The Peloton App (with Guide) is better for users who want a wider variety of classes, greater flexibility in workout location, and a more affordable subscription. Orangetheory Fitness is better for those who prefer in-person coaching, a strong community environment, and structured group fitness classes.
| Attribute | Peloton App (with Guide) | Orangetheory Fitness |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription Cost (monthly/annual) | App One: $12.99/month or $129/year; App+: $24/month or $240/year; All-Access Membership: $44/month; Student Pricing: $6.99/month; Peloton Strength+: $9.99/month | Basic (4 classes/month): Around $59/month, Elite (8 classes/month): Around $99/month, Unlimited: Around $159/month |
| Class Variety (strength, cardio, yoga, etc.) | Strength training, cardio, yoga, HIIT, meditation, stretching, cycling, running, walking, bootcamp, rowing | Combines cardio and strength training. Classes incorporate treadmills, rowing machines, and floor exercises with weights, TRX bands, BOSU balls, and more. Some studios offer Strength 50 classes focused on building muscle, and Tread 50, an endurance-focused, treadmill-exclusive workout. |
| Live Class Availability | Yes | Primarily known for its in-studio group fitness classes. |
| On-Demand Class Library Size | Thousands of classes | Offered online workouts and virtual coaching, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the OTLive platform ceased operation in June 2024. |
| Equipment Requirements (specific machines, weights) | No equipment needed for many classes; can be used on any exercise bike, treadmill, or rower; Peloton bikes may require special shoes; optional equipment includes dumbbells, heart rate monitor, speed and cadence sensor | Classes use treadmills, indoor water rowers, TRX straps, BOSU trainers, medicine balls, dumbbells. Heart rate monitors (OTbeat) are used to track intensity. |
| Personalized Feedback and Guidance | Personalized recommendations, workout plans, coach-led plans, in-ear guidance, personal pace targets | Coaches offer guidance, motivation, and feedback. They can tailor workouts based on individual needs and fitness levels. The OTbeat system and MaxHR algorithm help personalize the workout experience. |
| Community Features and Social Interaction | Follow each other, send high-fives, compete on leaderboards, tags, themed challenges, public teams | Strong community aspect with group classes and challenges. The Orangetheory app helps members connect, track progress and support each other. Studios organize social events and challenges. |
| Progress Tracking and Performance Metrics | Heart rate, calories burned, distance traveled, real-time metrics, streaks, personal bests, weight and rep logging | OTbeat heart rate monitors track performance. Data is displayed on screens in the studio and available in the mobile app, including calories burned, heart rate zones, and "splat points". |
| Mobile App Compatibility | iOS, Android, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, Apple Watch, Wear OS devices | The Orangetheory Fitness app allows members to track progress, book classes, connect with other members, and receive personalized workout recommendations. |
| Workout Intensity Levels (beginner to advanced) | Classes cater to various fitness levels, workout modifications available | Designed for all fitness levels, from beginner to advanced. Participants can be power walkers, joggers, or runners on the treadmill. Coaches provide modifications for exercises. |
| Studio Location Accessibility (Orangetheory) | Peloton workouts are designed to be taken at home, on the go, or at the gym | Fitness franchise with over 1,275 locations in the United States, over 100 in Canada, and many more globally. |
| Class Scheduling Flexibility | Schedule, stack, and bookmark classes; filter workouts for length, time, and music type | Individual studios offer varying class schedules. |