When ice and low temperatures make outdoor training impossible, indoor cycling is a great way to stay on top of your goals. But beyond increasing your mileage or establishing a new PR, one of the biggest challenges of training on a stationary bike is simply staying motivated during indoor sessions.

That’s why it’s important to create a zone inside that elevates your training from a mundane chore into an engaging and enjoyable workout. Here’s everything you’ll need to create an exciting indoor cycling space—from a virtual training app that lets you traverse the world to practical items that’ll keep you cool and comfortable.

1) Rouvy App

    The first thing you’ll want to do is add some excitement to your indoor-training experience. Rouvy is an interactive app that offers scenic training routes from the comfort of your stationary bike. Instead of a pixelated island to serve as your visual, Rouvy displays cinematic footage of real-life racecourses in beautiful locales like Vietnam, Romania, New Zealand, Brazil, and more. Meanwhile, a host of structured workouts from cycling pros help you train for whatever your goals are—from building your FTP to your VO2 max.

    Setting up is simple—just download the app to your computer, tablet, or phone, and then connect it to your indoor cycling setup. Rouvy can connect to most smart trainers and bikes, grade simulators, power meters, heart-rate monitors, and cadence sensors via Bluetooth or ANT+, or manually. If your trainer doesn’t have Bluetooth, you’ll just need a power meter, speed sensor, or cadence sensor. The app allows you to customize your avatar and earn upgrades as you gain experience. And there are multiple training modes, including “Just Ride” for cruising and “Time Trial” for a more competitive experience that allows you to compare your times with those of other Rouvy users.

    The app has a seven-day free trial period so you can make sure it works for your training style. Then you can choose from six subscription options—including three monthly plans and three yearly plans. With options for individuals, duos, and groups of up to five members, you can find the subscription that works best for you.

    2) Indoor Fan

      Placing one of these in front of your stationary bike is an easy but impactful upgrade. The constant breeze can help regulate your body temperature during intense intervals. And with a little imagination, the airflow can also mimic breezy outdoor conditions while you’re pedaling in place, potentially making your workouts feel more natural.

      3) Exercise-Bike Mat

        Place one under your stationary bike to help with stability, to keep it firmly in place during intense rides as well as protect your floors from scratches and other damage. It will also absorb vibrations, reducing noise that your roommates or downstairs neighbors might otherwise hear and complain about.

        4) Multiple Towels

          Riding indoors is sweaty business. A small face towel left conveniently nearby will help keep you dry while pedaling, preventing sweat from getting into your eyes, and also from dripping on your bike itself, so you can maintain a firm grip on the handlebars and seat. You’ll also want to have a couple of larger towels on hand to wipe yourself off and clean your bike saddle when you’re finished with your ride.

          5) Sweatproof Earbuds

            Pick up a pair of fitness-specific ones that can withstand your sweatiest workouts without damage. The right pair will stay securely in place so they don’t slip out during a ride, ensuring that you can focus on your training—and your favorite tunes or podcasts—without worrying about your earbuds malfunctioning or falling out.

            With all this in place, and an app like Rouvy that makes you feel like you're traveling the world from the comfort of your home, your winter workouts can be as enjoyable—well, okay, almost as enjoyable—as your outdoor ones the rest of the year.