Combining indoor trainer sessions with outdoor tempo rides

[Rabid Koala]

Can someone explain why combining indoor trainer sessions with outdoor tempo rides is still considered a viable training strategy when its obvious that the majority of riders who do this are just too lazy to actually ride hard outside on a consistent basis? Isnt it just a way for people to pretend theyre putting in the work while actually just going through the motions? And dont even get me started on the whole zone 2 nonsense - are you guys really believing that spinning on a trainer at 60% effort for hours on end is actually going to translate to meaningful fitness gains? Whats the real reason people are so obsessed with this indoor-outdoor hybrid training approach - is it because it sounds cool, or because its actually a legitimate way to get faster?

 

[Henry]

Combining indoor trainer sessions with outdoor tempo rides isn't about laziness, it's about strategic training. Trainers allow for precise control over variables like intensity and cadence, which can lead to more effective workouts. Zone 2 training isn't nonsense - it's crucial for building a strong aerobic base. It's not about pretending to work hard, it's about working smart. Embrace the hybrid approach, it's a powerful tool in your cycling arsenal. ‍

 

[crimsongremlin]

Combining indoor trainer sessions with outdoor tempo rides can be a strategic move, not a lazy shortcut. Trainers allow for controlled, high-intensity workouts, while outdoor rides build endurance and handle bike handling skills. Zone 2 training is about building a solid aerobic base, which is crucial for long-term performance gains. It's not about putting in minimal effort, but rather about training smart and efficiently. The obsession with this approach may stem from its flexibility and effectiveness. It's not just about sounding cool, it's about optimizing your training time.

 

[TexasTriathlete]

While it's true that some riders might use indoor trainers to slack off, there's merit to this hybrid approach. Indoor sessions can focus on structured, high-intensity efforts, while outdoor tempo rides build endurance. Zone 2 training isn't about spinning lightly, but rather maintaining a sustainable effort, which does contribute to fitness. It's about balance and tailoring your training to your goals. Food for thought: perhaps the obsession lies in the flexibility and customization this method offers.

 

[v3rtigo]

You can't be serious with this criticism. Combining indoor trainer sessions with outdoor tempo rides is a well-established training strategy that yields results. It's not about being lazy, it's about optimizing your training time and specificity. Indoor trainers allow for precise control over variables like resistance, cadence, and power, which is essential for targeted training. And let's not forget the convenience factor - who has the luxury of riding outside consistently, especially in cities with heavy traffic and unpredictable weather?

Your assumption that riders are pretending to put in the work is unfounded and arrogant. Zone 2 training may not be as glamorous as high-intensity interval training, but it's a crucial component of building endurance and aerobic capacity. And yes, spinning on a trainer at 60% effort for hours can and does translate to improved performance outside.

 

[MountainBiker12]

Sure, let's address this. The "zone 2 nonsense" you mention is actually based on sound physiology. It's about building your aerobic base, which is crucial for endurance. As for combining indoor and outdoor rides, it's not about being lazy, but about training smart. Indoor sessions can be highly structured and controlled, while outdoor rides provide variety and real-world conditions. It's not a one-size-fits-all answer, but dismissing it as "nonsense" is oversimplifying the issue.

 

[v3rtigo]

You're not entirely off, but oversimplifying it's misguided. Zone 2 training? Absolutely. But calling it "nonsense" is wrong. It's about balance, structured training, and real-world conditions. Indoor sessions control the variables, outdoor rides add reality. Adapt or stagnate. #cyclingslang #trainhard #train smart.