Editor’s Note: On May 11, 2023, Peloton issued a recall of seat posts on original Bike models sold in the US since January 2018. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has more about the recall and how to obtain the replacement part here. Members are advised to refrain from riding until they receive the replacement part.
You’ve achieved it! You went for it and purchased the Peloton (or perhaps one of these budget-friendly Peloton alternatives) — congratulations. So what else do you need to purchase in addition to the bike?
If you’re anything like me, you adore a good collection of accessories to complement an exciting new purchase — particularly if those accessories contribute to a fantastic (and visually appealing) workout. Maybe some Peloton toe cages so you can pedal vigorously without clipping in?
If you’re searching for the ideal equipment for your at-home Peloton studio setup, you’re in luck. Ahead are some must-haves for your most intense, comfy, and butt-kicking ride.
Peloton Shoes: Shimano IC1
Shimano
Cycling shoes are the most crucial piece of equipment to start with your bike. You could skip everything else on this list and still be able to ride — as long as you have the appropriate shoes. For the Peloton pedals, you’ll need LOOK Delta cleats (Purchase It, $15, amazon.com) — and while the Peloton branded shoes are a straightforward and easy choice, the Shimano IC1 is compatible with those and the alternative clips (SPD) if you clip in elsewhere — for example, on a road bike, on other stationary bikes, at spin classes that require different clips, etc. (This comprehensive guide on the finest shoes for Peloton will assist you, so make sure to check that out as well!)
Purchase It: Shimano IC1 Women’s Cycling Shoes, $90 (without cleats), shimanoindoor.com; LOOK Delta Cleats, $15, amazon.com
Hand Weights: Focus All In Motion Dumbbells
Focus
You’ll need some hand weights for Peloton cycling classes that incorporate arm exercises. Regarding which weights to purchase, I suggest the consistently affordable and reliable Focus dumbbells in 2, 3, or 5lbs. Straightforward, efficient, and they’ll fit nicely in the compact hand weight holder at the back of the bike. (By the way, Blogilates Founder Cassey Ho Released a Collection of Workout Gear at Focus, and It’s So Cute)
Purchase it: Focus All In Motion Dumbbells, starting from $3, target.com
Dumbbells: ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell
Amazon
If you’re going to make use of Peloton’s numerous other types of streaming classes — including their strength workouts — you’ll need to invest in a pair of heavier dumbbells as well. You can purchase these adjustable dumbbells, which can be adjusted to 27.5lbs each, on Amazon. Tackling stacked cycling and strength workouts will be a breeze, regardless of the amount of weight you’re lifting. (Looking for more alternatives? Take a look at this guide to the finest home gym dumbbells.)
Purchase it: ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell (Single), $130, amazon.com
Floor-Protecting Mat: Peloton Mat
Peloton
There are numerous excellent Peloton mat choices at various price points, but I can personally recommend the Peloton-branded option, which I ordered with my own Peloton Bike.
Not only does it shield my hardwood floor from marks and perspiration (we’re discussing, projectile perspiration ejecting from pores en masse), but it has also acted as a means to visually partition the compact region of my dwelling that I’ve devoted to physical activity.
Purchase It: Peloton Mat, $59, onepeloton.com
Wrist/Ankle Weights: Bala Bangles
Amazon
Therefore, these are arguably the most popular fitness accessory of the moment, and I couldn’t resist when I began compiling this list — they had to be included. But in real life, I do utilize these on the Peloton for a little additional resistance when I’m feeling *spicy* — especially if I’m doing a brief class with no arm part. They come in 1lb-pairs on Amazon or half, 1lb, and 2lb variations (and in numerous colors) on Bala’s website, so you can customize your experience.
Purchase It: Bala Bangles, $49, amazon.com
Heavy-Duty Water Bottle: Yeti Rambler
Amazon
There are so many things to adore about this water bottle. It fits flawlessly in the cupholder of the Peloton bike, the double-walled stainless steel keeps your water freezing-cold, and the chug cap makes it effortless to gulp mid-ride. Additionally, it comes in a variety of stunning colors. If you tend to consume more water when you ride (or struggle to meet your daily target), there are 26, 36, and 46-ounce choices as well.
