What kind of turbo you choose will largely be governed by what you want to achieve from your training, and your budget. I do still cycle with my toddler, as readers of Mums’ Corner will be aware, but not nearly as much as I would like thanks to the somewhat Arctic start to 2013. My foray into turbo training has been prompted by two of the above factors – being pregnant and having a one-year-old at foot. Setting up the turbo whilst Junior is napping is a great way to lose the baby weight and keep pedalling through the fog of new motherhood. It’s ideal for mothers of young children who may be missing the freedom to cycle whenever they want. Turbo training is perfect for pregnant cyclists who don’t want to give up their wheeled workouts but have concerns about safety when cycling for two – plus it comes without the inherent falling risk of rollers.

Turbo trainers also have some very female-specific credentials. It can keep you fit, keep you cycling and keep you motivated when it’s dark, freezing and raining or snowing outside, as it has been for 99.9 per cent of 2013. Being in an indoor environment means you can control every single aspect of your workout – impossible when you are out in the elements. It can improve your everyday or competitive cycling. Essentially a unit that allows you to use your bicycle indoors, a turbo trainer converts your normal everyday bike into an exercise bike, meaning you can cycle day or night, whatever the weather, whatever your circumstances.

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