Winter in Bozeman doesn’t mean the end of riding season. It just changes the game. When the trails are buried and temps dip below freezing, the Owenhouse Cycling team keeps the momentum going with a mix of indoor rides, cross-training, and strength work. Whether you’re chasing next summer’s PRs or just want to stay active through the powder months, here’s how our team keeps off-season training fun and balanced while embracing the stoke of wintertime in Bozeman.
Tip #1: Keep Your Legs Spinning Indoors
Set Up for Success with Wahoo Trainers and Zwift
Indoor riding has come a long way since the old “bike in the basement” days. With smart trainers like the Wahoo KICKR v6 and KICKR Core—both available here at Owenhouse Cycling—you can pair your bike with apps like Zwift for a realistic, social riding experience that actually keeps you engaged.
Quick Setup Tip:
Aim for a dedicated space with good airflow and a mat under your setup to catch sweat. Most riders benefit from short, focused workouts (think 45–60 minutes), mixing endurance rides and intervals. The KICKR’s precision power readings and Zwift’s virtual group rides make it easy to stay accountable when the snow piles up outside.
Stay Motivated with Variety
Monotony kills motivation. Rotate easy endurance spins with higher-intensity sessions, join a few Zwift races, or hop on a virtual group ride with your riding buddies. Keep it social, mix up your playlists, and remember—it’s all about consistency, not perfection.
Tip #2: Embrace Bozeman’s Winter Playground
Cross-Training Options
Winter is prime time to explore Bozeman’s other endurance sports. Trade your handlebars for poles and hit the Nordic trails for low-impact cardio, or head to Bridger Bowl or the backcountry to build balance and leg strength through skiing or snowboarding. When conditions allow, grab a fat bike from Owenhouse and stay connected to the trails you love. Even a snowshoe loop at Sourdough counts. It all builds fitness that pays off when spring returns.
Too much snow to get out on the trails, but not enough to play in? It’s time to hit the gravel! We’ve put together a collection of gravel routes that are perfect for the shoulder season in Bozeman.
Why You Still Need to Get Outside
Fresh air matters. Getting outside, even for short bursts, helps reset your brain and break up indoor training fatigue. It’s a mental recharge and a reminder of why we ride in the first place. Plus, Bozeman’s active culture thrives year-round. Staying out there keeps you part of it!
Stay Warm While You’re Playing
Cold fingers or knees can ruin a good day fast. Stock up on Pearl Izumi arm, knee, and leg warmers. They’re small but mighty when temps drop and layer seamlessly under winter gear. For gloves, our team swears by the Pearl Izumi AmFIB Collection: warm when you’re moving but not bulky when you shift or grip the bars. The right layers prove that there is no bad weather, only bad clothing!
Tip #3: Focus on Strength and Stability
Build the Foundation You’ll Need Next Summer
Now’s the time to work on the muscles that don’t always get attention mid-season. Focus on your core, glutes, and single-leg strength to build stability and power. Mix in mobility or PT-style exercises to prevent injuries and improve balance. Think planks, bridges, and lunges over marathon gym sessions.
Keep It Simple and Consistent
You don’t need to go full bodybuilder. Two to three 30-minute sessions a week can make a huge difference come spring. Focus on form, balance, and control. Your body (and bike handling) will thank you later.
Tip #4: Stay Hydrated and Fueled
Hydration Tips for Cold Weather
It’s easy to forget about hydration when it’s cold, but winter air can be just as dehydrating as summer heat. Keep sipping during and after workouts, and consider warm fluids or an insulated bottle to make it more inviting.
Nutrition Basics
Fuel your training with balanced meals and quick post-ride snacks that help you recover. Our go-to recommendation? Skratch Labs hydration mix. You still need electrolytes in the winter, and the Apple Cider flavor tastes amazing warm and feels good in the cold weather.
Tip #5: Keep It Fun and Avoid Burnout
Mix It Up
Winter training isn’t a punishment! It’s prep for the fun ahead. Mix indoor trainer sessions with outdoor play days, ski weekends, or complete rest days. When you keep things fresh, motivation follows.
The Long Game
The goal isn’t to crush yourself in January. You want to roll into spring refreshed, not fried. If you’re staying active, healthy, and excited to ride when the trails thaw, you’re doing it right.
Train Like the Local Experts
The Owenhouse Cycling crew trains through every season, and we’re here to help you do the same. From setting up your Wahoo trainer to picking the right gear for outdoor rides, our team has real-world Bozeman experience to guide you.
Stop by Owenhouse Cycling to talk all things winter training and check out our selection of Wahoo trainers, Pearl Izumi winter gear, Skratch hydration products, fat bikes, and more!
