I have not used Trainer Road so cannot comment on it. What I can say is that Team EN is on Zwift big time. The team mojo and the socially competitive aspect of Zwift has pushed me be a much better cyclist. The EN workouts are available for both platforms. You will find the WKOs that fit your plan and move them to whichever platform you choose. I would strongly recommend Zwift simply because of the interaction and motivation you will get from the team and others as you integrate. If you use Zwift, you should also use the Discord app to chat with other team members and join the EN scheduled rides and races throughout the week. There is loads of information in the forums on Zwift to help you get set up. Good luck! Hope to see you on Zwift.
I've been through three generations of workouts with smart trainers since I got a CompuTrainer in 2006. That was a clunky system, not connected to the web, and based on 20th century software with an interface and learning curve to match. I was creating my own workouts, fighting with multiple cables, and generally saw the whole indoor workout thing as drudgery. Early '10s, Trainer Road came along. Gen 2. It was a breeze to either use their workouts or one that industrious ENers created and shared, simple to connect to the KICKR I bought, and easy to watch my progress during workouts and intervals. Three years ago, Gen 3: Zwift. A quantum leap for me from TR, because of the addition of "gamification" and real-time social interaction. I did not renew my annual TR subscription.
In very general terms, the way I use Zwift in the winter, when I am doing everything indoors, is 3 basic workouts a week. One day, an EN-specific workout created by the team when I want to do "VO2 max" stuff - intervals @ 110-150% of FTP, of length 10-180 seconds. For "FTP" workouts, @ 90-100% of FTP, I will do a zwift race of length from 25-60 minutes. And one or two weekend days, I will find either an EN ride, or a Zwift ride, to get some time and effort in @ 65-85% of FTP.
If you are new, meaning in the first 2-3 years, to interval workouts on a trainer, it's best to do the EN workouts as written. If you have a fair amount of trainer-based work under your belt, are an accomplished cyclist, then Zwift races and rides are an equally good choice for continued improvement, instead of the FTP and longer workouts.
The EN OS workouts for Zwift are here, on the right side of the page:
If you need help getting them into your computer so they can be used on Zwift, just ask and someone can walk you thru it, or search for the thread on the topic here on the Forum.
I think there are a couple of considerations you should weigh before deciding which platform to use. I agree with @Sid Wavrin that many on the team use Zwift as it's a fun and motivating platform. I believe many ENrs used TrainerRoad in the past when it was the only real option available for indoor training and got burnt out staring at the workout screen -- Zwift is such a radical departure from that and transformed the indoor training experience. I use both, but do all my structured workouts in TrainerRoad and use Zwift for group-rides, races, etc. I'll explain my rationale below.
Consideration #1 - What device will you be running the app on? If you are running your sessions from a laptop, both Zwift and Trainer Road will be possible. Coach P has created a set of workout files that can be downloaded onto your computer. If you're running the Zwift or TrainerRoad app from an iPad or phone I do not believe it is very easy (or even possible) to download the Zwift workout files. The only example I've seen is from this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2fvi5VJOBw and he's downloading the workout from TrainingPeaks. I do not believe Final Surge allows this to happen. Perhaps a WSM can correct me on this?
Consideration #2 - How much riding will you do beyond the structured workouts? Zwift is addicting and you'll likely find yourself wanting to ride more than what your plan states; even if you only have time for just the structured workouts, in Zwift, you'll be doing that workout besides hundreds of other athletes in one the many worlds Zwift has to offer. There is no "just riding around" in TrainerRoad, you have to load a workout, whereas in Zwift you can start the app and just begin pedaling. There are a lot of options for races and group rides if you want to go that path.
Consideration #3 - Do you want to analyze ride data? The post-ride analysis functions in TrainerRoad are superior to Zwift in my opinion and the capabilities are something I'm used to. That said, you can get similar analysis for a Zwift ride, all you'll need to do is send that workout to Training Peaks.
As I mentioned above, I do my structured workouts in TrainerRoad mostly because I've used it for 6+ years and I'm a creature of habit and I run my workouts from an iPad. I don't have a problem staring at the TrainerRoad screen when I'm focusing on the workout, but I know not everyone wants that. Zwift has revolutionized indoor training and it is a great tool to use within EN. As Sid mentioned, getting on Discord with other teammates during a group ride, race, or workout really does make the time go by (I should note, you can get on Discord and not be on Zwift. I've listened and talked to teammates during TrainerRoad workouts too). The team has a few standing Zwift rides a week and it helps build a sense of community.
