The Smart Trainer Problem
The indoor cycling industry has a hardware problem. To use popular platforms like Zwift, TrainerRoad, or Rouvy, you need:
- A smart trainer (€300–1,500)
- Often a cadence sensor (€30–50)
- Sometimes a heart rate monitor (€50–100)
- An ANT+ dongle if your computer doesn't have built-in support (€30)
Total: €410–1,680 before you even consider the monthly subscription. This creates a massive barrier to entry.
CycleRun: A Different Approach
CycleRun asks: what if we used the camera you already have instead of sensors you need to buy?
Your laptop webcam or phone camera watches your legs pedal. Computer vision algorithms (running locally in your browser) detect when each pedal stroke occurs, your cadence, and changes in pedaling intensity.
What You Don't Need
| Traditional Setup | CycleRun |
| Smart trainer (€300+) | Not needed |
| Cadence sensor (€30+) | Not needed |
| Speed sensor (€30+) | Not needed |
| Power meter (€200+) | Not needed |
| ANT+ dongle (€30) | Not needed |
| Monthly subscription | Not needed |
What You Do Need
- Any stationary bike
- A computer or tablet with a webcam
- A web browser
How Good Is Webcam-Based Detection?
What It Does Well
- Reliable cadence detection (±3 RPM)
- Real-time speed calculation
- Detects pedaling vs. not pedaling instantly
- Works in various lighting conditions
- Supports side, front, and custom camera angles
Limitations
- Not as precise as a direct power meter for watts
- Needs reasonable lighting (no complete darkness)
- Legs should be visible (long pants reduce accuracy)
Five Setup Options
- Laptop Side View — Best accuracy. Place laptop at knee height beside your bike.
- Tablet on Handlebars — Most convenient. Camera facing your legs.
- Phone Camera Pairing — Best for TV. CycleRun on TV, phone as wireless sensor.
- External Webcam — Most flexible. USB webcam positioned anywhere.
- iPhone Continuity Camera — Mac users. iPhone as webcam, no cables.