If you have recently bought a turbo trainer, you might be very excited to use it right away. After all, no one wants to delay their fitness journey while staying at home.
However, before you get over-enthusiastic and start using this equipment, go through our list of mistakes that should be avoided. It is essential to reap all the benefits from your turbo trainer and also to prevent injuries.
Besides, if you aim to gain a smooth cycling experience, learning about turbo training non-nos is essential. So, don’t wait anymore and dive directly into this article.
Things You Should Avoid When Using a Turbo Trainer
Since getting used to a turbo trainer takes time, these mistakes may happen more than once. However, if you gradually learn to avoid them, there is no way you won’t achieve your goals.
Setting a Wrong Setup
It is, unfortunately, the most common mistake that many beginners make. Without a proper setup, turbo training can become more of a hassle than a workout.
So, to avoid it, make sure to place your bike and trainer on a flat surface. An unbalanced floor will rock your equipment unnecessarily and may harm its stability. And that’s the last thing you want.
Besides, while setting turbo with your bike, make sure the latter is well-adjusted according to your comfort. Even if you don’t want to use it for long, a comfortable setting is essential.
Lastly, read all the instructions carefully while assembling the turbo trainer. This point is essential if you don’t want to break your bike because of an unsecured rear wheel.
Skipping the Riser Block
If your turbo trainer doesn’t come with a riser block, get one separately. This tool can help adjust your bike’s front wheel carefully. With three different grooves, you can level the bike’s front and make it equal to the height of the rear.
This allows the bike’s front and back to remain at one height, which is essential for overall stability. Besides, since a riser block is an inexpensive tool, you shouldn’t find an excuse to skip this excellent tool.
Using the Trainer Without a Plan
You need to utilize a trainer smartly to enjoy its fantastic performance. For instance, instead of jumping on your bike and moving it fiercely, design a plan.
In that plan, you should highlight your current fitness state, your goals, and the time you want to take to achieve them.
You can start by taking an FTP test. The results will help you set realistic targets. You can also improve your threshold by either taking assistance from a professional or signing for various online programs.
Underestimating the Noise from a Turbo
If you think a turbo trainer is a quiet piece of equipment, make sure not to hold such expectations when you buy one. This machine can be very noisy and a source of disturbance for people around you.
Moreover, as a user yourself, loud turbo training can be a distraction from focused goals. So, what should you do? Should you skip the idea of buying one?
No, absolutely not. You can always go for smart turbo trainers available in the market these days. These units are quiet and also come with various technical features.
You can easily find one within your planned budget. Moreover, smart trainers have a great resale value which may benefit you in some future years.
Considering Turbo Training Boring
It is one of the biggest mistakes you can make, especially in this hi-tech world. Turbo training used to be boring, but that’s not the case anymore.
To help you achieve your goals with a motivated mind and body, turbo trainers these days offer virtual experiences. You can connect with software and compete in an online environment with other bikers. While these experiences will demand a hefty investment, let us tell you that each pound spent will give you a double reward.
Moreover, by setting intervals and planning a workout session with various exercises, you can enjoy turbo turning for as long as you want.
Getting Overheated While Training
You might get tempted to get overheated while turbo training in winters. However, that’s the biggest mistake you would make and affect your overall FTP. This error will then make you achieve lower than your expectations.
So, while training, it is essential to place a fan close to your setup. It should be able to blow air on your body and face while you sweat.
Moreover, to keep your body’s temperature regular, make sure to drink enough water while training. Start by finishing one liter of water within an hour. Then gradually increase your intake and witness the difference this makes to your performance.
Final Words
Here’s hoping that the above information has helped you to use a turbo trainer correctly. Remember that there is no pressure, and you should take all your time to learn the proper technique using this machine.
Moreover, learn about this tool in detail first and then spend your money on one.
