What is ROUVY and how does it work: a guide to start training at home
Discover how ROUVY works, what equipment and device you need, and how to connect it correctly to start training at home.
Summarise with AI
ROUVY is an indoor cycling application that connects your compatible trainer or stationary bike with real video-recorded routes: you pedal at home while the screen shows real roads and landscapes, with the option to follow structured workouts, training plans, or participate in group rides and races.
The first step is not to choose the most attractive route, but to confirm that your equipment can connect properly. Not all trainers offer the same functions: some allow ROUVY to automatically adjust resistance according to the terrain, while others only transmit data and require resistance adjustment on the trainer itself, without control from the app.
How ROUVY works when you pedal
The app receives data from your equipment and translates it into your progress along the route: it's not just a background video, the route reacts to your pedaling.
On a smart trainer connected as a controllable device, ROUVY can adjust resistance according to the gradient: when you reach an incline, it increases the effort required by the equipment. This function depends on the model and type of connection; having Bluetooth or appearing on the list of compatible devices does not guarantee automatic resistance control by itself.
The routes are based on real video, not a completely animated world, allowing you to recognize familiar landscapes and roads while training on a stationary setup at home.
What you can do besides riding routes
You can choose the type of session according to the time available and what you feel like doing:
- Routes: real routes chosen for the scenery or profile, instead of always pedaling in front of the same wall.
- Workouts or structured training: sessions with defined effort blocks, instead of improvising the entire ride.
- Training plans: several linked sessions with a goal; they are a guide from the app, not personalized tracking.
- Events: group rides and races, with different pace and demands.
- Challenges: an added goal to your rides when you want more than just completing a single session.
For a first contact, it's advisable to start with a simple route and leave more demanding events for when you are familiar with your equipment's connection.
What you need to use ROUVY
A bike and a trainer, or a compatible smart bike
If you use a conventional bike, you need to mount it on a compatible trainer; another option is a smart bike that integrates the training equipment.
Check the exact model on the official list of compatible trainers and bikes, also reviewing the notes and limitations of each model, not just if it appears on the list.
Classic trainers can be used with a power meter or a speed sensor, depending on the supported configuration. A cadence sensor alone is not enough, and in these cases, ROUVY does not automatically control resistance.
A device capable of running the app
ROUVY is available for Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android, and Apple TV. Belonging to one of these families is not enough: the version of the operating system, processor, memory, and wireless connection of the device also matter.
Before installing it, check the official system requirements for your equipment. Chromebook and Android TV are not supported, and Apple TV is not equivalent to any smart TV.
Connection and a prepared space
The equipment communicates with the app via Bluetooth or ANT+, depending on the model. In some configurations, ANT+ requires an adapter, so it's advisable to check what your setup supports before purchasing.
Also prepare internet access, a stable space for the equipment, and a comfortable screen to view. A fan, a towel, and water at hand help, although they are not application requirements.
How to start with ROUVY step by step
- Check the two compatibilities: that of the trainer or smart bike and that of the device where you will run the app. They are independent checks.
- Create your account and download the app from the official ROUVY website.
- Prepare the equipment following the manufacturer's instructions: assembly, firmware updates, and calibration if your model requires it.
- Connect the trainer from the sensors section, activate the appropriate wireless connection, and select your equipment. For automatic resistance, it must support that function and appear connected as 'Controllable'.
- Check that the data arrives when pedaling. If the equipment does not appear, disconnect it from other apps that may be using it; the official connection guide explains pairing step by step.
- Choose a first simple route to confirm everything works before embarking on a long climb or a race.
ROUVY subscription and accounts
ROUVY offers SINGLE plans for one person; DUO for two; and GROUP for up to five in total, including the owner, plus a seven-day trial. It's advisable to review the current conditions before activating it.
In shared plans, each member uses their own ROUVY account after accepting the owner's invitation: it's not about sharing a single password.
If you have already checked that your equipment is compatible and want to share the cost of a GROUP plan, you can check how to share ROUVY on Sharingful. Sharingful organizes the group and expenses; the plan conditions are set by ROUVY.
Frequently asked questions
Does ROUVY work with a non-smart trainer?
It can work with classic models and supported sensors; check the exact configuration on the official list. In these cases, you will not have automatic resistance control.
Do I need a heart rate monitor?
It is not essential for the basic connection of the trainer. You can add a compatible one to record heart rate, a different data point from what the app needs to progress along the route.
Can I use ROUVY from Spain?
Yes, the app is available in the Spanish App Store, and Sharingful has a ROUVY GROUP page for Spain. Still, it's advisable to check your device and plan conditions before subscribing.
Why doesn't the resistance change on an incline?
Check if your model supports resistance control and if it is paired as controllable. If it only transmits data, or you use a classic trainer without that control, the resistance will not change automatically.
Where do I start if I have everything ready?
With a short session on a simple route: confirming that the data arrives correctly will allow you to enjoy routes, workouts, and events without surprises later on.
