CYCLING
To Zwift or not to Zwift
I have become a huge fan of riding on Zwift , even though it is not quite the same as a ride out on the roads . Then again , is that such a bad thing ? – BY LIZETTE DU PLESSIS
Not too long ago , I logged into Strava and stumbled upon a striking comment beneath one of my recent rides : “ It ’ s a stunning day outside . Why choose Zwift ?” The words hit me with a pang of guilt . Indeed , the weather had been inviting , but instead of relishing the sunshine and the rhythmic sound of tires on tar , I found myself bathed in the artificial glow of my TV screen , accompanied by the constant whir of my indoor cycling setup .
Rather than engaging in casual banter with fellow riders or vying for victory at town line sprints , my time was spent collecting virtual accolades like “ ride ons ” and vying for digital jerseys . Yet , the somewhat unsettling truth behind my decision to opt for Zwift was simply that I didn ’ t feel like venturing outdoors .
Admitting this feels daunting , almost as if it might result in my expulsion from the cycling community , but the reality is , there are moments when I find solace in Zwift . Times when I secretly wish for stormy weather just to justify retreating into my personal pain cave . “ Shame about the weather , guess I ’ ll have to settle for the trainer ,” I ’ d quip .
Saved by Zwift
Like many , I used to dread indoor rides or runs . I can recall countless evenings spent staring at the wall or fixating on the markings of my training space . While roller sessions did help refine my pedal stroke , it often felt like a laborious chore , especially considering the sweat-soaked aftermath resembling a salt mine .
Then came Zwift in 2014 , answering my prayers for a video game that offered more than just entertainment . Instead , it offered fitness . Early on , I embarked on Zwift Island , now known as Watopia , racking up virtual achievements and inadvertently claiming KOMs thanks to my uncalibrated trainer . cycling greatness , with conquering Mont Ventoux in adverse conditions at its apex , Zwift rides might linger somewhere near the base , perceived by purists as a lesser substitute .
However , I ’ m gradually shedding these concerns . While I cherish epic outdoor rides when time allows , the prospect of navigating through Rustenburg traffic just to access a decent route dampens the appeal . Instead , laps around the local reservation , while scenic , have become repetitive , even boring . Since I ’ m already simulating my rides , why not embrace Zwift entirely ?
Despite its virtual nature , Zwift demands genuine effort . I ’ ve logged higher power numbers indoors than during many outdoor excursions , all without the inherent risks of road cycling . Dodging traffic , potholes , and distracted pedestrians becomes a non-issue . Plus , the avoidance of pre-ride hassles like outfit selection or gear checks adds to the allure . In essence , Zwift offers a safe and efficient means of training , allowing me to maximise my time and effort without sacrificing enjoyment .
So you want to Zwift ?
You need an account to ride on Zwift – every monthly membership comes with a free trial , and a 30-day money back guarantee for new subscribers . You need a smart bike like Zwift Ride , or you can pair a smart trainer with your existing outdoor bike . You ’ ll also need a device to run Zwift . For more information , go to www . zwift . com .
My time on Zwift was so extensive that it even took a toll on my bike ’ s components . Instead of fixating on numbers , I found myself immersed in the thrill of chasing fellow riders and pushing through intervals effortlessly . Zwift racing became a genuine substitute for real-world competition , complete with adrenalinepumping starts and strategic last laps , all meticulously tracked on Zwift Power .
Indoors vs Outdoors
Yet , my enthusiasm for Zwift isn ’ t without its reservations . There ’ s often a twinge of FOMO ( fear of missing out ) as I scroll through social feeds post-session , witnessing others ’ outdoor adventures . I occasionally grapple with guilt , feeling as though I ’ m neglecting the essence of cycling by opting for the virtual realm . If we were to envision a hierarchy of
The Wonderful Worlds of Zwift
Join millions of Zwifters on the app that makes indoor cycling fun . Jump into immersive worlds , challenge yourself on epic climbs , and ride on endless roads , all from the comfort of home .
Images : Courtesy Zwift
• A million-strong community of Zwifters to ride with .
• 12 virtual worlds & hundreds of kilometres to ride , from iconic climbs to underwater tunnels and everything in between .
• Group rides starting all day , every day at different intensity levels , including organised events with robopacers .
• Flagship tours with unique ride formats , rewards , and partners .
• Categorised racing for every fitness level .
• Thousands of workouts to fit every schedule , intensity or goal .
• Flexible training plans tailored to your goals .
• Track your fitness and sync your rides and workouts to other fitness apps .
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