Peloton Interactive Inc. is back with something fresh as it debuts its new Strength+ app, which is set to expand its offerings beyond just home fitness. Announced on September 3, 2024, this app aims to connect Peloton with both novice and seasoned gym-goers who are itching for new ways to integrate strength training with technology.
The Strength+ app launches first as a beta version, targeting those who want to test drive its features and provide feedback before the full rollout. This strategic move is part of Peloton’s response to shifting consumer preferences, especially as exercise increasingly strays from solely at-home routines. “While Peloton is well-known for delivering a fantastic home experience, we understand people crave flexibility in their workouts and that's includes flexibility in a gym setting,” stated Brent Tworetzky, Senior Vice President of Product for Peloton.
The Strength+ app features custom, machine learning-generated workouts alongside programs created by real trainers, allowing users the chance to tailor their strength training sessions. Peloton’s previous Gym feature gave the team valuable insights, leading to the development of this app. The company learned from its research and community feedback, stating, “Peloton Members are looking for a strength experience to support them in the gym,” Tworetzky added.
So, what exactly can someone expect from the app? For starters, users will find two primary modes: the option to build custom workouts and programs. The beauty of the custom workouts lies within the app’s filters which allow users to specify various parameters. Want to build strength? Users can choose rep ranges from one to five. Prefer building muscle? You can adjust for six to twelve reps, and for endurance, there’s the option for twelve plus reps.
Alongside rep ranges, there’s also flexibility to determine workout duration, choose targeted muscle groups—such as upper body, core, or lower body—and select the equipment available. Whether you have free weights or access to gym machines, the app tailors workout plans based on user-specific liaisons. This feature is not merely about flexibility; it’s about catering to unique user needs.
During the custom workout buildup, users can preview planned workouts and adjust them on the go. If some moves don’t feel right or users are unfamiliar with certain exercises, they can swap out moves easily. This aspect may take input from Peloton’s product team, as the instructor guidance and sequencing are derived from their recommendations.
The app also allows for the incorporation of the users’ music playlists during workouts, particularly beneficial since it heavily encourages lifting concentration. When generating workouts, the strength+ app syncs automatically with your music without interrupting the flow, making the experience more seamless for users.
Despite its innovative offerings, the app does have room for improvement. For example, one of the most notable limitations is the lack of guidance during workouts. Currently, the app features only minimal audio instructions, reminiscent of GPS prompts. While this setup frees up the user to really hone their form during lifts, users might find themselves yearning for more comprehensive cues from trainers within the application.
Beyond the mechanics of workout creation, Peloton’s Strength+ app also addresses post-workout performance reviews. Peloton members can visually track their results over time, creating dashboards to easily comprehend their progress. “Tracking what you're doing is important for improvement,” noted Andy Speer, instructor involved with the app's development. This dashboard, built on self-reported data, showcases metrics based on lifted weight and completed reps to motivate users through tangible progress indicators.
Currently, the app is available for iOS users only. Nevertheless, there’s hope for future expansions to various platforms as it picks up steam during its beta phase. Interested users can request access through Peloton's website, engaging directly with the app as it evolves.
While membership pricing has yet to be confirmed, early indications suggest it may either be offered as a standalone product outside the conventional Peloton monthly service or as part of the add-ons for existing Peloton All-Access members. This approach presents exciting new possibilities for Peloton, potentially drawing gym enthusiasts who might have opted out previously.
Peloton's foray well beyond home fitness with the Strength+ app appears to be aligned with market trends, where consumers are increasingly opting for versatile gym experiences. “It’s all about enhancing user engagement and breaking down any barriers they might face at the gym,” the leaders noted.
With its beta version rolling out now, Peloton is clearly committed to refining the app with input from active users. “This is just the beginning,” remarked Tworetzky. Looking to the horizon, it’s clear Peloton has ample plans to evolve this offering and meet the demands of its audience. The Strength+ app could signify the dawn of another era for Peloton, one where users not only sweat with instructors at home but now also confidently navigate their local gyms with specialized guidance and support from their favorite fitness brand.
