Training on roller system

[Dirtbabe]

Hi-

I just bought a roller system for training this winter which I know will take a little time (hopefully!) to master. I'm interested in using some training DVDs (i.e. Spinervals) with it and wondered if anyone has this type of set up. I know using the rollers requires concentration and I was wondering if a DVD would be distracting. Instinctively I think not but wanted to hear from those of you with experience. I would also appreciate any recommendations for DVDs. I'm looking for a good general workout to keep in shape for riding.

I know I can always get good advice from these forums - thanks!

[Veronica]

I've never used rollers. Aren't they all about being smooth and having an even stroke? I have a lot of Spinervals tapes/DVDs. He has you changing gears and standing. Not sure how that would work on rollers.

V.

[Dirtbabe]

Veronica-

Yes, the roller system helps you improve spinning and riding technique. You literally ride on top of the rollers and standing is not recommended! I thought having some direction might keep me motivated and I think the DVDs would be good to use. I could just modify what I was doing when they ride standing. Are the Spinervals set to music? Have you found them to be a good workout?

Thanks-
Amy

[Veronica]

They're a great workout. The music is okay. I'd probably start with the aero base builders dvds for using on rollers. Or maybe recovery and technique. But don't do the one legged drills.

V.

[Adventure Girl]

They're a great workout. The music is okay.

Some of the spinervals (maybe the newer ones?) have an option that allows you to turn off their music. You just listen to Coach Troy's cues.

If I really got it together, I might consider putting together a play list on my mp3 that would go with a particular workout. Fast songs for the super spins, slower stuff for recovery, etc. But I ususally just turn off their music and listen to whatever is on my mp3 at the time.

[doc]

Dirtbabe

A friend of mine with rollers says they take quite a bit to get used to. He set them up next to a vertical support beam in his basement. He said he'd never to take them to the middle of the room. You never know when you might have a momentary loss of balance. Make sure there is something super sturdy nearby to grab no matter what. That's his 2 cents anyway. Me, I am sticking with my cyclops trainer. Can't fall off that baby no how!

[SadieKate]

Yeah, I agree with all of the above. Rollers mimic real riding better than a trainer so you develop balance and a smooth spin, but standing is bad and don't let your mind wander! Keep the rollers close to a wall so you have something sturdy to grab - perhaps between a wall and your bed but not a glass anything.
Go over to bikejournal.com and seach/ask your question also. Several of the folks over there use rollers.

I also use a Cycle-Ops trainers and Spinervals. I can stand up, do one-legged drills and vary gears which have all helped increase my power output as opposed to just spinning along. The DVDs give me a focused and structured workout, which I am too lazy to develop on my own, and can be far higher intensity than the same time out on the road.

I also read somewhere that the new DVDs allow you to turn off the music. Whew!

[Nanci]

Hey, is the Cycle Ops so noisy that if one person was riding, someone else in the room couldn't be watching TV?

Nanci

[Dirtbabe]

Thanks for all the feedback. I plan to place the rollers in a doorway so I'm well protected! My husband tried it out in our garage using a few unsteady items for balance and went flying off the darn thing. It was clear to me that following the directions about where to use it was a necessity! I'm planning to get a Spinervals DVD to try out - hopefully I can make it work.

I really appreciate the advice-
Amy

[veloputt]

Hi Dirtbabe,
Just a word of caution being in a doorway--if you fall off the rollers, it's kind of like being in pinball machine (I was cautioned by those who experienced this). I set up next to a dresser, or the back of a sofa--so when you start, or need to lean on something, it's easy to put a hand out and still keep upright--and keep the area on the other side clear in case you or the bike have to slide out that way. But always respect the rollers--esp. the front wheel when getting on/off or stopped pedaling to rest/adjust something--if it turns hard, you're going down!

It's worth being patient! Nothing else can teach you balance and using your hips to control the bike like the rollers. I can't yet lift both hands off the bars--but it's a goal. And I put on good music, and usually mute the TV--it's nice to have something to look sometimes. Pending how hard I'm riding or my mood, I sometimes just stare at a spot and focus on the music. But it took some time to get comfortable enough to not look at the wheel vs. roller all of the time. Eventually you'll be able to ride w/out looking down much at all. Getting your water bottle in and out of the cage is a good goal, too!

And put down a towel underneath, as you will drip when you start to sweat!

Happy rolling!

[jjules]

U GIRLS ARE BRAVE!! i looked at the rollers and opted for the trainer instead

[jjules]

someone experienced would be awesome they can give you all the tips..