When I started working out with Dixie, it had been many years since I had ridden a bike, and never really for exercise.... just for fun. Because of my lack of ability to run (I "jog") she starting bringing her bike and indoor trainer so that I could get my heart rate up more, and strengthen my knee without making it worse.
That's when I realized I needed my own road bike.... especially since I'm training for a triathlon! (I have to keep saying that so it becomes real.) At first I borrowed my father-in-law's old mountain bike. Not quite the same, but it was better than nothing.
Thankfully I am married to an amazing man who KNOWS bikes. After lots of research, and checking Craigslist everyday, we found a Cannondale and got it for $350. (It's about a $1200 bike.) Hooray for Craigslist! It's about 6 years old, but like new since the owner rode it very little and then it sat in his garage for years until he finally decided to sell it.
So, for the last couple of months I have enjoying my bike rides on the canal path.
Until now.
It's really hot outside.
So I have been on the hunt for an indoor bike trainer. They run about $300 retail. Ugh. I have been scouring ebay and Craigslist for one, and even lost a few auctions after getting into bidding wars on ebay. (I hate that.) Then the other day I found one that received great reviews, and no one else was bidding on it! I got it for the opening bid price.... $50. Sweet!
It arrived this morning, and it looks like new and works perfectly! I'm so pleased.
Wanna know some of the benefits of riding indoors?
- I don't have to wear a helmet.
- No dogs run into my path.
- I'm not worried about crashing and falling into the canal when I sprint.
- I don't get sunburned.
- I can attach an electric fan to blow in my face. (I did, and I need it!)
- I don't run over rocks, mud, potholes, or dog/horse excrement.
- I'm not riding against the wind.
- No bugs fly in my face.
- I don't have to smell the stinky canal.
I suppose there are other "benefits" like, I could watch a movie, but I need to focus on my ride. I could also boss my kids around, but that would keep me from my focus too.
But you can bet that as soon as the weather cools off I will be back riding on the canal.
SWEET!
ReplyDeleteOoo, that is a beauty. I would love a good indoor bike trainer. Mine is pretty lousy. Option, options, options. We need plans A thru Z.
ReplyDeleteI'm on the lookout for a really good road bike, too! I do have a trainer, but I find it's hard for me to ride on that. It's way more boring than the outside ride, but you're right, it is HOT!
ReplyDeleteI ride the canal paths here in Mesa, and they are not too hot...at 5:30 am when I go... some days lately have been getting a little warm! Goodluck on your triathlon!
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