I believe monthly pricing is the same at $15/month, but believe TrainerRoad has an option of $129/year -- check that as both companies modified pricing last year.
I would say if you're running the apps from a laptop, got the Zwift route. You'll have more options and many people on the team are on the platform. You'll be addicted very quickly!
The Interwebs are filled with endless debates on the topic, but I really don't see this as a "which one is better" issue. They're different tools for the toolkit, and plenty of people use both depending on the particular need/ride of the day.
I love Zwift when I'm free riding or "racing" (okay, very slow racing, but in theory) outside of a structured workout. However, my time zones never align with Team events, so the social aspect will never work for me. I also travel a ton, especially in markets with limited connectivity. That works great for Trainer Road, which has full offline functionality, but is a non-starer with Zwift.
The net is I -- like many others -- use both depending on the ride. Yeah, I know, wasted money and overpaying, but once you starting adding up the bikes, etc., what's another $100! If you're generally in the right time zones to do all the social things and constantly have access to your full kit at home, awesome, Zwift is a great choice. If you don't, Trainer Road might be better, and if you're mixed go with both.
One new (and I think very compelling) point point in Zwift's favor is Garmin's new beta OS for the FR945. If you have a 945 and are running the beta, you can now do a heart rate and running data broadcast that integrates extremely well with Zwift Running. It's a terrific option for people who often travel and are stuck on bad gym treadmills. Yes, true, Styd is more accurate, includes power and provides better outside support. Don't get me wrong, I love Stryd. On a trip when I won't be running outside, however, I can get 80% of the functionality and accuracy -- more than enough for me -- without bringing another device, another charger, and another cable (micro USB, really?). One less thing (or three fewer things) for me to forget in the hotel.
I used TrainerRoads for several years and i really liked their workouts. However since i joined EN last May i became a Zwift convert and i now do all my indoor rides on this platform: races, group workouts, individual workouts, meetups etc.., i like the virtual worlds and the interactivity with other rides / runners. I also use Zwift for all my indoor runs as well (with a Stryd pod). I use Zwift with an Apple TV (ethernet connection) and it's been extremely reliable. I cancelled my TR subscription this month as i was not using it anymore.
I have never used TR, but just from seeing screen shots and short videos from friends that use it, I couldn't sit there for hours on end staring at a bar graph and the such. For me, and I am sure many others, the trainer can become true torture and drudgery if one isn't mentally engaged and immersed as well. The video game aspect of it, even during structured ERG workouts is a tremendous mental help for me. Throw in the various extras such as group rides, group workouts, races, and the myriad of in ride goodies from the sprints, segments, KOMs and the such it really gives great motivation and engagement to keep one interested and pushing ones self.
One of my kids is exceptionally active, very athletic and joined NICA to race mountain bikes. Getting him to use Zwift was easy. My other kid however is the laziest SOB I've ever met. Zero athletic ability or interest. Zip. None. Nada. However, he is and his brother are both heavily involved in Scouting and both made Eagle this year. This summer they are going on a bike packing trip with the Scouts where they ride mountain bikes about 18 miles a day. So to get the lazy one some physical activity in prep for the trip this summer I told him he has to do Zwift a couple times a week and ride outdoors 1 time a week weather permitting. I threw him on Zwift and told him to just easy spin for 30 minutes. I come out to check on him, he's yelling at the TV, sprinting, and sweating like a beast. I asked him what he was doing. He named a couple riders that just passed him and he wasn't going to let them get away. A minute later I noticed a short sprint segment was coming up and got him ready to attack it. He beat his mom's time by 3 seconds which got him really excited and of course he had to let her know.
This in my opinion is what makes Zwift a superior experience for the indoor training. Its so easy to zone out and lose focus, or worse, dread the trainer because its a mind numbing displeasure, which can lead to blowing off a session or two or more because its not enjoyable or engaging and eventually hating the trainer. The immersive and video game aspect of it keeps the brain awake, active, and into the experience.
FWIW I actively use and have both but bottom line if you're choosing, you can make Zwift to TrainerRoad things (workouts, plans, etc.), but you can't really make TR do Zwift (social) so if you're picking one and especially because you're presumable using an EN plan, Zwift fo sho. Hope that makes sense.
I'm with @Jeff Phillips on this. I use both. I have been with TrainerRoad since they started. I was actually on a conference call with them when we were first trying to integrate TR with EN. It was the day after they quit their full time jobs. Interesting times!
For me, TrainerRoad is intervals that I create super fast and easy. Zwift is riding around at IM watts.
