Training Suggestions

Your goal of taking it up a notch is a little vague, can you expand on that? Goals are very important for motivation and defining a good training approach, so put a little thought into trying to quantify things in terms of: "Lose XX pounds by next July," "Complete the MS150 next year," "Ride XX miles next year," "Compete in 2 races next year," etc.

General fitness can be a general goal, but then the general advice would be to continue to use the spin machines until spring, and then ride outside once weather permits. Thoughts?

Thanks for the reply. I guess I was being a little vague. what I meant by "up a notch" was should I increase my intensity on the spin bike to simulate what is likely waiting for me on the road? Your suggestions were great I never really considered an event as training and meeting goals. I always looked at some of those meets as what to train for, especially since I have never participated in any tours or races. I guess, if you would agree, anything that I do to improve my fitness will benefit me in spin class and on the road. Yeah, goals are a good thing to have. I'll take your advice. Thanks!

frenchyge said:

Your goal of taking it up a notch is a little vague, can you expand on that? Goals are very important for motivation and defining a good training approach, so put a little thought into trying to quantify things in terms of: "Lose XX pounds by next July," "Complete the MS150 next year," "Ride XX miles next year," "Compete in 2 races next year," etc.

General fitness can be a general goal, but then the general advice would be to continue to use the spin machines until spring, and then ride outside once weather permits. Thoughts?

There's no reason you can't gradually up the intensity and/or duration as your fitness improves. If the rides start getting boring, then mix it up a bit by varying intensity or incorporating some intervals (ride hard for 5-10 minutes, then ride easy for 5-10 minutes, and repeat a few times). Just listen to your body if you start experiencing pain or discomfort. The big thing at this point is to somehow keep it fun and enjoyable so that you want to stick with it through the winter.