Here we are in “lockdown 3” and coupled with a prolonged icy spell 🥶 it has severely curtailed our outdoor activities. However it has not dented our enthusiasm to “boldly go where many have gone before, to seek out new ways” to feed our “fix” to get on two wheels. Many of our “crew” have opted to create an indoor pain cave and head off into the virtual world.
The biggest virtual world to which many members subscribe is Zwift. Here you can immerse yourself in the original imaginary world of Watopia or simulation of real world roads. With training programs, races and group rides there’s something for everyone. But wait, who’s that hanging around trying to Bkool?
Come on in he says, join our community for free he says….. but!…. only after handing over your credit card details 💳. What’s this? Hotel California? One plus for this app is the ability to upload your own Strava rides and ride them virtually.
“Hey man, that’s Rouvy” Here we find real roads you can ride as an avatar, no not that blue thing alla James Cameron but 3d computer generated images to represent yourself and other riders. If you think you’re good enough you can even compete for the annual $10,000 💵 prizes.
“🎤And in the blue corner, please welcome on stage…. Fulgaz!” A knockout🥊 real world experience. Featuring video shot in 4k resolution makes for a stunning visualisation and with the “bike computer” at the bottom of the screen it is easy to imagine you are actually riding outside. You know you’re hooked when you start waving your arms and shouting at people to get out of the way. 😂
There are many other apps which could be explored, RGT, Sufferfest, Trainer road, Veloton and Tacx (an exclusive club only available for Tacx trainers). All of these apps offer structured training programs. Most offer some form of group riding and racing. Whichever world you decide to inhabit, it is going to result in a bucket of sweat🥵 as you strive to improve your performance. Hope to see you all on the road again soon! Mi