Hi CandyApples78
What part of Australia you from? I'm in Melbourne.
I got to gym x5 a week and do an hour of cardio then 20 mins fitball and weights. I've been a gymrat for years and really enjoy it.
I personally don't like the bike, I just find it boring and I find it takes a while to get my heartrate up. I have much more success with the cross trainer as it works both the arms/legs and has really toned up my legs/waist, having lost 10 cms in the last 9 weeks from that area alone.
Have you tried lunges with the fit ball? Rest the ball on a wall about waist high and do lunges with alternating legs and then both legs together. Does this make sense?
Fantastic for the thighs and hip area.
Anyways, hope this helps.