Is Riding Inside On A Trainer "Real Riding"?

Okay, I have almost stopped laughing at a comment a friend told me late last week. The comment was something to the effect that "riding inside on a trainer is not real riding so I don't want to do it this fall or winter". Apparently there is a "cult" of riders locally and I am sure they are everywhere, that believe that you are of a weaker kind to ride indoors rather than outside.

While I will be the first to say that 10 times out of 10 if it is practical I would ride outside versus inside. Hands down outdoor riding beats the crap out of riding a trainer. HOWEVER this does not mean a trainer is not "real riding" as riding a trainer can dial in and make a training session "count" more in terms of training a specific energy system, neuromuscular pattern and/or facilitate recovery more so than riding outside can. Especially when injured, pressed for time or when the elements place too much stress on the body.

Many of the athletes I coach and have coached can attest to the fact that the indoor trainer yields real world results and performance gains when out on the roads or trails. Specific training sets and intervals are the norm when using an indoor trainer, not mindlessly riding to watch the Star Wars dvds (all 6 of them). Real world results are what matters most and even the world's best can say that a stationary trainer becomes an invaluable training tool at some point in time.

It comes down to how the athlete will use the trainer as far too many riders are used to just riding around for long periods of time to derive a training effect. On the cold winter days one needs to decide if the added stress on the body and immune system from riding outside is a worthwhile addition of stress to evoke a training response. Hmm, lowered immunity has never been an athlete's friend nor resulted in improved performances.

I am not looking to convince anyone to join the indoor training revolution but would encourage many to think outside the box for ways to improve as you may never make the next step if you don't. You make your choice but quit bashing those of us relegated or forced to use an indoor trainer.