I need to make a confession.
When it comes to cycling, I err on the side of old-school.
I invest only in what is absolutely required.
But Zwift has made me realize, I dont always get it right.
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Mostly through winter, days are beset by driving wind, rain, ice, and sleet.
Weather that most of us would prefer to avoid.
They work by attaching to the rear wheel and creating resistance, usually with magnets or variable viscosity fluids.
Traditional turbo trainers are usually noisy machines that wail and drone as you cycle along.
You dont move anywhere, and you end up staring at the same view for hours on end.
They do fulfil their primary objective of providing a workout, though.
Theyre a necessary evil when it comes to maintaining some fitness through the winter months.
ButZwiftis showing me there is another way.
There are cheaper alternatives, but for the full experience you really need a smart trainer.
For more information on how to start Zwifting,watch this informative videofrom Global Cycling web link.
This lets the user program a work out and then just hang on for dear life until its over.
In doing so, it removes a huge amount of thinking from training.
Each interval would be based on a desired heart rate.
It was all stick, and no carrot.
Its more carrot, and less stick.
Gamers will be familiar with its virtual gamified mechanics, and cyclists will understand its technical training side.
But to call Zwift gamified and leave it at that is an injustice.
Its a virtual world unto itself.
Into the virtual world
All Zwift rides happen in a virtual Zwift world.
But there is also Zwifts own unique world, known as Watopia.
When you descend, the trainer simulates the freewheel effect of coasting downhill.
Or wave your hand to riders going the opposite direction.
In this case too, its way more carrot and way less stick.
Of course, its not actuallyyoudoing these things, its your in-game avatar.
But these mechanics provide a connection between the real and virtual worlds you inhabit while Zwifting.
In gaming terms, I cant think of an appropriate way of describing it.
First-person doesnt seem apt, because its not a totally first-person perspective.
Perhaps its a second-person perspective?
Ive often regarded it as non-essential and expensive.
Perhaps the best bit though, is that I havent had to clean my bike.
So much so, that Zwift provides more than just a distraction, its an all-round engaging experience.
One thats so convincing, I might not bother riding outside this winter at all.
Story byMatthew Beedham
Matthew is the editor of SHIFT.
He likes electric cars, and other things with wheels, wings, or hulls.