Comments
I have not used Trainer Road so cannot comment on it. What I can say is that Team EN is on Zwift big time. The team mojo and the socially competitive aspect of Zwift has pushed me be a much better cyclist. The EN workouts are available for both platforms. You will find the WKOs that fit your plan and move them to whichever platform you choose. I would strongly recommend Zwift simply because of the interaction and motivation you will get from the team and others as you integrate. If you use Zwift, you should also use the Discord app to chat with other team members and join the EN scheduled rides and races throughout the week. There is loads of information in the forums on Zwift to help you get set up. Good luck! Hope to see you on Zwift.
I've been through three generations of workouts with smart trainers since I got a CompuTrainer in 2006. That was a clunky system, not connected to the web, and based on 20th century software with an interface and learning curve to match. I was creating my own workouts, fighting with multiple cables, and generally saw the whole indoor workout thing as drudgery. Early '10s, Trainer Road came along. Gen 2. It was a breeze to either use their workouts or one that industrious ENers created and shared, simple to connect to the KICKR I bought, and easy to watch my progress during workouts and intervals. Three years ago, Gen 3: Zwift. A quantum leap for me from TR, because of the addition of "gamification" and real-time social interaction. I did not renew my annual TR subscription.
In very general terms, the way I use Zwift in the winter, when I am doing everything indoors, is 3 basic workouts a week. One day, an EN-specific workout created by the team when I want to do "VO2 max" stuff - intervals @ 110-150% of FTP, of length 10-180 seconds. For "FTP" workouts, @ 90-100% of FTP, I will do a zwift race of length from 25-60 minutes. And one or two weekend days, I will find either an EN ride, or a Zwift ride, to get some time and effort in @ 65-85% of FTP.
If you are new, meaning in the first 2-3 years, to interval workouts on a trainer, it's best to do the EN workouts as written. If you have a fair amount of trainer-based work under your belt, are an accomplished cyclist, then Zwift races and rides are an equally good choice for continued improvement, instead of the FTP and longer workouts.
The EN OS workouts for Zwift are here, on the right side of the page:
If you need help getting them into your computer so they can be used on Zwift, just ask and someone can walk you thru it, or search for the thread on the topic here on the Forum.
Hi @Francisco Javier Rodriguez
I think there are a couple of considerations you should weigh before deciding which platform to use. I agree with @Sid Wavrin that many on the team use Zwift as it's a fun and motivating platform. I believe many ENrs used TrainerRoad in the past when it was the only real option available for indoor training and got burnt out staring at the workout screen -- Zwift is such a radical departure from that and transformed the indoor training experience. I use both, but do all my structured workouts in TrainerRoad and use Zwift for group-rides, races, etc. I'll explain my rationale below.
Consideration #1 - What device will you be running the app on? If you are running your sessions from a laptop, both Zwift and Trainer Road will be possible. Coach P has created a set of workout files that can be downloaded onto your computer. If you're running the Zwift or TrainerRoad app from an iPad or phone I do not believe it is very easy (or even possible) to download the Zwift workout files. The only example I've seen is from this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2fvi5VJOBw and he's downloading the workout from TrainingPeaks. I do not believe Final Surge allows this to happen. Perhaps a WSM can correct me on this?
Consideration #2 - How much riding will you do beyond the structured workouts? Zwift is addicting and you'll likely find yourself wanting to ride more than what your plan states; even if you only have time for just the structured workouts, in Zwift, you'll be doing that workout besides hundreds of other athletes in one the many worlds Zwift has to offer. There is no "just riding around" in TrainerRoad, you have to load a workout, whereas in Zwift you can start the app and just begin pedaling. There are a lot of options for races and group rides if you want to go that path.
Consideration #3 - Do you want to analyze ride data? The post-ride analysis functions in TrainerRoad are superior to Zwift in my opinion and the capabilities are something I'm used to. That said, you can get similar analysis for a Zwift ride, all you'll need to do is send that workout to Training Peaks.
As I mentioned above, I do my structured workouts in TrainerRoad mostly because I've used it for 6+ years and I'm a creature of habit and I run my workouts from an iPad. I don't have a problem staring at the TrainerRoad screen when I'm focusing on the workout, but I know not everyone wants that. Zwift has revolutionized indoor training and it is a great tool to use within EN. As Sid mentioned, getting on Discord with other teammates during a group ride, race, or workout really does make the time go by (I should note, you can get on Discord and not be on Zwift. I've listened and talked to teammates during TrainerRoad workouts too). The team has a few standing Zwift rides a week and it helps build a sense of community.
