Peloton DIY ๐ฒ
Welcome back friends ๐ In today's post, I'll be sharing how I've been working out over the past few months with the Peloton app and spin bike. All pictures of my set-up can be found at the bottom of the post.
During my semester abroad in the Netherlands, I was introduced to spin class - riding on a stationary bike through various speeds and resistance, lots of hype music and a great rush of endorphins afterwards. Even though I was limping and struggling to climb or descend stairs after my first ride, I was hooked.
Fast forward to being back in Toronto, I attended my fair share of Soul Cycle and SPINCO classes and loved the music, the vibes and the workout. When COVID hit, I became entranced by the elusive Peloton. While I was aware that it might just be overhyped, I still wanted it but I thought that the first year cost of $3,700 was just too absurd.
So being the crafty and thrifty person that I am, I began to research dupes and DIYs. I came across the option of buying a stationary bike and a tablet to stream the classes from the Peloton app. This seemed like a great deal as I could use the tablet for other purposes as well, and it wouldn't just be a giant screen stuck to the bike (as is with the original Peloton bike).
Before pulling the plug, I whipped up a quick break-even analysis and concluded that to make up the cost of the bike and the iPad in the first year, I would have to take 5 classes a month (using a comparative $30 Soul Cycle class for reference). This was very doable as I was planning to spin a few times per week, and perhaps everyday at the beginning.
Here's the exact set up:
Bike - This is the one that I got, you want to look for something with a magnetic resistance since it'll be the quietest as well as a heavy flywheel. Make sure it also has a resistance knob and a place to rest your tablet.
Mat - You'll want an exercise mat to keep at the bottom of the bike so it doesn't damage your floors
iPad - I got the iPad Air 4 64GB in sky blue and I could not be happier. In addition to serving as my Peloton app device, I use it to FaceTime, draw, and take notes
Apple pencil - Not needed if you're using the iPad just for the Peloton app but a great addition to have if you want to get into digital drawing or note-taking
iPad case - This one is amazing since it also has a spot for your Apple Pencil and the rose gold colour looks stunning with the sky blue iPad
Keyboard - I got this simple Logitech bluetooth keyboard which also connects to my iPad and phone to make replying to messages or typing easier (definitely not needed)
Screen protector - This screen protector has a paper-like matte finish which makes using it a breeze, and it also doesn't show fingerprints after touching it with sweaty hands
Peloton App - The app is $17 CAD/month and when I got it, the first two months were free. The app is amazing, can be accessed on multiple devices (only one profile is allowed though) and runs seamlessly.
My financial analysis ๐ค
The total one year cost of all of this comes to $1,868 which is $1,877 cheaper when comparing to the option of buying the Peloton bike and paying the monthly subscription. Most of the cost is from buying the iPad as well as the accessories but while I was waiting for my iPad to deliver, I used my phone for the classes and it was fine as well. Most families probably have a tablet lying around at home too so that can be an easy way to save as well. The bike, mat and app come to $865 which is such a great deal.
Another benefit of doing your own set up is the waiting time - currently Peloton is on a 10 week delivery time which is just too long for my impatient self. My bike arrived within a few days which kept me so excited and motivated.
However, I should mention that a downside to have your own set up like this is that you won't be able to place on the leaderboard. This is because the stationary bike won't be able to connect to the app and measure cadence and resistance, which are the two main metrics Peloton uses to place individuals on the leaderboard. If that's a big deal to you, then perhaps getting the original bike is best.
Either way, you won't regret your choice to start working out with the Peloton community - all the classes are amazing, the instructors are upbeat and inspiring and the community is so supportive.
Sending you lots of love and light,
-Reina xo
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