I used one of those trainer mats, but it wasn't about the firmer platform. I started using one because I totally fucked up the carpet in an apartment due to oil coming off of the chain and had to replace most of the carpet (it was a really small place); I was young and broke so this just about killed me. Since then, I've never used a trainer without some sort of mat below the drive train and wheels

I use the plastic mats that they have for office chairs. Super cheap, easy to find, and they work great

Same here, trainer rocked on thick carpet. Measured out my trainer mat, had HomeDepot trim a 1/2” piece of plywood just smaller than mat. Plywood over carpet, mat, then trainer, good to go.

Rocking is a good thing. Seriously - it adds a bit to comfort.

Putting something on top to spread the load/protect the carpet is a good idea. But rocking is a good thing.

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http://www.jt10000.com/

I have been considering this too. I have only been using a mat underneath my trainer but I felt like adding the plywood might make it a little more stable and level.