Zwift Insider

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

Thomas Eichentopf

-

January 3, 2018

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Get The Most Out Of Zwift

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.93″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ID-I7rqGDwA” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/ID-I7rqGDwA/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

This one is for fresh members of the Zwift community. BikeRadar had Chris Snooke giving some quick recommendations on how to maximize your Zwift experience.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Zwift News Network discussion with Eric Min

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.93″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKBFbxYhQuM&feature=youtu.be” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/zKBFbxYhQuM/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Jonathon Levie uses Zwiftcast clips to spoof an interview with Zwift CEO Eric Min about Zwift News Network (ZNN). The results are hilarious!

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

How to Simulate the Real Road with Zwift

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.93″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVPUrfKtwKg” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/kVPUrfKtwKg/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Here’s an oldie from 2017, in which Sarah from the Cyclepath channel discusses some best practices for the “Trainer Difficulty” setting for smart trainers on Zwift.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Biking and Running Transitions with Zwift Vlog No. 7 Pain Cave (Part 2)

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.93″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmPLEKJUE5w” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/tmPLEKJUE5w/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

If you’re a triathlete using Zwift, you’ll likely both running and cycling over Watopia. Here’s an insightful clip on how to combine both in one training session.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

How to Pair Additional Bluetooth Devices to Apple TV with Zwift Companion

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.94″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqC3dA7WASU” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/oqC3dA7WASU/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.93″ background_layout=”light”]

Zwift Companion app offers the ability to pair additional Bluetooth devices to Zwift in Apple TV or any other Zwift application. This quick video will show you how to enable Zwift Companion and pair additional devices to Zwift on Apple TV.

Start the Year with Zwift

Training & Nutrition

Zee Kryder

-

January 3, 2018

0

Start the Year with Zwift

Winter sees an influx of new subscribers to Zwift as well as the annual migration of winter-only Zwifters. One group of note are those interested in losing weight and keeping it off. Their number appears to be a growing population on Zwift.

What is Zwift?

Zwift is advertised as a training game. Zwift’s main page quotes “Training made fun” from Road.cc. The visual interest over purist workout mode (TrainerRoad) continues to attract new subscribers. Add the expense of a smart trainer and you’ll get more realism.

Zwift has a very low-key approach to weight loss. It is fair to say they have demonstrated a hands off policy. There are good reasons for such a position. Zwift is a gaming company with graphic designers in a virtual reality world of cycling. They don’t claim to have expertise in the field of health fitness, especially the varied approaches to weight loss. I consider Zwift as simply a tool one can use for weight loss.

While the weight loss business is big money, customers expect results when they pay for a weight loss program. One of the big names in the weight loss business costs $40 a month, just for guidance. Purchase food through the top two companies, expect to pay $300 to $400 dollars a month. (Jan 2010 CBS MoneyWatch) Usually those companies have a difficult time convincing their customers to exercise. On the other hand, exercise alone is no guarantee of weight loss. People who exercise must control what they eat. It is difficult to find a consensus among the top experts. Following their advice, as we all know, can be harder still!

What is ZwiftOff?

ZwiftOff is simply a group of individuals seeking to lose weight. It is a Facebook group with Zwift at its forefront. It was established in early December 2017, and while still in its infancy, ZwiftOff is taking off. Members are increasing daily. The first group workout had 69 riders, the second 112.

ZwiftOff is a free group. The conversations are private, as diet and weight loss are sometimes a very private matter. Members can share their success and offer encouragement to other members. There’s been a lot of positive feedback on our 45 minute ‘Apollo-11’ workout.

The Research

Zwift recently published a post, “Burn Fat with Zwift” essentially saying the same things as our series. The contributor was Dr. Jeukendrup, “a leading sports nutrition scientist.” Dr. Jeukendrup is associated with Sports Science, a subscription service for diet and exercise advice for race-oriented athletes. Of interest is his examination of exercising to burn fat. The published study was used as a basis for three ZwiftOff workouts along with other workout designers who design workouts to improve fitness and avoid monotony. You can certainly do a solid thirty to sixty minutes of Zone 2 effort. But you might find it hard to maintain that on a daily basis. You can also use the Epic Mountain climb or climb the Volcano twice. Those with expertise in the field of exercise recommend a strength or muscular pedaling force approximated as 60-80 cadence, rather than a 90-110 spin style.

