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Peloton has become a household name in recent years, synonymous with the growing fitness phenomenon of interactive training. The brand's popularity has earned a cult-like following in the world of fitness for its diverse and immersive training experiences. The Peloton Tread is a high-quality treadmill in Peloton's expanding line of cardio equipment that you would be remiss not to consider if you are in the market for a new treadmill.
The Tread is more than just a treadmill for running. With membership to the Peloton platform, it becomes an all-inclusive virtual training boutique offering a wide range of live and on-demand classes of all types to diversify training indoors. If you are considering making an investment in the Peloton Tread, you are in the right place.
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A Quick Look at the Peloton Tread
Peloton has undeniably revolutionized the world of fitness with its immersive training experience via an expansive library of fitness classes led by world-class instructors all accessed through its fitness app. Unlike many other fitness apps that came before it, Peloton connected members with unique community events, fitness challenges, and leaderboards, enabling people from all over the world to connect, motivate, and inspire one another throughout their fitness journey.
Making its debut in 2018, the Peloton Tread became the first interactive treadmill in Peloton's cardio equipment lineup. It had a rough start shortly after it was released with a voluntary safety recall in 2021 due to reports of the touchscreen displays wobbling and/or falling off. Placing a premium on safety and function, Peloton released the newest version of the Tread in 2021 equipped with all the known and loved immersive training experiences and adding on several new safety measures along with a more compact footprint.
If you are looking to add the Peloton Tread to your home gym to expand your cardio equipment options, it is likely because you are attracted to its extensive virtual training options and impressive technology-driven features. But the Tread is also a respectable treadmill in its own right, with a sturdy carbon steel frame, strong motor, and a good range of speeds and inclines suited for even the most serious runner. And with that, it is time to dive into the nitty-gritty details of all things Peloton Tread.
The Peloton Tread
SPECS
- Footprint: 68"L x 33"W x 62"H
- Running area: 59"L x 20"W
- Weight: 290 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Max speed: 0-12.5mph
- Incline: 0%-12.5%
- Motor: 3HP DC
- Display: 23.8" HD touchscreen
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
Peloton Tread Review: Set-Up
Delivery and Assembly
Delivery and set-up are included in the price, given that you live in the upper 48 (additional charges may apply to other locations), and the delivery technician will set up your treadmill upon arrival. After you order, Peloton works with you to set up a delivery date and a three-hour window for the delivery time. While you wait, you can use the app for live and on-demand workouts. You can also make updates to your order or cancel as needed. You’ll receive shipping updates via email or text message (if you opted in) about the progress of your treadmill.
Before your Peloton treadmill arrives, it's recommended that you run a speed test on your WiFi to make sure the location where you’d like it has a fast connection. You’ll also want to confirm that there’s enough space for your treadmill by measuring the area using their guide and that there is a power outlet close by. If you plan on getting a floor mat, have it ready to go so the delivery technician can start assembling your treadmill promptly after arriving. Lastly, if you decide that the Peloton Tread isn’t for you, there is a 30-day home trial that offers free pickup and a full refund.
Peloton Tread Review: Design
Footprint, Weight, and Portability
Anyone considering the Tread needs to have a dedicated space to house it. Measuring 68 inches long, 33 inches wide, and 62 inches high, it takes up a decent amount of real estate. You will also need to factor in space on either side and behind the Tread. Peloton recommends a total of 78.7 inches behind the Tread and 24 inches on either side. And, although it comes with transport wheels, it weighs a whopping 290 pounds, so it's not easily moved around.
Running Area
The Peloton Tread comes with a running surface that measures 59 inches long and 20 inches wide. While this is plenty big enough for the vast majority of potential users, it is slightly smaller than running areas found on other treadmills in this price range. The smaller size is not necessarily limiting, but it's certainly noticeable to those with long strides. Of note: The Peloton Tread is built for those who measure a minimum of 4 feet, 11 inches tall, and a maximum of 6 feet, 4 inches tall, and supports weights that range from 105 to 300 pounds.
The cushioning on the Tread is minimal, however, the majority of users find it acceptable and better than running on pavement. The Tread's belt is similar to that of a traditional treadmill that slides underfoot. Unique to this treadmill is a red line that runs down the middle of the belt. Runners will likely appreciate this line as it not only keeps you centrally located but also encourages better running mechanics.
Motor, Speed, and Incline
Equipped with a 3.0 horsepower motor, The Peloton Tread supports running speeds up to 12.5 miles per hour, and incline ranges from 0-12.5%. The frame on the Tread is designed so that the motor is located under the running belt area rather than a front hood, which gives an overall more spacious feel to the running area.
Intuitive knob roller controls make it easy to adjust speed and incline. Alternatively, users can hit button controls to quickly jump up or down a unit. The knobs are reportedly much easier to use mid-workout, but they are less precise than traditional control buttons. The Tread does not offer any decline. Decline adds a level of variability and intensity to any workout so, while it is not a deal-breaker, it would have been a nice touch.
Display
The Peloton Tread features a high-definition touchscreen that measures 23.8 inches across diagonally. The screen provides vivid images to enhance the immersive experience, and users are able to view live metrics such as speed, mileage, elevation, heart rate, and more to stay motivated and on track as they get their sweat on. Users report the screen is responsive and functions well.
