Drtgirl,

I'm also using the trainer to build up base miles, and I think it's fantastic! It's a way for me to get training in consistently. I've found that it's easier for me to ride quickly outside on flat terrain with no wind than it is for me to ride on the trainer.

Using the trainer builds up cycling specific muscles, toughens your tush, and gets the cardio-system back in shape. Obviously using the trainer doesn't help your bike handling skills, so be careful on your first few outdoor rides.

While you don't have to deal with wind or hills on the trainer, I find that I do a lot less coasting, and I never have to wait for stop lights. Or mechanicals, for that matter.

Trainer miles are a great way to do workouts at specific intensities -- you can control the pace, rather than letting the terrain or climate determine your intensity.

Just my $.02 -- I'm sure others will have valuable input as well.

-- Melissa