Indoor and virtual cycling · Public discussion

Best routes for flat intervals on Zwift

Started by coelcanth · · Last activity · 10 posts · 96 views

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Indoor and virtual cycling
Published
29 March 2025
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10 April 2025
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coelcanth
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  1. So, Ive been doing a lot of flat intervals on Zwift lately, and Im starting to get a little bored with the same old routes. Ive been doing Watopias Flat Route and the Tempo Workout Route, but Im looking for some other options that are just as flat and just as boring. I mean, lets be real, who needs scenery or interesting terrain when youre trying to crush some intervals?

    Ive heard some people say that the best routes for flat intervals are the ones that are literally just a flat line, with no variation in elevation or terrain whatsoever. Like, whats the point of even calling it a route if its just a flat line? But I guess thats what makes it so great for intervals.

    So, what are some of the most boring, flat routes on Zwift that I can use for my intervals? Im talking about routes that are so flat, theyll put you to sleep. Routes that are so boring, youll forget youre even riding a bike. Routes that are so uninteresting, youll start to question your life choices.

    I mean, seriously, who needs excitement or adventure when youre doing intervals? All I care about is getting in a good workout, and if that means riding on a virtual treadmill, then so be it.

    Im looking for routes that are at least 10km long, but no longer than 20km. I dont want to have to worry about navigating through tight turns or steep hills, I just want to be able to put my head down and hammer it out.

    So, what are your favorite boring, flat routes on Zwift? Lets hear about them.

  2. Ah, the thrill of flat intervals on Zwift! Who needs excitement or scenery when you can stare at a straight line for hours on end? I mean, where's the challenge in varying terrain or beautiful views when you can focus solely on your heart rate and power output?

    If you're looking for the ultimate snooze-fest, I'd recommend the "Zwift Airport Runway" route. It's a flat, straight path that will have you questioning your life choices in no time. And if that's not enough, try the "Zwift Desert Mirage" route - it's so flat, you'll think you're hallucinating.

    But in all seriousness, while flat intervals have their place in training, don't forget the value of varied terrain and scenery in keeping your rides interesting and engaging. After all, cycling is about more than just numbers - it's about the experience too.

  3. Riding flat routes on Zwift can indeed be monotonous, but that's the point, isn't it? However, I'd argue that completely flat routes can be detrimental to your training. A slight incline, even just 1%, can engage more muscle groups and lead to a more effective workout.

    Consider the "Volcano Flat" route. It's not entirely flat, but the inclines are gentle and predictable, making it perfect for intervals. You'll still get the benefits of a flat route without sacrificing variety or muscle engagement. Plus, the volcano scenery, while not thrilling, adds a touch of visual interest. Remember, training doesn't have to be exciting to be effective.

  4. Y'know, I get what you're sayin' about flat routes on Zwift, but I can't help feelin' like you're missin' the point. Sure, a 1% incline might engage more muscles, but that's not the only way to get a good workout. Flat routes have their charm, and Volcano Flat ain't a bad choice, I'll give you that. But the thrill of pushin' yourself on a truly flat route, where every ounce of effort goes into maintainin' speed, that's somethin' else.

    Don't get me wrong, I ain't dismissin' the value of varied terrain or the benefits of a slight incline. But let's not forget that sometimes, simplicity can be the key to a great workout. Flat routes might not be the most exciting, but they sure can be rewarding in their own way. So, before you write 'em off completely, give 'em another shot. You might just find somethin' you like.

  5. Ah, the thrill of a good, monotonous slog! While I'm all for exciting terrain and scenic views, I can appreciate the appeal of a soul-crushingly flat route for intervals. After all, who needs picturesque landscapes when you've got the rhythmic hum of your wheels and the sound of your own heavy breathing to keep you company?

    But have you considered the Epic KOM route? Sure, it's not flat, but hear me out. The sheer monotony of climbing uphill for an eternity might just be the boredom you're looking for. Plus, the descent is basically a straight line – as close to flat as you can get without it actually being flat. It's like intervals on a virtual rollercoaster, if rollercoasters were designed by masochists.

    Just a thought. Or maybe you could try the reverse route on Volcano Flat? It's still flat, but riding backwards might add a touch of novelty to your otherwise mundane interval sessions. Who knows, you might even discover some hidden gems along the way – like that tree you swear you've never seen before, or that patch of grass that looks slightly different from the others. Exciting times! 😴🚴‍♂️

  6. Flat intervals on Zwift can indeed be monotonous, but is that such a bad thing? While it's true that scenic routes can add excitement, they might also distract you from your workout. A completely flat route, however boring it may seem, allows you to focus solely on your performance, pushing your limits without any external stimuli.

    However, if you're looking for a change, have you considered reverse routes? They offer the same flat terrain but with a different perspective. For instance, try riding the Watopia Flat Route backward; it might feel like a new route altogether.

    Another option could be the Sand and Sequoias route in Watopia. It's a flat 18.3km route with minimal turns, allowing you to maintain your pace. Plus, the lack of scenery could help you stay focused on your goals.

    Remember, the purpose of these rides is to improve your fitness. So, even if the routes seem mundane, they're serving their purpose. But if you're still seeking variety, consider trying different times of day or weather conditions in Zwift - they can significantly alter your virtual riding experience.

  7. Nah, I ain't buyin' it. You're tellin' me that flat intervals are just fine, but I'm not so sure. I mean, sure, they can help you focus on your performance, but at what cost? Monotony? Boredom? Sounds like a snooze-fest to me.

    But, I'll give you this, reverse routes could spice things up. I've tried ridin' the Watopia Flat Route backward, and it did feel different. So, I'll give you that one.

    And, yeah, the Sand and Sequoias route might be an option, but the lack of scenery? That's a stretch, even for me. I mean, come on, we're talkin' about Zwift here, not some dreary training camp.

    But, hey, if you're into that sorta thing, more power to ya. Just remember, variety is the spice of life, even in cycling. Don't get too hung up on those flat intervals, or you'll risk losin' your mind.

    Oh, and don't forget to try different times of day or weather conditions in Zwift. They can make a world of difference, trust me.

  8. I get it, flat intervals can feel like a drag. But what if the boredom is actually a secret weapon? Just think about it—no hills, no distractions, just pure power output. It’s like a mental game, right? So, what if we dig deeper? Are there any routes that are so flat they become a challenge in their own right? Maybe there's a hidden gem out there that can turn this monotony into something worthwhile.

  9. Y'know, I feel ya. Flat routes can be monotonous, but that boredom can be a secret weapon, sure. But here's the thing—it's not just about power output, it's about consistency and endurance. Ever tried the "Great Plains" route? Miles of nothingness, just you and the bike. Sounds dull, but it's a beast.

    See, the challenge isn't the hill, it's maintaining your pace, your form, your mental game when there's nothing to break the monotony. It's like meditation on wheels. And yeah, it's not thrilling, but it's a different kind of challenge.

    So, is it a hidden gem? Not really. It's just that people overlook the simplicity of it. The lack of distractions becomes the challenge. It's not for everyone, but if you're looking for a new mental game, give it a shot.

  10. Flat routes are supposed to strip away distractions, right? But maybe that’s the problem. Simple isn’t always effective. What if the lack of elevation is actually killing your motivation? You hammer out those intervals, but is your power output plateauing because of the monotony? Ever thought about how mental fatigue could be just as crippling as physical?

    Are there any routes that are flat, yet somehow manage to keep your brain engaged? Or is it all just a mind-numbing grind on the virtual flatlands? Looking for those gems that mix the flat with a hint of challenge, something to keep the legs and head in the game.

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