Trainer
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
You don't need a sophisticated "smart trainer" like a Wahoo Kickr Core (but they are sure fun!) to get rolling. A basic fluid-resistance trainer can provide a good workout without creating excessive noise.
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Your Next RideWheel Block
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
Skip the telephone book and use a wheel block. A wheel block is more stable and secure when you're doing hard efforts.
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Your Next RideRoom Selection
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Photo/Bill Wilson, Flickr
If possible, set up your pain cave in a room that is naturally cool: A basement is better than an attic. If you can, open windows to encourage cool, fresh air while you ride. If you can control the environment with a zoned thermostat, you'll want the room to be cool while you're training.
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Your Next RideFans
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
Move air around to stay cool. This will keep you pedaling stronger, for longer.
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Your Next RideMat
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
You don't want a smelly puddle of sweat ruining your floors. Catch the drops on a mat rather than the floor or a carpet. An inexpensive yoga mat is a great option.
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Your Next RideSweat Guard
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
Protect your bike from damaging perspiration with a sweat guard.
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Your Next RideTowels
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
Although sweat on your body helps to keep you cool, you don't want it in your eyes, pooling on your bike, or getting into your electronics.
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Your Next RideStand for Accessories
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
If you're on the trainer for a while, you'll want to have some place to keep hydration, nutrition, remote controls and anything else you may want within reach.
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Your Next RideEntertaining Distractions
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
No matter how long your trainer session is, you'll want entertaining distractions: a fun playlist or access to Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime that make for great inside-ride TV viewing.
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Your Next RideGo Virtual
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Photo/Greg Kaplan
For the ultimate entertaining distraction, subscribe to a virtual ride service, such as Zwift. You can ride with and against others, as well as follow training plans or simply experience great training data visualization.
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