If there’s been anything positive about having a stress fracture, it’s been this solid two-month bike (and swim) focused build. I’ve spent a LOT of time on the trainer… currently around eight hours a week. The result: The trainer tire is worn out, and I have some serious butt callouses.
Several readers have asked about my trainer rides – from how to first set up your bike and the trainer essentials to combating boredom and a typical workout. So, over the next few weeks, I’ll be answering them in a new series titled “on the trainer.”
If you have a question, ask me in the comments below or tweet or email me, and I’ll be sure to answer in an upcoming post!
Happy swimbikerunning, friends!
26 Comments
Good idea for a series! I’m looking forward to reading. I’d love for you to talk about how to simulate hill training on the trainer. How long do you up the resistance for, how closely does the training mirror actual hill training, and how long to recover for. Thanks Erin!
I love this idea! I hate being stuck on the trainer but know how important it is to get in some miles during these cold & snowy months. I’d love if you shared some of the workouts you do on the trainer and what their purpose is 🙂
You already know my questions 😉
Oh, I love this idea!! I’m getting my bike fitted this week and will be setting it up to ride on the trainer soon. Most of my rides will be on the trainer since I live in a big city and can’t go out to ride. I will definitely have some questions!
Looking forward to the series! I just got a bike last month (an old bike from my parents’ house), and am currently emailing someone from craigslist to buy a used trainer so I can start getting used to the bike over the winter, so this will be very useful to me!
I love the little image to go with it!
Yes, I’m looking forward to reading! I’d ask what some of your key workouts are and how often you do easy rides!
Here’s mine: If you were in a, uh, warmer climate (as I am), would you swap your trainer tire for a regular tire between indoor and outdoor rides? Or, more generally, what are some bike maintenance things I should look out for if I’m riding the trainer regularly (worn out tires, etc)?
Very cool series, I have finally figured out how to really work on my trainer this year (a must with a winter Ironman) can’t wait to hear your tips.
What a cool idea! As someone so new to biking, I can’t wait to read all of this! I think my biggest question is always how to do you become a stronger and more efficient biker? Maybe that’s done on the trainer or maybe it’s outside. I know I’ll be spending a good amount of time between the two in my future.
Awesome idea! Here’s my question: Do you fuel the same when you’re on your trainer as you would when you’re outside? Can’t wait to follow along with the series!
Great idea!! I like all the questions that have been asked! If I think of a new one i’ll let you know!!!
Looking forward to the series!
My question is: How do you keep from overheating when you don’t have the wind blowing across you? I’ve only used my trainer outside, because I feel like I’d need a huge fan blowing right into my face if I were to ride indoors.
Awesome idea! I would love some workout suggestions. Do you use a different wheel when you use your trainer? What are your thoughts on using a spin bike vs your bike in a trainer?
Looking forward to this series! What are some of your favorite spin videos? (If you use any.) What does your average spinning week look like? Are you always doing some form of a workout on the bike, or do you ever just ride easy? I like the fueling question asked above as well!
I’m actually just starting out on my trainer so this series is going to be perfect! My #1 question is how do you stay motivated/engaged in the workout while you are on the trainer? Do you have any favorite apps/videos that guide your workout? Thank you!
Oh yes! I need all of this! 🙂 Hope your still on the mend and that pesky SF is gone soon!
I’ve been using some of the free videos on youtube and so far I have enjoyed them, but I know I will get sick of them! Do you have any favorites that would are willing to share?
Also, do you train with power? 🙂
butt calluses?! Yikes! I think inspirational documentaries would be a great add to a long bike sesh!
I like the new series Erin! Great idea!
I’ve finally gotten the hang of the basics, but am looking forward to getting some good tips from this series!
Hey Erin! Okay, I’ve thought up some questions: What shorts do you wear to train in? Do you train in something different from what you race in? Any advice on what I should wear for my first triathlon 🙂
Hey Girl! Ok, not completely trainer related, but what saddle do you use? I wish I had butt calouses (well…); I’m having all sorts of issues getting comfy on my bike (and my lady parts not happy!). I’m really getting worried about my IM training. Just trying to find out what’s worked for other girls, thanks!!
I want a trainer! But I need a better space to put it. Maybe I will have it figured out by next winter, but this would have been a great winter for indoor biking!!!
[…] This is the first post in the series, on the trainer. […]
[…] This is the third post in the series, on the trainer. […]
[…] temps aside, another downfall of winter: Lack of sunlight. I’m a bit behind on my next on the trainer post because I haven’t been home during the day to film a video. Watch for it this […]
[…] This is the second post in the series, on the trainer. […]