Desperate times call for desperate measures.  With the announcement of the quarantines due to COVID-19 and school closures, it seemed like the perfect time to look into some home fitness options the family could enjoy.  I have been considering getting a treadmill this winter to help keep us all active.  Running and walking outside is just not a reality when its hailing with a temp in the teens.  But, spring was coming and our vacation and I never ended up making the purchase.

I had seen/heard all about Peleton this past year – it seems everywhere you look someone is talking about it or advertising it.  It looked so fun – with the live classes to help keep you accountable, but I knew I couldn’t justify the price tag (the basic bike package is currently $2245 with a required $39/mo fee for the Peleton All Access Membership).   That’s when I started researching other options, and stumbled upon this exercise bike and a few “hacks” to ensure the same live biking experience at a much more affordable price tag.  After reading through all the reviews of a few bikes, I ended up going with this one.

This Snode exercise bike came in around $300 with free PRIME shipping and had great reviews from people who cycle alot (which helped put me at ease since I’m a newbie).  I didn’t understand the importance of the flywheel weight – but I researched and it basically helps to ensure a smooth ride.  You should have at least a 35lb flywheel (which this bike has) and the higher the weight, the heavier the bike will be.  If you advance with biking, you may want to consider a higher weight but this one seemed perfect for us.

This bike comes with some really nice features including a comfortable seat – I also added this gel seat because I like my tushy to have some cushy.  It simply slides on and off – so I can easily transition to my outdoor bike when we go for rides.  Another great feature is the multi-grip handlebars with tablet holder and pulse rate monitor – this is perfect if you want to watch a show or listen to music while riding.  The kids have really been loving this – they just put on a Netflix show and ride.  There is also a water bottle holder – perfect for staying hydrated while you ride.  The adjustable resistance is easily accessible so that you can change during your ride for more/less intense workout.  The entire bike is fairly adjustable too with the seat and handlebars.  I can easily adjust it after my workout to work for my 11 or 13 year old.  Also, my hubby said it was easy to put together.  It has a nice slim design so we can keep it in my smaller “workout” room.

So, here are 3 easy “hacks” I found to get a “Peleton” experience without the pricetag:

1. Peleton app:  for just $12.99 per month, you can have the full Peleton experience and right now you can sign up for a free 90 trial.
2. Wahoo cycling cadence sensor:  for $40, track and capture real-time cycling cadence on your bike computer or smartphone with compatible training apps.  Works with 50+ Smartphone Apps including Wahoo Fitness, Zwift, Trainerroad, Sufferfest, MapMyRide, Komoot, RideWithGPS, Cyclemeter, Peloton, Rouvy, Fulgaz, Kinomap and more.
3. Upgrade the pedals: Totally NOT necessary but a preference.  This bike comes with caged pedals so you CAN wear regular sneakers.  However, if you prefer to use cycling shoes, you can upgrade the pedals inexpensively.  This pair comes in at only $30.

Do you currently own a bike?  I’d love to hear any cycling suggestions you may have!

Happy biking and don’t forget to take care of yourselves during this time at home!  Exercise is the best way to stay stress free.  🙂

xo,

J