I wondered how many people could actually afford the expensive exercise bikes and expensive subscriptions. I guess Peloton hit critical mass. I started back on my recumbent stationary bike this year. I try to do 10 miles a day with the bike set to go over several hills of different size. I watch an episode of some show or other which helps me forget how long I’ve been pedaling. I don’t need some motivational trainer spurring me onward.
Peloton became an “in thing” among the “in crowd” with a real boost from social media during the first year of Covid. Like a lot of these trendy deals, it makes little sense from an economic point of view and the bubble deflated when the in crowd moves on to the next thing.
Not that I’m the measure of all things but I use a $500 wheel-on smart trainer, an old road bicycle, optical HRM and a $16.00/month subscription to Zwift.
Gives resistance up to a 12% grade, access to many training plans, group rides and races. A poor mans peloton.
Love my recumbent bike. Do an hour every other day. Easy on the knees and back. Just need to get back on my rowing machine the other days. Want to lose another 25-30 pounds. Watch a movie of documentary while riding, and the time flies. On days I miss Tucker Carlson, I can watch him on Fox Nation and not have to fast forward through the commercials.