Is there any reason (other than sanity) that I shouldn’t do every key ride on my trainer? It’s seems so much “easier” to get into target training zones without having to deal with the elements-- cars, lights, etc. I’m not saying to completely abandon the road but for just key workouts is there any huge disadvantage?
Trainers are great…and I do key workouts on my computrainer that are very effective… but there is nothing like the road… IMHO
Not really. Just know that your peak power will typically be much lower on your trainer than out on the road. But that said, you can easily repeat those lower intensities without interruption.
I find that if I need some base work or CP workouts, outside may be better. But for gaining fitness, the trainer is usually more effective.
Not really. Just know that your peak power will typically be much lower on your trainer than out on the road. But that said, you can easily repeat those lower intensities without interruption.
I find that if I need some base work or CP workouts, outside may be better. But for gaining fitness, the trainer is usually more effective.
I’ve been riding the trainer quite a bit this season, and have noticed the same thing. What is the reason behind this? I can stand and sprint and not get near the power output as on the road. Am I still getting the same training value? It damn sure feels hard, LOL.
I have a few theories for this:
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cooling - While on a trainer you likely have just a fan blowing on you, whereas while on the road you have your entire body being cooled constantly. Not to mention it gets pretty humid pretty quickly.
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O2 - the quality of air likely gets worse over time while in a room at high levels of effort. There may not be much of a change in the quantity of O2 in your basement/room, but a small change may effect you at those high levels of effort. I noticed I got a little better power numbers when I opened all the windows to my room and had a fan blowing some fresh air into my room.
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perceived effort - while outdoors you may be focusing more on other things, whereas on the trainer you are focusing on the power and time only.
I may be way off, but its just some theories.
Not sure why I can’t get my HR as high on the road as on a trainer (except when climbing). Just did a threshold test. My LTHR was 10 bpm higher on the trainer than the road. I really do not know which one to use.
It might be nice if you were good at handling your bike as well…
No disadvantages. I do 100% of my training on the trainer. Year round for the last 3+ years training for 3 IM’s. I regularly place in my AG locally and qual’d for Kona. My bike only sees pavement 5-7 days/year during a race. Other than that it is permanently fixed to my trainer. That being said, you need to measure your effort somehow that you can take on the road with you. Watching TV and moving your legs won’t cut it. For me, that solution was a powertap. It also helps to have a big fan or not for heat training. I also find it useful to wrap towels or saran wrap or something around the cockpit to prevent corrosion.
Jamie
What trainer do you use?
Sorry for the hijack.
What trainer do you use?
Sorry for the hijack.
KK road machine
Sorry for the hijack too.
One question, do you use your race bike on the trainer? or you have a second bike for trainer duties?
Thanks
yep. same bike.
This was my first year using the trainer for 95% of my training. I bought the powerbeam pro in April/May, and have not looked back. I have to admit I was skeptical at first, but the improvements I have seen are amazing, I am super excited about my cycling ability for the first time in 10 years. I will never go back!!!
Here’s a smart guy who analyzed indoors vs. outdoors: http://alex-cycle.blogspot.com/2009/01/turbocharged-training.html
Do you just replace the tire more often and accept the fact that it is breaking your bike down faster?
I have a beater tire that I use on the trainer. Not sure how using the trainer is ‘breaking my bike down faster’ compared to use on the road. One thing is for sure, it never gets dirty and I never have to replace the brake pads!
Jamie
Other than sucking all the fun out of cycling and not being able to handle a bike you should be good. And they wonder why triathletes are poor bike handlers…
It might be nice if you were good at handling your bike as well…
I am never going back on the road with out a closed course. Damn young whippersnappers are texting , sexting, talking and who knows what else with their phones . Never ever again!!!
Anybody want to go out for a ride today??