You've probably seen the commercials, glossy ads, and video clips featuring Peloton. It's kind of hard to escape them what with the brand's ubiquitous marketing and die-hard following. And let's face it: the bike is sexy. Sleek frame with a large, HD screen for participating in live cycling classes... it's easy to see the appeal. But with a $1,500 price tag + the hefty monthly subscription fees, is Peloton really worth it? Does the bike really deliver on all the hype? Dive in with us as we see whether or not Peloton is really worth it for getting and staying fit.

Want your own Peloton bike for free? Check out our RIDE WELL GIVEAWAY for a chance to win a bike, gear, 1-year membership and so much more!

Meet the Peloton Bike

While Peloton has been around since 2012, the brand has only recently gained household name recognition. Peloton bikes and treadmills leverage technology to give users access to high-quality live and on-demand fitness classes from their very own homes. A Peloton bike is a luxury spin bike that comes with an accompanying tablet kiosk. Peloton prides itself on its live and recorded spinning classes, giving Peloton users an unparalleled level of convenience to exercise. Unlike your old-school free-standing cycling machines, Peloton's bikes feature hi-tech touch screens, allowing you to participate in live classes hosted by Peloton's many cycling coaches who instruct you in real-time.

Peloton treadmills feature a similarly hi-res screen so you can increase the incline and watch Peloton's instructors demonstrate proper form as you run. We're collectively drooling over Peloton for its sleek design (like Apple, but for working out) ease of use, and top-notch equipment. Together, this workout trifecta fuels a healthy, fit lifestyle.

But what about that hefty Peloton price tag?

Does the idea of spending $1,500 on an exercise bike seem crazy? And to think, that's just the entry price. Some Peloton bikes cost as much as $2,000! For that price, you're probably thinking, you could get a really nice road bicycle with a carbon-fiber frame and disc brakes (or any other type). Then there are the subscription fees for the live classes.

As of this writing, the monthly subscription fee for Peloton's streaming service is $39. This means that you'll need to budget another $500 dollars annually in addition to your bike purchase price and initial investment. That's a lot of dough. So is the hype worth it? Fans of this svelt bike shout a resounding YES, highlighting these unique benefits of the Peloton experience:

The Gym At Home

Some Peloton owners boast that Peloton's HIIT classes feel like a trip to the gym. You know, those days when you'd rather not leave your couch for fear of stepping on a scale or dealing with filth and sweat? Peloton provides a clean, comfortable fitness experience from the comfort of your living room.

And, for Peloton owners who are fed up with gym memberships, Peloton offers a welcome alternative. Peloton hosts live cycling classes day and night that you can join for free or pay to take at your convenience. Peloton also provides on-demand fitness classes that allow you to choose the class that's right for you.

With indoor cycling, too, the weather is no longer part of your equation. For most of America, that's a big win for oppressive summer months and snowy winters (Can we hear a "Heck Ya," New York?) Peloton users also offer that Peloton's mirrors afford you a visual of your form, making Peloton an excellent choice for those who want to perfect their form and get into peak cycling shape.

Live Classes Promote Community + Follow-through

Peloton features live instructor-led fitness classes that allow Peloton users to be accountable for their workouts while not having to make it to the gym or leave their homes. Peloton fans also tout Peloton's HIIT classes for their high-energy, fun vibe. With Peloton, you're not embarrassed about your lack of coordination in front of strangers -- only the Peloton instructors and your fellow Peloton users see you make a fool of yourself.

And if that's too much, you can even ghost them by hiding your feed and participating anonymously. Win-win! Peloton instructors also offer tips, tricks and motivation between songs to help Pelotoners push themselves. Peloton users say these follow-ups keep Peloton workouts from feeling stale or monotonous.

Some of the Best Peloton Rides?

Peloton lover, AuthEmmie, shares some of her all-time favorite classes. We've added them here to give you an idea of what to expect from the monthly membership subscription.

