Read / Off
The app records available ride data without controlling resistance. Use this when you want to control resistance yourself.
Compatibility and setup
Cycling device support
Use this page to check which trainers and cycling devices work with Slow N Steady, which ride controls are available, and how to move a workout to another device or training platform.
Smart trainers
Smart trainer compatibility
When a trainer connects, Slow N Steady shows the ride modes it can use. Some trainers send ride data but do not accept ERG or slope commands.
Supported connections:Bluetooth FTMS and Tacx FE-C over Bluetooth. ANT+ by itself, Wi-Fi-only connections, and proprietary Bluetooth control without FTMS are not supported.
| Connection or device | Ride data | ERG | Slope | Support level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tacx NEO 2T Tacx FE-C over Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | Fully testedTested for ride data, ERG, slope, and mid-ride mode changes. |
| Bluetooth FTMS smart trainer | Yes | If available | If available | Supported through FTMSRide data is supported. ERG and slope availability varies by model. We have not tested every FTMS trainer. |
| Bluetooth cycling power sensor | Power | No | No | Read-onlyCan provide outdoor power data. It cannot control resistance. |
| ANT+-only or proprietary-only trainer | No | No | No | Not supportedSlow N Steady cannot connect to or control these trainers. |
Slow N Steady does not currently pair a separate heart-rate-only or cadence-only sensor during cycling. Those readings can still appear when the connected trainer sends them.
During the ride
Ride controls
You can change targets and switch available modes without ending the workout.
ERG
The trainer follows the workout's power target. You can adjust the target, return to the planned target, or switch modes.
Slope
The trainer follows a simulated grade. You can change the grade during the ride, and workout step changes will not replace it.
Switch modes
Move between Read / Off, ERG, and slope while workout timing and ride data continue. Modes not supported by the trainer stay unavailable.
Trainer control stays off after a disconnect until you resume it.
This prevents resistance from being reapplied unexpectedly. Slow N Steady asks the trainer for neutral resistance and waits for you to resume the current target. If the app or phone loses power, it may not be able to send that final command, so use the trainer's own stop or pause control when needed.
Workout handoffs
Workout export options
Some destinations accept a workout directly. Others require you to save a file and import or copy it. The steps for each destination are listed below.
Garmin and Wahoo use a planned-workout FIT file.This is different from a completed ride file, so it cannot be added through Garmin Connect's Import Data page or the Wahoo activity importer. Save it to a computer and copy it to a compatible device using the folder shown below.
| Destination | What we create | Transfer method | What you do next |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch | Native WorkoutKit workout | Direct | Preview the workout in Slow N Steady and add it to the Workout app on a compatible paired Apple Watch. |
| Zwift | Structured .zwo file | File import | Place the file in Zwift's custom-workout folder on Mac or PC, then let Zwift sync it. |
| TrainerRoad | Stepwise .erg file | File import | Import the file with TrainerRoad Workout Creator and check the workout steps before riding. |
| Garmin | Planned-workout .fit file | USB file transfer | Save the file to a computer, connect a compatible Garmin by USB, and copy it to Garmin/NewFiles. Slow N Steady does not sync directly with a Garmin account. |
| Wahoo ACE, BOLT 3, and ROAM 3 | Planned-workout .fit file | USB file transfer | Save it to a computer, connect the Wahoo by USB, and copy it to the plans folder. |
| Older Wahoo ELEMNT models | The same planned-workout .fit file | Model-dependent | USB transfer only works if the device exposes a compatible plans folder. Otherwise, use a planned-workout provider supported by that model. |
| Files, AirDrop, or email | Readable workout summary | Text sharing | Save or send the summary for reference. It is not a structured workout file and cannot be imported by a device. |
FIT power targets use the FTP stored on the Garmin or Wahoo device. Repeated blocks are written as individual steps, open maximal efforts remain rider-paced, and cadence targets are included in the step instructions.
Before your first workout
Test the features you plan to use.
Use a short workout and complete these checks within the 7-day refund window.
- 1Connect the trainer
Confirm that the app shows the ride data and control modes you expect.
- 2Update the trainer and close other training apps
Install current trainer firmware, then close apps such as Zwift or TrainerRoad so only one app is controlling resistance.
- 3Try each mode you need
Ride briefly in Read / Off, ERG, and slope. Adjust a target and switch modes during the workout.
- 4Open an exported workout
Create one workout and open it on the watch, bike computer, or platform you plan to use. For Garmin or Wahoo, complete the USB transfer to the device.
7-day refunds
If your setup does not work, request a full refund.
If you are unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, contact us within 7 days of purchase for a full refund. The refunded plan or workout library will be removed from your account.