Do you enjoy using the machines at the gym but want to train in the comfort of your own home in a supportive environment? Then Zwift training could be something you should look into giving a go.  Within this article we are going to explore what the Zwift brand is all about and how you can update your training regime using virtual training equipment. So, if you want to find out more about Zwift, then keep on reading.

What is Zwift?

Zwift is a company which produces fitness equipment that allows you to work out at home, but still get that sense of community and motivation you get in a class at the gym. This is possible as they have online features on their cycles where you can train and race against other users across the globe. Recently their cycling races have become more recognised in the fitness world where you can train to compete in races against competitors worldwide. The benefits of this form of race is that you can do it from the comfort of your own home without having to accommodate for the elements outdoors.

Most recently Zwift has introduced a new equipment into their range of virtual fitness equipment which is their Run Pods. Run Pods attach to your shoes to track your progress when you are running outdoors or in the gym on the treadmill. They keep a record of how far, how fast and how long you run for and stores it in the Zwift software. When you are running in real life you are actually helping your avatar on the Zwift platform run on a virtual track too. On the software there are specially designed running plans and goals set by trained professionals which you can carry out at the gym or outside, whichever way you choose to train.

How to Get Involved?

So far in this article we have discussed what the Zwift brand is and what type of technology and virtual training platform they use. If you are thinking of giving this type of exercise a go, there are a few ways in which you can add Zwift technology to your workout. There are two main types of tech which you can buy which are the cycling and running gear.

But if you invest in the equipment, you would also need to buy a monthly subscription to the platform in order for the gear to work. The subscription to the Zwift platform is only $14.99 a month and this gives you access to the online races and training plans. This app works on a variety of gadgets such as an Apple TV, iPad/iPhone, macOS, Android Beta and Windows. Once you have installed the application and filled in the subscription form you can begin to connect your equipment to begin your enhanced training journey.

For the Zwift cycling equipment, you can purchase a bundle of accessories or shop them individually to attach to your bike to make them compatible with the platform. These bundles can be ordered in one go or in monthly instalments. The gear for the cycling races and training are:

  • Direct Drive Trainer – CycleOps H2, Tacx Flux S, Tacx Vortex
  • CycleOps M2 – Wheel on trainer which includes an incline of 15%
  • MicroShift Trainer Cassette – Attached to the direct-drive trainer
  • ANT+ Bundle – Contains the ANT+ Dongle and USB cable for connecting to your device

If you want to try the running app instead of the cycling, you would need to still sign up to the application, but you would only need to buy the Run Pods instead of the bike attachments.

Start on Your Virtual Training Journey Now!

Throughout this blog post we have looked into what Zwift is and how it can change your way of exercising completely. If you have already tried out this form of virtual training, or are thinking of giving it a go, then let us know over on our social media pages. Share your experiences using Zwift with us today. You can also stock up on high quality sportswear to kit yourself out for your new cycling or running journey over at Sports Fitness.

This article was written exclusively for Sports Fitness by Loren Astbury