I’ve read all of the posts that state that using a spin bike isn’t all that great for training however it may be my only option for a variety of reasons. Any suggestions on how to maximize my time on a spin bike (ie, take a spin class or just ride for an hour)? Thanks in advance.
In my experience a spin bike is just as good as any other trainer, I think it is even better. Some will say since it doesn’t have a freewheel or the flywheel weight doesn’t make it as realistic, but I don’t buy it. I think it is great to take a spin class once a week, especially if you have a brutally tough instructor. Mine is one that is a triathlete and she kills it. As a matter of fact, three years ago, she did very little outdoor riding, but taught about 5 spin classes per week. She was unstoppable on the bike (a cheap road bike at that). Because of the versatility of a good spin bike (LeMond Revmaster, Cyclops, etc.) and the smoothness of them, you can build strength, power or work on your spin cadence.
SJ
I’ve done a couple of spin classes with my girlfriend, and all that I can say is that I’ve never done anything nearly as hard at home on the trainer. I think it might have been that I was new to spin bikes and really didn’t understand the resistance settings well enough, but I definitely found it very difficult. I don’t know if it was best for training for long, constant efforts but as something different to keep me entertained it was excellent!
Agreed, a spin class with a good instructor is a great workout! Spinning lazily on your own would be useless regardless of whether you are using a spin bike or a trainer.