Zwift offers events for anyone who wants to jump in. When choosing an event to join, it’s important to understand the course information, especially the distance and elevation. 

The ZRacing Monthly Series is a great place to get started, as it offers a new theme every month with one stage per week and multiple opportunities throughout the day to race. Plus, you can complete each event in less than one hour. ZRacing Monthly utilizes our Zwift Racing Score, which means no matter your ability level, you will always compete in a fair and fun environment. Sign up for the ZRacing Monthly Series here, or learn about Zwift Racing Score here.

Zwift also hosts a selection of community-led events, which offer a variety of formats or are more tailored to specific types of competition.

There are five standard categories in the Zwift Racing Score system. These categories are based on score ranges and divide riders into competitive groups depending on their racing performance and power output:

690-1000

520-690

350-520

180-350

1-180

There are a few different styles of racing on Zwift:

Scratch Races: The most common type of competition on Zwift and a verified classic. All riders start together, and the objective is simply to be first over the finish line after a certain number of laps or distance, depending on the course.

Points Races: A format that features various sprint or climb arches along the route where you can earn points for finishing the segment first or being the fastest on the segment. The aim is to gain as many points as possible before the finish line. Our community members lead many points races and will have details in the event descriptions, so be sure to read them thoroughly to have the best experience possible!

Individual Time Trials: Just you against the clock. These events are set over a fixed distance, usually on time-trial-specific bikes and with no draft effects, where the goal is to ride the distance as fast as possible, with the shortest time winning.

Team Time Trials: A spin on the individual time trial, this format requires teams of Zwifters - usually five to six - to work together to ride a fixed distance as quickly as possible.

Criteriums: Also known as crits, these are raced on short circuits with multiple laps, usually on a flatter course. This is where the name ‘Crit City’ comes from.

Chase Races: A format in which a group of riders set off first, with progressively faster rider groups setting off at set intervals afterward. The goal? Getting to the finish first. Riders up front must work together to avoid getting caught by the riders behind, while the riders behind try to catch and pass as many competitors in front of them as possible.

You don’t need top-of-the-line equipment to compete on Zwift. You can get started with just the basics: a bike, a trainer, and a Zwift account.

Here are some additions that can help level up your competition experience: 

Ventilation: Stay cool with a good fan

Information: A heart rate monitor to help you compete more efficiently by watching your efforts more closely

Zwift Play: Keep your position in the pack even more precise with steering and braking

Bottles and Food: Make sure you’re well-fueled and well-hydrated and have your fan on its highest setting!

If you’d like more information on equipment, check that out HERE.