MYX and Peloton are different brands that sell exercise bikes for home use. Both offer two smart bikes for purchase, a standard and a premium option. They also offer subscription-based apps that provide access to live and on-demand classes.
alternative bike brands, cycling pros and cons, and frequently asked questions.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
MYX and Peloton are fitness companies selling various exercise equipment and fitness accessories:
MYX
MYX has been manufacturing bikes for home workouts since 2016. The company markets itself as a complete home gym, as its products also come with other accessories. These include:
- heart rate monitors
- workout mats
- resistance bands
Its products are available only to people living in the United States. The company states that orders may take up to 5 weeks to arrive, depending on the customer’s location.
In addition, the MYX membership allows customers to access different workout classes and an online community of coaches.
Peloton
Peloton has been in business since 2012. It manufactures bikes, treadmills, and other fitness accessories, such as heart rate monitors, weights, headphones, and bike mats.
The company has an app that comes with a 30-day free trial. The app allows customers to access workout classes, such as cycling, cardio, yoga, Pilates, and meditation. Additionally, a person can create one Peloton membership for the whole family.
Learn more about Peloton here.
MYX exercise bikes are rustproof and hypoallergenic.
Some other features include:
- a maximum user weight of 350 pounds (lb)
- a 21.5-inch (in) high definition (HD) interactive touchscreen for workout options
- mechanical friction braking and a 41-lb flywheel for smooth rides
- music volume controls
- handlebar height and depth adjustability
The bikes are compact, so they may suit individuals with limited workout space. They are 54 in long by 21 in wide and weigh 134 lb.
People can try the exercise bike for 30 days and request a full refund within this period if they are dissatisfied with it. MYX also offers a 1-year warranty.
People can also purchase a subscription to a monthly membership which costs $39 per month.
The app offers:
- workout programs
- up to five user profiles
- heart rate monitoring
- one-on-one coaching with fitness instructors
MYX II
The MYX II model features a stationary Star Trac bike and an interactive touchscreen.The MYX exercise bike features:
- a stationary Star Trac bike
- an interactive touchscreen tablet
- a heart rate monitor
- data collection of heart rate, speed, distance, and cadence
- web camera for interactive workouts
The MYX exercise bike is available in two colors: natural white and deep charcoal.
The MYX II costs $1,399. The company offers a financing plan that allows purchasers to pay in installments.
MYX II Plus
The MYX II Plus option features the same bike and features as the standard version, with the addition of various exercise equipment, including:- a stabilizing mat
- an oversized exercise mat
- a 6-piece weight set
- a kettlebell
- a heart rate monitor
- a resistance band
- a foam roller
The weight set consists of 6 dumbbells and a kettlebell available in light, medium, or heavy weight options. Customers can purchase an additional weight rack for $150.
At the time of publishing, this product costs $1,599. The company offers a financing plan that allows people to pay in installments.
Peloton offers two bikes: the Peloton Bike and the Peloton Bike+. Both models include a 30-day free home trial, a 12-month limited warranty, and delivery and assembly.
Some additional features include:
- a maximum user weight of 297 lb
- delta compatible aluminum pedals
- adjustable seat, handlebars, and screen
- different user profiles for family access
- workout history and milestones
These bikes are 59 in long and up to 23 in wide.
Customers can purchase a subscription to the Peloton app to access virtual classes for $39 per month.
Peloton Bike
The Peloton Bike weighs 135 lb and has the following features:- a 21.5-in HD touchscreen
- a resistance knob
- a maximum user weight of 297 lb
- magnetic resistance with mechanical adjustment
The company offers a financing plan that allows purchasers to pay in installments.
Customers can purchase different Peloton Bike packages with extra products and features:
- Bike Basics: The Peloton Bike Basic package costs $1,445 and includes only the bike.
- Bike Starter: The Peloton Bike Starter package costs $1,670 and also includes a pair of cycling shoes, light weights, and a bike mat.
- Bike Select: The Peloton Bike Select package costs $1,775 and also includes a water bottle and a heart rate band.
- Bike Ultimate: The Peloton Bike Ultimate package costs $1,885-$1,985 and also includes a reversible workout mat and dumbbells.
Peloton Bike+
The Peloton Bike+ weighs 140 lb and has the following features:- a 23.8-in rotating HD touchscreen
- a resistance knob that adjusts automatically to the instructors’ recommended resistance
- Apple GymKit integration
- a maximum user weight of 297 lb
- magnetic resistance with digital adjustment
- reduced-reflective and anti-smudge coating
Peloton offers a financing plan that allows purchasers to pay in installments.
