Whether you’re running at home or at your gym, getting up and running on Zwift is simple. You’ll need a treadmill, footpod and a connected device for the Zwift app. And if you have a smart treadmill, no footpod is required. The necessary gear is minimal, making it easy to run nearly everywhere.
What do I need to start running on Zwift?
- Treadmill
- ANT+ or Bluetooth enabled footpod, connected shoe, or smart treadmill
- Supported device: iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, Android device, or PC/Mac. The iPad works well, as it sits comfortably on the treadmill console.
- Heart rate monitor (optional, but recommended for optimal training)
How do I start running?
Launch Zwift on your device and log in. On the device pairing screen, select the RUN tab. Next, click RUN SPEED to select and pair up your gear. Click OK to advance.
Now you’re at the Start screen. Choose a running workout, pick a route or join an event listed on the top right corner. If you want to just get out there, click RUN.
What’s a smart treadmill?
There are a few treadmill models listed below that talk directly to Zwift. Increase your speed on the treadmill, and Zwift instantly notices and registers the change in pace. With a smart treadmill, a footpod is not needed – though you may want to wear one to monitor your cadence.
- BowFlex BXT116/BXT216 treadmills
- Any StarTrac treadmills with a Bluetooth button
- LifeFitness T3 home treadmills
- True Fitness Performance 300
What’s a footpod?
A footpod clips onto your shoe and provides speed/cadence data for both indoors and out. This lightweight device pairs up and talks to Zwift. ANT+ or any standard Bluetooth smart running footpods work for running.
- Zwift RunPod
- Stryd footpod
- Milestone pod
- Polar Stride Sensor
- Garmin footpod (ANT+ only)
Calibrate and Zwifting
If you notice your Zwift speed doesn’t match your treadmill speed, we suggest calibrating your footpod. You can calibrate within Zwift by clicking the wrench icon on the Device Pairing screen. Or, you can calibrate with your device’s app, but be sure to fully exit out of the app before entering Zwift. For the Zwift RunPod and Milestone foot pod, we recommend using the 3 point calibration process, found by selecting the wrench icon in the pairing screen and following the prompts.
Happy running!