Is Riding an Indoor Bike as Good for You as Riding Outdoors?

A Real Cyclist’s Honest Take

Let me start with this: I’m not an elite rider. I’m not trying to sell you anything. I’m just a regular guy in his 60s who’s spent a lot of years — and miles — on two wheels. I ride because I love it. The open road, the sun on my face, the wind (sometimes too much wind) — that’s where I feel free.

But this winter was different.

I was training for a long-distance tour, and the weather in Texas just wasn’t cooperating. Normally, I’d just skip the cold days. Maybe walk a bit, wait it out. But I didn’t want to lose the gains I’d made during the summer and fall.

So for the first time ever, I started riding indoors — not at home, but at the gym.

My Experience with the Gym’s Indoor Bike

The gym had a Technogym bike with guided rides and the option to stream TV or use apps. I picked the hill programs and gradually pushed myself harder. It wasn’t easy at first.

Let me be honest: riding indoors is a mental battle. Five miles on that stationary bike felt like twenty on the road. The scenery doesn’t change. You don’t get that fresh-air feeling. And there’s no downhill reward after a big effort.

But you know what helped? Netflix.
I’d turn on a show, zone out, and suddenly I was 45 minutes in and sweating like I’d been riding outside. Over time, my performance improved. I didn’t lose the progress I’d worked so hard for in the warmer months — and that felt like a win.

So… Is Indoor Cycling As Good as Riding Outside?

In my opinion? Not quite.

Outdoor riding works your body and your brain in a way indoor riding can’t fully match. You’re adjusting to terrain, navigating traffic, soaking in the world around you. The mental refresh I get from a ride outside just doesn’t happen the same way indoors.

But is indoor cycling still good for you? Absolutely.

It’s a powerful tool — especially for winter, rainy days, or when you’re recovering from injury. It kept me consistent. It kept me riding. And that consistency made a huge difference when I hit the road again in the spring.

Final Thoughts from a Regular Rider

I’m not a coach. I’m not a pro. I’m just a guy trying to stay healthy and keep the legs moving. If you’re like me — someone who rides because you love it, not because you’re chasing watts — then don’t feel bad about mixing things up.

Ride outside when you can. Ride inside when you need to.
Both count. Both work. And both will get you closer to whatever cycling goal you've set for yourself.

Just keep pedaling.