Why I Splurged on a Peloton

I recently bought a Peloton bike. If you don’t know what a Peloton is, it’s essentially a spin bike with a monitor hooked up. You can stream a ton of classes in the Peloton app, or you can even take live classes with one of their many instructors.

The thing is, Peloton’s aren’t cheap. The bike, along with a few minor accessories, like shoes, cost upwards of $2000. Definitely a splurge! Here is why I took the plunge, and if I think it’s worth it.

At-Home Fitness During Quarantine

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been a struggle to get into a regular workout routine. For awhile, my local fitness studio was open, but classes had to be held outdoors. This was fun during the summer, but not easy to do during the cold, rainy Seattle winter! I found myself in need of an indoor workout that I actually liked.

While I had tried dozens of at-home fitness apps, none really stood out to me. Their routines bored me, and I found myself slacking off with the lack of live competition. Plus, doing floor work with pets at home isn’t easy!

That’s what drew me to the Peloton bike initially. I like that it’s a live class experience. While riding, I can actually see how the other riders are doing and give them virtual high-fives. It’s as close to an in-person class as you can get while at home!

It’s Easy

Another thing I absolutely love about my bike – it makes it so easy to workout.

I no longer have to lug out a yoga mat, weights, yoga blocks, and other fitness gear. I simply wake up, put on my workout clothes, fill a water bottle, and go. It’s that easy. No thinking required.

It’s Fun!

Of course, a workout routine should be fun, and the Peloton instructors are just that! Every instructor is super motivating, and they have an amazing selection of music to accompany each class. They frequently even do themed classes, such as a 90’s theme.

The Cost Factor

Yes, the Peloton bike is expensive. In addition to the cost of the actual bike, you have to pay a monthly subscription to the Peloton app, which is $39 per month.

So no, the bike is in no way cheap. But for me, fitness is a priority in my life and I’m okay spending the money on something I use so frequently. And interestingly enough, I actually save money by using the Peloton versus paying for an unlimited membership at the fancy fitness studio I used to use.

And strangely enough, the most expensive a workout routine is per month, the more I use it. For me, it’s easy to justify not using an app that only costs $20 per month. The high cost motivates me to actually use it regularly.

Is a Peloton Bike Worth It?

Like any splurge, the Peloton bike is totally worth it if you can afford it and you use it regularly. It also depends on how you like to workout. I know I could save money by going to a local gym or streaming at-home workouts, but they aren’t personally as fun for me. It’s totally up to you and your personal preference! The important thing is to prioritize your health when you can.

Save After Spending

And now that I have splurged on a Peloton bike, it is time for me to go on and save more and also invest more. Here are the savings platforms worth sign-up to.

Rachel Slifka

Rachel Slifka is a freelance writer and human resources professional. She is passionate about helping fellow millennials find success with their finances and careers. Read more by checking out her website at RachelSlifka.com.