Indoor Cycling Accessories: Everything You Need for Training Indoors

MIndoor cycling has become a popular form of exercise, especially for those who live in colder climates or have limited outdoor space. If you've never tried indoor cycling before, you might wonder where to start. 

You can burn fat and get fit and toned during your workout without going outside. The problem many people face is finding the right bike and the right indoor cycling accessories needed to keep an indoor cycle running smoothly throughout your workouts.

In this article, we will elaborate on the best indoor cycling accessories that you need to keep yourself going:

The best indoor cycling accessories

Cycling Shoes

The first thing you need is good quality cycling shoes. Ideally, they should be made from leather, as it provides excellent support when riding on hard surfaces. Leather also insulates your feet, so you don't overheat while exercising. Good cycling shoes should give you comfort, flexibility, and breathability simultaneously. While lockless cycling shoes will be a good choice for you, which are not good for cycling beginner but also indoor cycling. 

Water bottles

It's easy to forget about hydration during a workout, but dehydration can cause cramps and muscle fatigue. Make sure you bring plenty of water with you to quench your thirst during your ride. There are several different types of water bottles - some include a wide mouth spout that allows you to drink straight out of the bottle, others sport insulated tubes built into their design. All models should provide enough resistance to prevent leakage.

Towels

Indoor cycling means working out hours in places where there isn't any room to change clothes. As a result, you need comfortable clothing during your rides. Today, most towels are moisture-wicking, which keeps you cool by pulling sweat away from your skin.

Also, make sure that you choose a durable towel, able to withstand wear and tear and still maintain its original softness.

Heart rate monitor chest strap

One accessory that you absolutely cannot do without is a heart rate monitor chest strap. These gadgets measure how quickly and vigorously your heart beats each minute, making it possible to get an accurate reading. They are perfect for indoor workouts because they eliminate the risk of inaccurate readings due to sweating.

You can find heart rate monitors for less than $50 from reputable manufacturers like Polar, Suunto, Garmin, and TomTom. Many come with advanced technology such as automatic recording, auto start functions, and battery life indicators.

In addition to providing data on your performance levels, a heart rate monitor also helps you stay motivated throughout your workout. By seeing yourself go faster or slower compared to previous sessions, you'll keep going until you reach your goal.

Large bike seat cushion

To avoid sore muscles, sit comfortably during your ride. An extensive bicycle seat cushion will help you relax, improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension. You may even feel like you're riding in luxury after getting this item. The best seats offer two inches of padding in the backrest area and four inches in the front section. It provides the ideal amount needed to give you the support necessary to prevent discomfort.

If you already own a smaller cushion but want something more substantial, you need a stand-up saddle pad. It adds about 1 inch in height to your pedal stroke. However, it has the benefit of absorbing vibration caused when you press down on the pedals.

Air Circulator

The temperature in an indoor cycling studio tends to be very warm. If you're trying to cool down, an air circulator is essential. They come at various price ranges depending on what features you want. An inexpensive model only allows you to control the fan speed, while a higher-end version offers additional settings. Another way to reduce heat is to wear a cap on your head. The ventilation holes in caps allow you to maintain a constant fresh airflow around your face.

Floating platform

When it comes to floating platforms, most instructors recommend that you choose the size that fits the width of your stationary bike. They have a design such that there's no risk of tipping over. Look for one with wheels if possible to save yourself from any embarrassment. They're great for stretching and performing core exercises. Floating platforms are also helpful for stretching and strengthening your abdominal muscles.

Tablet Bracket

An adjustable tablet bracket is essential if you plan on viewing videos when cycling. Most tablets come with a built-in holder, meaning you won't need to purchase anything additional. However, consider investing in a table mount bracket if you wish to attach an external case to your device. They tend to be a bit heavier than their internal counterparts, but they work just as well to prevent damage to your screen in a crash.

Smartphone mounts

One of the biggest problems people experience with indoor cycling is the inability to watch movies and play games. While it probably seems obvious, smartphone holders are crucial for providing entertainment during your rides. They can range anywhere from simple clamps to whole car mounts. You'll likely find that they cost quite a lot, so it might be wise to wait until you've trained hard before buying one. Alternatively, you could get creative and build your own.

Indoor cleaner series

Whether using a standard water hose or a high-powered cleaner, you should wash your equipment after every workout. Water and soap will help keep bacteria levels low, which may prevent illness while riding indoors. And with regular cleaning, you'll increase the capacity of your machine too. So whether you ride for recreation purposes, team participation, or competition, it pays to take your time and clean up thoroughly.

Headband for women

Women riders often prefer to use headbands to protect their hair from being caught up in the spokes. A headband can be a great addition to your fitness kit. Besides making your hair less likely to snag, they also offer additional support while keeping your neck comfortable.

Bicycle Trainer Sweat net

The sweat net is essential for training indoors--especially in hot weather. It keeps moisture away from your body, helping you stay cool while improving your performance. The best types include mesh panels, cotton cloths, and breathable materials. If you want something lightweight, try wearing a small t-shirt underneath. Make sure you read all instructions carefully to ensure their safe usage. 

Your cycling trainer should be completely waterproof, so don't worry about getting wet feet if the sweat net slips down below the pedals. Once again, it's advisable to go through proper instruction before putting it to good use.

Conclusion

Indoor cycling accessories come in handy in ensuring you stay motivated when training indoors. Having everything at your disposal allows you to train more closely to your actual conditions. There are many options available, so why not pick one or two here? Make sure to add them to your kit once you've started training inside.

What makes an indoor trainer effective? When shopping for an indoor cycling bike trainer, you need to consider these three factors: resistance, accuracy, and durability. These features ensure that you're getting the best equipment for the job.

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