Top 9 Indoor Cycling Apps of 2025 for Training, Racing, and Virtual Rides

Benefits of Indoor Cycling Apps

The global indoor cycling app market is expected to hit USD 376.4 million by 2032. This surge in popularity can be attributed to several reasons, including:

• Convenience: Indoor cycling apps provide the flexibility to ride whenever and wherever you want. With just a bike and a screen, you can access professional training programs, virtual routes, and races; eliminating the need to commute or deal with weather conditions.
• Customization: These apps allow you to tailor your workout according to fitness goals. Whether you're aiming for endurance, speed, or interval training, you can adjust the intensity, duration, and type of workout as per your needs.
• Safety: With indoor cycling apps, you can avoid risks associated with outdoor riding, such as road rages, bicycle accidents, harsh weather conditions, and rough terrain.
• Community and competition: Many apps feature interactive leaderboards, group rides, and virtual events. You can connect with cyclists worldwide, join challenges, or race against others.
• Motivation: With features like real-time performance tracking, achievements, and rewards, indoor cycling apps keep you engaged and motivated. Some even offer personalized feedback and coaching to help you stay on track.
• Return from injury: By featuring rehab-focused workouts and gradual progress tracking, indoor cycling apps allow for a safe and controlled return to fitness after an injury.

While indoor cycling is safer than outdoor riding in many ways, repetitive strain and improper form can still lead to overuse injuries. Learn how to avoid common issues in our guide on Common Indoor Cycling Injuries: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions.

How to Choose the Right Indoor Cycling App?

With so many indoor cycling apps on the market—and new features rolling out constantly—it can be tough to know where to start. These platforms are rapidly evolving, offering everything from structured training and real-world terrain simulation to social group rides and competitive esports racing.

The good news? Most apps offer a free trial period, so you can test a few before committing. We recommend trying two or three, exploring the features, and seeing which one fits your riding style and motivation best.

Talk to your cycling friends, too—they may already be using a favorite app for virtual group rides or races. Riding together in the same platform can boost motivation and add a fun, social element to your training.

Choosing a month-to-month subscription gives you the flexibility to cancel anytime and try a different app until you find the perfect fit.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Define your goal

Before exploring different apps, identify what matters most:

• Social engagement: If motivation comes from competition or group rides, apps with leaderboards, group challenges, and live races are ideal.
• Structured training: Cyclists aiming to improve endurance, power, or speed should look for apps with customizable workouts, FTP tests, and AI-driven training plans.
• Immersive routes: For a more engaging experience, apps offering realistic terrain, scenic visuals, and real-world road simulations can make indoor training more enjoyable.

Whether you’re focused on general fitness, time trial training, or criterium preparation, indoor apps support nearly every discipline. Learn more in our breakdown of the Most Common Cycling Disciplines & Races Explained.

Indoor training allows you to build endurance and power in a controlled environment. If increased speed and power is your goal, check out our guide on How to Become a Faster Cyclist: Pro Training Tips to Boost Speed & Endurance for expert tips to help you get faster both indoors and outdoors.

2. Evaluate features

Each app offers a unique approach to indoor cycling. Key features to consider include:

• Gamification vs. real-world routes: Some apps use a game-like experience with rewards, levels, and competitive elements, while others focus on real-world GPS-based rides.
• Community size and interactivity: A strong social aspect, such as group rides, in-app messaging, and real-time leaderboards, can make training more engaging.
• Performance tracking and training plans: Look for detailed analytics, progress tracking, and structured training programs to enhance cycling performance.

3. Consider pricing

Indoor cycling apps vary in cost, ranging from free versions to premium subscription-based services.  It's essential to weigh the value you’re getting for the price.

• Free vs. paid apps: Free apps may offer basic features, but premium options typically provide more advanced analytics, workout plans, and immersive experiences.
• Subscription models: Monthly or annual subscriptions may be required for full access, so check if the pricing aligns with budget and training needs.
• Trial periods: Many apps offer free trials, allowing you to test features before committing to a subscription.

4. Ensure device compatibility

Not all indoor cycling apps are compatible with every device, so it's important to verify whether the app supports the equipment you own.

Common considerations include:

• Smart trainers: Ensure the app is compatible with the brand of smart trainers (e.g., Wahoo, Tacx, or Elite).
• Computers/tablets: Make sure the app is available on your preferred platform (Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android).
• Bluetooth and ANT+ support: If you have wireless cycling accessories, such as cadence sensors or heart rate monitors, confirm that the app supports Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity for syncing data.

