The Indoor Training Essentials of 2016
Eight tools to maintain fitness during the cold, dark winter days
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Enter the pain cave with the right gear, and the subsequent sufferfest can actually be fun. We promise. Here's what you need to get through the winter in shape and ready to crush come spring race season.
Bkool Smart Pro trainer
The cyclist’s answer to the Wii, the Bkool lets you ride more than 500,000 routes, in video view or with computer-generated 3-D graphics, while your home computer adjusts the resistance to match the visuals. The $15 monthly subscription includes a virtual competition option for real-time racing against up to 100 other Bkool users worldwide.
Price $700
CycleOps Training Mat
Keep your trainer in place and your floors free of sweat with this hard vinyl mat. Downstairs neighbors and your significant other will appreciate its noise-dampening qualities at 6 A.M.
Price $75
Pearl Izumi P.R.O. In-R-Cool shorts
Bibs are too hot to wear indoors, and many shorts come with thin pads that aren’t built for long training sessions. But a seamless chamois keeps these Pearls comfy for hours.
Price $150
Rapha B&O H6 headphones
The best way to block out the trainer drone? A pair of these Bang and Olufsen headphones, with pads made from the same soft leather (from African hair sheep) used in Rapha’s GT gloves, inner fabric from the company’s Pro Team jacket, and the requisite pink touches.
Price $430
Lezyne Super GPS computer
This ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart–enabled cycling computer has all the metrics you need for training, including heart rate, cadence, and power, but it costs a fraction of what the competition will run you. The matchbox-size Super also has GPS for recording your rides outside.
Price $200
4iiii Innovations Precision power meter
Swap the 4iiii for your left crank, pair it to your head unit, and say hello to data-driven training—and improved results. Bonus: it costs a tenth of what power meters did a decade ago.
Price $400
Infinit Repair recovery drink
Replenishing your body immediately after an effort is as important as the workout itself, and Infinit’s blend of protein and carbs is an easy way to top up those glycogen stores. When mixed with almond or coconut milk, it’s as good as a chocolate shake.
Price $3.25 per serving
Giro Grynd shoes
Stop scratching your floors and pilling the carpets. Slip into these spin-specific cleats, with a stiff SPD system set into a non-marking sole.
Price $100