Let’s face it, running on a treadmill is boring. For those that run regularly or for longer distances staring at an LED console watching numbers increase can be mind numbing.
In my lifetime, I’ve completed tens of thousands of KMs on a treadmill, most of which were before Zwift existed and other than music there was never a good distraction to take you mind away from the monotony.
Then along came Zwift and treadmill running no longer feels a chore, in fact it can be quite enjoyable. So why do many treadmill runners use it. Here’s why:-
As above we’ve covered how dull staring at a treadmill screen or even worse a blank wall can be. Zwift provides that visual distraction by allowing you to run in numerous virtual worlds. Where you can cycle you can run in Zwift and there are a couple of running only routes where you can get away from those pesky cyclists if you so desire. As you are travelling at a slower place it allows you to take the time to admire the scenery without it flashing by so quickly. You can really appreciate the detail that goes into creating the worlds. You notice so much more. The Heads Up Display (HUD) has all the stats you need such as speed, cadence, heart rate etc.. You can also use the power up circle to pick a target distance, calories etc.. and you’ll get a nice countdown to your goal. All this provides numerous visual distractions in order to take the focus away from the possible suffering of your effort.
By pairing your Zwift device with a monitor or large screen in front of you it really can feel like you are there.
No matter whether you are completely new to running or a pro athlete training for your next event then there’s something for you. There is a vast workout library and training plans that cover training for a half marathon or those aiming to be a parkrun master over 5k.
All you need to do is set your best times over various distances and Zwift will then tailor the workout speeds accordingly. If you’re new to running then just do a free run and Zwift will estimate your times based on this. As you better these times then Zwift will update them for you.
You can also use Kinni with Zwift too. By using the Fitcast option you can connect Kinni to Zwift. So when you start your workout on Kinni it will control the speed and incline as it always does and your in game avatar will change speed accordingly. So you get to complete your favourite workout with a visual distraction.
One of the most common considerations when purchasing a treadmill is whether it connects to Zwift.
Well the good news is that the entire range of NoblePro treadmills can be directly connected to Zwift. No messing about with footpods or other devices and no need to keep batteries charged or do a calibration. Connect the NoblePro as a speed and cadence source and away you go. You can also connect the inbuilt heart rate monitor but maybe best to use your own so you have a constant reading without holding onto the handrails.
Kinni is also able to bridge the signal of many other treadmills manufacturers too so even if you are not lucky enough to own that NoblePro treadmill yet you can still use Kinni to get you up and running.
And remember, the market leading flagship model the E10i can actually run Zwift directly on the console so no need to additional devices.
Zwift currently has 30 levels which you achieve the more you run. Each level increase unlocks a new piece of kit for your avatar. Throughout the year there are events for which participation unlocks new kit also. And finally, some group runs contain kit unlocks. Levelling up can be quite addictive, particularly if during your run you can see that an extra couple of KM could see you hit the next level.
There are also some route badges for completing specific routes on Zwift. And some achievement badges too for various distances and also for completing a set distance under a certain time.
All of this means that there’s something to aim for, something to make you lace up the shoes and do than next run.
This for me is the biggest attraction. There’s a whole running community on Zwift. There are many group runs throughout the day hosted by the numerous running clubs. Many of these are led by experienced runners who can offer advice and support. The chat can often provide another distraction to take your mind away from the run itself. Often these clubs have associated social media sites to join so you can feel part of something and reach out for guidance or encouragement.
Nearly all of these runs are based on your own pace so there’s no need to feel like you can’t join in if you can only walk for example.
NoblePro has it’s own Zwift running club. Search NPRC on the Zwift companion app to join. And remember I run everyday at 9am GMT so pop along and join in.
Best of all running on Zwift is free. The last conversation I had with Zwift HQ was that there are no plans for this to change. Although the pace of development is slower than that of our fee paying cycling friends Zwift running still has its own team and that the future will include new and exciting things.
So all that’s left for you do to is to lace up those shoes and power on the treadmill.