5. Check trial periods

Most indoor cycling apps offer a free trial period - typically ranging from 7 to 30 days. This is your opportunity to test the app before paying for the subscription:

• Features: During the trial period, explore the app’s features to ensure they meet your needs. Try different workout types, routes, and integrations.
• User interface & experience: Pay attention to how user-friendly the app is. You should be able to easily navigate through the various features without frustration.
• Performance & stability: Test how well the app runs during long rides. Check for lag, crashes, or issues with connectivity to devices.

Top 9 Indoor Cycling Apps - Detailed Reviews

Still unsure which app is right for you? Don’t worry - we’ve curated a list of the best indoor training apps to aid in decision-making:

1. Zwift - Best Overall

Founded in 2014 by Jon Mayfield, Eric Min, Scott Barger, and Alarik Myrin, Zwift combines gamified elements with fitness training. The platform offers over 100 diverse real-life routes across 11 immersive worlds, including Watopia, Makuri Islands, London, France, Paris, Innsbruck, New York, Yorkshire, and Richmond.

• Cost:
• $14.99 per month
• $179.99 per year
• Trial period: 14 days
• Device compatibility: Zwift is compatible with a wide range of devices, including:
• Smart trainers - Brands like Wahoo, Tacx, Elite, and Kinetic
• Smart bikes - Zwift Ride
• Sensors - ANT+ and Bluetooth-enabled power meters, heart rate monitors, and cadence sensors
• Primary features:
• Gamified progression: Zwift offers a gamified progression system where you can earn experience points (XP) and virtual currency ("drops") by completing rides, races, and workouts. These rewards can be used to unlock new gear, bikes, and routes, enhancing motivation and engagement.
• Extensive workout library: It's extensive library includes over 1,000 structured workouts, designed by world-class coaches and champion cyclists. These workouts cater to all fitness levels, offering flexibility from quick 30-minute sessions to longer endurance rides.
• Robopacers: To enhance training and competition, the app features 24/7 availability of robopacers. You can ride alongside these pacers at different speeds to stimulate a virtual racing environment.
• Real-time performance metrics: It allows you to monitor detailed performance indicators such as power, cadence, speed, and heart rate.
• Ideal for:
• Individuals looking to stay motivated through interactive and social training experiences.
• Cyclists who enjoy racing and participating in events within a virtual community.
• Limitations:
• App Stability: Some users have experienced occasional bugs that disrupt the smooth operation of the app.
• Platform: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android, Windows, macOS, and Apple TV.

Learn more: Why Cyclists Love Zwift: The Top Indoor Cycling App in 2025

2. MyWhoosh - Best Free Alternative

MyWhoosh is a virtual cycling platform founded in 2019 by Emirati entrepreneur Akhtar Hashmi. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, it offers a free-to-use environment where cyclists can train, race, and explore virtual worlds. The platform has gained recognition for hosting events like the Weekly Sunday Race Club series, which features monthly prize pools exceeding $90,000.

• Cost: Free
• Device compatibility: Supports ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
• Primary features:
• 730+ workouts: MyWhoosh offers an extensive library of over 730 workouts, including structured training plans developed by world-class coaches.
• Stunning routes: The platform features 85 unique routes, each designed to replicate real-world terrains.
• Cycling eSports: Through MyWhoosh, you can participate in major competitive cycling events, including the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, and win substantial cash prizes.
• Customization: With a range of in-app accessories and kits, you can customize your avatars and bikes the way you like.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists seeking a comprehensive indoor training and racing experience.
• Those interested in competitive cycling esports.
• Limitations:
• Resistance control issues: The app fails to control the resistance when used with an Elite Smart Trainer, which impacts the training experience.
• Platform: Requires iOS 14.0 or newer, a device with an A12 Bionic chip or newer, Android 8.0 or newer, macOS 10.14.6 or newer, and Windows 10 and newer versions.

3. Rouvy - Best for Realistic Experience

Founded by brothers Petr and Jiří Samek, Rouvy is a comprehensive platform for cyclists seeking immersive indoor training. Combining actual cycling routes and augmented reality, the platform delivers a realistic indoor cycling experience. It offers a vast library of over 1,500 high-quality video routes from around the world, enabling cyclists to train, explore new locations, and stay motivated throughout the year.

