For all cyclists, riding is as essential as having food. But lately, the global COVID-19 pandemic has created havoc by putting a stop to traditional riding. The past two years have passed in the restrictions set by the U.S. Government. That is when indoor bike trainer became more popular than ever.
Using indoor trainers, you can efficiently work out at home and feel riding by not stepping out of the house. Did you know that trainers have been around the market for decades, but the last decade has seen a significant enhancement in the features and the feeling of pride? There are features like virtual-riding environments, races, and group riding atmosphere in today's indoor bike trainer.
Are you looking forward to being a part of the indoor bike trainer revolution? Here’s what you need to know.
Types of Indoor Trainers
There are three primary categories of indoor bike trainers. Take a look at them below:
- Rollers
- Stationary Trainers (Basic and Smart)
- Stationary Bikes
Rollers
Rollers are mainly three parallel cylindrical drums arranged on a rigid frame and known to be the oldest indoor training technology. You need to place your bike on the roller drums and balance it.
The drums begin to turn as you start pedaling. These rollers are light in weight and very easy to transport and store. Most of the rollers available in the market are foldable and thus very easily portable.
You can work on your efficient and fluid pedaling techniques with this roller. One of the critical factors in this act of balance is to keep your front wheel steady and not steer off as drums begin rolling.
If you are a newbie to this, we suggest placing the rollers in the driveway until you learn the knack of balancing.
Pros:
- They are a fantastic option to hone the pedaling techniques
- They provide a tremendous realistic ride feel
Cons:
- They take time to master and are tricky
- They have limited connectivity options
Price Range:
$180 to $1,345
Basic Stationary Trainers
Essential trainers have limited features with stripped-down wheel-on units and remotely adjustable resistance. The given resistance helps the rider control the intensity of the workout in the available pedal cadence and gear combination.
Hydraulic fluid or magnets are used for resistance, thus cutting down on the overall cost of the indoor bike trainer. Magnetic trainers are heat-less and are more affordable but even a little sluggish. At the same time, the fluids provide a realistic pedaling feel but are prone to malfunctions. There is no built-in connectivity to apps.
Basic Stationary Trainer
Pros:
- They are easy to use
- They are inexpensive
Cons:
- Unreal ride feel
- Limited feature set
- They are a bit noisy
Price range:
$100 to $300
Smart Stationary Trainers
Smart stationary trainers are similar to the basic ones with an additional provision to connect to third-party connectivity apps like Bluetooth Smart, ANT+ FE-C, and ANT+. In the latest stationary trainers, a new feature of built-in power meters is also available.
Pros:
- Best in value
- Easy to store and set up
- Multiple options to select
Cons:
- Not durable
- Not very stable
Price Range:
$350 to $1,400
Stationary Bikes
These are the modernized versions of indoor bike trainers from Exerpeutic, Marcy, Sunny and Xterra Fitness. They are designed to provide vigorous workouts to the riders with seat adjusting and handlebar position adjusting options replicating regular outdoor bikes.
The stationary bike is a best-in-class indoor bike trainer equipped with high-end smart trainers and extensive connectivity all across the apps.
Pros:
- They are highly stable
- They offer a realistic ride feel
- Wear and tear is next to zero
Cons:
- They are heavy built
- They are comparatively expensive
Price Range:
$1,400 to $3,500
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Indoor Training
Once you know your goal and which indoor bike trainer aligns with it, you need to know how to get the most out of your indoor trainer. Nothing fancy is required to get you started apart from a few considerations and accessories to help enhance the entire experience.
We have listed a few points which will help you achieve the same. Take a look.
Find A Good Spot
As you can place your indoor trainer wherever you want, you need to find the right spot and not some dingy spot in the basement or some far corner of the house. Please place it in an area that will motivate you to train and take your rides there.
Get A Fan
When you ride in the open, the natural air cools you down and eases your sweat. But indoors, having natural air is not possible and thus place a fan or two just in the front and the back of the trainer. This will give you the required air to cool down.
Use An Exercise Mat
There are chances that your indoor bike trainer might slip with increased speed. So it is well advised to keep a rubber mat beneath it to give it some stability and grip. The exercise mat will also protect your wooden floors from damage.
Set Your Bike Up In Front Of A TV, If Possible
If you have bought a smart indoor bike trainer, it is best to set up a TV in front of it. This will give you a real-life outdoor feel while riding indoor.
Follow A Progressive Program.
Don’t stick to the same training routine every day; instead, add a few other exercises and training to make it a progressive program.
Final Verdict
As we are wrapping up, we would like to state that an indoor trainer is undoubtedly the best option to keep the rider in you alive while you shed a few kilos in due course. You can go through our comprehensive guide on indoor trainers on our website and buy the best trainers through us.