Bike Trainer App for Fitness

ellyseb1

My husband recently got a Tacx smart bike trainer and has been using it with Zwift. We've got the whole set up with a fan, big monitor, etc. I've tried it a few times and think it would be a great way to keep up cardio over the winter. However, I'm looking for a recommendation for other apps to use.

Most of them seem to be for hard core cyclists with lots of Tour de France style hill climb workouts that are more than an hour. I'd like like something just keep fit - either with classes or workouts that are more like what I used to do on the exercise bikes at the gym. I just need something to keep me going & adjust the levels for short rides ~30 to 45 min. Any suggestions?

Worst case, I will use it in manual mode and just watch Netflix while I pedal!

brianpperkins131

All of them have a range of routes.

- Peloton has an app that works with trainers besides their bike. More spin class type. (not one I use)

- Rouvy uses real world camera footage and offers a family plan. It's career progression depends on a lot of climbing routes but it also has pancake flat routes and workouts if you just want to ride. (one I use)

- Sufferfest. Ahhh ... Sufferlandria. This is more around structured workouts and plans scaled to your abilities. The workouts have internal storylines and race footage from years of pro events. (my go-to for structured workouts and fitness tests.)

- You've seen Zwift.

- Then there is Trainer Road, BKool, and a host of others.


Almost all of them have free trials. Take them for a test ride or two and see what you enjoy most.

kcjchang

Haven't seen any "controllable" workout session that is like a spin class. The two target very different clientele. Try YouTube for spin class.

Personally, I prefer RGT Cycling over Zwift. The feel is more realistic and I can ride on my own routes. More importantly, there's nothing dumbing down the effort with dinosaurs and such.

Machka9

I use Zwift and choose the routes that appeal to me.

BrianSharpe

Check out TrainerRoad. It's not as immersive as say Zwift or Sufferfest it's designed just to move you towards better fitness. Workouts are based on % of FTP (they suggest starting off with a ladder test to establish your baseline fitness).

I've been using it for a few years as a way of maintaining cycling fitness over the winter. It'll run on a PC or tablet (I've found that my HR tracking is more reliable with a chest strap than the wrist readings - if you're using one you may have to get an ANT+ dongle for a PC; some tablets have it built in you just need to turn it on in the settings)

As you progress you'll want to do periodic ladder tests to establish your new FTP.