Still on the topic of training during winter, there’s often the perception that indoor cycling workouts are monotonous and seem endless, no matter how short they are. It’s also common to think that these workouts aren’t effective enough to improve fitness and are only good for maintaining it.
That’s an idea that’s long outdated — and for good reason! Personally, I’ve always managed to improve my performance during the colder months compared to most athletes in my category at competitions. A few years ago, I had the chance to enhance my indoor training practice, guided by my cycling coach and staying up to date with the “new things” coming onto the Brazilian market.
My more specific workouts, when done on Zwift, are uploaded via the integration with Training Peaks. My coach builds structured workouts there, and they become available in Zwift on the day I need to complete them. The Interactive Smart Trainers can interpret them and even adjust resistance/power to be maintained during the specified intervals. It’s very convenient! Learn how to set up the Zwift and Training Peaks integration here.
The workout created in Training Peaks is loaded into Zwift through the user’s account integration.
Another way to stay motivated in training is by participating in events and races. Yes! There are events every day and on special dates — for instance, during the Tour de France, specific rides are offered. There are also daily races. Some even have rankings, and a few are organized as a way to scout new talent for certain organizations. The races are divided into categories, so it’s important to know which one suits you best to make it more competitive. On the Zwift Power website, you’ll find the full race calendar and all related information. I usually join a few races throughout the year to check how my training is progressing, especially when the gaps between my real-world races (laughs) get too long.
NOTE: Pay attention to the time zone so you don’t miss your scheduled race.
Train with your friends on Zwift
I bet many of your cycling buddies already have a Zwift account. Just like on a social network, you can follow users, mark your favorites, and interact. That means you can schedule workouts and meet up with them at the agreed time to ride your favorite route together.
Along the same lines, there’s a handy feature called Zwift MeetUp, which lets you schedule rides with people who follow you. You can set the start time, duration, distance, and even the race category if you’re aiming for a more competitive ride. To learn more, visit this page on Zwift’s website.
Ultimately, the quality of training is unquestionable because you’re able to execute exactly what’s required. And when using ERG Mode, the Interactive Smart Trainer automatically adjusts itself, ensuring the intensity of each interval is maintained as planned.
Speed, Power, Heart Rate, Cadence — all precisely tracked… Not even a quick bathroom break goes unnoticed…
Indoor bike workouts are no longer just a winter option. They can be used year-round — either to complement a competitive athlete’s training or as an alternative activity for those with limited time. No, it doesn’t replace outdoor rides, which are still the most fun and beloved by cyclists.
Did you enjoy this content? Have questions? Reach out on the Gear Tips Forum — I’m happy to help.
Cheers!
This post is also available in: Português (Portuguese (Brazil)) Español (Spanish)
