Zwift & Co. Basic equipment: What you really need to get started with smart training

1st Smarttrainer

Smart trainers are interactive roller trainers and transform your living room into a virtual cycling world. These devices communicate with training apps via Bluetooth or ANT+ and automatically adjust the resistance to the route. Uphill sections become noticeable through increased pedalling pressure, downhill sections through reduced resistance. The technology makes it possible to compete against riders from all over the world or work through structured training plans without leaving the house.

The basis is a smart trainer with direct drive. These devices completely replace the rear wheel and offer precise power measurement and realistic riding sensations. Models with virtual brakes can simulate inclines of up to 25 per cent and can handle power outputs of over 2000 watts. Investing in a high-quality trainer pays off with years of use and precise training data. If you don't feel like constantly changing your bike for indoor and outdoor rides, you might prefer a smart bike, which is a smart trainer and bike in one. Advantage: The training device can usually be customised for different people in just a few simple steps.

• Examples of Smart Trainers with direct drive: Wahoo Kickr Core 2, Van Rysel RCR, Taxc Neo 3M, Elite Rivo and more
• Examples of smart bikes: Zwift Ride with Kickr Core 2, Taxc Neo Bike, Wahoo Kickr Bike

>> All roller trainers tested by TOUR at a glance

>> Inexpensive smart training: indoor cycling set-up for a small budget

2. Bluetooth-enabled end device

A Bluetooth-enabled end device establishes the connection between the trainer and the software. Laptops, tablets or smartphones with sufficient computing power can display the graphically complex training worlds. A stable internet connection is important for online races and updates. Most modern devices fulfil these requirements without any problems, although larger screens improve the training experience.

3. training software

The software selection ranges from Zwift and MyWhoosh to Rouvy and other platforms. Zwift is considered the market leader with the largest community and regular events. Alternative apps such as MyWhoosh offer free use, while Rouvy focuses on real video recordings of routes. The monthly costs vary between free and around 20 euros, depending on the platform chosen and the desired features.

4. powerful fan

A Powerful fan is part of the basic equipment of every indoor set-up. Without sufficient cooling, body temperature rises quickly, which reduces performance and makes training uncomfortable. Models with variable speed and a high air flow rate ensure pleasant training conditions even during intensive sessions. Positioning the fan in front of the rider maximises the cooling effect. Fans whose intensity can be controlled using training parameters such as heart rate are practical.

>> 4 fans in the TOUR test

5. non-slip floor mat

One Non-slip floor mat protects the surface from sweat and vibrations. It dampens noise and prevents the trainer from slipping during powerful kicks. The investment of around 50 to 80 euros protects expensive floor coverings and reduces noise nuisance for neighbours.

6. welding protection for the racing bike

Regular wiping dry after each training session significantly extends the service life of all components. Sweat attacks paintwork, metal parts and electronic components if it is not removed promptly. A Welding catcher for road bikes protects particularly sensitive areas such as handlebars, stem and top tube. These covers cost just a few euros, but prevent expensive corrosion damage. As a rule, a normal towel will also do.

7. calibrate trainers and perform software updates

The calibration of the trainer should be checked regularly to ensure precise performance values. Most devices offer automatic calibration routines that can be carried out before training. Software updates keep the firmware up to date and often improve measurement accuracy or add new features.

A functional setup can be realised for around 600 euros. Entry-level smart trainers offer basic functions at affordable prices, while high-quality models with more precise power measurement and more realistic riding dynamics cost significantly more. Prices range from around 300 euros for basic models to over 1500 euros for professional devices with advanced features.

The running costs are limited to monthly software subscriptions and occasional maintenance. Compared to gym memberships or outdoor training in bad weather, the investment is quickly amortised. The flexibility of being able to train at any time makes indoor cycling particularly attractive for working cyclists.

Checklist for starting smart training

1. Smart trainers with direct drive: a large selection is available z. e.g. at Bike-Components
2. Bluetooth-enabled end device: stable internet connection for online racing and updates.
3. Training software: Choice of Zwift, MyWhoosh, Rouvy and more. Costs vary from free to around 20 euros per month.
4. Powerful fan: Cools the driver, prevents overheating. Models with variable speed.
5. Non-slip floor mat: Protects the floor from sweat and vibrations. Dampens noise, prevents the trainer from slipping.
6. Welding protection for the racing bike: Protects sensitive areas such as handlebars and top tube. Prevents corrosion damage. A towel is usually sufficient.
7. Calibrate trainers and carry out software updates: Investment and running costs for entry-level equipment from 600 euros.

Bonus: Tips from the editorial team

You can buy particularly airy clothing that has been specially developed for indoor cycling. Or you can put on your old cycling shorts that are too old for outside and combine them with a base layer. Experience shows that you sweat a lot, but your stomach gets cold quickly.

I wear old cycling shorts, a sports bra and a base layer for my indoor sessions. For particularly intensive sessions, I wear a shirt for the warm-up and take it off as the intensity increases. When it gets really tough, I put on sneaker socks instead of long socks to keep my legs cooler. - Sandra Schuberth, TOUR editor

If you notice that your eyes dry out during your indoor training sessions, try wearing glasses. Huh? You might be thinking. We'll explain it to you. The airflow from the fan can cause your eyes to dry out. If you are sensitive, you can protect your eyes with glasses. Alternatively, the fan can be set so that it only blows under the eyes. A book or even a slipper can be used for this purpose.

Tip number 3: Remember to provide yourself with sufficient carbohydrates. You may already have your favourite gels and drink powders - or you can go for what the pros take:

• MNSTRY Nutrition is used, for example, by Team Red Bull Bora - hansgrohe
• Amacx Sports Nutrition: Team Visma | Lease a Bike
• Enervit: UAE Team Emirates