The cold sets in, the rain threatens, and yet you feel the absence of your bike. The solution ? THE connected home trainer. This tool allows you to continue pedaling, warm, while enjoying a fun and efficient experience. Let’s embark together into the world of home trainer, this booming discipline which is attracting more and more amateur and seasoned cyclists alike.
What is a connected home trainer?
The connected home trainer is a device that allows you to cycle indoors while simulating going outside. All you have to do is attach your bike to it and that’s it. Connected to a dedicated application like Zwift Or Trainer Road, it offers an ultra-realistic virtual cycling experience by modifying the resistance according to the profile of the road.
The different types of home trainers
There are two main types of home trainers: the classic home trainer, where you attach a wheel, and the direct drive home trainer.
In the first case, the rear wheel of your bike is in contact with a roller which creates resistance. The wheel therefore remains active, which can cause a slight loss of power due to friction.
In the second case, we remove the rear wheel of the bicycle and we attach the bike directly to the device. The resistance is therefore constant. These models are generally more expensive but offer better feel and greater precision.
The budget question
Investing in a home trainer obviously depends on your budget. Starting with the second-hand market, you can find quality home trainers at a lower cost.
But we must not forget the cost of a subscription to a virtual cycling application. Indeed, without this fun dimension, training on a home trainer can quickly become boring. The combination of a low-cost home trainer and a subscription to a virtual cycling application can be a good compromise to get started.
Maintaining the home trainer
Contrary to what one might think, the home trainer does not require any special maintenance. Regular cleaning of the cassette is sufficient to ensure proper operation. No engineering skills are required to maintain your trainer!
The impact on endurance and heart rate
A recurring question concerns the impact of the home trainer on endurance. Indeed, sessions on a home trainer are generally shorter, some fear losing endurance.
Rest assured, if you already have a solid base of endurance, the home trainer will complete it. On the other hand, if you start your preparation with an exclusive home trainer with short and intense sessions, it is possible that you lack a little depth in the long term.
Concerning heart rate, some notice a lower frequency on a home trainer than on the road. This can be explained by the fact that you are not expressing yourself 100% on the home trainer, either out of apprehension, or because you are not putting yourself in the same conditions as on the road.
The world of the connected home trainer: a universe to discover
As you will have understood, the connected home trainer offers multiple possibilities for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, this tool will allow you to continue pedaling, whatever the weather, while providing a fun and efficient experience. So, ready to embark on the adventure?