I've been trying to find a good aerobic workout for days when I don't ride my bike. So far, swimming seems ideal, but it is so boring. Plus we keep getting thunderstorms in the afternoons that close the pool. So I've been using the rowing machine at the YMCA once a week, while lifting weights.

Here's my dilemma. Whenever I use the rowing machine it seems to toast my legs for climbing (on my bike) for several days afterwards. I noticed the same thing when I first tried rowing a couple years ago and quit doing it. However, I've started rowing again this summer because I needed more upper body exercise and wanted to do something aerobic. Has anyone else noticed this after rowing? It doesn't seem to tire my legs unduly while I am using the rowing machine, but I notice it right away when I ride my bike over the next few days. It's really strange, like I've got no climbing strength left. It seems like if it's really using those climbing muscles that it would make me a stronger climber over time.

IMO, the reason to cross train is either that you are bored with a given exercise or you need to get some relief from that exercise. IOW, cross training for runners makes sense as many can't take the pounding. Cross training for cycling makes less sense as you don't need "relief" from the exercise. If you WANT to cross train to work different muscles or develop other muscles, that's fine, but it is not needed for your cycling. If the rowing machine hurts your cycling, then you can either try to push through until you adapt, or avoid it. Depends on your goals.

If you are cross-training, you are not resting. Unless your cross-training involves muscles groups not used for cycling, you're not resting. It should be expected that your rowing workout is going to impact a ride the next day.

A rest day could be a deliberate easy day off from cycling. If you do choose to do some form of exercise, it's got to be easy. In that case case, your workout should be intended to promote blood flow, heal muscle tissues, and recover for previous workouts.

I don't take many days off the bike but I swear by recovery rides. I use slow bike commutes, easy MTB rides, or just easy rides to recover from hard workout days.

if you live near the ocean, take up surfing. i always surf on rest-days. it's a great alternative to weight workouts in the gym because not only does it keep you from having an upper body like a 9-year-old as many cyclists do, but it is the single most fun activity i know of. it's not as rewarding as cycling, but as far as pure unadulterated FUN goes, nothing can touch surfing. it will keep your upper body toned, but you won't get bulky unless you surf several hours every day. it's also great for strenghtening your body's "core" (abs, back, etc), which helps with your posture on and off the bike.

surfing is also very relaxing and soothing, which is nice after a hard week of training and/or racing on the bike.

If you race, or like to hammer for fun, why wouldn't your 'cycling muscles' get toasted occasioinally, and need a break? I also consider the heart in that group and if you're continually doing interval type stuff that muscle needs a break as well. I would imagine if you just keep up the rowing, and it sounds like that's what you like to do, then you'll adapt and it wont toast your legs. I'm going through something similar with running and my body is starting to get use to me mixing running with cycling. Stick with it; it'll make you more well-rounded.

Or go surfing!