When it comes to Zwift routes for power training, I often find myself torn between shorter, more intense routes and longer, more steady-state options. On one hand, shorter routes like the Figure Eight or Tick Tock allow for a higher level of intensity and can be a great way to boost power output. On the other hand, longer routes like the Tour of Watopia or Tempus Fugit provide a more realistic simulation of a real-world ride and can help build endurance and stamina.
But what Im really curious about is how different routes affect the type of power training youre doing. For example, if youre trying to build sprint power, is a shorter, more intense route like The Mountain Loop better than a longer, more steady-state route like The Hilly Route? And conversely, if youre trying to build endurance power, is a longer route like The Flat Route better than a shorter, more intense route like The Volcano Circuit?
Id love to hear from others on this topic. What are your favorite Zwift routes for power training, and how do you choose which routes to ride depending on your training goals? Do you find that certain routes are better suited for certain types of training, and if so, why? And are there any routes that youve found to be particularly effective for building power, but that might not be immediately obvious?
Id also love to hear from road cyclists who think they can do it better. Do you think that Zwift routes can replace real-world riding for power training, or are there certain benefits to riding outdoors that you just cant replicate indoors? And if you do think that Zwift routes can be effective for power training, how do you choose which routes to ride and how do you incorporate them into your overall training plan?
Ultimately, Im hoping to spark a discussion about the best ways to use Zwift routes for power training, and to hear from others about their experiences and strategies.