Turbo Training isn’t boring!

So you want to get fit during winter then... the main reason for buying a turbo trainer! This guide ignores the actual purchase of the thing, (that is covered in the Buyer’s Guide), and concentrates on how to get the most from your turbo sessions.

BOREDOM
The main reason people leave their new shiny turbo to gather dust is boredom. We don't all have the motivation of Lance Armstrong, and we have real life issues like work, family and other hobbies to fit around or training. Once you realise and take on board the fact that training in a garage or shed is potentially very boring indeed the closer you are to dealing with it. It is. Let’s move on...

Training in a group (above) can be more interesting!

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE?
We all have different goals... mountain biker, road racer... we have different goals in our sport. The best part of a trainer is that you can do what you like. If you want to improve sprinting ability then you can, if you want to build base fitness through the early season you can – you control the pace, there are no hills, no headwinds. It is worthwhile forming a plan of some sort so you can plan, monitor and adjust training intensity to suit your long-term plan.

POSTITION
As on your normal bike outside positioning is important, or perhaps more important when using a trainer. You may be sat in one place for some time, so try raising the front wheel to relieve pressure from your crotch. Wearing gloves can help take the pressure off your hands. Keep a towel close by to dab sweat, you can also leave this on your handlebars as extra cushioning.

WARM UP PROPERLY
It is important that you use the first and last 5-10 minutes of your training session to warm up and cool down. Just like any sporting activity, you can raise your heart rate very quickly on a turbo, so warm up.

DRINK PLENTY
You may find you sweat more than normal. This is due to the lack of cooling air. You can use a desk fan, or open door to provide adequate cooling. You therefore need to drink more. Try double your normal fluid intake and it is important to drink before and after too.

FIND STUFF TO TAKE YOUR MIND OFF.... THE PAIN!
So, the boredom... Don’t be silly, there are loads of stuff you can do mid-turbo. The obvious is listening to some music, hard driven music can help you push hard. Modern houses have all sorts of gems we can use – computers, laptops, satellite TV etc. If you get really keen you can set up a TV near your trainer. We’ve heard of people watching the BBC iPlayer – programmes such as F1, Football, Top Gear etc are all fun.

Hope you have enjoyed our guide - Best of luck with your training!

GET STARTED FOR BELOW £100!!!!