I believe monthly pricing is the same at $15/month, but believe TrainerRoad has an option of $129/year -- check that as both companies modified pricing last year.
I would say if you're running the apps from a laptop, got the Zwift route. You'll have more options and many people on the team are on the platform. You'll be addicted very quickly!
The Interwebs are filled with endless debates on the topic, but I really don't see this as a "which one is better" issue. They're different tools for the toolkit, and plenty of people use both depending on the particular need/ride of the day.
I love Zwift when I'm free riding or "racing" (okay, very slow racing, but in theory) outside of a structured workout. However, my time zones never align with Team events, so the social aspect will never work for me. I also travel a ton, especially in markets with limited connectivity. That works great for Trainer Road, which has full offline functionality, but is a non-starer with Zwift.
The net is I -- like many others -- use both depending on the ride. Yeah, I know, wasted money and overpaying, but once you starting adding up the bikes, etc., what's another $100! If you're generally in the right time zones to do all the social things and constantly have access to your full kit at home, awesome, Zwift is a great choice. If you don't, Trainer Road might be better, and if you're mixed go with both.
One new (and I think very compelling) point point in Zwift's favor is Garmin's new beta OS for the FR945. If you have a 945 and are running the beta, you can now do a heart rate and running data broadcast that integrates extremely well with Zwift Running. It's a terrific option for people who often travel and are stuck on bad gym treadmills. Yes, true, Styd is more accurate, includes power and provides better outside support. Don't get me wrong, I love Stryd. On a trip when I won't be running outside, however, I can get 80% of the functionality and accuracy -- more than enough for me -- without bringing another device, another charger, and another cable (micro USB, really?). One less thing (or three fewer things) for me to forget in the hotel.
I used TrainerRoads for several years and i really liked their workouts. However since i joined EN last May i became a Zwift convert and i now do all my indoor rides on this platform: races, group workouts, individual workouts, meetups etc.., i like the virtual worlds and the interactivity with other rides / runners. I also use Zwift for all my indoor runs as well (with a Stryd pod). I use Zwift with an Apple TV (ethernet connection) and it's been extremely reliable. I cancelled my TR subscription this month as i was not using it anymore.
I have never used TR, but just from seeing screen shots and short videos from friends that use it, I couldn't sit there for hours on end staring at a bar graph and the such. For me, and I am sure many others, the trainer can become true torture and drudgery if one isn't mentally engaged and immersed as well. The video game aspect of it, even during structured ERG workouts is a tremendous mental help for me. Throw in the various extras such as group rides, group workouts, races, and the myriad of in ride goodies from the sprints, segments, KOMs and the such it really gives great motivation and engagement to keep one interested and pushing ones self.
One of my kids is exceptionally active, very athletic and joined NICA to race mountain bikes. Getting him to use Zwift was easy. My other kid however is the laziest SOB I've ever met. Zero athletic ability or interest. Zip. None. Nada. However, he is and his brother are both heavily involved in Scouting and both made Eagle this year. This summer they are going on a bike packing trip with the Scouts where they ride mountain bikes about 18 miles a day. So to get the lazy one some physical activity in prep for the trip this summer I told him he has to do Zwift a couple times a week and ride outdoors 1 time a week weather permitting. I threw him on Zwift and told him to just easy spin for 30 minutes. I come out to check on him, he's yelling at the TV, sprinting, and sweating like a beast. I asked him what he was doing. He named a couple riders that just passed him and he wasn't going to let them get away. A minute later I noticed a short sprint segment was coming up and got him ready to attack it. He beat his mom's time by 3 seconds which got him really excited and of course he had to let her know.
This in my opinion is what makes Zwift a superior experience for the indoor training. Its so easy to zone out and lose focus, or worse, dread the trainer because its a mind numbing displeasure, which can lead to blowing off a session or two or more because its not enjoyable or engaging and eventually hating the trainer. The immersive and video game aspect of it keeps the brain awake, active, and into the experience.
FWIW I actively use and have both but bottom line if you're choosing, you can make Zwift to TrainerRoad things (workouts, plans, etc.), but you can't really make TR do Zwift (social) so if you're picking one and especially because you're presumable using an EN plan, Zwift fo sho. Hope that makes sense.
I'm with @Jeff Phillips on this. I use both. I have been with TrainerRoad since they started. I was actually on a conference call with them when we were first trying to integrate TR with EN. It was the day after they quit their full time jobs. Interesting times!
For me, TrainerRoad is intervals that I create super fast and easy. Zwift is riding around at IM watts.