Zwift adds more sensor types – starting with Core Body temperature
After a soft launch last year (I covered it here), Core announced its second-gen sensor, which is available for pre-order via its website with delivery in April. The sensor is an incremental improvement over the previous version with several small but welcome changes to practicality.
More: Core Review
Rob @TheQuantifiedScientist has already validated the Gen 2 model here and thinks it’s accurate. The first one was also well-validated by independent scientists.
Why Temperature?
- It has some general health and wellness monitoring purposes – think of small, ill children who cannot put a thermometer in their mouths, plus the elderly.
- A decent amount of heat training at modest intensities is a proven way to get ‘easy’ VO2max gains – we’re talking a couple of points increase in 1-2 months. Google it if you don’t believe me!
Zwift
Anyway, I got you here because of Zwift, which adds an interesting angle to the evolution of the Core story.
According to GCN, Zwift is adding Core sensor data to the in-game HUD and the companion app. I’m surprised by this in one sense, as temperature data is uncommon (not core.. haha) and somewhat peripherally used. On the other hand, heat training will often be undertaken indoors, and I’m guessing those long indoor, heat-adapting rides are suitable for performing on Zwift.
Plus, I’d always assumed that Zwift followed a narrow and restricted path when incorporating novel data or even calculations based on the data it already includes. If Core Temp is to be added, then why not other sensors? Why not, indeed? In fact, my intel suggests that Zwift has an ongoing Connected Sensor project where they *will* add the ability to connect other sensor types. There aren’t that many sensor types suited to indoor cycling, so you can probably guess which! Guesses below! I might comment.
Thoughts
Fantastic! More please.
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The obvious other sensor to add is a secondary power source in addition to the (generally) primary source in the trainer. This would allow dual recording and potential comparisons natively. I’m sure there are far more Zwift users with 2 power sources than Core devices!
maybe, idk
dual source is a good way to validate power values, avoiding power doping in races.
I put a penny on the sweat sensor ! (Can’t remember the name)
And maybe Stryd for running power ? (It might already be possible? )
since i wrote the original more info has come to light.
a capability is being made that will allow any kind of sensor to plug in (I suppose within some limits)