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I am so excited for this post because I’m answering all of your questions about the Echelon bike. For the record, this post is in no way sponsored. Since sharing that I got an Echelon, many of you were curious so I am giving my honest review and answering all of your questions. (And for the record, I do not look this cute when I’m working out on my Echelon. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen my sweaty selfies)
So about a month ago, we pulled the trigger and ordered an Echelon bike. Prior to kids, I used to go to a spin class at my local gym daily. It was my favorite way to workout and I felt my best physically and mentally when I was cycling. I am a much better person when I am exercising and since having kids, I have not been consistent with it. I’ve had a gym membership for years and realistically, I just never go for a variety of different reasons whether it be childcare, time, or just not being motivated enough to go.
I love cycling and since getting my own Echelon at home, it’s been really convenient for me to get back into it and do something for me!
Q – Which bike did you get?
I got the Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX3.
Q – What are the differences between the Peloton and the Echelon?
The major difference is the price.
The Peloton retails for a little over $2,000 plus you have to pay the additional membership fee for the app of $39/month and it requires you to use the Peloton shoes.
The Echelon cost $1,444 which includes the 1 year subscription to the Echelon app for all the classes and came with a free IPad (The IPad was part of a promotion). Once the 1 year subscription to the app is up, it costs $30/month. You do not need to buy certain shoes. There are clips if you have clip in shoes or you can reverse the pedal to just strap in with your own sneakers.
Other differences
One of the other major differences is that the Peloton has a large built in touch screen with all of the available classes. The EX3 does not have a built in screen but it does have a holder to hold your Ipad and you can view the classes on the app. If you have Apple TV you could also just download the Echelon app on there and stream that way.
The Peloton claims to have 24/7 live classes 365 days/year. While the Echelon does not have as many live classes, I have been able to catch a live class every time I’ve wanted to. They also have pre-recorded classes you can do at any time which I found good too though I prefer the live ones.
Q – Do you find the bike to be sturdy?
In my opinion, I think it’s just as sturdy as any other bike I’ve rode in a spin class. According to the Echelon website, the steel frame can hold up to 300lbs.
Q – What is a typical class like?
You have the option to choose from live classes or pre-recorded classes. If I can get a live class I prefer those because you can see how your stats compare to the others in the class and the instructor calls you out by names so it pushes me to do better. But with that being said, I’ve done plenty of pre-recorded classes and those are very good too.
Classes range anywhere from 20 minutes – 1 hour. Each class starts with a warm up with your bike on “flat road”, (a comfortable low resistance) to get the legs and body moving. The bike has a resistance wheel and throughout the class you will increase and decrease the resistance to simulate going up and down hills, and increase and decrease your cadence accordingly. It’s an amazing cardiovascular workout and great for overall weight loss, toning and increasing your endurance.
Like all fitness classes, there’s going to be some instructors that you like and feel really motivate you and then others that you find a little lackluster. There’s a few instructors that I LOVE and always try to do their live classes.
Q – Do you have to be in really good shape in order to keep up?
No! The thing that got me hooked on cycling years ago is that you are in control of that resistance wheel. So if you’re a beginner, you can start out easy on yourself and then as your increase your level of fitness, make it even more challenging.
Q – What tips do you have for starting out?
First, I would invest either in a cushioned bike seat or a pair of cycling shorts with a padded bottom. The bike seat is VERY firm and you eventually will get used to it, but a padded seat or bottoms definitely make it more comfortable and will help you stick with it.
Secondly, start with a beginner class. The Echelon app has a variety of beginner classes to get you accustomed to how a typical workout will go.
Stick with it! Remember, it’s your ride and you can make it as challenging or as easy as you need.
If you have any other questions, drop them below and I will answer them for you!
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