Ep. 80: From indieVelo to TrainingPeaks Virtual – A conversation with Dr. George Gilbert about philosophy, phase one, new features, and the future

In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, join hosts Emma Martin and Chris Schwenker as they welcome back Dr. George Gilbert for his fifth appearance. In this episode, Dr. Gilbert, now the Vice President of Virtual Platforms at TrainingPeaks, offers an exclusive look at the rapid evolution of the platform since its acquisition and transition to TrainingPeaks Virtual, just 10 months prior.

Gilbert opens up about the massive improvements, including a brand-new user interface and a vibrant 3D world, as well as new roads, graphics, and training modes. He discusses how the platform’s vision evolved from the TrainingPeaks philosophy of helping purpose-driven athletes achieve their goals through “deliberate practice”. You’ll hear about how the company measures success not by peak concurrent users or flashy marketing, but by its ability to empower coaches and make athletes faster.

The conversation dives deep into the platform’s focus on realistic racing physics, the strategic role of its 10,000 unique bots, and its stance on elite-level competition. Dr. Gilbert emphasizes that TrainingPeaks Virtual is not here to compete with event organizers but to provide the world’s best tools and infrastructure for them to utilize.

Finally, get an exclusive sneak peek at a feature that promises to be a game-changer for purposeful training: GPXplore. This new feature will enable athletes to upload any GPX file and instantly ride a fully auto-generated virtual version of any course worldwide. From famous climbs like the Stelvio and Sa Calobra to the punishing cobbles of the Koppenberg, GPXplore promises to transform course recon and race-specific training.

Tune in to this compelling episode to discover how TrainingPeaks Virtual is setting itself apart in the world of cycling esports and a new vision of what’s possible for athletes and coaches.

Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.

• New Virtual Cycling Platform indieVelo is Defining the Future of Esports [Zommunique, June 6, 2023]
• Cycling Esports Platform indieVelo Moves to Open Beta—What it Means For Virtual Cycling Users [Zommunique, June 30,2025]
• Find the 4 other episodes featuring Dr. Gilbert here [Zommunique]
• VVN’s Most Impactful People in Cycling Esports For 2025 [Zommunique, Apr 8, 2025]

Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.