Indoor updates across the board, plus TrainerRoad’s new social feature
With the recent flurry of uptake in the indoor cycling space, you can bet that there have been a few sleepless nights for the developers at the various platforms.
Some programs, such as RGT, have taken the approach of making its program free for use, while the likes of The Sufferfest have created month-long indoor-specific training programs. And then there are new social-based features added to TrainerRoad.
Below is a summary for just a small handful of the latest updates to fall upon the virtual cycling world (some of which were covered in recent editions of the Daily News Digest).
TrainerRoad gets group rides
TrainerRoad, the long-standing training platform that’s best known for its detailed structured workouts, has just announced a wholly new feature which allows you to remotely train with your friends. Dubbed “Group Workouts”, the feature allows the sharing of voice, video and data as you do the same workout with up to four others.
“We have worked hard to get this feature out on a quick timeline to help everybody during this time period of social distancing, and as a result, will be continuously updating Group Workouts with new features,” reads the press release from the company. For now, the feature is limited for use on Mac or Windows only (no mobile), and all users must do the same workout, albeit at their own FTPs.
The new feature will provide a code for you to share with those who want to join your session.
The new feature is available to TrainerRoad subscribers only, and can be accessed through the new “Group Workouts” tab in the app.
CTS makes it library free
Looking for something to do with a “dumb” trainer, on rollers or simply without a Bluetooth/ANT+ connection? Carmichael Training Systems (CTS) is currently providing its entire library of training videos for free (well, in exchange for an email address). These sure bring back sweaty memories of sitting on a Cycleops Fluid trainer in front of the VCR.
RGT goes freemium
RGT Cycling, a relatively new virtual cycling competitor to Zwift, recently announced that it will offer all of its premium features without charge (until further notice). The announcement comes in response to cyclists the world over being locked indoors.
The company’s press release states “Workouts, organizing your own events and creating your own roads are now freely available for all (it’s usually US$14.99 / £12.99 per month).” More information can be found at www.rgtcycling.com.
The Sufferfest goes all-indoors
Wahoo-owned training platform The Sufferfest last week released a suite of month-long indoor-focussed training plans. In addition to spinning circles indoors, these plans place increased emphasis on yoga, strength, and mental training.
New users of the Sufferfest are being offered a free month subscription, enough to make your way through one of these new training plans (you’ll need to use code “ALLINSUFPLAN”).
FulGaz four-week free trial
FulGaz uses real-world riding footage for a virtual riding experience.
The Aussie-owned video-based cycling app, FulGaz, has recently expanded its two-week free trial to four weeks. Use code “58cofg” to give the app a try. We’ve been busy trialling this app ourselves – expect a full review soon.
Ironman is jumping into the pool
According to triathlon-focussed publication Triathlete, the Ironman group is soon (like, tomorrow) launching its own virtual training and racing platform. Details are a little vague, but the new app aims to serve as a training hub and race platform that could earn age-group athletes slots in 70.3 World Championships.
While the new app will be available free of charge, it’s suggested that races will have a registration fee.
Zwift reminds users of MeetUps
Zwift has reminded its user base of a social feature which allows you to create your own organised group ride for up to 50 of your closest friends (must be on your Zwift follower list). Named Meetups, this feature can be accessed through the Zwift Companion phone app.
Zwift already offered various means of socialising, including the ability to join an organised event, the option to “Ride With” a particular Zwift user already on course, or simply through setting a point on course and a meeting time to ride. Meetups allows the creation of a private event that makes it easier to ride together virtually. Learn more about the Meetups feature at Zwift.com.
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