OK, I have no experience with a trainer, but have one on the way: Kurt Kinetics Road.

I'm cleared to ride indoors for eight weeks, but not outside. Recovering from surgery to repair a shattered sternum and hole towrn in my abdomin (1x3) from impaling self on end of mtn bike handlebars. The surgery hurt worse!!!

Anyway, I want to get back in shape sensibly and then build on a solid base. One hour a day for ?? days per week and then pick up the time and pace.

So, all of you excercise experts (more experienced than me) please give me some suggestions for maximizing the use of a trainer.

Thanks!!

ft-

I was in a similar situation (not as bad as yours, maybe?!?), having had 2-L5 S1 back surgeries between Sept 05 and late Jan 06. I was cleared to start riding indoors mid March. I have a Kurt trainer, and started riding about 30-45 min each session, about 3-4 times per week, as well as walking outside. As I improved, I ended up buring up my rear tire (flat spot to the treads). I gradually grew stronger, back felt better, and moved to 20 mile rides on the road.

I would say each case is different. You might feel better sooner, or not. Start slow, you will feel it even at 30 min on the Kurt, its a good trainer (but hard on tires). I am still base building, but now I can go 50+ miles and just hit 1k miles today for the year. Keep at it-before you know, you'll be back on the road! Good luck!

First, make sure your doctor knows what you're doing, and can give you advice on how hard to ride.

My advice is to start slow. Do 30 minutes every other day, and see how well you tolerate it. Increase the time/intensity slowly.

And get a tv and some headphones and/or a few good books, and a box fan. Trainers are boring and sweaty.