I run AND ride on zwift and am currently undertaking the tour of zwift both riding and running. While the tour has been brilliantly thought out for riding, I have been very disappointed with the run section. A few seasons ago when we ran the tour we had a progress line for both riding and running. Now there is nothing. I have done all the short and long runs but have NOTHING to actually tell me that I have done them other than the usual list in my activities. I get nothing for my endeavours other than the kit which I earnt after 1 run! It feels like running had been added as an afterthought and I feel there is not a lot of point in doing it, other than just to tick of another normal run. Why has the running side appeared to have gone backwards on zwift. If I didn’t ride on zwift I would not be running on it as you are really made to feel like a 2nd class citizen.
I run and ride on Zwift, but I find the running aspect poorly supported and a rather uninspiring experience. It does not help that I get no recognition for running in fitness trends, weekly streak etc.. it also doesn’t help that running is so poorly patronised. Chicken and egg, I guess.
My solution, which addresses every shortcoming, for me, is to use my Stryd footpods as my power meter and join in the cycling events. It is much more engaging, chasing draft, picking up pace on inclines, just more dynamic. Plus I get my due credits within Zwift for my efforts. No help if you don’t have Stryd, but if you do…… ![]()
I use my Garmin watch to record the RUN and I sync the RUN to Strava, so I don’t compromise my training figures elsewhere. The Zwift RIDE gets deleted from Strava, but Zwift retains the Zwift rewards that I should receive, but do not, from a run.