When it comes to cycling in the winter, training outside for a lot of us is off the cards, especially as the evenings draw darker and you can’t get out on the roads or trails for a few hours after work.
But not all is lost! There are a great range of free training apps that can help you sustain your fitness levels throughout the winter and save you money, and even better, you can use them indoors!
MyWhoosh
Starting in first place, MyWhoosh.
This app is completely free to play and train, giving you access to a wide range of 3D worlds and routes at no cost. You can choose from training plans that suit every level, from beginners to more advanced riders, and even join group rides or race against bots when you want a bit of extra motivation or you’re feeling extra-competitive.
This app doesn’t require a high-tech setup and works alongside a basic smart trainer and sensor system, so it’s a great low-cost, high-quality option, perfect for those who are fans of Zwift as it has similar software. Plus, it’s easy to use on your phone or tablet, so you can ride wherever you set up your trainer.
Garmin Connect
Garmin Connect is a free app that’s perfect for cyclists who want to track, analyse, and improve their rides without being tied down to a monthly subscription.
Before you use the Connect app, you’ll need a compatible Garmin device such as a smartwatch, cycling computer or sensor or it won’t work. With Garmin Connect, you can upload rides and get detailed insights such as speed, elevation, heart rate and more.
The app also tracks long-term progress, lets you set training goals, and even connect with other riders, share your achievements, and join challenges – so it’s great for those who have a competitive side, which, let’s face it, is most cyclists!
Kinomap
Next is Kinomap.
Kinomap offers a free version, and when you first sign up, you’ll get 14 days of full premium access, a perfect way to try before you buy.
After the trial ends, the free version still gives you a flexible way to train without a subscription. You can use free-ride mode to track your workouts, logging time, distance, speed, cadence, and heart rate with basic sensors, while setting your own training goals – helping you to become unbeatable in the spring!
This isn’t just good for cyclists, it’s also great for those who love to run too. You also have access to some structured workouts created by other Kinomap users, and can use map mode to view your route or progress indoors or outdoors.
While scenic video routes and custom workouts are reserved for paid subscribers, the free version is still a great tool for maintaining fitness, tracking performance, and enjoying structured and casual indoor sessions, making it ideal for those who love collecting their fitness data and get into the numbers!
Strava
Similar to Garmin Connect, Strava is a really popular app for cyclists, runners, walkers and all manner of fitness enthusiasts!
Strava is great for the occasional rider, as it keeps things really simple and it’s easy to use. You don’t need any fancy technology; simply strap your phone to a cycle phone holder connected to your handlebars and connect to your heart rate monitor (if you have one) and hit start.
Once Strava starts recording your activity, it starts collecting your average speed, distance and time and can even share location with a contact – so it’s great for occasional riders or beginners who are riding outdoors and want to see some initial progress and results.
Now that you know a few of the best apps out there, you’ll want to make sure you’re well prepared for the pedals!
If you’re training indoors over the winter, then you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the right set-up. If you don’t have one already, a turbo trainer is a necessity.
But if you are braving the cold, then check out our range of cycling clothing and accessories to stock up on warm layers, plus a few more lights will help you stay visible in low-light conditions, so check out our bike lights.
For all your cycling needs, head over to Halfords.com or pop into a store where one of our colleagues will be happy to give some extra advice.