Peloton launches fitness equipment with AI connection

Home fitness company Peloton announced on Wednesday that it is ushering in a “new era of connected wellness.” To this end, it is introducing an AI and computer vision system called “Peloton IQ” for personalized training support and is launching three new connected fitness devices: the indoor fitness bikes “Bike” and “Bike+,” as well as the treadmill “Tread.” All three offer a rotating touchscreen that allows users to do strength training, yoga, Pilates, barre, and other sports in addition to the actual cardio training on the machines. Peleton therefore refers to this as the “Cross Training” series, not to be confused with a “cross trainer” or the “CrossFit” strength and conditioning program.

Compared to previous Peleton devices, all new models offer better sound, powerful processors, and updated WLAN and Bluetooth for a faster and more reliable connection, according to the manufacturer.

Peleton IQ

As with many other companies, however, the same applies to Peleton in particular: nothing works without (generative) AI. According to the manufacturer, “Peloton IQ” makes personal training more accessible and offers dynamic coaching that is tailored to the goals and fitness level of the respective user, as well as performance forecasts, progress tracking, and personalized insights. It is now available for all web-enabled Peloton fitness devices, both via a software update for the original series and on the new models.

However, the most advanced features of Peloton IQ will be reserved for the Plus line of the new cross-training series. In Germany, this is the Bike+, which, according to Peleton, uses an integrated camera with motion detection to provide personalized training support for strength training through form feedback, repetition tracking, and weight recommendations. The “workout generator” and “build strength at your pace” functions allow users to create customized workouts or complete on-demand courses at their pace.

Peleton promises that by analyzing training history, class performance, and data from third-party wearables such as Garmin Connect, Fitbit, and Apple Health, Peloton IQ will provide personalized recommendations to help users develop more effective workout routines, improve their results, and stay motivated. Subscribers to the All Access package will receive weekly performance reports with actionable recommendations and adjustments to their personalized training plan or activity goals. For those who have a fitness goal but no personalized training plan, Peloton IQ suggests individual classes based on member data.

Beacon of hope

Peloton has been in trouble since the company badly miscalculated after extremely strong demand and enormous growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the company had to cut hundreds of jobs, close several warehouses, and increase the price of devices. The new devices and Peloton IQ should now make the brand attractive again.

The AI-supported training in particular is probably also intended to justify the increase in the membership fee for new and returning members with an All-Access membership from 39 Euro to 45 Euro and for new and returning members with an App+ membership from 24 Euro to 28 Euro, which was announced at the same time. The changes will come into effect in October but will not apply to existing members in Germany and Austria with a Peloton All-Access or App+ membership. Peloton has published a list of membership options and prices on its website. (nij)