Although the emphasis was partially on how women may burn fat differently than men, the research shows fat burning occurred at its highest level from 45% VO2Max for men to 52% VO2 Max for women. This should be about 50-60 % of FTP for most riders.

My study of the sourced research report is slightly different than Dr Jeukendrup’s view. The study did state that the men in this study were more overweight, or had a higher fat mass, than the women. Even with exactly the same fat mass, healthy women have a higher percentage of body fat. A woman with 40% fat may reasonably be asked by their doctor to get down between 25-30%. A man’s level would be set at 18-24%. Thus, the woman in this scenario is 10% overweight, and the man 15%.

More and more experts quote research studies that show fasted exercise burns more fat than other efforts. I would define this as morning exercise before breakfast with water only. While this may give you the highest percentage of fat burned per calorie, some focus on the number of calories burned. For example, Livestrong.com notes that burning 60% fat for one hour will burn less fat than two hours at a higher effort burning 35% fat. Others take the approach of counting calories throughout the day and ensuring you have a specific number of calories to burn each day. To be fair, we should examine this in another article.

Join Us For a Group Workout!

I hope you will benefit from joining our group workouts, currently at 7:10 am EST on Zwift. “ZwiftOff with Zee” is scheduled every Sunday from January 7 2018 to March 25 2018. You can socialize with ZwiftOff members by joining us on Facebook.

The 5 Fastest Bikes in Zwift (and How to Get Them)

Eric Schlange

-

January 2, 2018

4

The 5 Fastest Bikes in Zwift (and How to Get Them)

UPDATE

Zwift’s Drop Shop release brought a pile of new frames and wheelsets into Zwift, and it also modified the specs on some existing equipment. Therefore, this post is now outdated.

We’re keeping it here for reference and nostalgia, but if you want current data on the fastest bike frames, read Speed Tests: Zwift’s Fastest* Bike Frames.

The bike frame you choose in Zwift affects your speed, and your wheelset affects it even more. (See our test lap data to learn how specific frames, wheelsets, watts, and rider weight and height effect your times.) The five bikes below finish within 16 seconds of each other over a lap on the Watopia Figure 8 route at 225 watts with a 75kg, 183cm rider.

While the four fastest bikes are high-level unlocks which take months of work to achieve, newbies can take heart: the Zwift Aero is quite slippery and can be unlocked with just a few weeks of riding.

#1: Concept Z1 (Tron Bike)

Lap Time: 50:52

How to get it: complete Everest challenge, then climb another 41,150 meters (details)

#2: Cervelo S5

Lap Time: 50:58

How to get it: hit level 25 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#3: Trek Madone

Lap Time: 51:05

How to get it: hit level 20 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#4: Canyon Aeroad

Lap Time: 51:06

How to get it: hit level 23 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#5: Zwift Aero

Lap Time: 51:08

How to get it: buy it in the Drop Shop

Notes:

Lap times given are for one lap of the Watopia Figure 8 route at a constant 225 watts with a rider weight of 75kg and height of 183cm (6′), using the Zipp 808 wheelset (level 10 unlock). The Zipp 808 is consistently the fastest wheelset in Zwift.
The fastest wheelset is the 808/Disc combo, but this was only available to early beta testers so we do not include it in our tests. If you have this wheelset, your fastest racing setup would be the Cervelo S5 + 808/Disc, since the Tron bike does not allow you to change wheelsets.
The TT bike consistently turns in the fastest solo lap times of any bike. But since the TT bike cannot draft and is disallowed in most races we did not include it in the list.