• Cost:
• $12/month
• $144/year
• $18/month on the Family plan
• Trial period: 7 days
• Device compatibility: Supports ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
• Primary features:
• Extensive library of augmented-reality routes: Rouvy cycling app offers over 1,500 AR-enhanced routes filmed worldwide, including iconic climbs like Alpe d’Huez and scenic locations like Sella Ronda.
• Integration with fitness tracking platforms: The application integrates effortlessly with popular fitness applications, including Strava, Garmin Connect, and TrainingPeaks. This ensures consistent tracking of performance metrics and training data across platforms. 
• Progression system: It also incorporates a gamified career mode to enhance engagement. As users complete rides and workouts, they earn Experience Points (XP) and Coins, which can be used to customize avatars and unlock virtual badges.
• FTP ramp testing: The app includes in-built tests like FTP ramp testing, which help users monitor their fitness progress and adjust their training zones accordingly.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists seeking a realistic indoor riding experience that mirrors outdoor training.
• Recreational riders and competitive athletes aiming to maintain or improve their fitness levels indoors.
• Limitations:
• Offline functionality: While ROUVY offers downloadable videos for offline use, users have reported challenges when attempting to switch between downloaded rides without an active internet connection.
• Platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Apple TV

4. FulGaz - Best Scenic Rides

FulGaz, established in 2014 in Australia, has been a prominent indoor cycling application renowned for its extensive library of over 2,000 real-world routes spanning more than 60 countries. These routes, contributed by real cyclists, offer users a diverse range of terrains and sceneries to explore from the comfort of their homes.

• Cost:
• $21.99 month to month
• $14.99 per month if you subscribe to a year
• Trial period: 14 days
• Device compatibility: The app supports connections via Bluetooth and ANT+ FE-C.
• Primary features:
• Advanced terrain simulation: FulGaz's sophisticated physics engine accurately replicates real-world cycling dynamics, accounting for factors such as momentum, aerodynamic drag, and gradient changes. This ensures a realistic riding experience.
• Dynamic riding modes: To cater to various training objectives and preferences, FulGaz provides multiple riding modes:
• Reactive Mode: The video playback adjusts in real-time to the rider's effort, speeding up or slowing down based on performance.
• Steady Mode: The video plays at a constant speed, matching the pace at which it was originally recorded, while still reflecting gradient changes.
• Customization: Riders can customize settings such as slope scaling to modify the difficulty level, ensuring an experience tailored to individual fitness levels and goals.
• Ride trimming: FulGaz enables you to select a portion of a longer ride and save it as your own section to ride. This feature is useful for focusing on specific segments, such as the final part of a course or a challenging climb.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists seeking a realistic indoor training experience that mirrors outdoor riding.
• Recreational riders and competitive athletes aiming to maintain or improve their fitness levels indoors.
• Limitations:
• Limited workout library: Its workout library and training plans, while being high-quality, are not as extensive as those found in other apps.
• Platform: iOS, Android, Windows 10/11, macOS, and Apple TV.

5. TrainerRoad - Best for Serious Athletes

TrainerRoad is a specialized indoor cycling app designed to enhance performance through structured, power-based workouts. Founded in 2012, the company has grown to approximately 100 employees, many of whom are avid cyclists themselves. The app has garnered over 17,000 ratings in the iTunes store, with many users leaving five-star reviews.

• Cost:
• $21.99 per month
• $209.99 per year
• Trial period: Not available
• Device compatibility: TrainerRoad supports ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart (4.0) connectivity.
• Primary features:
• Adaptive Training: TrainerRoad's Adaptive Training utilizes machine learning to personalize your training plan based on your performance, goals, and schedule.
• Plan Builder: The Plan Builder feature allows you to create a customized training plan by inputting your goals, experience level, and available training time.
• Training calendar: With this feature, you can schedule and manage workouts efficiently.
• TrainNow: It offers on-demand workout recommendations based on your recent training history and current fitness level.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists who seek structured, power-based training to enhance performance.
• Athletes aiming for specific goals such as race preparation, fitness improvement, or skill development.
• Limitations:
• Group workouts: Currently, TrainerRoad does not support group workouts on mobile, which may be a limitation for phone users seeking a communal training experience.
• Platform: Requires iOS 11.0 or newer, Android 7.0 (Nougat) or newer, Windows 8, 10, or 11, and macOS 10.13 or newer.

6. Bkool - Best Budget-Friendly

Bkool, established in 2010 and headquartered in Spain, has evolved into a prominent indoor cycling platform, offering a comprehensive suite of virtual cycling experiences. The platform provides users with access to a vast library of virtual routes, structured workouts, and live group sessions, all designed to enhance the indoor cycling experience.

