What a Peloton subscription covers
A Peloton subscription gives you access to live and on-demand fitness classes through the Peloton app or Peloton equipment. The subscription does not include the bike, treadmill, or other hardware — you buy that separately if you want it. The monthly fee covers the software and class library only.
Peloton offers two subscription tiers. The basic tier includes access to all classes, music, and the ability to track your workouts. The premium tier adds features like personalized coaching recommendations, detailed performance metrics, and the ability to create custom playlists. The price difference between tiers varies, so check Peloton's website for current rates in your region.
Classes span cycling, running, strength training, yoga, stretching, and meditation. You can take them live (at scheduled times) or watch recordings later. If you own Peloton hardware, your subscription syncs your workout data to the machine's screen and your profile.
Key Takeaways
- Peloton subscriptions are separate from hardware purchases — you pay for the bike or treadmill upfront, then pay monthly for class access.
- Two subscription levels exist: a standard tier with core class access and a premium tier with coaching and advanced metrics, at different price points.
- You can use the subscription on the Peloton app (on your phone, tablet, or computer) without owning Peloton equipment.
- Subscriptions auto-renew monthly unless you cancel, and you can pause or resume your membership without losing your account history.
- Peloton offers free trial periods for new members, though the length and terms change periodically.
Subscription costs and billing
Peloton subscription prices vary by country and change over time. In the United States, the basic tier typically costs less than the premium tier, but you should check Peloton's website or app for the exact current amount. Prices are billed monthly to the payment method you provide during signup.
Your subscription renews automatically each month on the same date you started. If you own Peloton hardware, the subscription is required to use it — the machine will not function for classes without an active membership. If you use only the app, you can cancel anytime without losing access to your account or workout history; you simply cannot start new classes until you resubscribe.
Peloton sometimes offers discounts for annual prepayment instead of monthly billing. Paying for a full year upfront usually costs less per month than paying month-to-month, but you lose the flexibility to cancel mid-year. Read the terms before committing to annual billing.
Using the app without Peloton equipment
You do not need to own a Peloton bike or treadmill to use the subscription. The Peloton app works on smartphones, tablets, and computers, and you can take classes on any equipment you own — a regular stationary bike, your own treadmill, dumbbells, a yoga mat, or nothing at all (for bodyweight and stretching classes).
The app tracks your workout time and intensity if you manually log it or connect compatible fitness trackers. However, the detailed performance metrics and automatic data syncing that Peloton hardware provides are not available through the app alone. If you want those features, you would need to purchase the equipment.
Many people use the app for classes like yoga, strength training, and meditation, which do not require specialized equipment. Others use it with budget-friendly bikes or treadmills from other brands to get class instruction at a lower total cost than buying Peloton hardware.
Pausing, canceling, and restarting your subscription
Peloton allows you to pause your subscription for a set period (usually up to three months at a time) without canceling it entirely. While paused, you cannot access classes, but your account, workout history, and preferences remain saved. You can resume whenever you choose. Pausing is useful if you know you will not use the service for a while but plan to return.
To cancel, you log into your account and request cancellation through the app or website. Peloton may ask why you are leaving and offer discounts to keep you, but you are not required to accept. Once canceled, you lose access to classes immediately, though your account data is typically preserved if you resubscribe later.
If you own Peloton hardware and cancel your subscription, the machine becomes unusable for classes. You cannot use it to take Peloton workouts, though some machines allow offline features or third-party app integration depending on the model and software version. Check your hardware's manual or Peloton's support site for what remains available after cancellation.
Free trials and promotional offers
Peloton periodically offers free trial periods for new members. The length varies — sometimes 30 days, sometimes longer — and the offer may differ depending on whether you are signing up through the app, the website, or as part of a hardware purchase. If you buy a Peloton machine, the subscription trial period may be included with the equipment.
During a free trial, you have full access to the subscription tier you selected. The trial auto-converts to a paid subscription on the last day unless you cancel before that date. Set a reminder to cancel if you do not want to be charged, because Peloton will bill your payment method automatically.
Promotional discounts (reduced monthly rates for a limited time) are sometimes offered to returning members or during sales events. These are not the same as free trials — you still pay, but at a lower rate. Check Peloton's website or sign up for their email list to learn about current offers.
Subscription features and class variety
The basic subscription includes access to the full class library: cycling, running, strength, yoga, stretching, meditation, and other formats. You can filter classes by duration, difficulty level, and instructor. Live classes happen at scheduled times throughout the day, and you can join them in real time or watch the recording later.
The premium tier adds personalized recommendations based on your workout history and goals, advanced performance analytics (like power output and cadence trends over time), and the ability to create and share custom playlists with other members. If you use Peloton hardware, the premium tier also unlocks features on the machine's screen.
Both tiers include the same class content. The difference is in tools for tracking progress and customizing your experience. If you are new to fitness or do not care about detailed metrics, the basic tier may be sufficient. If you want coaching guidance and detailed performance data, premium offers more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share my Peloton subscription with family members?
Peloton subscriptions are tied to a single account, and sharing login credentials violates the terms of service. However, some households purchase multiple subscriptions so each person has their own account and workout history. Check Peloton's current family plan or multi-user options, as these offerings change.
What happens to my data if I cancel my subscription?
Your workout history and account information are typically preserved even after cancellation. If you resubscribe later, your previous data is usually restored. However, you cannot access or view your workouts while your subscription is inactive — you regain access only after resubscribing.
Do I need internet to use Peloton classes?
Yes, you need an active internet connection to stream live or on-demand classes. Peloton does not offer offline downloads of classes. If your internet goes down, you cannot access the app or take classes until your connection is restored.
Can I use the Peloton app on multiple devices?
Yes, you can log into your Peloton account on multiple devices (phone, tablet, computer) and take classes on any of them. However, only one device can stream a class at the same time per account. If you want multiple people to take classes simultaneously, each person needs their own subscription.
What is the difference between a Peloton subscription and a gym membership?
A Peloton subscription is digital-only and requires you to own or provide your own equipment. A gym membership gives you access to physical facilities and equipment on-site. Peloton is cheaper upfront if you already have equipment, but requires buying a Peloton machine if you want the full experience. A gym offers variety but requires traveling to a location.