Product Review: Let’s Go Zwifting!

Disclaimer: I received a Zwift RunPod to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

So, you’re probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about when I say, “let’s go zwifting!” Well, I don’t blame you. The word sounds bizarre but, then again, so is the concept until you use it and then everything changes! How much does a run on a treadmill suck? Let’s be honest, running by yourself or even in a gym on a treadmill is boring. There’s nothing to really drive you other than maybe a goal you have if you’re really training for something. How often do you find yourself competing with a fellow runner at the gym? Ah, I got you on that one, didn’t I? The Zwift RunPod and its corresponding apps provide an amazing experience that totally changes the “boring” treadmill run.

First, the basics: what you will need. You will need a RunPod (attached to my shoe above) and you will need to attach it to your running shoe in approximately the same place as mine. You will need access to a treadmill. And you will need a device to use Zwift, the program, such as a iPhone, tablet, PC, etc. Once you have all that established and the Zwift app and Zwift companion app downloaded,  you will be able to join other runners around the world running together. Yes, around the world.

Put the battery in your Zwift RunPod, attach it to your shoe and start running on a treadmill. This will enable you to pair your pod with whatever device you have downloaded the app on and will also calibrate the pod to match your strides. Then you are all set to join a group run or just run on your own. Some of the group runs take place in London (which is really cool) and others take place in a fictional land called Watopia. Ok, that may sound odd but where else can you run past and through an active volcano?

This was one of several screenshots that I took during the course of my run on this particular day. Now, I’ve done a few solo runs and enjoyed them but I was curious as to what a group run might like. So, using the Zwift companion app where there are listings for the group runs (various distances, locations) I found one and entered its queue. Then, you wait. Or, as in my case, I jumped into a solo run just to pass the time until the start. They even provide you with a countdown so everyone can join in. Like I said, runners from around the world compete with you on the same course.

After the group run is finished and you’ve completed the distance, you are able to see how well you performed among all the other runners who joined the group. This is actually one of the best things I like about Zwift. It really did turn my treadmill run (or as we all call it, the “dreadmill”) into something more engaging and exciting. I was into my run and that’s not always the case on the treadmill.

Now, with the pics I’ve posted here you probably noticed that my avatar is wearing the same thing in all of them. That’s because I wasn’t able to really venture into too many different styles because I hadn’t run enough with the pod yet. The more you run, the more you unlock for your personal avatar. More clothes, colors, haircuts, styles and more. Just another really cool way Zwift keeps you involved and entertained is what it normally a stagnant treadmill run.

Also, there are so many other great features of the Zwift RunPod. You can create a running meetup with a Zwift companion (just like any social media app, you find friends.) You can import custom running workouts should you be training for a specific distance. You can create a custom workout for yourself and then you can add it into a custom training program. All within the app and with the pod. You can chat with runners if you like and, who knows, maybe you’ll make some new running friends who join you every morning or evening on a virtual run together. That’s the power and awesomeness of the Zwift Runpod and app.

Definitely check out the Zwift website and if you like what you see, then use code “BibRave15″ good for 15% off the cost of the Zwift RunPod at Zwift.com. It is good for 1000 Pods only though.

If  you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out or if you just have some comments. I’d love to hear from you!

As always, happy running!

LEGEND Compression Calf Sleeves

Now that I am a LEGEND Compression Ambassador, I had the chance to test out a pair of their compression leg sleeves. I already own a few pairs of the socks but was really curious about the difference in feel that their sleeves would have on my feet and calves. I wanted to get a good feel for them so I did multiple tests outdoor and even one indoors on a treadmill. First thing to out in the open is that I enjoyed them very much.

One of the reasons I love their socks is because of how they react when you are running or being active. They provide necessary stability but never become too tight or constrictive during a run. It’s a subtle but very comfortable increase in the compression that you feel. They helped me reduce some of the fatigue that I’ve been suffering from lately and the general soreness that occurs during long runs, those that are ten miles or more.

I also wore these in a couple different sets of weather. One day was chilly with wind and I was perfectly warm while running in them. But I found their performance much better on another day that was a little warmer and also more humid. The moisture wicking capability these sleeves have is very impressive. No sweaty calves after taking them off. Actually, they were unusually dry compared to my exposed ankle area. At the touch the LEGEND compression leg sleeve would have you thinking you may be too warm in them but I will tell you that would be an incorrect assumption.

My personal favorite benefit of these leg sleeves: another win in the department of preventing shin splints. Oh my goodness, do I ever suffer from these if not properly geared up. And these sleeves are now a must have for me on runs! Soft feel, great compression and no shin splints after running. For those of you who suffer from these, you know what I am talking about when it comes to appreciating any gear that will eliminate this from your life. No shin splints means better performance on your runs. What a great combo! Seriously though, your run is better and it lasts longer (you’re less likely to want to cut it short or skip on time if you are physically comfortable and pain-free).

My simple suggestion and wrap up is to say the LEGEND compression leg sleeves are a worthwhile product and worth you money should you give them chance to improve your athletic training. And, yes, I know you may be skeptical since I said I was a LEGEND ambassador but I truly believe in the product. You will too. I’ve had other brands socks, these perform better in the long run.

Any questions or comments, fire away at me!!

Happy Running!