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Training programs: Peloton All-Access Membership vs. OrangeTheory Fitness

Quick Verdict

Peloton is better for individuals who prefer working out at home with a variety of class types and are willing to invest in equipment. OrangeTheory is a better fit for those who thrive in a structured, in-person class environment focused on HIIT, with equipment provided.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributePeloton All-Access MembershipOrangeTheory Fitness
Subscription Cost (Monthly/Annually)$44 per month (potential increase to $49 in January 2026)Monthly memberships vary depending on location. Basic: Starting around $59.99/month. Elite: Starting around $109.00/month. Premier: Starting around $179.00/month (unlimited classes).
Class Variety (Strength, Cardio, Yoga, etc.)Strength training, cardio, yoga, Pilates, barre, meditation, cycling, running, walking, and moreFocuses on high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Classes incorporate endurance, strength, and power training. Combines cardio and strength training.
Live Class AvailabilityAccess to live streaming classes from Peloton studios in New York and LondonClasses are 55-60 minutes long. Class times are designed for people with 9-5 schedules.
On-Demand Class Library SizeUnlimited access to a large and growing libraryApp offers at-home workouts for members and non-members. Variety of videos available for at-home workouts.
Equipment Requirements (Bike, Treadmill, Weights)Designed for use with Peloton Bike, Bike+, Tread, and Row. Many classes don't require any equipmentHeart rate monitor is essential. Studios provide treadmills, rowers, weights, and other equipment. Alternatives like bikes and striders are available in place of treadmills. Heart rate monitors can be purchased separately.
Instructor Quality and VarietyEngaging instructors with a variety of teaching stylesCoaches lead the workouts. Instructors should be energetic, memorize names, correct form, and create a personal experience. Coaches are trained to offer exercise modifications.
Community Features and SupportLeaderboard, member search, and ability to connect with other usersSupportive community environment. Camaraderie among participants.
Progress Tracking and MetricsReal-time performance tracking and integrated featuresHeart rate monitoring technology. Real-time results displayed on screens. Tracks heart rate, zone, "Splat Points," and calories burned. Workout summaries emailed after each class.
Mobile App FunctionalityAccess to classes through the Peloton App on various devicesBook and cancel classes. Manage favorite studios. Track workout stats. Manage out-of-studio workouts. Sync classes with calendar. View workout history. Access at-home workouts.
Integration with Wearable DevicesCompatible with Apple Watch and other heart rate monitorsIntegrates with Apple Watch via OTbeat Link. OTbeat Link syncs Apple Watch with the in-studio heart rate monitoring system. Steps, calories, and heart rate data accumulate in the Apple activity app.
Trial Period Availability30-day free trial for new users. Lululemon members may be eligible for an extended 60-day trialFirst class is often free. Free introductory workout is recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancel anytime, retain access until the end of the current billing periodRequires 30 days' written notice. Cancellation form needed. One more monthly payment may be processed after cancellation request. No cancellation fees. Membership can be paused for 30-60 days (up to twice a year) with a freeze fee. Immediate cancellation may be possible with a doctor's note (health concerns), proof of relocation (over 18 miles from a studio), or bankruptcy evidence.

Overall Comparison

Peloton: $44/month, wide class variety, home workouts. OrangeTheory: $59.99 - $179.00/month, HIIT focus, in-studio classes.

Pros and Cons

Peloton All-Access Membership

Pros:
  • Convenience
  • Variety of classes
  • Engaging instructors
  • Community feel
  • Metric tracking
Cons:
  • Cost of equipment and membership
  • All-access membership required for leaderboard access
  • Trainer-led format may be unappealing to some

OrangeTheory Fitness

Pros:
  • Structured workouts
  • Motivating environment
  • Combines cardio and strength
  • Adaptable to different fitness levels
  • Community support
Cons:
  • Can be expensive
  • Repetitive
  • May not be ideal for serious strength training
  • Class times may not suit everyone's schedule

User Experiences and Feedback