spining or weights?

Question

my boyfriend was wonderin what is the best trianing over the winter spining clsses three nites a week or the gym doin weights on upper and lower body an some road runing .he knows of a road race in march an its 70 mile an he wants to do well whats ur advise

Answer 1

Well, weight training is excellent addition to cycling for overall fitness. Strength training with cardio training provides total fitness. However, if he is looking for cycling specific training, spinning would be the choice. If he would be spinning at a gym, why not spin then weight train after? Even a half hour of core and upper body work would greatly enhance his total fitness and if he's already there it would require little extra time.

Answer 2

I think the answer largely depends on his current level of fitness and experience on the bike. If he is a beginner, doing excessive spinning during the winter could actually damage his muscles as they form. The winter is often best used as a time for building capillaries and doing as many slower "base" miles as possible. These muscles will be crucial to him when he begins higher intensity training in the spring. Weights are a good addition to base training.

I'd tell him to find a coach locally who can help him determine a good program. Personally, I think focusing on a road race in March might be good for March but disastrous for the rest of the season. Riders who do well early generally need time off the bike to recover from their over-exertion in the winter.

Answer 3

derfinitely spinning! It will increase fitness levels so much more than lifting wwights will. Those muscles built from lifting weights are practically useless to runners. His main priority should be to get as fit as possible, this means cardio! and spinning is cardio! it aslo works the leg and ab muscles the most which are the most important for runners.

Answer 4

Why not try doing both ? Do one one day, and the other the next day...Works for me.