Can You Use Peloton Bikes Without Internet? | PedalChef

Can you use a Peloton bike without internet connectivity is a common question asked by those who have invested in the exercise bike.

The short answer is that you cannot use the Peloton bike’s functionalities or its app without an internet connection. That being said, there are some ways in which you can make the most of your Peloton bike, even without the internet. 

Nowadays, it seems like every piece of tech you own would be worthless without an internet connection. From the smartwatch to your phone and even a Peloton bike, you need to be online if you want any of the features or apps on these devices to work.

Since can you use a Peloton bike without internet is a common question that’s asked by new owners of the exercise bike, we’ve spoken to the experts, aka Peloton bike owners and fitness instructors to get the skinny on using the Peloton bike offline.

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Using a Peloton Bike

Peloton is simple to use as long as you have access to a fast internet connection. But, what if you don't have access to the internet? Can one use Peloton without connection to the internet?

 Even with the preload feature, utilizing Peloton frequently needs internet connectivity. Preloading features allow you to download class audio and video ahead of time so that your data allowance or a weak WiFi connection don't prevent you from participating. However, there are workarounds. There is a way you may utilize if you have good phone or tablet service.

To remain active, you can use Peloton offline even without an internet connection or if you're in some place where there's no internet access. The app, on the other hand, does not allow you to do much more than glance through the lessons. Deck yoga and chair yoga are two excellent methods to be active on the fly. It doesn't matter if you're on an airplane, a train, at your desk at work, or while you're standing in line at the grocery store. Because of this, Peloton on-demand classes stand out from the competitors.

Hardwire the Peloton Bike

Did you know that instead of utilizing WiFi, you may hardwire a Peloton cycle using an ethernet connection to decrease your EMF exposure? Here are some recommendations for riding a Peloton cycle with minimal EMF:

To get rid of WiFi, attach a shielded Ethernet cable from the back of the bike's touchscreen to your wired router. This can also be done with a wall data port. In case you are using the Peloton bike for the first time on the rear of the touchscreen is an Ethernet port. This Ethernet cable is one of our favorites. Also, it is crucial to choose a length that is appropriate for your room. 

On the bike, go to Settings and disable WiFi and Bluetooth (this does not happen automatically when you plug in an Ethernet cable).

Also, for those of you who are unaware, having a shielded Ethernet cable that has metal ends instead of the traditional and unshielded cable is able to lower AC electric fields, another sort of EMF, in addition to removing the need for WiFi. The power cable features a grounded three-prong plug (rather than an ungrounded two-prong connection), which reduces AC electric fields even further.

Because the transformer (the black box) on the power cable is a source of AC magnetic fields, keep it away from your legs and feet (yet another type of EMF). If you're using the Peloton app on your phone, make sure you preload a class first, and then turn off WiFi and Bluetooth while taking the class. We like the ability to take a lesson without needing to be online. For our Peloton workouts, we enjoy this configuration since it delivers robust internet access in a low-EMF setting.

Use the Pre-Load Feature

Since you will need access to the Peloton app you need internet connectivity. However, Peloton does have a "pre-load" option as well which users can use for downloading data before they plan on using the Peloton. This is also a good strategy for those who do not want to have to deal with buffering that can slow you down during your exercise.

If the internet connection where you live isn't reliable, then pre-loading classes ahead of time can save you a lot of time. It's a good idea to download the majority of the class so you don't have any loading or lagging difficulties. Preloading 30 minutes of peloton can use up to 800 MB of a hard drive’s space, so you’ll want to keep that little detail in mind as well.

If the internet connection is lagging, then you can really use this feature. As a result, preloading the class can ensure that you complete your session. That said, new users should be aware that it is not possible to download the entire data set. As a result, you won't be able to watch the session if you don't have access to the internet

However, as long as you have a good mobile service, there is an easy way to get around it. If your phone can be used as a hotspot device, this will work wonderfully for streaming a class momentarily.

In general, a hotspot or personal hotspot is a phone function that allows another mobile device to connect to the internet through the phone. This makes it possible for users to share their phone's cellular data connection with others.

Using a Hotspot

In general, you may use a peloton with a hot spot as long as your mobile plan includes adequate data. The peloton lessons are all in HD and take up a lot of storage space. It is also recommended to take advantage of unlimited data mobile service packages for peloton trips if you have one. Of course, this is merely a band-aid solution mainly because connecting your peloton app to a phone's hotspot would not only deplete the battery, but also consume a lot of data, bumping up the cost of your monthly internet package. Additionally, you may discover that live streaming lessons may not work effectively with low-quality internet.

You don't need an app or internet to ride in a peloton. That being said, it is not the same riding experience as being able to check in, see who else is taking the class, and listening to music while following the instructions. However, connecting your Peloton app to your phone's hotspot may only be a temporary solution because it will not only take a lot of data but will also drain your battery. Furthermore, live streaming lectures may not operate correctly if you have a poor internet connection.

Using the peloton just for riding without having access to the internet is similar to just using your smartphone without access to a WiFi connection. While you could do that, it’s just not the same, and many of the features and applications will remain off limits without access to the internet.

For those who are avid users, we can only hope Peloton will develop onboard applications that allow you to download the full lesson and complete it while outside. There are some other services that allow you to do the same. For instance, users are allowed to download Netflix shows that they can watch later on without needing an internet connection.

Pelotons are quickly becoming the world's go-to alternative for a convenient and vigorous exercise. While Pelotons provide several health advantages, the bottom line is, they are hard to operate and enjoy all of its features without a good internet connection from either your Wi-Fi or your mobile hotspot.

About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

Read More About Danny Lawson