Looking for a TriDot alternative?
Want a TriDot alternative that gives you control over your plan — and costs nothing? The Next Race is built for self-coached triathletes.
TriDot leans hard into algorithm-driven triathlon training: assessments, optimized sessions, and race predictors do the thinking for you. That's powerful if you want to hand over the wheel — but frustrating if you like to shape your own plan, and the subscription isn't cheap.
The Next Race puts you back in control: structured, editable plans, automatic multi-race blending, Strava, Garmin and Polar sync, built-in smart-trainer control, and an AI assistant you can consult when you want input — without locking your training behind an algorithm or a monthly fee.
The Next Race vs TriDot
| Feature | The Next Race | TriDot |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Paid subscription tiers (~$15–$50+/mo) |
| Plan control | Fully editable, you're in charge | Algorithm-driven |
| Multi-race planning | Blends overlapping race blocks automatically | Within its system |
| Sports | Run, bike, swim, triathlon, multisport | Triathlon-focused |
| Bring your history in | Strava, Garmin & Polar sync + drag-drop GPX/TCX/FIT | Garmin & Strava |
| Push workouts to your watch | Two-way Garmin sync + .FIT export, free | Pushes sessions to Garmin |
| Indoor smart-trainer control (ERG) | Built-in — drives ERG mode on your trainer | Not built-in |
| AI assistant | Yes — plan with Claude, ChatGPT or Gemini via MCP | Proprietary optimization engine |
| Required assessments | No | Yes — to calibrate the algorithm |
| Best for | Self-coached athletes who want control | Athletes who want the algorithm to decide |
TriDot is a paid subscription with multiple tiers (and add-ons like race prediction), typically ranging from roughly $15 to $50+ per month depending on plan. The Next Race is free.
Why athletes switch from TriDot
You want to own your plan
The Next Race gives you editable, transparent plans you can shape yourself, rather than sessions handed down by an optimization engine you can't fully steer.
Free instead of a recurring subscription
TriDot's value depends on paying every month. The Next Race delivers structured multi-sport planning at no cost.
AI on your terms
Consult Claude, ChatGPT or Gemini through MCP when you want a second opinion — without surrendering control of the whole plan to an algorithm.
Train indoors, built in
Ride structured sessions on your smart trainer in ERG mode, push planned workouts to your Garmin, or export any session as a .FIT file — all included, no extra app or subscription.
When TriDot is still the better pick
If you specifically want a hands-off, fully algorithm-optimized triathlon system and don't mind the subscription, TriDot is purpose-built for that. The Next Race is for athletes who'd rather drive.
TriDot alternative — FAQ
Is The Next Race a free TriDot alternative?
Yes. The Next Race offers structured, multi-sport training planning with Strava, Garmin and Polar sync, built-in smart-trainer control, and a free price tag, whereas TriDot requires a paid subscription.
Does The Next Race work for triathletes?
Yes. The Next Race supports running, cycling, swimming, triathlon and other multisport events, and can blend training blocks when you're preparing for more than one race.
How is The Next Race different from TriDot?
TriDot is algorithm-driven and decides your sessions for you; The Next Race gives you full control over editable plans, with an optional AI assistant for input rather than automation.
Can I ride my smart trainer in The Next Race?
Yes. The Next Race includes built-in smart-trainer control that drives your trainer in ERG mode and records the ride on iPhone, so you can execute your structured bike sessions without a separate app.
Compare other alternatives
A better way to plan your training.
Free multi-race planning, a fast calendar, and an AI assistant. Make the switch today.