I used to think that I didn’t like my indoor trainer. Now I am becoming addicted to it. Many years ago I used mine on a regular basis and had the best spring season ever. In recent years I had been using it sporadically. Last year I started riding a little bit more when I was taking our Cycling Strength Classes.
Then in mid December I started riding it in an effort to get some miles in. Boy have I been having fun with it. At first I was just mainly doing zone 2 rides with some one legged drills. Now as the time has progressed I am doing more and more intervals and have been following some workout DVD’s as my riding time has progressed so have the work outs.
I have come to look forward to riding the trainer and work hard to make sure I can fit it into my schedule. It’s exciting because I have created a new habit for myself which is good for me.
I’ve seen a difference over the last month for sure. I am seeing lower heart rates with increased power on the power tap. So the effort is paying off. The trainer time seems to fly by even faster now and I am making my longer ride days longer and longer.
I’ve managed to get outside only once since I started riding indoors and the work really showed off. John and I headed out on Sunday the 2nd. When we left on the ride the rain had stopped, we thought for the day. So I just went out with my outer layer being a light windbreaker and my Gore knickers. A little way into the ride it started to drizzle but then stopped after a few minutes. Then later in the ride it started to rain and it didn’t stop. At that point I realized I was under dressed but I didn’t care. I was having so much fun on the bike I didn’t care that I was cold and wet. My feet kept getting wetter and wetter as the water ran down my legs and into my shoe but I didn’t care. I was just enjoying being out there with the new level of fitness. This is a ride I won’t soon forget but I couldn’t classify it as and epic ride.
I can’t state the value enough of using your indoor trainer this winter if you can’t make it outside. I’ve been riding a Cycle Ops Fluid Trainer but I also recommend the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine. I’ve been training with a PowerTap hub which has made a huge difference as well when looking at the power numbers. PowerTap’s can be a little pricey but Kurt Kinetic makes a computer that when used with one of their indoor trainers gives you power. It is an inexpensive way to check out the use of power in your training.
Please stop by we will be happy to answer your questions about riding indoors this winter. If you prefer riding outdoors we also have a great selection of winter riding apparel. For the amount of money spent on a good indoor trainer that same amount spent on winter clothing will allow you to ride outdoors on the coldest of days.