Important note: this post contains speed test results for Zwift frames or wheels. These results may change over time, and a bike's performance relative to others may also change. We don't always revise posts when performance rankings change, but we do keep current, master versions of our speed test results which are always available. See the frame charts, wheel charts, and Tron vs Top Performers for current performance data.

Here’s a Sneak Peek at London’s Leith Hill Expansion

Eric Schlange

-

January 1, 2018

0

Here’s a Sneak Peek at London’s Leith Hill Expansion

Zwift CEO Eric Min (who, incidentally, lives in the real London) has posted a ride to Strava which includes two soon-to-be-released sections of new roads for the London course. (These new roads have been talked about by Zwift for several weeks, and were expected to be released before Christmas… but the holidays caused some delays.)

The new roads consist of a 3km (1.9 miles) section north of Box Hill, and a 10km (6.5 miles) climbing section south of Box Hill. That’s quite a bit of new tarmac on a course like London! In fact, this update will expand London’s roads by approximately 30%.

Once released, the southern section will be the biggest climb on the London course, with 243 meters (796′) of elevation gain over 6km (3.7 miles) for an average gradient of 4%. The backside of the climb is 4.5km (2.8 miles) long with a -4.9% grade. This new climb is Zwift’s version of Surrey’s famous Leith Hill, with the backside of the climb (visible in Eric Min’s screenshot) called “Keith Hill” in game.

By comparison, the Box Hill climb currently in game is 2.7km (1.7 miles) long with 139 meters (456′) of elevation gain for an average gradient of 4.9%.

New Routes

Until the expansion is released, we won’t know what new pre-planned routes will be available using the new roads. But I’m sure we’ll have at least a handful of new routes, which will make group rides and races much more interesting in London since we’ll have a variety of climbs to work with.

When Can We Ride It?

As always, Zwift hasn’t promised a release date for the London expansion. But my guess is it will arrive when we all return to London Tuesday, January 9th.

WSBA SweatFest Winter Race Series Begins Wednesday

Racing

Eric Schlange

-

January 1, 2018

0

WSBA SweatFest Winter Race Series Begins Wednesday

My interested was piqued when I heard that the Washington State Bicycle Association (WSBA) was organizing a winter race series, because as far as I know this is the first time a USA Cycling (USAC) local association had organized a race series on Zwift. The WSBA is blazing a trail here, and that’s exciting! I’m sure in the near future we will see many more sanctioned associations organizing Zwift events for their members and cyclists at large, but for now I wanted to get more info from the WSBA about their “SweatFest” race series. Here are the details…

About the WSBA

The WSBA is the USAC Local Association representing competitive bike riders across Washington, North Idaho and Oregon. (Membership in the WSBA is independent of one’s affiliation with USAC and details can be found here.)

As an organization, the WSBA recognizes that competitive cycling is evolving and riders have many opportunities to quench their competitive juices virtually (Zwift) or on their own time schedules (Strava) without lining up for a traditional competitive cycling event.

Birth of the Series

Recognizing this evolution, two local riders (Travis Dougan and Zqwan Peterson) approached the WSBA about creating an indoor winter series with the goal of making traditional racing approachable through virtual, indoor, trainer-based events on Zwift. Zqwan had hosted a regular weekly bike ride/race last off-season which was a big hit with local road racers.

As the WSBA sees it, growing a winter, indoor series benefits new and existing members by providing an opportunity to enjoy the social, community and fun elements of the traditional race season from the comfort of their own home. The short days and cold temperatures make this an appealing and safe option.

About the Series

As this series was designed the key elements of focus were:

Fun
Early-season training
Community building

Organizers opted for mostly flat courses and a one-hour format to keep groups tight and the duration approachable.

They developed a Facebook page and use Discord for chat during the event amount participants, while the folks at Team ODZ have been live broadcasting the event on their Zwift Live by ODZ page.

Prizes

Trophies will be given to each Zwift category series winner as shown to the right but the real emphasis is on participation, so organizers are collecting assorted prizes to offer to individuals based on participation.

