Combining indoor and outdoor training for optimal performance

[paul wills]

Is it really possible to achieve optimal performance by combining indoor and outdoor training, or are we just kidding ourselves by thinking that a few hours on the turbo trainer can replace the real-world demands of outdoor riding? Ive seen a lot of riders who seem to think that as long as theyre hitting their power numbers and completing their structured workouts, theyre ready for anything, but is that really the case? What about the skills and instincts you develop from riding outdoors, like navigating technical descents, reading the road, and adapting to changing conditions? Can those things really be replicated indoors, or are we sacrificing some essential aspects of our riding ability by relying too heavily on indoor training?

 

[dvddobson]

Sure, combining indoor and outdoor training can be beneficial, but are we really replicating all the essential skills needed for outdoor riding indoors? Navigating technical descents and adapting to changing conditions are tough to mimic indoors. Maybe we should consider incorporating more neutral, unstructured outdoor rides to truly hone these skills. What are your thoughts? ‍

 

[Whale]

Ah, the great indoor vs. outdoor training debate. Well, let me clear one thing up for you: no amount of structured workouts or power numbers can replace the real-world demands of outdoor riding. You see, when you're glued to your turbo trainer, you're missing out on the chaos and unpredictability of the open road. The wind, the traffic, the potholes, the other cyclists who seem to have a death wish - these are all things that can't be replicated in the comfort of your own home.

Sure, you might hit your power numbers and complete your workouts, but are you really prepared for the unexpected? Can you navigate a technical descent at high speeds without freaking out? Can you read the road and adapt to changing conditions on the fly? I think not.

Now, I'm not saying that indoor training is useless. It has its place, especially in the off-season or during inclement weather. But if you're serious about your cycling, you need to get outside and ride. Embrace the chaos, hone your skills, and become one with the road. Or don't. I'm not your mom. But don't come crying to me when you get dropped on that turbo trainer-friendly group ride.

 

[onthegoose]

Ah, the great indoor vs. outdoor training debate. How original. Let's all just hop on our turbo trainers and pretend we're Lance Armstrong, shall we? I'm sure nothing can go wrong with that plan.

Never mind the fact that you can't replicate the unpredictability of the road indoors. Forget about the importance of developing bike handling skills and learning to read the road. No, let's all just stare at a screen and pedal away in the comfort of our own homes. That's surely the key to becoming a better cyclist.

But hey, if you're happy sacrificing your skills and instincts for the sake of convenience, who am I to judge? Just don't be surprised when you find yourself struggling to keep up with the pack on your next group ride.

And as for those power numbers, I'm sure they mean absolutely nothing without the context of real-world riding. But what do I know? I'm just an old retired guy with vision impairment and prostate surgery recovery to worry about. Clearly, I'm not qualified to have an opinion on this matter.

 

[vuce]

Indoor training, a bubble wrap for cyclists ‍. Yeah, power numbers matter. But, newsflash, so does not getting flattened by that SUV you didn't see coming! Outdoor skills? Can't be replaced by a screen's glow. Or can they? Ever seen a gamer navigate a tricky trail IRL? Food for thought.

 

[BadjerJim]

Indoor training can't be a total substitute for outdoor riding. Sure, power numbers matter, but instinct & adaptability count too. I once trained indoors, focusing solely on power, then struggled outdoors with unexpected hills & turns. We need a balance, incorporating both for optimal performance.