Today, there’s a big variety of options when it comes to training apps and coaching software. They're all aimed at enhancing performance, monitoring progress, and giving you a training plan to follow. 

Depending on your individual goals, whether it's efficient training, social rides with friends, or staying entertained during workouts, you have a number of solid solutions to choose from, including both free and paid applications.

Some notable options include JOIN, which offers flexible training plans; Wahoo Systm, known for its immersive workout experiences; and TrainingPeaks, which is popular for its advanced analytical features. Many of these apps provide free trials, allowing you to evaluate their functionality, compatibility with devices, and overall value. 

1. JOIN

Best for: Flexibility and adaptability. Affordable, created by professional coaches, and features over 400 tailored workouts. Simplicity may not appeal to those desiring in-depth statistics.

Price: Less than $11/month

What is JOIN?

JOIN is a cycling training app that provides dynamic and adaptive plans tailored to individual schedules, fitness levels, and goals. It emphasizes practicality and ease of use over complex data analysis.

How Does JOIN work?

The app uses an algorithm to generate personalized training plans based on user input, including time availability and training objectives. It continuously adjusts plans in real time to ensure relevance as schedules and performance change.

Pros

• Affordable compared to competitors

• Developed by professional-level cycling coaches.

• Includes over 400 unique, adaptive workouts.

• Suitable for riders with varying schedules.

Cons

• The minimalistic design may not suit those who prefer an extensive virtual world.

What People Are saying

Many users highlight the app’s simplicity and adaptability. Some reviewers note its effectiveness for busy riders, while others mention that the absence of advanced virtual worlds is a limitation.

Pricing

JOIN is available for less than $11 per month and offers a 14-day free trial for new users.

2. Wahoo Systm

Best for: Comprehensive and immersive training. Combines structured plans with engaging videos and real-world cycling footage. Requires consistent internet access for its content.

Price: $14.99/month

What is Wahoo Systm?

Wahoo Systm is a versatile training app that integrates structured workouts with entertaining content, providing an engaging experience for cyclists.

How Does Wahoo Systm work?

The app offers structured training plans paired with videos of real-world cycling routes. It includes additional modules for yoga, strength, and mental training to enhance overall performance.

Pros

• High-quality video content enhances motivation.

• Includes yoga and mental training modules.

• Provides a variety of structured plans and challenges.

Cons

• Requires internet connectivity for streaming.

• Priced higher than some alternatives.

What People Are saying

Users generally enjoy immersive video content. However, there are some concerns about the need for stable internet connectivity, which may impact the workout experience.

Pricing

Wahoo Systm costs $14.99 per month and offers a 14-day free trial.

3. Xert (by Tacx)

Best for: Advanced analytics and personalized training. Offers detailed performance metrics and highly adaptive plans. The interface may be complex for beginners.

Price: $10/month

What is Xert?

Xert is a data-focused training app that provides cyclists with advanced performance analytics and adaptive training plans tailored to individual metrics.

How Does Xert work?

The app analyzes data from rides to create customized plans targeting specific fitness goals. Its adaptive algorithm updates plans as new performance data is made available.

Pros

• Comprehensive analytics for power and performance.

• Adaptive training plans based on real-time data.

• Well-suited for integration with smart trainers.

Cons

• Steep learning curve for new users

• The interface may be perceived as intimidating by casual cyclists.

What People Are Saying

Users frequently appreciate the depth of analytics provided. However, some express that the app can be complex for those unfamiliar with detailed data. 

Pricing

Xert costs $10 per month and includes a 30-day free trial.

4. Spoked

Best for: Personalized coaching on a budget. Affordable and provides custom plans based on user feedback. Limited integration with third-party devices.

Price: $7.99/month

What is Spoked?

Spoked is a training app that offers personalized coaching solutions for cyclists, emphasizing flexibility and affordability.

How Does Spoked work?

Users input feedback after each ride, allowing the app to adjust future workouts. The design is intended to replicate the interaction of a personal coach while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Pros

• Affordable compared to other apps.

• Personalized plans adapt based on ride feedback.

• Simple interface suitable for all levels.

Cons

• Lacks compatibility with some smart devices.

• Limited advanced analytics for performance tracking.

What People Are Saying

Some users describe Spoked as a convenient coaching solution, noting its personalized plans while pointing out the need for improved integration with devices.

Pricing

Spoked costs $7.99 per month and includes a 7-day free trial.

5. TrainerRoad

Best for: Data-driven structured training. Provides detailed metrics and effective interval-based plans. Lacks engaging entertainment features like videos.

Price: $19.95/month

What is TrainerRoad?

TrainerRoad is a performance-oriented app that delivers scientifically-backed training plans aimed at improving power and endurance.

How Does TrainerRoad Work?

The app employs structured interval training plans tailored to user FTP (Functional Threshold Power). It tracks progress through comprehensive analytics and integrates with smart trainers for enhanced performance.

Pros

• Comprehensive interval-based plans.

• Advanced analytics for tracking improvement.

• Seamless integration with various devices.

Cons

• No entertainment features included.

• Higher price point compared to similar apps.

What People Are Saying

Users often describe TrainerRoad as an effective training tool but have noted that the app is primarily focused on functionality and lacks engaging features.

Pricing

TrainerRoad costs $19.95 per month, with a 7-day free trial available.

6. Trainer Day

Best for: Affordable structured workouts. Budget-friendly with customizable plans. Basic interface with limited features.

Price: $5.99/month

What is Trainer Day?

Trainer Day is a low-cost app that provides structured training plans for cyclists seeking to improve fitness without significant expenditure.

How Does Trainer Day Work?

Users can access a library of pre-built plans or create personalized workouts. The app syncs with smart trainers to facilitate structured intervals.

Pros

• Extremely affordable.

• Allows for the creation of custom workouts.

• Compatible with most smart trainers.

Cons

• Basic interface lacking advanced features.

• Minimal analytics for tracking progress.

What People Are Saying

Users typically find Trainer Day suitable for budget-conscious cyclists, while some note that the app may be limited in features.

Pricing

Trainer Day costs $5.99 per month and includes a 14-day free trial.

7. Training Peaks

Best for: Advanced training and performance tracking. Comprehensive tools for planning and tracking workouts. Requires a higher level of understanding and is relatively expensive.

Price: $19.95/month

What is Training Peaks?

Training Peaks is a detailed app designed for athletes focused on planning, tracking, and analyzing their training.

How Does Training Peaks Work?

The app provides tools for creating and monitoring structured training plans. It supports integration with a variety of devices, offering extensive analytics and insights.

Pros

• Highly customizable training plans.

• Extensive performance tracking capabilities.

• Integrates with a wide range of devices.

Cons

• Higher cost relative to other apps.

• Steeper learning curve for new users.

What People Are Saying

Users often highlight the versatility of Training Peaks for planning and tracking, although some find the complexity of the app a challenge.

Pricing

Training Peaks costs $19.95 per month, with a 7-day free trial available.

Choosing the right one for you

Start by identifying your priorities. Decide whether your main focus is adaptable training, cross-training (cycling and running), or rigid training plans. Understanding these aspects will help guide your selection of suitable apps. 

It's a good idea to take advantage of free trials to explore different options. Aim to strike a balance between functionality, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with your training styles and goals. 

If you're after an adaptable training plan that updates in real-time based on your availability, then JOIN is your best bet (and it’s also one of the most cost-effective). If you're looking for more rigid training plans, Spoked, TrainerRoad, and Trainer Day are excellent choices.