All WSBA members will be entered to win local brewery, restaurant certificates, Zwift schwag and more. To encourage female participation organizers have come up with a 3 pack of wine that any women who participates in 3 or more events will be entered to win. According to organizers:

Final results count towards the rubber chicken trophy which is serious glory but it’s clearly about the fun and not to be taken too seriously.

Though only WSBA members are eligible to win the ‘schwag’ all Zwifters can join in the series races.

Race Times

Races occur every Wednesday night from January 3rd to February 28 at 6:25pm Pacific.

What are Your Goals for 2018?

Eric Schlange

-

December 31, 2017

0

What are Your Goals for 2018?

[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

“If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.”
~ Zig Ziglar

If you’re looking to improve your health, fitness levels, or even your race results… you’ve got to set some goals. Nobody achieves great things by accident! As we tick over to 2018, I asked the Zwift Insider team (a diverse group!) about their goals for the coming year. See them below, then share yours with us in the comments!

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rory-duckworth.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Rory Duckworth

My 2018 goals are… Zwift 3 times per week, finish 3 of the 5 Zwift Fondo Series 90 mile+ rides, finish the bike portion of Ironman Oceanside 70.3 under 2:20:00. Run on Zwift 3 times per week, finish the 13.1 run challenge and 26.1 run challenge on Zwift. Eat way less candy, eat way more burritos. Help more local athletes get on Zwift and utilize this great training tool.

Browse Rory’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Duane Gran

I hope in 2018 to do one of the CVR live races.

Browse Duane’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/duane-gran.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/justin-wagner.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Justin Wagner

Race hard as a newly upgraded Cat 2 IRL racer, have fun, learn.

Browse Justin’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Monica Schlange

I know this isn’t very Zwifty, but mine is to ride outdoors more when it warms up again. Last year I only rode outside thrice, I believe, but now I’m braver than I once was so am ready to get rid of the habit loops in my brain and ride outdoors more.

Browse Monica’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/monica.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/greg-hilton.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Greg Hilton

I’m aiming to go under 2 hours 30 minutes for Olympic distance triathlon and a personal best on a 10 mile TT.

Browse Greg’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Dave Bibby

I am just about to start week 4 of the 6-week FTP builder. Want to get back to my original FTP but also get that Tron bike (currently at 71%.)

Browse Dave’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dave-bibby.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Thomas-Eichentopf.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Thomas Eichentopf

On Zwift, I’m aiming for making it into the first half of a C category race, and I want to set a new personal best on all climbs of the Three Sisters route. I have some wild fantasy to do a 100km ride on Zwift, but will I really? Later in the year, I want to get back two KOMs close to home, cycle to Genova, and finally cycle up the Gotthard, Nufenen, Susten, and Grimsel.

Browse Thomas’ Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Zee Kryder

I am stepping up in ’18 to lead a weekly Group Workout entitled “ZwiftOff with Zee”. (There will be five workouts, starting with the ‘Apollo Workout’, and they will become available at whatsonzwift.com/workouts/.) I hope to bring a PhD on board to improve the efforts and success of the ZwiftOff Group. One more big plan will be a unique Zwift Fitness Challenge, hopefully with Zwift HQ support.

Browse Zee’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/zee.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/david-pusey.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

David Pusey

Continue to improve my race results and to crack level 26 in Zwift!

Browse David’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Chuck Ross

I am kicking off my 2018 with an FTP builder training plan. I am hoping to approach the 4.5 w/kg mark. I plan on completing my first Zwift group ride and race in the next 2 months. After a productive “off-season”, I plan on competing in the California Enduro Series, doing plenty of epic gravel and mountain bike rides, and a full cyclocross season in the fall.

Browse Chuck’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/chuck-ross.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/jesper.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Jesper Rosenlund Nielsen

I have set the first major goal for 2018 to be a 220 km gravel ride in April. That gives something to work against on Zwift and TrainerRoad the next months. Oh, and I will also try my best to ride more regularly in 2018 than I managed in 2017 – I had more off periods over the year than I really liked to have.

