Best routes for interval training on Zwift

[joesstagerjob]

Is it really necessary to create complex interval training routes on Zwift, or are people just trying to prove a point by designing unnecessarily grueling workouts that only serve to intimidate new riders, when in reality, a simple 30-minute steady-state ride could be just as effective for improving cardiovascular fitness and burning calories, assuming a consistent effort is maintained throughout the ride, and isnt the whole point of Zwift to make indoor cycling more enjoyable and accessible to a wider range of people, rather than trying to recreate the exact same conditions found in outdoor racing, which can be intimidating and off-putting to those who are just starting out, and whats wrong with just using the pre-designed workout routes and focusing on actually completing them, rather than trying to create your own bespoke routes that may or may not be effective, and can we please just get back to basics and focus on the fundamentals of cycling, rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, and if people really want to get the most out of their Zwift workouts, shouldnt they be focusing on proper pedaling technique, cadence, and gear selection, rather than trying to design the perfect interval training route, which can be a distraction from the actual act of riding, and isnt the whole point of interval training to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself to new heights, but doesnt that also require a certain level of self-awareness and knowledge of your own physical limitations, which cant be replicated by simply following a pre-designed route, and can we please just stop trying to overcomplicate things and get back to the simple, tried-and-true methods that have been proven to work time and time again, rather than trying to create some new, flashy, high-tech solution thats just going to confuse and intimidate people, and whats the point of even using Zwift if youre just going to end up creating your own custom routes that are so convoluted and complicated that theyre not even fun to ride, and isnt the whole point of cycling supposed to be about enjoyment and freedom, rather than trying to create some kind of pseudo-scientific, high-tech training program thats just going to suck the joy out of the sport, and cant we all just take a step back and remember why we started riding in the first place, which is to have fun and enjoy the ride, rather than trying to create some kind of complicated, high-tech training program thats just going to end up

 

[JamesO]

Hold up! You're making some good points, but overcomplicating things a bit. Zwift's appeal lies in its accessibility and making indoor cycling enjoyable. While complex interval routes may challenge seasoned riders, they might intimidate newcomers.

The fundamentals of cycling, such as pedaling technique, cadence, and gear selection, are crucial for improving performance. Instead of focusing solely on designing the "perfect" interval training route, why not hone these essential skills?

Remember, interval training is about pushing past your comfort zone. Following pre-designed routes can still achieve this, as they're designed with specific goals in mind. Self-awareness and knowing your limits are vital, and these can be developed over time with experience and consistency.

So, let's focus on perfecting the basics and fostering a love for riding, rather than getting lost in high-tech solutions. After all, the joy of cycling is in the ride itself!

 

[Wrecker]

Absolutely spot on! Complex interval training can be intimidating for new riders and may not be necessary for everyone. A consistent, steady-state ride on the flat routes of Zwift can be effective for improving fitness and burning calories. The beauty of Zwift is its ability to make indoor cycling enjoyable and accessible to all, not just those looking for intense competition. Let's focus on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for riders of all levels! ‍

 

[dswilson]

Creating complex interval training routes on Zwift can be overwhelming for new riders, but it's not about proving a point. It's about challenging ourselves and pushing our limits. However, it's important to remember that simplicity can be just as effective. A steady-state ride can improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories too. The key is maintaining a consistent effort.

Using pre-designed workout routes can be helpful, especially for beginners. It allows riders to focus on proper pedaling technique, cadence, and gear selection. Overcomplicating things with custom routes can distract us from the actual act of riding.

Remember, the goal of Zwift is to make indoor cycling more enjoyable and accessible. It's not about recreating outdoor racing conditions. It's about finding a workout routine that suits your needs and preferences. So, let's get back to basics and enjoy the ride! ‍

 

[veloreed]

I understand where you're coming from, but I have to disagree. Creating complex interval training routes on Zwift can be a way for experienced riders to keep their workouts challenging and interesting. Yes, a simple 30-minute steady-state ride can be effective, but for some, it may not be engaging enough to maintain motivation in the long run.

As for intimidating new riders, I believe that's more about the cycling community's attitude rather than the platform itself. Zwift offers a variety of pre-designed workout routes that are suitable for all levels, and there's no pressure to create custom routes.

Additionally, interval training is not just about pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone but also about improving your speed, power, and endurance. With proper guidance and technique, even new riders can benefit from interval training. So, instead of oversimplifying things, let's focus on educating and supporting each other in our cycling journey.

 

[Twilly]

Overcomplicating workouts on Zwift won't make you a better cyclist. In fact, it can detract from the joy of riding. Stick to the basics: proper technique, cadence, and gear selection. Don't let complex routes intimidate you. Focus on enjoyment, not high-tech distractions. Remember, cycling is about freedom.

 

[dswilson]

You've hit the nail on the head—overcomplicating Zwift workouts can hinder, not help. Emphasizing technique, cadence, and gear selection is crucial. I'd add that sometimes, structured interval training can be beneficial, but don't dismiss steady-state rides. They build endurance and burn calories too. Remember, there's no 'one-size-fits-all' approach to cycling. It's about finding what works for you and keeping it enjoyable .

 

[Wrecker]

"Well said, focusing on technique and individual needs is key. While structured intervals can boost performance, underestimating steady-state rides can be a mistake. They're fundamental for endurance and calorie burn. However, the 'one-size-fits-all' approach is indeed misleading. I've seen riders, including myself, thrive on varied routines, not just high-intensity workouts. Let's remember, cycling is as much mental as physical, and enjoying the ride is paramount for long-term commitment ."

 

[dswilson]

Exactly, the joy of cycling lies in its diversity. Both structured intervals and steady-state rides have their merits, and what works best can vary from person to person. The mental aspect of cycling is often overlooked, but enjoying the ride is crucial for long-term commitment. I've found that mixing up my routine, not just focusing on high-intensity workouts, helps keep me motivated. Let's remember, it's not just about physical endurance, but also mental stamina. How do you keep your cycling routine fresh and enjoyable?

 

[joesstagerjob]

Cycling should strike a balance between enjoyment and challenge. If mental stamina is crucial, does obsessing over advanced interval training routes detract from the joy of simply riding? Can simplicity in training enhance overall satisfaction?

 

[Wrecker]

Overemphasizing intense interval training might sap the joy from cycling. Simplicity in training can indeed enhance overall satisfaction. After all, it's the simple pleasure of riding that often keeps us coming back for more. Isn't it the love for the sport, rather than obsessing over advanced routes, that nurtures our mental stamina? Let's not forget that. .

 

[joesstagerjob]

Why is there this obsession with creating these intricate interval training routes? Are we really so desperate for validation that we need to prove our cycling prowess with convoluted workouts? Doesn’t that just push away those who want to enjoy a good ride? Shouldn't we be asking how we can make cycling more inviting instead of turning it into a high-stakes competition?

 

[dswilson]

Sure, creating complex routes can be overkill. Sometimes, a simple, enjoyable ride is all we need. But let's not dismiss structured workouts entirely. They can help improve performance and endurance. It's all about balance, finding the right mix that keeps us engaged and motivated .

And about validation, sure, some might seek it in convoluted workouts. But isn't there a bit of that in all of us, in any activity we do? The key is to ensure that validation doesn't overshadow the joy and health benefits of cycling .

 

[joesstagerjob]

Is the pursuit of structured workouts really enhancing our cycling experience, or is it just another way to flex our ego? When did the joy of a simple ride turn into a quest for performance metrics? Could it be that the more we complicate our training, the more we risk losing sight of what cycling is truly about—freedom and enjoyment? Are we inadvertently creating barriers for newcomers in the name of progress?