Off-Roading

Members of CROSSFIT 619 and other San Diegans generally have the luxury of being able to get their bike out on the road just about any day of the year. However, some beginners may not want to hit the pavement quite yet. Some beginners may be more confident starting their training for cycling on a stationary bike to make sure that this is really the sport for them.


While generally biking on the road is recommendable over the stationary bike, if you want to start out off the road, there are a number of factors to consider.


Make sure to use a bike that really simulates the feel and workout that you would get from a real bicycle. Unless you have had problems with your back, the recumbent bike (the bike you see in the gym with the upright seat) is not a good option. Though it may be an effective workout for those who are not able to ride a bicycle, it is not a good way to train for riding a real bike.




Find a stationary cycle that simulates the workout from real bike. Make sure that the seat and handlebar height are similar to a real bike. If you are not sure, use a tape measure to see the height you are comfortable with on a real bike.




If you are using a stationary bike with a preset workout, don’t just use the flat course. Make sure to choose one that has variable level changes or hills.




Above all, as soon as you feel comfortable enough, get out on the road. Nothing beats the workout you will get from training out in the real world.