Computrainer workouts

Triathlon Forum
1

Okay, I am trying to take folks inputs, and get more time on the bike.

So, question for folks using the computrainer as a tool. I have used mine over the years to ride, mainly with netathlon. But, I do not believe I was doing much more than junk miles. So, the last few times I have gone into the CS s/w and started with a 150 watts 5 minute warmup, at 90 RPM, then 210 watts at 90 rpm for 20 minutes, then a 5 minute back to 150 watts. I am trying to get so I can do another 210 watts but have not gotten there yet.

So, this is in the manual mode. Now, I see I can also load erg files from locations and ride these.

So, the questions are, which way to ride is better? To just do manual and use it for focused watts? Is RPM that important? I see that no matter what RPM or gears I use, the CT always adjusts the load to the setting I put in.

Or, is it better to do some different type of erg files which vary things?

Thanks

Dave

2

Erg mode, either manually or using the Coaching Software is the way to go. As you mention cadence doesn’t matter, the CT adjusts to keep the load the same. You will want to keep your cadence as steady as possible, so the CT isn’t constantly adjusting.

You will want to come up with more, different, workouts to work on different things, strength, speed endurance, etc. Shorter intervals at higher power, intervals at lower cadence, etc.

3

Any leads to different types of erg suggestions from folks who have used the CT to improve the biking. I am seeing using this for my weekday focus where I can put in about 30 to 60 minutes at a time. Then, during the warm weather, do my long rides outside on the weekends.

THanks

dave

4

Try the RacerMate forum http://68.115.203.26/phpBB2/index.php

There are lots of people there using the CT to improve their bike.

I would give you some specific workout suggestions, but I get them from my coach, Michael McCormack, www.triathloncoach.com, and I don’t want to give out his work for free. He is a firm believer in the CT, and shorter, more focused workouts like you are talking about.

5

The CT forum is pretty dead since they had most folks leave the Yahoogroups. Web based forums are tough compared to yahoo groups.

Interesting Mike’s name has come up again. Any idea what he charges month?

Dave

6

I am not sure of his current rates. I have been with him for a while, and I think I am getting a pretty good deal. I think his training programs are ideal for an athlete who only has 60-90 minutes in the mornings to bang out a great workout. Getting to the track for run workouts has helped my run speed also. It is also a lot more interesting than just slogging out the miles.