Zwift alternative: indoor cycling without a virtual world
Zwift (or MyWhoosh) is great if you love races and group rides. But many people just want to stay fit: pedal for 30 minutes, watch a show, done. You don’t need a virtual world for that.
What you actually need
- A smart trainer with ERG mode (e.g. Elite Direto, Wahoo Kickr, Tacx). It sets the resistance for you – you just pedal.
- An interval profile that suits today: easy after a long day, sweet spot when you’re fresh.
- Something to watch – a show, documentary or film.
Why how you feel beats a plan
Fixed plans usually fail because of life: sick kid, long meeting, bad night. If you’re then supposed to do “Tuesday’s hard session”, you often skip it altogether. Better: quickly ask how you feel and build the workout from that. In studies, self-selected intensity feels more pleasant – and what feels good, you do again.
A typical week
- Monday, tired: 30 min easy endurance.
- Wednesday, feeling good: 45 min with 2 × 5 min sweet spot.
- Saturday, time to spare: 60–90 min steady, with a film.
No catching up, no guilt. What gets skipped gets skipped.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free Zwift alternative?
Yes, there are free apps with a virtual world (e.g. MyWhoosh). If you don’t need a 3D world, a simple interval profile and ERG mode are enough.
Can two people ride Zwift together?
Each of you needs your own bike, your own trainer and usually your own device. With only one bike you can still train together if the other person does strength or stretching at the same time – for example in split screen.
Is there a Zwift alternative without a virtual world?
Yes. If you mainly want to stay fit and watch shows, you don’t need a 3D world: an interval profile, ERG mode and an overlay on top of your show are enough.
Do I need a subscription like Zwift for indoor cycling?
No. A smart trainer with ERG mode and a simple interval plan are enough. A subscription is worth it if the app takes planning and motivation off your hands.
What is ERG mode?
The trainer holds a set wattage, no matter how fast you pedal. You don’t have to shift – ideal while watching TV.
Does it work with my Garmin watch?
Yes. Many Garmin watches send heart rate to the TV via Bluetooth (“Broadcast Heart Rate”) – BLOX reminds you when you start. BLOX for Garmin is coming soon. A chest strap is usually even more accurate.
Does it work with Apple Watch?
Yes, with the next iPhone update: BLOX opens on the watch when you train and sends your heart rate to your phone and TV. On its own, Apple Watch doesn’t send its heart rate to a TV or trainer.