Zwift is an app already well known among cyclists and triathletes because it allows them to break the monotony of indoor training. In fact, thanks to a “virtual” environment you will be catapulted into a fantasy world in which to run alone, in company or even measure yourself in races with other runners. Developers had long ago implemented running as an activity but there was one major limitation: you had to have a Bluetooth treadmill compatible with the app.
For some time now, however, the problem has been bypassed by an idea that is as simple as it is ingenious. Garmin sportwatches have a motion and cadence sensor and have a Bluetooth connection so why not connect them to the app so you can run on Zwift even without a compatible treadmill?
The “Virtual Run” activity
Said and done! And here they appear on
Forerunner 245
,
745
,
945
,
Fenix 6
and
Enduro
( MARQ and tactix Delta are also supported) the “Virtual Run” feature that allows the U.S. brand’s sportwatch to connect to Zwift directly. In this way, the device’s sensors will connect to Zwift allowing us to run through the virtual world, without spending tedious workouts staring at a wall or watching TV.
How “Virtual Run” works
Use and installation are really very simple and develop in very few steps:
- Verify that you have the latest firmware version installed on your Garmin;
- Enter activities and, if not already present, install the Virtual Run feature;
- When you start the activity the first time it will ask you to start Zwift on your computer, tablet or smartphone (clearly you must have a paid account, but there is a free trial period);
- The sportwatch connects to Zwift and you can select it as a motion, cadence and cardio detection sensor;
- You start running and enjoy virtual worlds and challenges with other runners.
Here is the video that explains step-by-step how to do it.
Clearly, the sportswatch’s motion sensor will not give you an accurate speed/step to the meter: being placed on the wrist, it cannot physically provide the most accurate data, but it will be more than enough to keep you entertained and break up the inevitable monotony of indoor workouts.
If, on the other hand, you want an accurate measurement, just use the
Garmin Running Dynamic Pod
or a band such as the
HRM-Pro
or the
HRM-Run
.
A couple of practical tips
Using the connection between Garmin devices and Zwift not only allows you to break the monotony but also adds the ability to have the same features you use outdoors (such as Garmin Coach training programs) during indoor sessions.
But can you use a Bluetooth treadmill connected to your Garmin? Yes, just add it as an accessory and connect it to the sportwatch. In this case, the device will record the pace you set on your treadmill, bypassing the motion sensors.
Yes, you got it right: I’m saying just connect the treadmill to the Garmin and then the Garmin to Zwift. And no, it is not the Eastern Fair! It is a very convenient “chain” to be able to record all the data as accurately as possible, making the best use of the opportunities that the Garmin sportwatch and the Zwift app gives you.
One last tip: when you do the pairing with Zwift, disable the phone’s Bluetooth connection (otherwise the watch tends to stay connected there) and the pairing will be virtually instantaneous.
See you in Watopia!!!