Whilst the players of the Milton Keynes Lightning ice hockey club know the importance of keeping fit, even they as sportsmen would occasionally admit it's a struggle to stay motivated - especially in the dark, cold winter months when playing computer games can be more appealing than, for example, going out cycling. But thanks to one of Lightning's partners, the David Lloyd Fitness Centre in Milton Keynes, the players now enjoy the best of both thanks to the newly-arrived Trixter exercise bikes.

Designed by a leading Olympic cycling coach and a helicopter simulator designer, and endorsed by 18 world champions. Trixter bikes simulate riding outdoors across a wide choice of terrains and trails, reflected by a virtual cyclist on a screen in front of the user. Using cutting edge technology more usually found in the latest video games, cyclists can either challenge themselves to improve on past times, or race against up to three other cyclists. And for anyone concerned about having gained a few pounds over Christmas, using the Trixter bikes can help burn around 55% more calories than a standard indoor exercise bike.

After setting up a personal profile based on age, height, weight etc, riders can choose from five bike 'styles' for each of the 80 available trails, each with a selection of settings for gears, brakes, handlebars, pedals and even seat sensors - all to help accurately reflect the experience of riding on a particular terrain, in different conditions.

Lightning forwards Juraj Gracik and Grant McPherson, and defencemen Michael Farn and Lewis Christie were amongst the first people to use the Trixters at David Lloyd Milton Keynes recently - the first David Lloyd centre in the UK to offer them. Grant McPherson said, "It’s a lot more exciting than sitting on your average spinning bike, as you actually have to think about what you are doing. You get a great workout and the time really flies by. It's a real 21st century workout!"

Andy Royles of David Lloyd Milton Keynes said, "As soon as the players found out they could race each other, they got really competitive and said how much they were looking forward to incorporating the bikes into their regular routines. But it's not just sportsmen that will benefit from using them - they're a great way for anyone to enjoy the fitness benefits of cycle riding without having to endure the cold and dark outdoors this winter - we're hopeful that the Trixters will be very popular!"

To discover Trixter bikes, contact the David Lloyd Fitness Centre at Newlands, near Willen by phoning 0845 129 6807 or go to www.davidlloyd.co.uk. MK Lightning supporters can enjoy a free 24 hour trial membership for themselves and immediate family by contacting the David Lloyd centre in Milton Keynes and quoting the reference "Lightning Bikes".