Browse Jesper’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Daren Chandisingh

My Zwift goals for 2018 are to get the Concept bike and level 25. I also want to get back into racing and find a team that are more inclusive than my current one. General cycling goals are to do the local 10 at least 5 times this season and see if I can get under 26 mins.

Browse Daren’s Posts >

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Daren-Chandisingh.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://zwiftinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/eric-venge.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Eric Schlange

I want to see my FTP bump up close to the 4.0w/kg range, as well as improving my capacity for anaerobic efforts during races (so I can hang with my local cat 2 buddies in our weekly hammerfests, and finish with the top B’s in Zwift races). To that end, I plan on completing a CVR Training plan and the CVR Racing League series. Outdoors: we’ve got a local climb (Elk Mountain) that I want to complete in under 40 minutes, … and I’m always on the hunt for Strava KOM’s.

Browse Eric’s Posts >

Zwift on Android: an Opportunity in the Complexity

Computers

Nick Green

-

December 30, 2017

0

Zwift on Android: an Opportunity in the Complexity

It has been announced that Zwift will be coming to Android in the first half of 2018. Let’s look at the value of the Android platform, the challenges that Android poses for developers and why development for Android could prove to be a win-win for Zwift HQ and Zwifters. (Bear in mind this is being written by an Android enthusiast, with no direct contact with Zwift.)

According to Jon Mayfield, Zwift for Android is coming, but it has taken a back seat to Apple development:

“An Android phone will almost certainly be the worst of all ways to run it when we do release it. This is due to the massive device fragmentation, fragmented operating systems, and drivers (bluetooth, sound, and graphics all matter to Zwift). Then there’s the fact that Android devices have poor 3D processors, except in all but the $750 phones (and even then they are a fraction of the speed of a new iPhone)…”

The Challenge of “Fragmentation”

Unlike the Apple ecosystem, the Android world is not as simple as a new hardware device and new software version being released each year. In fact it is a trivial exercise to name ten different manufacturers making Android hardware. Unfortunately each of these manufacturers is responsible for providing software updates and after sale support. This is where the issue of fragmentation enters the conversation. Many of the manufacturers release the hardware with the latest, or perhaps one generation old software, then do a very poor job of providing the latest operating system for that older hardware. This leads to countless different hardware variations, running many different versions of the Android operating system. This is most clearly exhibited by Google’s own statistics on current devices and the Android operating system versions they are running (see table).

Each generation or yearly release is given a name starting with the letter of the release. This letter increments each year, and the name is always a tasty dessert! Oreo is the most recent release (2017), with each lower number representing one year older release.

With there being one named OS version each year, the above diagram makes it clear that the largest number of devices are using a version of Android that was released in 2015 (Marshmallow). By extension, that also indicates that only 25% of Android users are using OS versions released in the past two years. As a point of interest, the latest version of Android (Oreo) was released on August 21, 2017. To this point it can only be found on 0.5% of Android devices, with many of them being Google’s own Pixel branded devices.

The Developer Challenge

The Zwift head office will have to decide for their developers what level of the Android OS they require to accomplish their goals. Each iteration of the OS brings with it new features and functionality that they can leverage in designing their platform. If they rely on the latest technology and focus on the latest versions of Android, then they will be developing for a very small audience. However if they aim for older versions of the OS, then they target a larger market share but are faced with the reality of older hardware potentially not being powerful enough to display the platform with high enough frame rates or graphic fidelity.

Hardware Woes

Outside of software fragmentation, hardware developers also create their own nightmares for software development. Each device manufacturer has multiple CPU choices, different graphics subsystems, varying amounts of memory (both storage and RAM) and vastly different screen sizes. Android devices range from sub $50 budget devices to $1000 premium devices with exquisite design and high power processing. Each device also has subtle differences in the hardware, such as different Bluetooth radios, or even the inclusion of ANT+ radios. This will add to the support challenge for Zwift.

