Who likes running on a treadmill? If you're like me then you only run on a treadmill when you have to.....like when it's thunder storming outside or it's extremely cold outside. I've always found the treadmill super boring because there is nothing to look at. So when I first heard of Zwift I was intrigued!
Zwift is basically a platform that allows you to run virtually with other runners! And you can run in other parts of the world! It makes treadmill running FUN! Yes...I said FUN!
And the best part....it's super easy to set up and use! All you need is a treadmill, footpod (or a supported Bluetooth treadmill), and a device to run the Zwift platform (cell phone, tablet, or computer). You attach the footpod to your shoe. You open the Zwift app on your device and the footpod will connect via Bluetooth. You pick your route and workout plan and then you are ready to RUN! You can choose to run the mileage you want or you can choose from one of Zwift's many structured workouts. Your avatar starts running when you do! It's so cool!
My first run was a short one. But I got to run in London!!! At first I had a hard time getting my avatar to start running. But then I realized I needed to pick my feet up a little more and it worked! Not sure why this was an issue that very first run because all the other runs I didn't have this problem at all.
I saw Buckingham and Knightsbridge during this run! So awesome!
During your run you get options on where you want to turn. Here I could go to straight to Buckingham, turn left to run the main loop, or turn right to Knightsbridge. If you don't choose it will just route you to the one that is already selected.
Throughout your run you unlock certain achievements.
And you also get motivation while running!
You can also choose multiple views. I like the one that showed my back the best. But you can see yourself from the front. You can see yourself from the side. Or you can take your avatar out of the picture altogether and just watch where the road is taking you.
On my second run I ran through Watopia....which is Zwift's fantasy island. There I got to run near a volcano and on the beach!
If you look carefully you can usually spot the Zwift blimp during your runs!
On this particular run the weather changed from sunny to rainy and from daytime to nighttime!
I also got to run in New York City one day!
Zwift allows you to run solo but they also have options where you can run with the Zwift community. You can run with your real friends in the virtual world! They offer several events you can choose from. Three of the most popular are Monday Run Club, Workout Wednesday, and Saturday Run in the Park!
Overall, I highly recommend Zwift! I've actually found myself wanting to run on the treadmill! Before Zwift I dreaded the treadmill!
If you want to give Zwift a try (and you know you want to) you can use the code "BibRave15" good for 15% off the cost of the Zwift RunPod at Zwift.com. It is good for 1000 Pods only.
Happy running y'all!!!
