Spin Bike or Trainer?
In preparation for those wet winter days I'm considering my options for inside cycling fitness. Last year I hired a treadmill which significantly improved my fitness but wasn't great on the knees. Having not used either before, any suggestions on whether I'm better off getting a spin bike or a trainer?
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Matt "Boz" on -
Rollers would give you a better workout.
I have a fluid trainer - but next time I would considering getting an exercise bike - you can get 2nd hands reasonably cheap that include cadence, power sensors and pre-programmed rides\intervals for better training - and you don't have to worry about changing wheels\tyres.
This winter - I plan to cross train by swimming to help upper body strength\back as well as hit the trainer
-
Permalink Reply by Davidtcr on -
Probably depends on whether you have any limitations on space or cost. Trainers will give you the most flexibility in the smallest space, plus you can take them with you if you want to use them to warm up before an event.
The spin bike is obviously purpose built for what it does, but takes up quite a bit of space.
Alternatively you could get fenders and ride outside in winter, there really isn't any need to spend alot of time inside in Adelaide (or most places in Australia for that matter).
-
Permalink Reply by Gus K on -
I just find exercise bikes nothing like the experience of riding a bike. The seat is big, the positioning is wrong, I hate not being clipped in, I get distracted by the screen.
I prefer a trainer but this winter I am using a spare wheel, or even a different bike.
-
Permalink Reply by Davidtcr on
-
Agree with the exercise bike, but Scott was talking about getting a spin bike, which generally does have a reasonable seat and position. Mind you personally I hate having fixed cranks with that thumping big fly wheel spinning away, but that might just be because I have never really used them properly.
-
Permalink Reply by Gus K on
-
Point taken. Sounds expensive. I take my trainer to work and leave it there so that's a plus 1 for portability.
-
Permalink Reply by Alasdair McLellan on -
They're not expensive - Fitness First remainder theirs for $450 and that's for an industrial-grade bike. Replace the saddle and pedals with something decent and you're set.
-
Permalink Reply by Paul on -
Same. Spare bike comes out for the winter commute, and the favoured bike goes on the trainer for those mornings its just too damn cold and dark and wet down the Belair hill. :P
-
Permalink Reply by Konadog on -
If you go the fender route and keep riding in the rain I recommend neoprene over-booties too - wet feet are a big motivation killer...
-
Permalink Reply by Frank on
-
Have a read here!
http://www.cptips.com/stacyc.htm
I had both, sold the indoor bike for half of what I paid, riding on ur own on a bike that is I'll fitting is not good, even with cleats, computer and or big screen in front of you.
Sill have a indoor trainer but also find it tiresome and its noisy and no fun at all!
I suggest join a gym, do pilates and a spin class or double spin classes, that way you get to be in a group, have the motivation and can back it up with a few k swim or Pilates which btw I found very beneficial!
I be happy to lend you my trainer to try out for your bike so you know what u r in for!
I am doing one bike fit for a lady this week but you can have for a while after that no worries.
-
Permalink Reply by Michael Wetherley on -
Im just going to ride my bike on the road this winter to hell with the weather.
-
Permalink Reply by greg looyestyn on
-
+1. I'll see you on the road. In winter, I put on a jacket.
It's that simple, really.
© 2013 Created by Gus K.