A recent development in the Apple world may challenge the idea that high end Android devices are “still generally 1.5 years behind in performance from iPhones“. Apple has recently admitted to intentionally slowing devices that are only a couple of years old. This may level the playing field for older devices. It is also not logical to compare a $750 (or higher) iPhone to Android hardware that is on the lower end of the price spectrum.

As a developer, the choice has to be made to target a specific Android version as well as the base specifications for hardware performance. Since approximately 80% of phones sold internationally run Android, the shear volume of potential customers is mind blowing.

Watching and Waiting

As someone who likes the price/performance ratio available in the Android ecosystem, I am patiently waiting for Zwift on Android. There are numerous hardware choices that could work extremely well for Zwift, with many more being released each year. Chances are the release of Zwift for Android will be the great “excuse” I’ve been waiting for to upgrade my five year old Android tablet!

Now Featuring Zwift Live Streamers

News

Eric Schlange

-

December 29, 2017

0

Now Featuring Zwift Live Streamers

Zwifters have been live streaming their indoor rides since Zwift was in beta, but even as an experienced Zwifter I still find it a hassle to track down a live stream when I’m looking to watch a fun race.

Because of that, we recently took a new Zwift Insider feature live which automatically displays a live streaming popup bar at the bottom of our page when certain Zwift live streams are active on Twitch.tv. (Props to Zwift Insider team member Alex VanLaningham for coding this solution!) Here’s what it looks like:

Popup bar at the bottom of the page includes the title of your Twitch live stream session.

I’m excited about featuring live streams in this fashion for a few reasons:

It’s automatic… the Zwift Insider team doesn’t have to maintain a schedule of live streams.
It’s simple: anyone can click and watch the stream. This should be especially helpful for new (or not yet!) Zwifters who don’t know how to track down live Zwift streams.
It brings much-deserved exposure to Zwifters who have invested their time and money into creating quality live streaming content.

Currently we are only showing live streaming notifications for Zwift Community Live and TeamODZ, but we would like to add more quality live streams to the list.

Got a Live Stream?

Do you live stream Zwift on Twitch? If so, please email your Twitch channel link to [email protected] and I will check out your archived rides to confirm stream quality. If your live streams are consistently of good quality, we will add you to our list and feature your stream when you are live.

Week 3 – Here Comes Santa Claus… with a Cold

Training & Nutrition

Ian Murray

-

December 28, 2017

0

Week 3 – Here Comes Santa Claus… with a Cold

Editor’s note: Ian Murray is using Zwift to train for the International Triathlon Union Long Course World Championships held in Odense/Fyn, Denmark July 2018. His weekly Zwift Insider series discusses the previous week’s training and the plan for the upcoming week.

Some people love the holidays, and some people hate them. I hate that the holidays often bring more virus issues like colds. Colds suck. The week started off AWESOME only to go sideways midweek with the onset of a cold. Fortunately, it was short-lived, and I got to get back at it on the weekend. While still not a perfect week, it was better than the last one.

Week 3 – It’s Complicated

I mistakenly thought that the week leading into Christmas would be calm and quiet. Yes, I thought that I would have plenty of time to train and recover. Or… one of my officemates could bring in something that his kid got from the petri dish of a school that he attends. Grrr.

To make it worse, I got a last-minute invite to a big event that would definitely be described as mandatory fun. Don’t get me wrong, the party was fun, but I would have much preferred to be able to go to bed early, not have a couple glasses of Buchanan 18 year-old Scotch (ok, that’s not true), and listen to some really loud music for six hours. Friday was a bit rough, as my ears were still ringing from the noise, and I sucked down some DayQuil to help with the congestion.

