I just started using a Zwift training plan. I’ve had the app for cycling on my indoor trainer since January of 2019 but this is the first time I’ve used one of their training plans.
I took an FTP test through the app so it had information on what wattage I could average for 20 minutes of my best sustained effort, and Zwift now uses that information to fill in personalized goal wattages for me within their training plans.
I chose the FTP builder, designed to increase my cycling performance in about 4-5 hours a week.
Workouts are locked until it’s time to complete them, so you can’t skimp on recovery time. Warm-ups and cool-downs are integrated, with wattage goals, encouraging compliance.
For each stage completed, you get a star! A virtual star. Not a real star. But your legs get the real workout.
I’ve found that with the number right in front of me, I perform well even if I’m splitting my attention between the training screen and Star Trek Voyager.
This both enhances my average wattage for the ride, and breaks up the ride into more interesting segments by varying the efforts. It also makes me feel more comfortable when I’m recovering, because I’m supposed to be recovering.
At the end of the FTP builder plan in 6 weeks, I’ll test my FTP again and see if it improved. I suspect it will, but even if it doesn’t, I’m already enjoying the variation to my riding routine and the sense of purpose the training plan provides. And since my real end-game is to get my heart rate and mood elevated regularly… I think that’s already a win.