I recently realized I needed a boost in my exercise routine. As a working mom, I just don’t have time to get to the gym. I’ve done popular streaming workouts in my basement for years and get outside for a good walk when I can, but I was starting to feel drained and unmotivated. On a whim I decided to try the Peloton app and oh my word! Motivated doesn’t even begin to describe how excited I am to actually workout these days! Here’s the best part though – you don’t need any fancy, expensive equipment to join in on the fun!
What is the Peloton App?
The Peloton app can be used on your phone, device, or even some televisions. When you log in, you can select a large variety of workouts, including strength, yoga, cardio, meditation, running, cycling, stretching, bootcamps, and walking. New content is loaded every day, so you’ll never run out of curiosity to try a new class!
The instructors are incredibly motivating and the music is perfectly paired with whatever workout you choose. As the weather has been getting warmer, I’ve enjoyed the outdoor workouts that are audio only, as it feels like I have a personal trainer making my walks outside meaningful. I am not a runner, but I even found myself smiling after completing a Peloton outdoor running workout!
There are also curated programs you can “enroll” in as part of your membership that will guide you through various training regimens.
How Much Does it Cost?
The Peloton app is currently free for a trial period of 30 days. After that, you will pay $12.99 per month. However, check with your insurance company to see if there are any discounts!
I called my insurance and received an entire year free for my subscription. Students, teachers, military, first responders, and healthcare workers can also receive a discount.
What Else Do I Need?
Honestly, you don’t need anything other than a phone/device/tv to get started! There are many workouts that just require you to move your body with no exercise equipment.
I did purchase a cost-friendly spin bike (not Peloton) and with some Google searching found there are apps that help you sync up your Peloton class to your non-Peloton bike. There are also classes that require weights or a treadmill, but they do not have to be purchased from Peloton.
Why You’ll Love It
The instructors. The music. The endless new classes. My list could go on and on! The ability to filter the time for how long I have to exercise has been a game changer. Rarely does a day go by that I don’t do something to move my body, even if it’s a five-minute stretch (and often I’ll find myself completing one short class and realizing I want to keep moving).
The community around Peloton is also highly motivating, whether it’s because you join some hashtags of similar interests (#ictmoms) or find a Facebook group to join (highly recommend HardCORE on the Floor).
Because there are so many different types of workouts available, I’ve noticed I’ve expanded my interests to try exercises I might have normally thought would be too difficult or not worth my time. It feels good to accept the challenge of something out of my comfort zone, and I have yet to not enjoy it when I’m done.
I’ve laughed through workouts (thanks, Cody Rigsby!) and I’ve cried when the instructor says something that is exactly what my heart needed to hear (looking at you, Robin Arzón).
I can genuinely say that the Peloton app has been incredible for my heath, both physically and mentally, and I can’t wait for my next workout.
If you decide to join, follow me @JayhawkMama3 – I’d love to become your new workout buddy!