• Cost:
• $11.99 per month
• $110 per year
• Trial period: 7 days
• Device compatibility: Bkool is compatible with a wide range of devices and smart trainers:
• Smart trainers and bikes: Compatible with major brands such as Wahoo, Tacx, and Elite.
• Sensors: Supports ANT+ and Bluetooth devices, including heart rate monitors and power meters.
• Primary features:
• 3D world and video routes: Users can explore a vast library of virtual routes, including real-world locations and user-uploaded videos.
• Structured workouts: The platform offers expert-designed workouts and the option to create personalized training sessions.
• Live group sessions: Bkool facilitates real-time group rides, building a sense of community among cyclists and enabling interactive training experiences.
• Fitness classes: Beyond cycling, Bkool provides a variety of fitness classes, including spinning sessions, which are accessible through its Spin Studio app.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists who prefer a comprehensive indoor training experience that combines realistic simulations, structured workouts, and a vibrant community.
• Competitive cyclists aiming to enhance performance and recreational riders looking for engaging training sessions.
• Limitations:
• Learning curve: New users may experience a learning curve due to the platform's extensive features and interface.
• Platform: Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Huawei devices.

7. Wahoo SYSTM (formerly Sufferfest) - Best for Endurance Athletes

Wahoo SYSTM is a comprehensive indoor training app designed for cyclists, triathletes, and endurance athletes seeking structured workouts and personalized training plans. It integrates cycling, running, strength training, yoga, and mental training into a unified platform.

• Cost:
• $14.99 per month
• $129.99 per year
• Trial period: 7 days
• Device compatibility: SYSTM is compatible with:
• Smart trainers: Works with most Bluetooth-enabled smart trainers, including Wahoo's Kickr series and trainers from other manufacturers.
• Fitness devices: Supports Bluetooth-enabled power meters, heart rate monitors, and cadence sensors.
• Primary features:
• Pro-inspired training: Wahoo SYSTM offers a diverse range of workouts inspired by professional cycling, including the 'ProRides' series featuring first-person, on-board camera footage from major races.
• Off-bike workouts: Beyond cycling, SYSTM provides comprehensive off-bike training modules such as strength training, yoga, and mental conditioning.
• Community engagement: Through the Wahoo X Forum, you can connect with other athletes and receive expert training advice directly from Wahoo's team of world-class coaches and sports scientists.
• 4-Dimensional Power (4DP) system: It assesses individual fitness levels and tailor workouts accordingly. This approach ensures that each session targets specific performance metrics, which in turn, enhances efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ideal for:
• Those who prefer a structured and science-based training approach.
• Athletes aiming to improve performance through personalized training plans and diverse workout options.
• Limitations:
• Lack of social features: Unlike some platforms, SYSTM does not offer social interaction, focusing solely on individual training.
• Platform: Available on iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows.

8. Kinomap - Best for Community Routes

Kinomap is an interactive training application designed for indoor cycling, running, and rowing enthusiasts. It boasts a vast library of over 40,000 geolocated training videos, covering more than 370,000 miles of routes across 200 countries. The platform offers a variety of structured workouts and coaching plans, catering to users of all fitness levels.



• Cost:
• $11.99 per month
• $89.99 per year
• Trial period: 14 days
• Device compatibility: Support over 220 brands and 2,500 models, including exercise bikes, home trainers, treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines. Also compatible with Bluetooth or ANT+ sensors (such as power, speed, or cadence sensors).
• Primary features:
• Terrain-based resistance: Kinomap automatically adjusts the resistance of your equipment based on the terrain depicted in the selected video. This enhances the realism of your indoor training sessions.
• Multisport functionality: The app supports various sports, including cycling, running, walking, and rowing.
• Interval training: It offers structured workouts and coaching videos that include interval training sessions. These sessions are designed to help you improve your fitness levels by alternating between periods of high-intensity effort and recovery.
• Multiplayer: Kinomap enables you to challenge friends or other users in real-time. You can schedule private sessions with your followers or join public sessions.
• Ideal for:
• Cyclists and triathletes looking for varied terrain and real-world route experiences to enhance their training.
• Fitness enthusiasts seeking motivational and engaging workouts to stay active and reach fitness goals.
• Limitations:
• No automatic treadmill speed control: Users are required to manually set the treadmill speed to match the intensity of the selected video.
• Platform: Available on iOS devices (iPhone, iPad), Android devices, Apple TV, and HDMI adapters.

9. TrainingPeaks Virtual

TrainingPeaks Virtual, formerly known as indieVelo, is an innovative indoor cycling platform that integrates advanced technology with a community-centric approach. Designed for athletes, coaches, and event organizers, it offers a comprehensive suite of features that enhance the indoor cycling experience.