• Lizzo ride with Robin Arzon from 8/2/19
• Dolly Parton ride with Robin Arzon from 6/26/20
• Hamilton ride with Robin Arzon from 10/14/20
• P!nk ride with Christine D'Ercole from 11/1/19
• Classical ride with Christine D'Ercole from 7/14/20
• 30 minute Beyonce ride with Tunde and Alex from 11/9/20
• 45 minute Pentatonix ride Christine D'Ercole from 12/13/20
• 30 minute Beyonce with Ally Love from 11/13/20
• 45 minute 5 Year Anniversary ride with Alex Toussant from 2/8/21
• 30 minute Megan Thee Stallion with Kendall from 3/24/21
• 30 minute Pick-Me Up ride with Hannah Corbin from 2/26/21
• 20 minute Pop ride with Sam Yo from 3/9/21
• 20 minute Low Impact with Hannah Frankson from 8/26/21
• 45 minute Womens History Month ride with Christine D'Ercole from 3/14/21
• 30 minute The Chicks ride with Christine D'Ercole from 3/24/21
• 60 minute Climb with Christine D'Ercole from
• 30 minute Verzuz ride Jess King (Timbaland vs. Swizz Beatz) from 4/21/21
• 30 minute Turn it Up ride with Hannah Frankson from 4/26/21
• 20 minute Reflection ride with Christine D'Ercole from 4/7/21
• 30 minute Asian and Pacific Islander History Month Bollywood ride with Sam Yo from 5/17/21
• 45 minute RENT ride with Christine D'Ercole from 6/2/21
• 20 minute Ed Sheeran Recovery ride with Sam Yo from 9/15/21 – it only came out last week and I've done it twice. It's so calming and appropriate for all levels.
• 60 minute Climb Ride with Christine D'Ercole from 8/1/21
• 5 minute Warm Up with Kendall Toole from 7/9/21 – the playlist is so good, it's a warm-up on repeat
• 20 minute All For One ride: Imagine Dragons with Sam Yo from 7/2/21

A Close-Knit Community

Peloton fans say Peloton's live, instructor-led classes help cyclists build a tight fitness community. Peloton classes feature Peloton community groups organized by instructors and led by Peloton moderators. These Peloton instructors often follow up with Peloton users after Peloton broadcasts to get to know Peloton users outside of the Peloton room. Peloton fans say this enhances their Peloton experience, adding that "it's like Facebook but for workouts!"

Peloton instructors also offer workouts that Peloton users can do at their convenience as well as pre-recorded Peloton cycling classes that allow you to continue working out even when Peloton isn't offering live classes. In recent months of increased isolation, anyone looking for a community of like-minded individuals seeking fitness will find the Peloton worth the price tag.

The Peloton Bike's Unique Ride

Pelotoners claim that the Peloton experience is smooth, comfortable, and low impact on your joints. Fans say Peloton's resistance and durable build help you to avoid knee pain from spinning classes, as the stationary bike doesn't have the same jarring effect as a traditional spin class. Peloton also offers tons of options for its indoor cycling bikes, including custom courses that allow you to tailor your workout experience.

Peloton = An Effective Way to Grow and Maintain Fitness

At Beauty by Earth, we're huge advocates of "health at every size." So, while you'll hear us talk about fitness goals and health-conscious living, we won't focus on weight loss, per se. Instead, we look for workout routines that support a healthy body, spirit, and mind. And, luckily, Peloton fits the bill exactly. Sure, it has plenty of transformation pics, before and afters, etc. More exciting, though, are the many accounts of men and women who have unlocked a new love and passion for wellness.

Peloton gives cyclists a place for fitness inspiration, accountability, and motivation plus customized training with instructors who are invested in members' health and wellness. Peloton users say the experience has helped them build a newfound love for cycling and encouraged them to try new forms of exercise. For anyone looking to fall in love with their routine, Peloton is worth the investment.

Pelotons Deliver on Increased Fitness

Along with these benefits, the basic cycling routine itself offers a wonderful, low-stress way to get or maintain a healthy body. This unique system is one of the best ways to get in shape because it targets all aspects of physical wellness including flexibility, strength training, cardio endurance, speed, and agility.

Pelotons main goal is to keep you motivated so there's no excuse for not working out. Workouts are high-intensity interval training, which will help users burn fat, build muscle, and increase cardiovascular ability. In other words, they're designed to help you get and stay in shape. They are also great for mental health because they offer a great way to release stress through exercise and customized music. To us, that's a big plus making the Peloton really worth the investment!

Beautiful Design

Peloton fans say Peloton's sleek design fits in well with any home decor. Peloton's fan base also boasts Peloton's functional, modern look. Peloton comes with a seven-inch touchscreen to help you access Pelotons live and on-demand workout classes. Pelotoners say the Peloton app is extremely user-friendly, adding that Peloton's touchscreen has more functionality than Peloton mobile users have access to.

