Bought my first turbo

MrKev83 wrote:

I got the tacx flow smart T2240

I've joined zwift on a free trial and I've done a group ride and ftp test

I don't really know how to get the best out of it. I'm completely new to turbos

I'm thinking try all the free trials on different apps and then go from there but how would I stick to a training plan on the turbo and then say if I got the chance to go out how would I do training in the real world. I've never done any structured training but really want to get fitter

Treat me as clueless please. I literally did not realise I had to change gears still at first on zwift

The short answer is to make your outdoor ride as similar as possible to what was planned for you indoor training.

If you were scheduled to do 2 x 20 indoor, then do 2 x 20 outdoor.

Endurance rides are good for outdoors. Structured workouts less so, but doable.

Without a power meter you wouldn't have the data to bring back to the app or maybe heart rate data if you have heart rate.

Along with trying out all of the apps, I'd also consider the possibility of directing your own training.

Generic plans and automated coaches are no match for the informed athlete, but informed athletes aren't profitable so you are unlikely to see many trying to make things clearer but instead emphasize how complicated and overwhelming everything is so you should just use their software because they've figured it all out for you.

The reality is that you can do the following in manual ergometer mode using the standard software that comes with your traininer:

2 x 20 with 5 minute rest in between and at as high an intensity as you can sustain
4 x 4 with 2 minute rest
10 x 30 seconds with 15 secs rest

Once you can comfortably ride for 2 hours, then start with 2 x 20
Then gradually introduce 4 x 4 then 10 x 30s

As you approach your event, make your workouts more specific, i.e. emphasize shorter intervals for a road race (this is because you can more quickly gain/lose short power).

Keep a training log and record your working power, combined interval duration, etc. (I built a tool for this I call a visual training log if you are interested in helping to test it)

With a training log, you will be able to see your improvement and figure out over time the amount of weekly load and ramp rate you can handle, what preceded good performance, i.e. what works and also what doesn't work

Monitor your recovery by checking your resting heart rate, perceived effort, sleep quality, energy, appetite, mood and motivation.

Sure thing! And keep the questions coming. I'll PM you the details about the tool.

Edit - Tool demo available here ==> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMu234 ... SJbpPlMdsA

MrKev83 wrote:

Thank you for the replies. Typical I am new to putting any kind of structure to my training so this helps. Thanks again

How would I try your training log?

In zwift make sure you are paired as a controllable trainer, this will change the resistance automatically when you pedal up hills or doing a workout in erg mode etc. Lots of advice on youtube have a look at Shane Millar's tutorial videos...

VamP wrote:

Group rides and specifically races are the game changer on Zwift. I used to hate turbo, now that a collarbone has forced it on me, Zwift racing has saved my life.

The drafting effect is pretty well modeled on Zwift, so unless you're doing group riding/racing, you're missing out on Zwift's biggest ace in the hole.

If you have a power meter there's no real need for a smart trainer, just an ant+ stick for your laptop. I initially balked at the monthly subscription, but the racing option makes it a bargain.

Same for me. I wanted to have something to push my training and do in winter when it's too cold/wet to go outside.

Zwift has changed it for me too. I've never cycled as hard as I did in my first race on there. Absolutely love it now