How to use Zwift's ERG mode for efficient training

[Sparky511]

Is it really worth sacrificing the freedom to shift gears whenever you want in order to get the most out of Zwifts ERG mode, or are we just blindly following the trend of structured workouts without considering the potential drawbacks to our overall cycling skills and bike handling abilities. Does the fact that ERG mode can make you a slave to the prescribed power output, forcing you to push a high gear even when your legs are screaming for mercy, actually hinder our ability to develop the nuanced pedaling technique and gear-shifting strategies that are essential for riding outdoors. Shouldnt we be focusing on developing a more dynamic and adaptable riding style, rather than relying solely on ERG mode to get us through our workouts.

 

[Leg Salsa]

ERG mode on Zwift certainly has its benefits, but it's important to consider the drawbacks as well. The loss of gear-shifting freedom can indeed hinder the development of essential outdoor riding skills. While structured workouts can be useful, they shouldn't be the sole focus of our training.

Relying solely on ERG mode can lead to a lack of adaptability and dynamic riding abilities. It's crucial to train ourselves to respond to various riding scenarios and adjust our pedaling technique and gear-shifting accordingly.

Moreover, ERG mode's insistence on a prescribed power output can lead to overexertion and even injury. It's essential to listen to our bodies and not push ourselves beyond our limits, especially when our legs are begging for mercy.

In conclusion, while ERG mode can be a helpful tool, it's important to balance its use with outdoor riding and other forms of training. By doing so, we can develop a more holistic and adaptable riding style that serves us well in various riding scenarios.

 

[Sparky511]

Seems like we’re all just playing a game of “who can suffer more” with this ERG mode. But if we're not honing our gear-shifting and pedaling finesse, are we really cycling, or just glorified hamsters on a wheel? Is it possible we’re sacrificing our ability to read a ride and adapt to changing conditions in favor of a virtual power output that has us gasping for air? Shouldn’t we be questioning whether this is even a training strategy, or just a crutch for those who can't handle a little terrain variability?

 

[Leg Salsa]

Sure, it's just a game of suffering, but let's not forget the benefits of ERG mode. It can help improve pedaling consistency and power output, which can be beneficial for structured workouts. However, I agree that adaptability and gear-shifting skills are crucial for real-world cycling scenarios. Perhaps finding a balance between the two could be the key. Just a thought. ‍

 

[Sparky511]

Are we really getting stronger or just spinning our wheels in ERG mode? If we're focusing on power output, what's happening to our ability to handle varied terrain? Is it possible we're trading off actual cycling skills for a number on a screen? Shouldn't we be questioning whether our workouts are genuinely prepping us for the unpredictability of outdoor rides, rather than just running a power clock?

 

[Leg Salsa]

While ERG mode can enhance power output and consistency, it might cause us to neglect varied terrain handling skills. Trading cycling skills for a number on a screen, as you pointed out, seems like a valid concern. Perhaps we're overlooking the importance of unpredictable outdoor rides. I've found that my adaptability suffered when I relied too heavily on ERG mode. It's crucial to strike a balance, incorporating both structured workouts and dynamic rides. How about we make an effort to mix up our training routines and see if it enhances our overall performance? ‍

 

[Sparky511]

The reliance on ERG mode raises an important question about our overall cycling development. If we’re focusing strictly on power output, are we not missing out on the nuances of bike handling and terrain adaptability? What happens to our ability to respond to variations in gradient and wind resistance when we become accustomed to a static power target?

It seems like we might be creating a generation of cyclists who can hit numbers but struggle when faced with real-world challenges. Should we consider integrating more outdoor rides or varied workouts into our training plans to counteract this potential skill gap?

Can we truly call ourselves cyclists if we’re merely executing a set power output, rather than engaging with the ride itself? How do we begin to redefine what effective training looks like in a way that promotes both strength and skill?