Peloton fans also tout Peloton's suite of products, which you can buy online. These swag pieces include water bottles, Peloton-branded gear and cycling shoes. Pelotoners are so obsessed with their bike's style that they've created entire Pinterest communities around Peloton room design.

Peloton is a fantastic way for people who are not very active, or for people who are looking to maintain their fitness after actively achieving it. And for design loves, the sleek bike makes Peloton really worth it.

Real Results from Using a Peloton Bike

But what really seals the deal for us on Peloton is what its own customers say about their experiences. One user said, "Peloton is the best! I love Peloton! Peloton changed my life." Peloton fans say Peloton motivated them to take charge of their fitness and guided them to become happier and healthier. A Peloton reviewer notes, "I've never been very athletic and Peloton has filled a void. I love working out on my Peloton bike." "I was a runner and would run 5-6 days a week," says Mark, a Peloton user. But after discovering Peloton and building up his leg strength from cycling, Mark has been able to run several half marathons. He added that Peloton helped him discover how much he loves biking!

Here are a few more reviews from Peloton users:

"I LOVE THIS BIKE!

My daughter has a peloton and I decided I wanted one too! The best decision I ever made. This bike has put me in better shape than I’ve ever been in. I love the rides, the instructors, and the peloton community. You can go at your own pace. If it’s too hard, back it down. Not hard enough, increase! Thank you peloton, for, I’m sure, adding years to my life!" - Nancy H. | Seven Hills, OH

"LOVE MY BIKE AND THE PELOTON COMMUNITY!

My bike was delivered two months ago and I've ridden almost every day. I love the variety of classes - I've tried yoga, meditation, pilates, and barre- workouts I've never done before! I love that I can use the app to work out anywhere, whether I'm on vacation, need a 5-minute meditation at the office, or want to try some dance cardio in my den.

The instructors are top-notch- they are SO knowledgeable and it's obvious they love the Peloton community as much as we love them. I am so glad I invested in my health and well-being - no one else can do that for me - I had to do it for myself and I'm so happy I made that choice. I look forward to being a healthier, happier version of ME!

My daughter has a peloton and I decided I wanted one too! The best decision I ever made. This bike has put me in better shape than I’ve ever been in. I love the rides, the instructors, and the peloton community. You can go at your own pace. If it’s too hard, back it down. Not hard enough, increase! Thank you peloton, for, I’m sure, adding years to my life!" - Susannah | Franklin, TN

"SUCH A BLAST!

I love peloton! My bike is my new best workout buddy! I’ve been a member for a while now and have found it easy to stay motivated and have fun! The community is amazing here and every time I get on the bike I feel fantastic. The instructors kick your butt but are so encouraging and personable. This is the first workout routine I’m actually excited to do before I even start." - Haley | Tracy, CA

"Plus Size Peloton: 1 Year Review

Today, I hit 300 rides on my Peloton bike, 1 year after it arrived at my doorstep. What I feared might be a giant waste of money and a pandemic panic purchase has turned into one of the best things I've done for myself. I want to be clear and say that it's not necessarily the Peloton that is life-changing — it's the ability to recognize that exercise without a goal of weight loss is meaningful, fulfilling, and can lead to sustainable regular movement. This discovery of joyful movement was the breakthrough, and the Peloton bike happened to be my catalyst for it." - READ THE REST | Emmie, Authentically Emmie Blog.

So... Is Peloton Really Worth It? YES!

Peloton is a fantastic way for people who are not very active, or for people who are looking to maintain their fitness after actively achieving it. Pelotoners are so obsessed with their bike's style that they've created entire Pinterest communities around Peloton room design. Peloton bikes offer an incredible indoor cycling experience- many of which include live class instruction from some of the best trainers in the world! The Peloton community has become one of my favorite places online because I can feel like I'm part of something bigger than myself and make friends through shared interests. If you're thinking about buying a Pelton bike but aren't sure if it's worth your time, money, or effort, we say "Babe, Do it!" Peloton is worth it.

Want your own Peloton bike for free? Check out our RIDE WELL GIVEAWAY for a chance to win a bike, gear, 1-year membership and so much more!

Want More Info About Peloton?

Check out these resources for more info on the Peloton bike and experience:

• RIDE WELL Giveaway by Beauty by Earth: Win a Peloton Bike, 1 yr subscription, and more!
• Plus Size Peloton: 1 Year Review
• My honest review of the Peloton Bike: is it worth it?
• Why I changed my mind about the Peloton Bike
• How to Get Into the World of Virtual Cycling