So… Why Zwift For Running?

Let’s face it, running on a treadmill is boring. For those that run regularly or for longer distances, staring at an LED console and watching numbers increase can be mind-numbing.

In my lifetime I’ve completed tens of thousands of kilometers on a treadmill, most of which were before Zwift existed. Other than music, there’s never been a good distraction to take my mind away from the monotony.

Then along came Zwift and treadmill running no longer feels a chore. In fact, it can be quite enjoyable! So why do many treadmill runners use it? Here’s why:

#1: It’s Immersive

As above, we’ve covered how dull staring at a treadmill screen or even worse a blank wall can be. Zwift provides that visual distraction by allowing you to run in numerous virtual worlds. Wherever you can cycle you can also run in Zwift, and there quite a few running-only routes where you can get away from those pesky cyclists if you so desire.

As you are traveling at a slower pace, it allows you to take the time to admire the scenery without it flashing by so quickly. You notice so much more, and you can really appreciate the detail that goes into creating the worlds. The Heads Up Display (HUD) has all the stats you need, such as speed, cadence, heart rate etc. You can also use the powerup circle to pick a target distance, calories, etc, and you’ll get a nice countdown to your goal. All this provides numerous visual distractions in order to take the focus away from the possible suffering of your effort.

Pair your Zwift device with a monitor or large screen and it really can feel like you are there. 

#2: It’s For Everyone

No matter whether you are completely new to running or a pro athlete training for your next event, there’s something for you. There is a vast workout library and training plans that cover training for a half marathon or those aiming to be a parkrun master over 5k. 

All you need to do is set your best times over various distances and Zwift will then tailor the workout speeds accordingly, much like setting your FTP as a cyclist does. (If you’re new to running, just do a free run and Zwift will estimate your times based on this. As you better these times then Zwift will update them for you.)

Although you cannot create your own running workouts in Zwift you can import ones you’ve created elsewhere. Zwift uses the .ZWO format that is used across other platforms. So you can create the workout on another platform and once you import these to Zwift they’ll appear in the workout library for you.

#3: Connectivity

One of the most common considerations when purchasing a treadmill is whether it connects to Zwift. The range of smart treadmills is rapidly increasing and many manufacturers provide direct connectivity to Zwift as standard but what if your budget doesn’t run to a smart treadmill?

There are many options available to you, including:

• Smart watches with a virtual running option that transmits a speed signal based on the accelerometer in the watch. 
• Heart rate straps that transmit a speed and cadence signal.
• Footpods such as the Zwift Run Pod or Stryd
• The NPE Runn, which detects the speed of the treadmill belt as a series of stickers on the belt pass by it.

There are also some 3rd party apps where even if your treadmill is not Zwift compatible, the app can read the Bluetooth signal from your treadmill and send it to Zwift. So if your treadmill uses its own fitness app such as JRNY or iFit, chances are it can be made compatible with Zwift.

#4: It’s Addictive

Zwift currently has 30 levels which you achieve as you run. Each level increase unlocks a new piece of kit for your avatar, and throughout the year there are major events that unlock new kit, also! Some group runs also include kit unlocks. 

Levelling up can be quite addictive, particularly if during your run you can see that an extra couple of KM could see you hit the next level.

There are also route badges for completing specific routes on Zwift (they added several in a recent update), and achievement badges for various distances and mile times.

All of this means that there’s always something to aim for, something to make you lace up the shoes and do that next run.

#5: The Community

This is the biggest attraction for me. There’s a whole running community on Zwift, with many group runs throughout the day hosted by the numerous running clubs. Many of these are led by experienced runners who can offer advice and support. The chat can often provide another distraction to take your mind away from the run itself. Often these clubs have associated social media sites to join so you can feel part of something and reach out for guidance or encouragement. 

Browse upcoming events at zwift.com/events >

Nearly all of these runs are based on your own pace, so there’s no need to feel like you can’t join in if you can only walk (for example).

#6: The Price

Best of all, running on Zwift is free. The last conversation I had with Zwift HQ was that there are no plans to change this. Although the pace of development is slower than that of our fee-paying cycling friends, Zwift running still has its own team internally, which means the future will include new and exciting things. 

So, all that’s left for you to do is lace up those shoes and power on the treadmill. Let’s run!