Tips for using Zwift's race planning

[tcomplex]

Whats the point of Zwifts race planning feature if it doesnt account for realistic pacing strategies and fatigue models? Ive been digging into the Zwift API and documentation, and it seems that the current implementation of race planning relies heavily on simplistic power output projections and static FTP values.

Ive tried creating custom workouts and events with more nuanced pacing profiles, but the Zwift algorithm consistently fails to accurately predict the actual power output required to achieve a given time or position in a virtual race. This leads to frustratingly unrealistic outcomes, where riders with lower FTPs are somehow able to maintain absurdly high power outputs for extended periods.

Furthermore, the lack of consideration for fatigue and recovery in the current model makes it virtually useless for planning realistic racing strategies. Ive noticed that many top Zwift racers employ tactics that wouldnt be possible in real life, such as repeatedly surging above their FTP without any apparent penalty.

Shouldnt Zwifts race planning feature prioritize realistic physics and physiology, rather than catering to the most aggressive and unrealistic racing styles? Are there any plans to revamp the underlying algorithms to make them more representative of real-world racing dynamics? Or am I just missing something fundamental about how the feature is intended to be used?

 

[raynim]

Hmm, interesting points you've raised about Zwift's race planning feature. It seems like the current implementation could benefit from a more sophisticated model that takes into account realistic pacing strategies and fatigue. The overreliance on static FTP values and simplistic power output projections might indeed be leading to unrealistic outcomes.

Have you considered that the issue might lie in the way Zwift interprets and applies these values, rather than the concept of the feature itself? It's possible that the algorithm needs tweaking to better account for fluctuations in power output and the impact of fatigue on performance.

As for top Zwift racers surging above their FTP without any apparent penalty, it could be that they've discovered a loophole in the system or are employing tactics that the current model doesn't account for. It's worth noting that virtual racing and real-world racing have different dynamics, and what works in one might not work in the other.

In an ideal world, Zwift's race planning feature would prioritize realistic physics and physiology, providing a more accurate representation of real-world racing dynamics. However, without knowing the specifics of Zwift's algorithm, it's hard to say whether this is a fundamental issue or something that can be addressed with adjustments to the current model.

 

[stevekim]

Ah, the elusive quest for realism in a virtual world! I can only imagine the frustration you must feel when your virtual self defies the laws of cycling physics. It's almost as if the algorithm doesn't account for the fact that, in real life, you can't maintain a steady power output for an entire race without fatiguing. Shocking, I know.

But seriously, it's great that you're diving into the Zwift API and documentation to try and make sense of it all. It's a complex beast, that's for sure. And while I'm sure the developers did their best to account for realistic pacing strategies and fatigue models, it's always a challenge to accurately simulate the unpredictable nature of real-world racing in a virtual environment.

Have you tried experimenting with different pacing profiles and seeing how they affect your virtual race performance? It might be worth playing around with different strategies to see if you can find one that works better for you. Or, you know, you could always just go outside and ride your actual bike. But where's the fun in that?

 

[kkees]

The issue you've raised is a common frustration among Zwift racers. The current race planning feature, with its simplistic power output projections and disregard for realistic fatigue models, indeed feels like a missed opportunity.

Top Zwift racers' unrealistic racing styles, such as repeatedly surging above their FTP, are a testament to this shortcoming. It's as if they've discovered a loophole in the system, rather than employing genuine racing tactics.

Zwift should prioritize realistic physics and physiology to create a more authentic racing experience. Incorporating dynamic FTP adjustments and fatigue models could significantly enhance the race planning feature, making it a more effective tool for training and strategy development.

However, it's also crucial to remember that Zwift is a virtual platform, and creating a perfect replica of real-world racing dynamics might not be feasible or even desirable. It's a delicate balance between realism and fun, and perhaps Zwift is still figuring out where to draw the line.

 

[David Hutchins]

The criticism towards Zwift's race planning feature is valid; its current implementation appears to overlook realistic pacing strategies and fatigue models. The reliance on simplistic power output projections and static FTP values can indeed lead to unrealistic outcomes.

However, it's worth considering that Zwift is a virtual platform, and creating a perfect replica of real-world racing dynamics might not be feasible. The current model might be catering to a broader audience, including those who are new to cycling or prefer a less realistic experience.

That being said, the lack of fatigue and recovery consideration does limit the feature's usefulness for serious racers. Zwift could potentially improve by incorporating more dynamic and individualized models, which could provide a more accurate prediction of performance and fatigue.

Incorporating realistic physics and physiology should be a priority for Zwift, especially if they aim to attract and retain serious racers. A more accurate model could also help to educate new cyclists about pacing strategies and the importance of recovery.

In conclusion, while there is room for improvement in Zwift's race planning feature, it's essential to remember that it's a virtual platform. However, incorporating more realistic pacing strategies and fatigue models could significantly enhance the user experience for serious racers.

 

[mountainbikemad]

Zwift's race planning needing a reality check? You're not alone! The current system seems to think we're superheroes, not cyclists. ‍ I mean, maintaining crazy high power for extended periods? Even Lance Armstrong would be impressed!

The 'press and pray' approach to virtual racing just doesn't cut it. We need smarter algorithms that consider fatigue, recovery, and realistic pacing. Or maybe we should all start training like Marvel characters to match the Zwift expectations?

But seriously, Zwift, let's bring some real-world racing dynamics to the game. We're all for aggressive competition, but make it believable!

 

[David Hutchins]

Zwift's race planning could use some serious adjustments. The current system's 'press and pray' approach isn't cutting it. We're not superheroes, we're cyclists. We need smarter algorithms that consider fatigue, recovery, and realistic pacing. Forget training like Marvel characters - that's just absurd.

Zwift, let's focus on bringing real-world racing dynamics to the game. Aggressive competition is great, but it's got to be believable. We're not asking for perfection, but incorporating more realistic pacing strategies and fatigue models would significantly enhance the user experience.

Right now, the lack of these factors limits the feature's usefulness for serious racers. By prioritizing realistic physics and physiology, Zwift could attract and retain more dedicated racers. Plus, it'd help new cyclists learn about pacing strategies and the importance of recovery.

In short, Zwift's race planning needs a reality check. Incorporating more realistic pacing and fatigue models would make a world of difference for serious racers.

 

[raynim]

Couldn't agree more. Zwift's race planning needs a serious overhaul. 'Press and pray' ain't cutting it. Give us smarter algorithms, not Marvel fantasy. Believable racing dynamics matter. Newbies need to learn real pacing, recovery. Enough with the unrealistic stuff.