It may be that Peloton’s quarterly loss of $757million in May was a sign of its impending demise. Luxury exercise bikes aren’t doing well, but pandemic restrictions are starting to ease up. This allows more people to visit the gyms to lose their pandemic weight. Tonal, the smart cable home fitness system reported $225 million in funding in March 2021. Lebron James, the NBA star, invested in the start-up and launched a new commercial.
Tonal, an at-home exercise machine, focuses on strength training. Professional Tonal installers will mount the minimalist equipment on your wall. It is roughly the same size as a rectangular mirror. Tonal uses electromagnetic force rather than weights. This allows for more consistent force in flexion and extension. Tonal is compact and functional. It also has classes, training programs, and fitness trackers that adjust weight based on past performance. Imagine a new Bowflex.
Lululemon’s Mirror is another product that is gaining popularity in the home fitness market. A mirror is about the same size and weight as Tonal, but it focuses more on strength training than cardio. While the base package is less expensive than either Tonal or Peloton, they offer different packages that include additional equipment at tiers.
When choosing between options, pricing is an important consideration. With their installation and the first month of membership, the base model Peloton is approximately $1,500. Mirror’s cheapest package costs around $1,500 with their installation and first month’s membership included. However, it requires a $39/month commitment (and does not include all promotional materials). Tonal is the most expensive option. The base package costs nearly $3000 and includes installation, shipping, and a year-long membership for $49. Smart handles are an optional $295 extra.
The price may not be an issue for Chiseled readers. It all depends on the type of exercise you choose. Mirror and Peloton are the best options for cardio workouts. Both offer live classes that feature trainers who will respond to your questions and guide you through the session.
Tonal does not provide recordings of classes. They do not offer the same sense of community as their competitors in fitness. Tonal is however the undisputed champion when it comes to strength training.
Don’t be discouraged if readers don’t feel enthusiastic about these options. Although the home fitness market may have declined since pandemic restrictions were lifted in 2011, privacy is still a privilege. More home fitness products will be appearing all the time.
