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Can you do HIIT on Zwift?

Author

Daniel Johnson

Updated on September 05, 2026

The inclusion of a HIIT training session in a weekly program is something that all riders should aim to do. Team WBR have many such sessions incorporating a range of exercises and intensities to suit riders of many different capabilities. Here are specific weekly WBR rides which include HIIT training: Igniter.

How do you do interval training on Zwift?

The first several seconds of an interval don't count. Adjust your effort as best as you can, and once you're within range, focus on keeping steady. In a ramp interval, warm up, or cooldown, pay close attention to the target power or pace. It changes!

Can you do HIIT while cycling?

Research from the Global Cycling Network indicates that just 20 minutes of HIIT cardio can get you the same calorie burn as 40 MINUTES of steady-state cardio. So instead of running 3 miles, saddle up on a bike and get a HIIT workout done in half the time!

Can you do Zwift workouts outside?

If you'd like to complete your workout outdoors, go for it! Strictly structured training can be a challenge outside, but at least try to make your session similar to the planned Zwift workout in terms of intensity and format. This will help you get the most out of your Zwift training plan.

Can you upload a workout to Zwift?

If you have downloaded a new workout file and want to use it in Zwift, simply save it to Documents/Zwift/Workouts/YourZwiftID (where “YourZwiftID” is your Zwift ID number), then start up Zwift. Your workout will appear under the “Custom Workouts” category in the workouts list.

43 related questions found

How do I Download a workout file on Zwift?

How to import a custom workout on Zwift

  1. Locate your workout file (.ZWO file) in your Download folder.
  2. Open a new Finder window and go to Documents/Zwift/Workouts/[Your Zwift ID]/
  3. Drag (or copy and paste) the .ZWO file in this folder.

What if I miss a Zwift workout?

A: If you miss a workout, it'll remain available and unlocked if you would like to return to the workout at a later time. It is up to you whether you return and complete the workout or simply continue to the next one.

Can I use Zwift on the road?

Zwift has nine different worlds (more on these later), and within each you can navigate the roads as you go. You can ride with thousands of other riders inside Zwift. You can join group rides and races – and even get a draft from other riders – or just join the world and jump on with other riders when you want to.

Can you export Zwift workouts to Garmin?

Zwift does not currently offer seamless integration with Garmin Connect, but since your Zwift rides are saved in industry-standard . fit files on your computer you can upload your Zwift rides to Garmin quite easily.

Is cycling better than HIIT?

HIIT running was more effective than HIIT cycling for reducing total body fat, while lower intensities (below 90 percent maximum heart rate) produced better results in terms of abdominal and visceral fat loss.

Does HIIT cycling burn fat?

Opt for high-intensity interval training (HIIT)

HIIT can be a great way to challenge your body and, yes, even reduce fat and lose weight, if that's your goal. HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise alternated with intervals of low-intensity exercise.

How do you do HIIT on a bike?

Stationary Bike

  1. Warm up for 3-5 minutes: I usually have the resistance at a medium level so if its on a 1-20 scale I keep my warm-up and recovery time at around 10-12. ...
  2. 30 seconds high intensity, 1 minute low intensity (repeat 4 times)
  3. 40 seconds high intensity, 1 minute low intensity (repeat 4 times)

What's the best workout on Zwift?

We've picked out our favourite Zwift workouts to help you navigate the thousands of options at your fingertips to keep your training enjoyable and challenging.

  • Lactate Gains - SST (Short) ...
  • Challenge yourself – Microbursts. ...
  • Get Race Ready – Race Day. ...
  • Hills at Home – Hill Sprints. ...
  • Testing Your Limits – Jon's Mix.

Why are Zwift workouts so hard?

Riding on Zwift can feel more difficult for 3 reasons mainly: the human body becomes less efficient at cooling itself, your motivation dwindles due to not having the wind in your hair and the road moving underneath you, and overcoming the resistance of a trainer is very different compared to overcoming the resistance ...

How often should I Zwift?

If your riding schedule includes racing on Zwift, consider racing no more than three times per week, with recovery rides, days off, and lighter training in between. And even if your training load is more steady (with few “race day efforts”) taking a day or two for recovery per week is smart.

Do you change gears on Zwift?

No need to change gear here, Zwift tells the trainer what the resistance should be at any given moment, you just have to keep those pedals spinning.

Can you do a TrainerRoad workout on Zwift?

Once that's set, go ahead and pick your world/route in Zwift that you want to ride, and tap 'Ride' when ready. Now, at this point simply start the TrainerRoad workout, and you're off, easy! Zwift will automatically start recording as you pedal and TrainerRoad will be controlling your trainer.

Can you pause a Zwift ride?

You can pause a workout already in progress by using the Zwift Mobile Link (ZML) application on your mobile device. When you want to pause, simply swipe over to the Action buttons page in ZML and hit the 'Pause' button you see there to pause your workout.

Can you do an FTP test on Zwift?

In order to accurately measure your FTP, Zwift provides you with two different versions of the FTP test. During both of the FTP tests, you'll do warm up intervals before riding at a challenging effort level for 20 minutes and finishing with a cooldown block.

Do Zwift training plans cost money?

Visit the Zwift website to sign up for a free 7-day trial. After your trial period ends, Zwift costs £12.99 / $14.99 per month.

Can you cancel a Zwift training plan?

Zwift functions the same on all platforms. The same procedure should work for you. Find the summary tile for your training plan at the far left of the scroll menu when viewing the entire plan. You will find a cancel button there.

How do I create my own workout on Zwift?

Creating Custom Workouts in Zwift

  1. Step 1: Press the “Training” button to access workouts.
  2. Step 2: Under “Custom Workouts” click “Create a new workout”
  3. Step 3: Drag and drop elements from the right-hand bar, creating your workout. ...
  4. Step 4: Save your workout. ...
  5. Step 5: Click “Workout” and start sweating!

How do I import workouts from TrainingPeaks to Zwift?

To begin using Zwift with TrainingPeaks you'll start by connecting your accounts. Once you have created a Zwift account you can navigate to and find the TrainingPeaks section. Click “connect” and enter your TrainingPeaks username and password. That's it!

How do I import FIT files into Zwift?

Navigate to and click on Just Me. Find your missing activity and view the activity page. Click on the Gear Icon (Activity Settings), and under Fit File, download the activity file. Open this page on the Strava website, click Choose Files and select the FIT file.