If you’re thinking about trying Peloton’s famous classes but don’t own their treadmill, you might be asking: can i use any treadmill with peloton app? The good news is, yes, you absolutely can. The Peloton App is designed to work with a wide variety of equipment, giving you flexibility and choice.
Can I Use Any Treadmill With Peloton App
While the app is compatible with most treadmills, not every single one will provide the perfect experience. The key is understanding what features you’ll need to get the most out of your workouts. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your setup work great.
What You Need for a Great Peloton App Experience
To follow along with Peloton’s treadmill classes effectively, your equipment should meet a few basic requirements. Here’s what to look for:
- Speed and Incline Controls: Your treadmill must allow you to manually adjust speed and incline quickly. Instructors call out changes frequently.
- A Stable Surface: A sturdy deck is crucial for the running and walking intervals, especially for higher speeds.
- A Device Holder: You’ll need a safe place to mount your phone or tablet to view the class.
- Basic Safety Features: A safety key or clip is non-negotiable for any treadmill workout.
Setting Up Your Non-Peloton Treadmill
Getting started is straightforward. Follow these steps to begin your first class.
- Download the Peloton App on your phone, tablet, or smart TV. You can choose the free version or a membership tier.
- Secure your viewing device. Use the treadmill’s built-in holder or a separate stand placed safely nearby.
- Ensure good audio. Bluetooth speakers or headphones will help you hear the instructor clearly over the treadmill motor.
- Have a towel and water bottle ready. You’ll want them within easy reach.
- Start a class! Filter by “Treadmill” and choose one that fits your goals and time.
The Main Limitation: Output and Leaderboard
It’s important to know the main difference. When you use a non-Peloton treadmill, your machine’s metrics (like speed and incline) won’t sync automatically to the app. This means:
- You won’t see your output score on screen.
- You won’t appear on the live or on-demand leaderboard.
- You will need to manually adjust your treadmill’s settings as the instructor cues them.
For many users, this isn’t a dealbreaker. The core value—the expert coaching and motivating class structure—remains completely intact.
Choosing the Best Treadmill for the Peloton App
If you’re shopping for a new treadmill to pair with the app, consider these features. They’ll make your workouts feel more integrated.
- Quick-Touch Buttons: Treadmills with one-touch speed/incline buttons make following cues much easier than holding down arrows.
- A Quiet Motor: This helps you hear the instructor without cranking the volume to max.
- A Spacious Deck: Extra belt width and length provide comfort and stability during runs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Some modern treadmills can sync basic speed/distance data to other apps via Bluetooth, though not to Peloton directly.
Maximizing Your Workouts Without Auto-Follow
Since you’re manually controlling your treadmill, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to stay on track.
- Preview the class graph. Before you start, look at the class breakdown to see the intervals. This gives you a mental map.
- Round your numbers. If the instructor calls for a 4.7 mph pace, it’s okay to run at 4.5 or 5.0. Adjust to what feels right on your machine.
- Focus on effort. Use the instructor’s perceived exertion cues (like “a 7 out of 10”) as your main guide if the exact speed feels off.
- Don’t stress about precision. The goal is to get a great workout, not to match every single number perfectly. Consistency matters more.
Popular Treadmill Brands That Work Well
Many well-known brands are excellent companions for the Peloton App. Users often report success with models from:
- NordicTrack
- ProForm
- Sole Fitness
- Horizon Fitness
- Bowflex (formerly Nautilus)
These brands typically offer the quick-adjust controls and build quality that supports Peloton’s dynamic classes. Always check the specific model’s reviews.
App Membership Options Explained
Peloton offers different app plans. The “App Membership” is the one you want for treadmill content.
- It gives you full access to all treadmill, walking, and outdoor running classes.
- You also get thousands of other workouts like strength, yoga, and meditation.
- It’s more affordable than the membership that includes a Peloton equipment loan.
Remember, you can cancel or pause you’re membership at any time, which adds too the flexibility.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
Running into issues? Here are simple fixes for common problems.
- Audio Sync Problems: If the audio lags behind the video, try closing other apps on your device or connecting via wired headphones.
- Device Overheating: Make sure your tablet or phone has good airflow. A small fan pointed at your setup can help.
- Difficulty Following Cues: Start with walking or beginner classes to get used to adjusting your treadmill on the fly. It becomes second nature.
- Music Sounds Quiet: Check the app’s audio mix settings. You can often adjust the balance between the instructor’s voice and the music.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a specific treadmill for Peloton Digital?
No, you do not need a specific treadmill. The Peloton Digital app (now often called the App Membership) is designed to be used with any treadmill that has basic speed and incline controls.
What do I miss by not using a Peloton Tread?
The main differences are the auto-follow feature, which automatically adjusts your speed/incline, and the full integration with the leaderboard and output metrics. You still get the same class content and instruction.
Can I use the Peloton app with a manual treadmill?
It’s not recommended. Manual treadmills require your own movement to power the belt, making it very difficult too match the precise speed cues called out by the instructor. A motorized treadmill is a much better choice.
Is the Peloton app worth it with a regular treadmill?
For many people, yes. The quality of the instructors, class programming, and music can significantly improve your workout routine, even without the integrated tech. The variety helps prevent boredom.
How do I see my stats if they don’t sync?
You can manually track your workout metrics. Note your treadmill’s display data (distance, time, average speed) after each class. Some users log this in a notebook or a separate fitness app like Apple Health or Strava.
In conclusion, using the Peloton App with a non-Peloton treadmill is not only possible, it’s a popular and effective way to train. By choosing a compatible treadmill, setting up your space thoughtfully, and focusing on effort over exact numbers, you can enjoy a fantastic fitness experience. The community and coaching are what truly define Peloton, and you get full access to both with just the app.