How often should parts be replaced? With normal home use (30–60 minutes daily) the main mechanical components (chain, bearings, motor) are designed for several years of service. Pedals and grip straps — as wear parts — have lifespans depending on use; replace them if cracks or loosening appear. Regular cleaning (see Maintenance section) significantly extends service life. What should I do if a cramp or spasticity occurs during training? The device has a built-in safety stop that senses sudden increases in resistance and automatically stops to prevent joint or muscle injury. If it trips, do not attempt to restart immediately: remove the limb from the pedal, gently massage the affected muscle group, and wait a few minutes for the cramp to subside. If it occurs often or is accompanied by severe pain, consult your treating physician or physiotherapist: the cadence may be too high or you may still need to use the device in passive mode. Technical specifications Product type Active-passive pedal rehabilitation ergometer Dimensions (W × D × H) 50 × 46 × 38 cm Weight 8.5 kg Motor power 80 W Adjustable cadence 25–65 RPM (revolutions per minute) Rotation direction (passive mode) Forward and backward, changeable during operation Modes Passive (motor-driven) / Active (adjustable resistance) Timer 15 minutes Display Multifunction LCD: time, RPM, total rotations, calories Safety feature Built-in cramp-stop (automatic stop on resistance increase) Power supply 50 Hz, EU plug Pedal types (in package) pair of foot pedals + pair of hand pedals with grip straps Accessory Anti-slip mat User load 1 person at a time Recommended daily use 1–2 hours/day, max. 30 min/session Usage category for home use Certification CE-marked (Fitness/rehabilitation equipment, MDR-compliant) When NOT to use the device? The pedal rehabilitation ergometer is strictly contraindicated without medical consultation in the following conditions: Fresh surgical wound on the affected limb, or orthopedic/vascular surgery within the last 4–6 weeks — do not use without the operating physician’s permission. Acute, confirmed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or embolic risk — moving the limb may be risky. Acute joint inflammation, active arthritis flare, fever, or an infectious process in the affected limb or systemically. Severe cardiovascular instability: untreated arrhythmia, unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, uncontrolled high blood pressure — cardiologist approval required. Fresh fracture or non-consolidated fracture of the limb in use, unstable joint prosthesis. Severe osteoporosis — even gentle passive movement should be used only with medical advice. Uncontrolled spasticity or severe contracture with very limited joint range — assessment by a movement therapist required. Pregnancy — only with permission and guidance from the treating obstetrician. Severe cognitive impairment where the patient cannot signal discomfort or pain — use only under supervision. Children under 14 — only under the direction of a pediatrician or pediatric rehabilitation specialist. Unsure? Always consult your treating physician or physiotherapist before use — the rehabilitation plan is individual and your condition should determine when and how to start. Important information The MoVeS OxyCycle 3 pedal trainer is a CE-marked device classified in the fitness/rehabilitation category, for home use. The information in this description is general and does not replace medical or physiotherapy advice. The exact rehabilitation program (duration, cadence, mode, direction, resistance) should always be based on an individual assessment by your treating physician, neurologist, orthopedist, or physiotherapist. Long-term improvement is achieved gradually, with regular use — do not expect immediate results and do not exceed the recommended daily duration. If any unusual symptoms occur (severe pain, swelling, skin discoloration, shortness of breath, chest complaints) stop training immediately and seek medical attention. The product is marketed in accordance with the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR). The scientific references cited support the principle of active-passive ergometers; specific use always requires individual medical assessment. Scientific references The use of active-passive pedal ergometers in rehabilitation has decades of research backing. The following peer-reviewed publications analyze ergometer cycling in post-stroke and general rehabilitation: Soulard, J. et al. (2024). Biomechanical and neuromuscular outcomes during cycling help inform lower limb sensorimotor function after stroke: A systematic review. Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine. PROSPERO: CRD42022342113. PubMed Stoller, O. et al. (2019). Ergometer Training in Stroke Rehabilitation: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. (28 studies, 1115 stroke patients). PubMed Aydoğan Arslan, S. et al. (2019). Ergometer cycling improves the ambulatory function and cardiovascular fitness of stroke patients—a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. PubMed Kaupp, C. et al. (2018). Rhythmic arm cycling training improves walking and neurophysiological integrity in chronic stroke: the AcceleRATE study. Journal of Neurophysiology. PubMed Related content More rehabilitation ergometers → Rehabilitation devices category → Ergometer in home rehabilitation – guide → Managing residual stroke symptoms at home →
