Trainer Rides

cmctri4

Hey Patrick,

How many of the training rides would you say can be done on the trainer? And what if any downsides are there to the trainer as opposed to the road.

new2703

I typically do all my weekly rides on the trainer. Long weekend rides are done outside.

Paul Hough

Same as John, I train exclusively on the trainer for weekdays and ride outdoors on weekends/holidays. While some outdoor riding is good to develop bike handling skills, the trainer is generally superior. It is controlled, no breaks, no stops, no coasting and vastly safer. Figure 50 mins trainer = 60 mins outdoors.

Coach Patrick

@Chris, I do my weekdays on the trainer, weekends outside when I can. You can do Wed INT and Sun ABP on the trainer for sure. Once you get inside 8 weeks to go I recommend getting long rides outside (unless conditions force you inside).

Riding inside usually means a different sweat / fluid need (be aware of it!) and a lack of actual cycling skills (cornering, descending, climbing) - the stuff that is important on race day!