Purchase It: Yeti Rambler 18oz Reusable Water Bottle with Chug Cap, $30, amazon.com
Squeeze Bottle: Machines for Freedom Dreamlike Bottle
Machines for Freedom
If you’re on Team Squeeze Bottle, consider acquiring this insulated, 23-ounce, BPA-free water bottle from inclusive women’s cycling brand Machines for Freedom. It’s simple to slide in and out of water bottle holders (should you take this selection on outdoor rides) and easy to compress with one hand, so you can sip even amidst the most challenging of climbs. Bonus: If you ever need to retire it, the bottle is 100 percent recyclable.
Purchase It: Machines for Freedom Dreamlike Bottle, $19, machinesforfreedom.com
Towel: Lululemon The (Small) Towel
Lululemon
Something I didn’t realize I’d require (or value) for home Peloton workouts was a towel. They always provide them in Spin studios, but now that the studio is my living room, well, I just didn’t think about it. I’m infatuated with Lululemon’s microfiber towel — no lint, quick-drying, extremely lightweight, gentle on skin, with a truly beautiful design.
Purchase It: Lululemon The (Small) Towel, $18, lululemon.com
Bike Shorts: Alo Yoga High-Waist Biker
Alo Yoga
Totally optional, but I highly recommend these perfectly snug, sculpting, long-inseam bike shorts. No chafing, no additional fabric, and they double as a fashionable athleisure look (particularly with a cropped hoodie and some ankle socks). Gotta adore a multi-functional item!
Purchase It: Alo Yoga High Waist Biker, $56, aloyoga.com
Cycling Socks: Bombas Performance
Bombas
If you desire to acquire genuine detailed with your equipment, try these performance socks from Bombas. They’re padded precisely on the ball of the foot, ventilated, and have a tab in the back to prevent them from slipping down mid-ride. There are a plethora of distinct cuts and colors on the Bombas site, and they have an impressive one-for-one program, so one pair is donated for every pair purchased. (BTW, question: Should you sleep with your socks on?)
Purchase It: Bombas Performance Cycling Socks, $16, bombas.com
Gloves: Pearl Izumi Cycling Gloves
Amazon
If you’re a long-distance ride champion or significant sweater, you might appreciate possessing a pair of cycling gloves to cushion your palms and absorb any additional perspiration. These gel-padded alternatives from cyclist-favorite brand Pearl Izumi work just as well for indoor cycling on your Peloton or for outdoor biking, should you opt to take your ride to the road.
Purchase It: Pearl Izumi Women’s Gel Cycling Gloves, from $28, amazon.com
Sweatproof Earbuds: Bose Sport Earbuds
Bose
If you plan to record some early-morning rides or stream classes in a shared space, sweat-proof Bluetooth earbuds are a necessity. These Peloton-compatible Bose Sport Earbuds are sweat- and weather-resistant, last up to five hours per charge, and will stay put whether you use them for cycling classes, burpees, or running on a Peloton treadmill, should you decide to invest in both pieces of equipment.
Purchase It: Bose Sport Earbuds, $180, bose.com
Fan: Dyson Pure Cool
Dyson
Amid a sweaty workout, you likely often contemplate how you could truly benefit from a refreshing gust at this moment. This Dyson fan also serves as an air purifier and stands as one of the highest-rated products in this category on Amazon. For a cost-effective alternative, there are clip-on fans on Amazon (Purchase It, $15, amazon.com) that can be attached to the front of the bike to enhance the airflow. (Major shout-out to the r/pelotoncycle subreddit for this valuable tip.)
Purchase It: Dyson Pure Cool Air Purifier Fan, $400, dyson.com
Yoga Mat: Alo Yoga Warrior Mat
Alo Yoga
If you possess the Peloton Bike with a rotating screen, you will most likely desire to pivot that device and engage in stretching, a yoga session, a bike boot camp, or meditation after (or before!) your ride. I maintain my yoga mat unfurled adjacent to the bike for when I need to swiftly dismount and prepare for the subsequent activity. This option from Alo exhibits a smooth, cushioned, robust surface and also possesses a visually pleasing appearance.
Purchase It: Alo Yoga Warrior Mat, $100, aloyoga.com
Thanks for your feedback!