Anyway, getting back to the training: Monday went well. A nice easy 10.5-mile run, commuting to and from work, and a good strength workout got things off right. Tuesday followed with a nice swim, 16 by 25 meters followed by 5 by 200 meters alternating regular and with paddles. Wednesday is when things started to go awry. I had a good strength-focused bike workout, followed by commuting to and from work, and the SkillZ and DrillZ Ride. Even before the ride home, I could feel the cold coming on. On Thursday morning, I woke up and felt it. I tried to get a run in, but I called it at 10K. I just didn’t have anything else in me! Friday became a rest day. I got home from work and crawled in bed at 7PM. It was awesome! I slept for 12 hours and woke up feeling much better.

Getting good rest on Friday was very important because Saturday I had the TeamODZ Superhero race. (It actually had a much longer name, but I don’t have enough space to type it out here.) The race format was basically a super Cat & Mouse, with teams of nine riders starting at different intervals based on the average FTP and w/kg of the riders. First team with five riders to finish wins.

Because of my slight cold, I did not feel like I would be one of the top five riders for my team. Thus, I planned to do a lot of work on the climbs and sit in on the flats. From the gun, our plan fell apart, as riders had technical issues and the second time up Box Hill proved too tough, splitting our group apart and leaving me as the fifth rider. Just short of vomit output level, I pulled the plug and eased off, quickly losing 45 seconds to the other four. Eventually, I grouped back up with two other teammates, and we drilled it to the end. Let’s just say, we didn’t win. A for effort, though. Twenty minutes after the race, I did my last strength workout of the week. Yeah, it sucked, but I got it done. Here’s the video to prove it:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuRDj5Ip1fQ[/embedyt]

I ended up taking Sunday off. I wish I took it off because I dug so deep that I was still gassed. Nope. I went to a Christmas party Saturday night and then to a friend’s house afterward. I behaved at the party, even leaving by 9:30, but the BS session turned into an accidental Rusty Nail marathon. I walked home at almost 2 AM and did not get nearly the amount of sleep that I should have. So, I just rested on the recliner for a good portion of the day, catching up on tv shows that I have missed over the last few months. Besides, I had a big day planned for Monday, so extra rest was probably a good thing.

Planned TSS – 672 (after some changes) Completed TSS – 648

Week 4 – Race Practice, Lots of Miles –

This will finally be an easier week at work because most people are on vacation. I will be able to roll in a little late and take off a little early to get in a second workout. On Christmas, I gave myself a little present, 120K on the bike and a 30-minute run after. The rest of the week is a little better up until New Year’s Eve when I plan on adding a 3K swim and an additional 30 minutes of running to the mix.

So, some of you may be asking yourselves, “What the hell is he doing?” Yes, I know that some of this makes little sense from the perspective of a standard build. However, I am coming off of having a fair bit of mileage in the legs and want to build the volume up quickly. To do so, I am sacrificing a little intensity and spending more time in the saddle. Some of this is because I have some work travel coming up in January that will keep me off of my bike, and some is because I have a plan. Once my volume is up, I will pull the Fast Freddie Rodriguez methodology. I will go progressively closer to race effort for the distance, reducing the saddle time but increasing the intensity. Meanwhile, I will pick up the swim and run volume. By May, I want the 120K to feel like nothing. I want to get off the bike feeling fairly fresh. I will likely ride a bit longer of distances as we progress just to really get the legs ready. Plus, I can generally take a fair amount of TSS, as long as I get my seven to eight hours of sleep per night.

We’ll see how it goes this week. The goal TSS is a bit high, but I have done much more than that on a number of occasions. I’ll be riding around Watopia or London on Sunday for about four hours and then running for one. Drop on in or throw me a ride on. I’m sure I will need it at some point during the ride.

On that note, it’s off to bed for me. I’ll get Week 4’s recap up a little quicker, as I have the day after my long workout off to sit on the couch and recover. See you out on the course. Until then, look for me on Wednesday mornings at 5:15 AM EDT leading an Endurance Lab group workout and 6:30 PM EDT on the ODZ SkillZ and DrillZ ride.

