Virtual cycling and running platform Zwift has announced that activities through its system will now count towards select partner challenges on Strava.
Indoor cyclists have been able to upload their ride activity to Strava for some time, providing they have an indoor trainer, a speed or cadence sensor, a power meter and an ANT+ dongle, but the new collaboration will now see users able to tap into special challenges within the app.
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The company notes that cycling apparel company Le Col will be the first to offer a challenge, with Zwift users and outdoor cyclists able to receive rewards for completing the '10 Hour Season Starter Challenge' between 1-14 February — a task which simply includes recording 10 hours of cycling.
"Our community loves Strava - 75% have connected their Zwift membership to Strava, accounting for 250,000 Zwift activities currently uploaded each week. Strava members signing up to Zwift, on average, cycle 10% more per annum," said Eric Min, Zwift co-founder and CEO.
Since its launch, Zwift claims that 500,000 cyclists have used its platform, so it's no surprise to see it work with another giant in the fitness community and spread its influence. And with its upcoming push into the world of running (stay tuned for our deeper look at Zwift Run), we imagine that these partner challenges will slowly begin to branch out to more than just those in the saddle.
Just which companies get involved with the Zwift challenges, and how often they do, naturally remains to be seen. However, we imagine that the fresh integration with Strava will help draw even more users into the platform.
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Conor moved to Wareable Media Group in 2017, initially covering all the latest developments in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and VR. He made a name for himself writing about trying out translation earbuds on a first date and cycling with a wearable airbag, as well as covering the industry’s latest releases.
Following a stint as Reviews Editor at Pocket-lint, Conor returned to Wareable Media Group in 2022 as Editor-at-Large. Conor has become a wearables expert, and helps people get more from their wearable tech, via Wareable's considerable how-to-based guides.
He has also contributed to British GQ, Wired, Metro, The Independent, and The Mirror.