Turbo Trainer Advice

Well, I leave it to my coach to schedule tests and workouts for me, she kind of knows what she's doing. All I need to do is make the boxes in TP go green, whatever that is each day. I sure as hell won't raise my hand to do a stupid test.

3rd and final ramp test of the week.
Scored 223 with setting FTP as 220.
Feel happy that it’s accurate now and so the training can begin!

Got there in the end :)

I’d probably say that with 3 ramp tests, you’ve already started a week of training...

already started a week of training

Time to do some sort of test, to see how he's progressed

Have you considered Ramp Testing?

Yeah, still a total newbie to power training really.

Is ERG all about consistency?
Only when I’m under pressure my way out is to up my Cadence in the first instance than apply more force...

What’s the best value smart trainer? Preferably attaches direct (no wheel) with power meter etc etc etc.

For dad’s 60th.

He wants simple, power meter, zero stress setup, likely used with (open source and a bit of) zwift but minimal tech frustrations.

He wants to attach it to the ipad to avoid hauling a laptop and cables and table down to his shed.

Best value, preferably not over £500 but if it’s dealbreak then it’ll be worth it.

Increasing cadence before an increased power section is a good idea, otherwise your cadence might slow down, and then getting back on top of the cadence can sap your legs.

Ok great.
It’s crazy just how many sessions there are in TR!!

Start with the base build plan, but skip the FTP calc session :)

I think I want something higher intensity for an hour 3 or 4 times a week....

So what my coach did for me was to make the first block about strength, meaning gym once a week with deadlifts and squats, plus low cadence interval work. The block lasted about 4 to 5 weeks. Then she scheduled the next block to be about power. This meant longer intervals at sweet spot and some over unders, just body weight exercise once a week. Then specific training for my next goal, i.e. a sportive or whatever ...

I absolutely hate low cadence intervals, and gym work ain't my friend either, but I can definitely feel the difference in my day to day riding. It's just easier to get on top of the gears when it gets proper steep, or the legs are super tired, or if I am using the cargo bike to bring my daughter to kindy. Would recommend.

Yeah I plan to do other exercises too. Need to improve my posture and if I’m going to do an ultra strengthen my neck!

;)

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You need some base fitness for the hardest intervals. But if you ride a lot you can skip most endurance and recovery rides

Tacx flux

I’d say I have a base fitness already. I’ve ridden 4K km this year none of which has been commuting.

Thanks, will check it out

Found the bits folded into the extra cardboard packaging in the bottom of the big box. That stuff should really be kept in the first bit of packaging you get to...

is there anywhere in London I can try out the new Wahoo Kickr (purely for sound reasons?)

Condor have usually got one to try right at the front door. I assume it will be the latest version.

I have the core. It’s quiet you hear chain noises above it.
Mine is set up in the bathroom and my wife says it sounds like the washing machine is running from vibrations I guess so might be a consideration.

Dad went and bought a Tacx Flux the other day after all. I set it up for him this evening. Seems relatively solid but lowest gear sounds nasty. Will have to check if it’s the angle of the chain or what. Noticed a bit of a squeak which appears a common complaint too.

Skipped login to try the basic resistance after calibration. Will have to sign up to tacx and try the proper workouts next.

Suppose a Zwift account is coming....

Does your dad have a long cage rear mech? As I did that and shit myself when it happened on my old bike.