• Cost:
• Included in Training Peaks subscription which is $134.99 year
• Device compatibility: Supports ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Primary features:
• Draft physics: The platform employs a proprietary physics engine that accurately simulates real-world cycling dynamics. This includes realistic drafting effects, cornering, braking, and line choices.
• Detailed analytics: TrainingPeaks Virtual provides comprehensive data tracking, including workout history, event participation, and performance metrics.
• Customizable events: TrainingPeaks Virtual allows coaches and event organizers to create fully configurable events and results systems.
• Team management: The platform provides custom team kits and management tools. As a result, teams can coordinate strategies, communicate effectively, and manage group workouts or races.
• Ideal for:
• Athletes seeking a realistic and community-oriented indoor cycling experience.
• Coaches aiming to engage athletes year-round through structured workouts, group events, and personalized training plans.
• Limitations:
• Limited scenery: As a relatively new platform, TrainingPeaks Virtual have a limited scenery variety.
• Platform: Requires iOS 13.0 or newer, iPadOS 13.0 or newer, tvOS 12.0 or newer, macOS 11.0 or newer, and Android 8.0 or newer.

Budget-Friendly and Free Indoor Cycling Apps

While premium options like Zwift and TrainerRoad provide extensive features, several budget-friendly and free alternatives deliver quality experiences without the cost.

Here are some noteworthy options:

• MyWhoosh: MyWhoosh is a free indoor cycling platform that offers access to a variety of virtual cycling races and training sessions. While the base version is free, it includes optional premium features like cycling training plans, personalized coaching, and advanced analytics for those seeking more detailed performance insights.

Other budget-friendly options include Bkool and Kinomap, which offer a high-quality indoor cycling experience without the need for substantial investment.

Essential Equipment for Indoor Cycling

To optimize your indoor cycling experience, the right equipment is key. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you'll need:

• Smart trainers or Smart Bikes: These trainers stimulate real-world riding conditions and have power and cadence built into the device.
• Bicycle: If using a smart trainer, you will need your own bike to attach to it.
• Computer, Tablet or Apple TV: You will need a computer, tablet, or Apple TV to run the application
• Cooling fans: Help regulate your body temperature during intense cycling sessions.
• Indoor cycling gear: Lightweight jerseys, padded shorts, and breathable shoes.
• ANT+ or Bluetooth: Allow your equipment to connect with apps and other devices.

To maximize comfort and prevent overuse injuries while riding indoors, it's crucial to have your bike set up correctly. If you're spending long hours in the saddle, investing in a professional bike fit can make a big difference in performance and injury prevention.

Improper hand positioning or extended time on the handlebars can result in tingling or numbness. Learn how to prevent this in Hand Numbness While Bike Riding: Cyclist’s Palsy Explained.

The Future of Indoor Cycling Apps

Indoor cycling apps are evolving rapidly, bringing new technologies and features to enhance the user experience.

Some key trends shaping the future of these platforms are:

• AI-driven training & real-time adjustments: Smart algorithms analyze performance and adjust resistance instantly. This helps maintain optimal effort, prevent fatigue, and create personalized training plans for steady improvement.
• Growing esports & competition: Virtual cycling races are gaining popularity, offering ranked events, team challenges, and professional-level competitions, turning indoor cycling into a legitimate and widely recognized esport.
• AR & VR for immersive realism: Augmented and virtual reality integrate lifelike visuals, real-world terrain simulation, and interactive elements, making indoor cycling more engaging with adaptive road conditions and enhanced sensory feedback.

Summing Up

To sum up, indoor cycling apps offer a fantastic way to stay active, challenge yourself, and explore new terrains, all from the comfort of your home.

Key Takeaways

• Zwift – Best Overall: Combines gamification, real-world routes, and competitive events, offering an interactive and social indoor cycling experience with extensive training plans.
• MyWhoosh – Best Free Alternative: A free platform with structured workouts, stunning virtual routes, and esports competitions featuring cash prizes.
• Rouvy – Best for Realistic Experience: Features over 1,500 augmented reality routes and real-world cycling simulations for an immersive training environment.
• FulGaz – Best Scenic Rides: Provides high-quality, real-world video routes and realistic terrain simulation for an outdoor-like riding experience.
• TrainerRoad – Best for Serious Athletes: Focuses on structured, power-based training with adaptive AI-driven plans for performance improvement.
• Bkool – Best Budget-Friendly: Offers 3D world routes, live group sessions, and structured workouts at an affordable subscription price.
• Wahoo SYSTM – Best for Endurance Athletes: Integrates cycling, strength training, yoga, and mental conditioning for a well-rounded fitness approach.
• Kinomap – Best for Community Routes: Features geolocated training videos with real-world terrain simulation and multiplayer challenges.
• TrainingPeaks Virtual – Best for Coached Athletes: Designed for athletes and coaches, with advanced analytics, customizable events, and realistic cycling physics.

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