What TriGirl said...also, use your gears. I have a fluid trainer and when the cylinder touches the wheel I give it another half a turn. If it slips when pedaling I give tighten it a bit more. I have a compact and on the trainer I use the lower gear in the front then change gears through my trainer ride in the back. I ride the trainer for 7-10 miles and that is it. 7 miles take about 30-35 minutes and 10 miles 45-50 tops. Keep in mind that trainer miles is equivilant to more road miles. Someone else might have more info on that part.

~ JoAnn