{"id":21703,"date":"2021-06-03T11:44:22","date_gmt":"2021-06-03T09:44:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/harlerunner.de\/?p=21703"},"modified":"2024-12-20T16:40:39","modified_gmt":"2024-12-20T15:40:39","slug":"virtual-worlds-treadmill-apps-for-runners","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/harlerunner.de\/en\/virtual-worlds-treadmill-apps-for-runners\/","title":{"rendered":"Virtual Worlds – Treadmill Apps for Runners"},"content":{"rendered":"

My interest in smart treadmills<\/strong> is closely linked to the new possibilities to dive into virtual worlds<\/strong> for training. Just like cyclists have been able to do on their smart trainers for some time now.<\/p>\n

In addition to the right hardware (i.e. a treadmill), you also need the right software. Nowadays, this means apps<\/strong>, of course, which you then have on a screen in front of you during the workout. The list is quite large, but in my experience so far, only a few apps are useful.<\/p>\n

In fact, there are ultimately only three apps that I regularly (and happily) use on my runs on the Technogym MyRun<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Zwift<\/h2>\n

Zwift<\/a> is certainly the top dog here. With over three million accounts, the platform has grown strongly since its founding in 2014. Originally, the service was only aimed at cyclists and was even originally only a software for the PC. Today, Zwift<\/strong> is available for all mobile platforms. Since 2018, with Zwift Run<\/strong>, there is also the possibility to run in the virtual worlds. In contrast to the $15 monthly fee for cyclists, we runners have so far been allowed to join in for free<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Setup<\/h2>\n

The Zwift software<\/strong> can be installed on PCs, modern Android and iOS devices. In addition to mobile phones and tablets, Apple TV also works as a basis. To transfer one’s own movement into the virtual world, one must connect a speed sensor<\/strong>. This can be a foot pod like the Stryd<\/strong> or the Zwift pod<\/strong>. Smart treadmills such as the MyRun<\/strong> can also be paired directly. Meanwhile, Garmin watches<\/strong> have their own sport profile for virtual runs, so that the watch can also serve as a source for pace, cadence and heart rate.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Strictly speaking, you don’t need a treadmill for Zwift ;). With your mobile phone in your pocket, you could also collect your miles for Zwift outside – but without really being able to follow what’s happening on the screen, of course.<\/p>\n

Parallel to the main app, there is also Zwift Companion<\/strong> – something like Zwift’s own Facebook. Here you can follow each other, give likes, be notified of events and plan your next event.<\/p>\n