Smart training base: Which app to choose

When it comes to choosing an interesting application for your training base, several options are available to you. Of course, training base manufacturers offer a generally simple application that allows you, free of charge, to use and calibrate your new suffering machine. That being said, there is a whole universe of much more complete and motivating applications. Here is a summary of our 4 favorite applications.

NB: This is not a guide to help you set up your system, but rather a summary of the main features and our appreciation of each of these applications.

Zwift, the most popular

You probably already know about this application or at least, you've heard about it. Zwift is certainly the largest virtual cycling training platform. When you use the application, you use an avatar that represents you within the virtual Zwift universe. It's a bit like playing a video game; you see your avatar reproduce your effort on the bike, whether in free ride mode or specific training mode. As you cover miles, you'll accumulate credits that will eventually allow you to change your jersey or bike! What's more, you can also participate in virtual races, group rides, or even specific group training sessions. In fact, what makes Zwift so strong is the entire community of cyclists who gather there at all hours of the day.

Pros

• The fun and engaging aspect of the platform
• Application stability
• The virtual community
• Various organized events
• Possibility to also train in running

Cons

• The price: at $19.99 CAD/month, it's not cheap
• Training programs are less precise than on other applications
• Limited choice of routes

Wahoo Systm (The Sufferfest), almost your personal coach

For several years now, this has been the application I use. In my opinion, Wahoo Systm is the most complete application. It integrates several facets of cycling training such as flexibility (Yoga sessions), strength training (with or without weights), focus or the mental aspect of training, as well as sessions on the indoor bike, as well as outdoors. You start your program by preparing for the 4DP test, which will test your 4 components of cycling training: neuromuscular power, anaerobic capacity, maximum aerobic power (MAP), and functional threshold power (FTP).

Once the test is completed, Systm assigns you a cyclist type and adapts your workouts according to your goals. You will have the option to choose from a multitude of plans depending on your discipline and availability. No avatar here; when you're on your bike, you'll participate in Pro races, watch documentaries about cycling in general, or even watch your favorite race. Meanwhile, the application will send the correct resistance data to your trainer, and all you have to do is suffer and sweat! Your workouts will also come with encouraging humor. Watch out for the "Lazer Goats" and be part of the "Sufferlandrians"...

Pros

• The complementarity of the different facets of training
• Low cost to access such comprehensive programs: $14.99 USD/month or $129 USD/year
• Science-based training plans
• Plans designed for active people (Time optimization)
• Possibility to add swimming and running to your programs

Cons

• Impossible to go for a bike ride without choosing a workout
• Some connectivity issues that will surely be resolved with application updates.

Rouvy, the alternative to Zwift

We believe that Rouvy, with its augmented reality and its happy mix of real and virtual, will continue to gain followers. Not as community-focused as Zwift, many of you will appreciate the possibility of riding mythical climbs with real-life images in the comfort of your home. Along the way, you'll have the chance to see your avatar catch up with the app's bots or any other participant who has already used the same route as you. Additionally, you can choose several different options when using the platform. You can participate in online races or specific interval training sessions, you can even sync your sessions from *Training Peaks or even create your own sessions using the tool provided in the application.

Pros

• The only one to offer augmented reality
• Greater realism, you feel like you are there
• Attractive price: $12 USD/month
• Possibility of having more than one user per subscription
• More than 300 different routes in 32 countries
• Travel without leaving home
• 14-day free trial without a credit card

Cons

• The community aspect is less developed than Zwift
• Application really specific to cycling (May seem like an advantage for some)

TrainerRoad, for serious cyclists with precise goals

Do you want to go faster and are not afraid to suffer? TrainerRoad offers structured training programs based on your performance over time. The "Adaptive Training" feature records and analyzes your training data to adjust upcoming sessions planned in your calendar and optimize your results. According to the platform, athletes using the adaptive training feature are 20% more likely to improve their watt/kilogram ratio and achieve a 50% reduction in missed sessions (inability to complete the session due to fatigue or overtraining). That being said, we believe that this application is aimed at individuals who have already participated in structured training programs and have a minimum knowledge of sports performance gain. With TrainerRoad, your training base will not remain unused!

Pros

• Very wide variety of training plans
• Continuous session adaptation
• Elaborate YouTube channel with podcasts and training videos
• Access to outdoor workouts with wattage
• Satisfaction guaranteed within 30 days

Cons

• High cost: $19.95 USD/month or $189.99 USD/year
• Not very playful, aimed at an informed public
• Difficult programs, you must be very motivated

YAN PERREAULT

Cycling Expert Studio Cycle Maglia Rosa