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

Thomas Eichentopf

-

December 27, 2017

0

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

4 Reasons We are Using Zwift (Even if we are not roadies)

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3RKctGtM5w” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/r3RKctGtM5w/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Path Less Pedaled is a well-known YouTube channel for bike-packers. Now Zwiftpacking is a thing.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Zwift Lotto Soudal Team Presentation Ride

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0OZhW6to2k” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/t0OZhW6to2k/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

We included this video because it’s the first time a pro team has included a Zwift group ride in their annual team presentation event. Plus, it’s fun to read ride leader André Greipel ribbing his teammates!

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Surviving the Holidays: 5 Quick Tips for Healthy Eating

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwsVEQf9wTQ” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/MwsVEQf9wTQ/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Jason Flores of TeamODZ walks us through some useful tips during his “In the Feedzone” weekly group ride.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Swift Zwift Tip: Minimal User Interface Config Hack

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDlqaGOuTK8″ image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/bDlqaGOuTK8/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Shane Miller appears in this list almost weekly. This time, he explains a handy hack that uses Mobile Link to clear up your Zwift screen – if you find it too cluttered.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

Dogs at Lowes? Vlog No. 6 Pain Cave (Part 1)

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video _builder_version=”3.0.92″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsHPyP6p_Wk” image_src=”//i.ytimg.com/vi/fsHPyP6p_Wk/hqdefault.jpg” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.92″ background_layout=”light”]

As it’s Christmas, we’re likely saying hi to a number of new Zwifters. Some old Zwifters might have gotten some new training goodies. Time to upgrade the paincave. Or follow Bradley Steven’s own upgrade project.

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

Get The Most Out Of Zwift

Zwift News Network discussion with Eric Min

How to Simulate the Real Road with Zwift

Biking and Running Transitions with Zwift Vlog No. 7 Pain Cave (Part 2)

How to Pair Additional Bluetooth Devices to Apple TV with Zwift Companion

Start the Year with Zwift

What is Zwift?

What is ZwiftOff?

The Research

Join Us For a Group Workout!

The 5 Fastest Bikes in Zwift (and How to Get Them)

UPDATE

#1: Concept Z1 (Tron Bike)

Lap Time: 50:52

How to get it: complete Everest challenge, then climb another 41,150 meters (details)

#2: Cervelo S5

Lap Time: 50:58

How to get it: hit level 25 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#3: Trek Madone

Lap Time: 51:05

How to get it: hit level 20 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#4: Canyon Aeroad

Lap Time: 51:06

How to get it: hit level 23 then buy it in the Drop Shop

#5: Zwift Aero

Lap Time: 51:08

How to get it: buy it in the Drop Shop

Here’s a Sneak Peek at London’s Leith Hill Expansion

New Routes

When Can We Ride It?

WSBA SweatFest Winter Race Series Begins Wednesday

About the WSBA

Birth of the Series

About the Series

Prizes

Race Times

What are Your Goals for 2018?

“If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.” ~ Zig Ziglar

Rory Duckworth

Duane Gran

Justin Wagner

Monica Schlange

Greg Hilton

Dave Bibby

Thomas Eichentopf

Zee Kryder

David Pusey

Chuck Ross

Jesper Rosenlund Nielsen

Daren Chandisingh

Eric Schlange

Zwift on Android: an Opportunity in the Complexity

The Challenge of “Fragmentation”

The Developer Challenge

Hardware Woes

Watching and Waiting

Now Featuring Zwift Live Streamers

Got a Live Stream?

Week 3 – Here Comes Santa Claus… with a Cold

Week 3 – It’s Complicated

Week 4 – Race Practice, Lots of Miles –

This Week’s Top 5 Zwift Videos

4 Reasons We are Using Zwift (Even if we are not roadies)

Zwift Lotto Soudal Team Presentation Ride

Surviving the Holidays: 5 Quick Tips for Healthy Eating

Swift Zwift Tip: Minimal User Interface Config Hack

Dogs at Lowes? Vlog No. 6 Pain Cave (Part 1)

Latest articles

Popular Categories

“If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.”
~ Zig Ziglar