Smart training base: Which app to choose

November 08, 2021

When it comes time to choose an interesting application to use your training base , several options are available to you.  Of course, manufacturers of training bases offer you a generally quite simple application allowing you, free of charge, to use and calibrate your new pain machine.  That being said, there is a whole universe of much more comprehensive and motivating applications.  Here is a summary of our 4 favorite apps.

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

Zwift, the most popular

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

The +

• The playful and engaging aspect of the platform
• Application stability
• The virtual community
• The various events organized
• The possibility of training in running as well

THE -

• The price: at $19.99 CAD/month, it's not cheap.
• The training programs are less precise than on other applications.
• Route choices still limited

Wahoo Systm (The Sufferfest), almost your personal trainer

For the past few years, this has been the application I've been using. Wahoo System is, in my opinion, the most complete application .  It incorporates 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 indoor and outdoor cycling sessions.  You begin 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), as well as functional threshold power (FTP).

Once the test is completed, Systim assigns you a type of cyclist and will adapt your training according to your objectives.  You will have the option to choose from a multitude of plans depending on your discipline and availability.  No avatar here, when you are on your bike you will participate in Pro races, watch documentaries about cycling in general or you can watch your favorite race yourself.  Meanwhile, the application will send the correct resistance data to your base, and all you'll have to do is suffer and sweat!  Your training sessions will also come with encouragement that includes humor. Watch out for the "Lazer Goats" and join the "Sufferlandriand"... 

The +

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

THE -

• It's 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.  While not as community-focused as Zwift , many of you will appreciate the opportunity to ride legendary mountain passes against a backdrop of real-life footage, all from the comfort of your own 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 ridden the same route.  Furthermore, you can choose from 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. 

The +

• The only one to offer augmented reality
• Greater realism; you feel like you're actually there.
• Attractive price: US$12/month
• Option to have more than one user per subscription
• More than 300 different routes in 32 countries
• Traveling without leaving home
• 14-day free trial without a credit card

THE -

• The community aspect is less developed than Zwift
• A truly bike-specific application (which may seem like an advantage to some).

TrainerRoad, for serious cyclists with specific goals

Do you want to go faster and aren't afraid of suffering? 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 to your schedule and optimize your results. According to the platform, athletes using adaptive training are 20% more likely to improve their watt-per-kilogram ratio and experience a 50% reduction in missed sessions (inability to complete the session due to fatigue or overtraining).  That being said, we believe this application is aimed at individuals who have already participated in structured training programs and have a minimum of knowledge about improving sports performance.  With TrainerRoad, your training base won't go unused!

The +

• A wide variety of training plans
• Continuous adaptation of sessions
• YouTube channel developed with podcasts and training videos
• Access to outdoor training with wattage
• Satisfaction guaranteed within 30 days

THE -

• High cost: US$19.95/month or US$189.99/year
• Not very playful, aimed at a mature audience
• These are challenging programs; you need to be highly motivated.

YAN PERREAULT

Cycling expert Studio Cycle Maglia Rosa

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