The display features front-facing speakers with rear-facing woofers, a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack, USB-C charging port, an eight-megapixel front-facing camera with a privacy cover, and a built-in four-digital array microphone to keep users connected in a variety of ways. These specs are the crux of what makes the Peloton experience so immersive.
Peloton Tread Review: Performance
Bluetooth
The Peloton Tread comes with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, the latest version of the Bluetooth wireless communication standard. To connect, simply find the Bluetooth settings on the left-hand side of the screen, toggle on, and connect. Users can connect headphones, heart rate monitors, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. And with just one tap, you can connect your Apple Watch to the Tread.
Peloton Apps/Classes
When you purchase the Peloton Tread, you receive a 30-day free trial granting you access to thousands of live and on-demand fitness classes. There is a vast array of class options, including yoga, meditation, walking, bike boot camp, treadmill boot camp, Pilates, and barre. These classes are taught by experienced instructors and trainers. Past the one-month trial, a paid membership is required to utilize the Peloton platform.
At this time, the Tread does not offer any pre-programmed workouts. Peloton also prohibits users from integrating other entertainment or training apps onto the interface. As such, membership becomes a necessity for anyone who wants to stay connected or needs some external motivation while working out.
Peloton Tread Review: Safety
Tread Lock
The Tread Lock automatically locks the belt after you put it to sleep. When you set up your Peloton, you’ll create a four-digit pin that you’ll enter each time it locks. That means you’ll need this password at the start of your daily workout. The Tread Lock is enabled whenever you’re inactive too. So, what is considered inactivity? The belt will lock if your speed is at 0 miles per hour, you haven’t touched the screen or adjusted the incline for 45 seconds, and you are not in a class. This safety feature prevents unauthorized access and cannot be disabled.
Safety Key
Another safety mechanism is the safety key which stops the belt from moving if you need to make an emergency stop. There’s also a big red stop button that will bring the belt to a stop right away. If you want to ensure no one can access your treadmill, you can remove the safety key when it’s not in use. To begin running again, the safety key must be clipped on and in place, even if you enter the Tread Lock pin. This feature helps keep others in your household, such as pets and children, safe.
Warranty
The Peloton Tread is not an inexpensive purchase. Given its price, the warranty is a bit disappointing. Peloton offers a 12-month full warranty on the HD touchscreen and a limited warranty on most components. The drive motor and walking belt come with a three-year limited warranty and the frame has a five-year warranty. Compared to other manufacturers, this warranty is relatively weak.
What We Like
- Studio-quality sound for a fully immersive experience
- Interactive HD touchscreen display
- Access to thousands of workouts via the Peloton App
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Sturdy carbon steel frame
- Intuitive controls for speed and incline
- Centered red line on running belt
- Safety features
What We Don’t Like
- Warranty is less than ideal
- No pre-programmed workouts
- Doesn't have a decline option
- Cushioning is minimal
- No cooling fan
Final Thoughts on the Peloton Tread
The Peloton Tread is a solid choice for anyone looking for an interactive training experience and values both quality components and is technology driven. Its reputation stands on the integration with the Peloton App which proves a wide range of live and on-demand classes led by world-class trainers. A vivid and easy-to-use interactive touchscreen display, combined with the ability to connect to fitness lovers from around the globe, enhances the indoor training experience and helps you stay motivated.
The Tread is built well, too. Featuring a 3.0 horsepower motor, runners can reach speeds up to 12.5 miles per hour and inclines up to 12.5 percent. While there is no decline option, there is plenty of training variability through the Peloton app. If you choose to not purchase the Peloton subscription, you're limited to the "Just Run" mode as there are no pre-programmed workouts.
FAQs About the Peloton Tread
Is Peloton still selling the Tread?
Yes. While the initial Tread was recalled based on reports of a loose touchscreen console posing the risk of injury to users, Peloton released a new and improved Tread in August of 2021. This newest version remedied the console issue and now features several other new safety measures to prevent injury, including a password-protected tread lock and a safety key.
Can I just run on the Peloton Tread?
Yes, you can. The Tread offers a free "Just Run" option that does not require owners to commit to a paid subscription. Peloton did remove this mode back in June 2021 but quickly restored it for all treadmill owners. This training mode is completely user-dictated since there are no pre-programmed workouts, meaning the user determines the speed and incline to create their own running adventure on the Peloton Tread.
Is the Peloton Tread as good as the bike?
The Peloton Tread offers all the same features we love in the Peloton bike, but geared specifically for runners and walkers. Where the bike offers cycle classes and bike-based boot camps, the Tread offers running, walking, and treadmill-based boot camps. Beyond that, all users can access the same non-equipment-based classes.
In general, the biggest factor that differentiates the Peloton bike from the Peloton Tread is that cycling is a more joint-friendly cardio workout. Running or walking has more impact on the joints, so depending on your specific fitness needs or limitations, one may be a better fit for you than the other.
About the Author
Kristine has been immersed in the fitness world for nearly 20 years. She has competed in marathons and Ironman races and earned a spot to compete in the 2012 Age Group National Championship Olympic Triathlon.
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