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What You Need to Set Up the Perfect Training Cave
Written by
Greg Kaplan
The best time to make fitness gains on the bike is in the offseason. Get your inside ride on with these basics.
Trainer
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You don't need a sophisticated "smart trainer" like a Wahoo Kickr Core (but they are sure fun!) to get rolling. A basic fluid-resistance trainer can provide a good workout without creating excessive noise.
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Your Next RideWheel Block
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Skip the telephone book and use a wheel block. A wheel block is more stable and secure when you're doing hard efforts.
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Your Next RideRoom Selection
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If possible, set up your pain cave in a room that is naturally cool: A basement is better than an attic. If you can, open windows to encourage cool, fresh air while you ride. If you can control the environment with a zoned thermostat, you'll want the room to be cool while you're training.
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Your Next RideFans
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Move air around to stay cool. This will keep you pedaling stronger, for longer.
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Your Next RideMat
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You don't want a smelly puddle of sweat ruining your floors. Catch the drops on a mat rather than the floor or a carpet. An inexpensive yoga mat is a great option.
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Your Next RideSweat Guard
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Protect your bike from damaging perspiration with a sweat guard.
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Your Next RideTowels
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Although sweat on your body helps to keep you cool, you don't want it in your eyes, pooling on your bike, or getting into your electronics.
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Your Next RideStand for Accessories
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If you're on the trainer for a while, you'll want to have some place to keep hydration, nutrition, remote controls and anything else you may want within reach.
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Your Next RideEntertaining Distractions
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No matter how long your trainer session is, you'll want entertaining distractions: a fun playlist or access to Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime that make for great inside-ride TV viewing.
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Your Next RideGo Virtual
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For the ultimate entertaining distraction, subscribe to a virtual ride service, such as Zwift. You can ride with and against others, as well as follow training plans or simply experience great training data visualization.