A method provides an interactive training environment for athletic activities performed on an exercise device. A workout plan is selected or generated, having a plurality of sequential intervals, each having at least one training parameter, such as intensity. A virtual training world is generated, having a virtual training surface divided into a plurality of sequential intervals, each interval having an inclination that is a function of the training parameter associated with the respective intervals of the workout plan. World features, which may include turns in the training surface, may be pseudo-randomly generated. A visual representation of the virtual training world is displayed and represents a participant position in the virtual training world. The participant position is synchronized based on speed, distance traveled, or elapsed time. Feedback indicia are displayed to the participant, such as interval markers indicating borders or transitions between the sequential intervals.