Zwift Run

So, Zwift Run just officially launched on their website https://zwift.com/run/. It's been a hidden/beta feature for awhile now, and in a recent update over the last couple weeks, you could toggle between Cycle and Run when you went to the log in screen. Getting started is super easy. At the bottom of this post, I'll share my initial thoughts. If you navigate to the website above, it really does a great job of walking you through how to get set up. Seriously, their website is such a valuable, easy to navigate resource. Here's the direct link that explains the options for what you need: https://support.zwift.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000697031-What-Treadmills-and-Sensors-Does-Zwift-Support-?section=360000168612

For a quick look, here are the basics of what you need, but again, Zwift does a great job of explaining it and showing videos:

1. Any treadmill; bluetooth "Smart" treadmills are starting to become more available and a bit more reasonable. These new "Smart" trainers work like the "Smart" trainers you can get for your bike. The treadmill connects to Zwift via bluetooth and then the incline is controlled by Zwift. This type of treadmill is still pretty rare so any treadmill will do and you can even use Zwift run at the Y.

2. So, what hooks up to Zwift if you don't have a "Smart" treadmill? You need a footpod. Any ant + or Bluetooth footpod works. A Bluetooth footpod is the better of the options as it easy hooks up to a variety of devices. The Garmin is only Ant + right now. It, and other Ant+ footpods do work with the computer using an Ant + dongle. Here is an example: https://shop.zwift.com/collections/accessories/products/zwift-ant-starter-pack. This is the setup I have now. If you want to use Zwift Run on the Ipad with an Ant+ footpod, I do believe there is a ant+ to Bluetooth converter you can get. Milestone is a reasonable option, but they have been sold out. Stryd has released a cutting edge footpod that measures a variety of different metrics, including Power. This technology is very new and will continue to evolve. This footpod is the most expensive, but does the most if you are super into data. Stryd just partnered with Zwift though to release a new footpod that is half the price, similar in price to the other footpods, and this footpod measures pace, distance, and cadence. This is the footpod that I will probably purchase next.

3. Download their app. Supported Devices: PC/Mac, IOS device, or Apple TV and then download the Zwift application. Right now, I use the app on my Mac with an Ant+ dongle. Otherwise, with my footpod, I would need an Ant+ to Bluetooth bridge to get Zwift to work on my IPad. My goal is to get the Stryd Live Footpod so that I can use it with my IPad easily with a Bluetooth connection. I may also get the new Apple TV which supports Zwift now.

4. Heartrate Monitor is optional

5. Optional: Download their Mobile Link App that helps you control Zwift using your mobile device

Here is a direct link to the step by step process to starting your first run: https://support.zwift.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000700851

Ok, so I've been using Zwift Run the past two weeks. If you are familiar with Zwift Cycling, the Run option is a very similar setup and interface. You get to pair your device, choose a course, decide if you want to just run, do a workout, or join a group run, then you're all set. For me, Zwift reads a slightly quicker pace than my treadmill, but it's not too far off. It's very responsive as you speed and slow down. It's a bit funny running along while mostly everyone else is cycling by, but it's fun to have something to look at while you are on the treadmill. A "Smart" treadmill would be neat as it would control the pace during workouts and incline during workouts and regular running. With a regular treadmill, you don't really have to adjust anything as you run along or you could manually adjust pace and incline as the terrain changes in Zwift.

I'm excited to see Zwift's Run feature expand as they add more workouts, more group runs, and races. I know that it's still running on the treadmill, but it does provide a great distraction for anyone who needs to get their miles in inside. As I use it more, I'll update with more information. Zwift has a Facebook group for just runners that is a great platform to get more information, interact with others, and ask questions. Have fun and whether inside or out, get it done!