I started walking. A lot. At first, things were okay. My legs were relieved. The pain in my arches subsided, my shin splints were more or less gone, and my ankles gained some stability. I have rolled them numerous times over the last two years. But something was missing. I mean, I was still hitting the proverbial pavement, but I started to miss the mind-clearing stress relief that running can provide. So I laced up my kicks and headed outside. I’ll ease back in, I thought. Today, I’ll run a 5k—vut I found my motivation was zapped. My love for running was gone, at least until I turned to Peloton. Yes, the cycling app. Why? Because Peloton offers guided outdoor runs. To make a long story short, Peloton has changed my relationship with running for the better. It has reinvigorated my mind, body, and spirit. Peloton runs feed my soul thanks to encouraging trainers and fun playlists. Rebecca Kennedy, Becs Gentry, Adrian Williams, and Robin Arzon take the work out of working out. They inspire me to be my best self while I’m running—but they inspire me when I’m not running, too.
The basics
What are Peloton guided runs? Peloton guided runs are, in short, audio-based runs, ones where a trainer is literally in your ear. They are designed to be used outside, though you can tune into them on the treadmill. They help coach and guide you through a set duration or program. Peloton runs range from 20 to 60 minutes, and they are ideal when your energy and or motivation is low.Where can you find them? All Peloton guided runs can be found on the Peloton app. Just go to “Classes” and then click on “Outdoor Audio.“Cost: The Peloton app digital membership is $12.99 per month
What’s so great about Peloton’s guided runs?
Peloton runs are fun, fast-paced, and high-energy. Even if you’re walking, they use playlists that are sure to keep you pumped. Yes, they include tunes from Madonna, Britney Spears, Shaggy, Lady Gaga, Metallica, and Nine Inch Nails. And Peloton divides every run into “efforts,” or small, digestible chunks, and this makes the time fly by. I can run 60 minutes (or more) without a breather. I also have a better handle on my pace—since starting with Peloton, I’ve shaved nearly a minute off my average mile time. While Peloton’s guided runs have helped me run faster, they don’t focus on pace. Their instructors do not demand you run an 8-minute mile, or turn your treadmill to a level 6, and you’ll never hear them mention things like speed or your running rate. Rather, they have you focus on your perceived output or exertion. This means you can scale every workout to your needs in that moment because, let’s face it, runs might feel different from day to day. And that’s okay. It’s the beauty of the app! Peloton meets you where you are, and their trainers will work (or walk) beside you. There are also numerous running options available—from marathon training runs and HIIT workouts to 20-minute sprints, Peloton has something for everyone, and will help you meet your running goals. Oh, and if you’re an award junkie (like me) or just need some extra motivation, you’ll love Peloton’s award system, which includes a wide variety of challenges and achievements you can receive, from milestones and streaks to special events. So if you’re looking for a workout buddy or a (semi-)personal trainer, you may want to check out Peloton. With dozens of instructors and hundreds of live and pre-recorded routines, Peloton will prepare you for whatever lies on the road ahead. Next up, here’s what to know about the Peloton treadmill recall.