Customers can purchase different Peloton Bike+ packages with extra products and features:
- Bike Basics: The Peloton Bike+ Basic package costs $1,995 and includes only the bike.
- Bike Starter: The Peloton Bike+ Starter package costs $2,220 and also includes a pair of cycling shoes, light weights, and a bike mat.
- Bike Select: The Peloton Bike+ Select package costs $2,325 and also includes a water bottle and a heart rate band.
- Bike Ultimate: The Peloton Bike+ Ultimate package costs $2,435-$2,535 and also includes a reversible workout mat and dumbbells.
Below is a side by side comparison of the above products currently available from MYX and Peloton:
MYX MYX II Peloton Bike Peloton Bike+ Price $1,399 $1,599 $1,495-1,985 $1,995-2,535 Weight capacity 350 lbs 350 lbs 297 lbs 297 lbs Touchscreen? Yes, 21.5-inch Yes, 21.5-inch Yes, 21.5-inch Yes, 23.8-inch Colors White or charcoal White or charcoal Black Black Warranty 1-year, plus 30-day trial 1-year, plus 30-day trial 1 year limited, plus 30-day trial 1 year limited, plus 30-day trial Dimensions
(L x W x H)54” x
21” x
47″54” x
21” x
47”59” x
23” x
53”59” x
23” x
53”Additional features Heart rate monitor, web camera for interactive workouts 6-piece weight set, kettlebell, foam roller, stabilizer mat, exercise mat, resistance band Resistance knob 360-degree rotating screen, Apple GymKit integration, reduced reflective and anti-smudge coating Online reviews for both MYX and Peloton vary, with many positive and negative reviews available online:
MYX
At the time of publishing this article, MYX has a review rating of 1.2 out of 5 with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). However, it has accreditation and an A+ from the BBB. MYX actively addresses and closes complaints.
Negative reviews focus on shipping delays and a lack of communication from the company.
One positive review mentions that the customer received their bike after 12 weeks but that they were happy with the bike’s features.
MYX Fitness has a rating of 3 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Criticisms include that the MYX online classes are not as engaging or varied as Peloton’s and that the technology and customer service are unreliable.
One positive review praises a quick and helpful response from customer service.
Peloton
At the time of publishing this article, Peloton has a review rating of 1.23 out of 5 with the BBB. It does not have accreditation and has a D+ rating from the BBB. Peloton actively addresses and closes complaints.
Negative reviews frequently mention delivery delays and customer service issues.
Positive reviews frequently praise the quality and variety of the online classes and technology.
Peloton has an average review rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Negative reviews mention the customer service team not responding to emails and customers experiencing shipping delays and difficulty securing refunds. They also mention the high monthly cost.
Positive reviews mention excellent customer service, and several purchasers state that the Peloton app and classes have helped them reach their fitness goals.
Some other brands that manufacture similar exercise bikes include:
- NordicTrack: This company manufactures commercial, recumbent, and upright bikes, all of which come with different features. NordicTrack also sells rowing machines, fitness mirrors, and treadmills. Learn more about NordicTrack here.
- Echelon: This company offers four bikes with on-demand fitness classes. Customers can connect their equipment with apps such as Strava, Zwift, Apple Health, and FitBit. Learn more about Echelon here.
- ProForm: This company sells a range of home exercise equipment, including bikes. Through iFit, users can access live and on-demand classes. ProForm is generally similar to or lower cost than Peloton and MYX. Learn more about ProForm bikes here.
Indoor cycling offers various benefits and risks. Before purchasing one, people should also consider how to use an exercise bike safely.
Pros
A
2019 systematic review notes that indoor cycling suits individuals of any fitness level. The researchers also found that cycling has the following benefits:- reducing cholesterol levels
- reducing blood pressure
- improving triglyceride levels
- improving aerobic activity
Cycling on a stationary bike for 30 minutes can burn 210–441 calories, depending on the person’s weight and intensity of the workout.
Doing activities that burn calories may help people maintain a moderate weight. However, the amount of calories a person burns during exercise depends on several factors, including the intensity of the workout.
Learn more about the health benefits of cycling here.
Cons and safety considerations
Individuals should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as this can help prevent injuries.
Some common cycling injuries include:
- neck and back pain
- wrist or forearm pain
- knee injuries
- numbness and tingling in the foot
People with a heart condition, neck pain, or back pain attending group classes should ride bikes at their own pace until their symptoms improve.
The
American Heart Association (AHA) states that people should warm up before exercising, as this increases temperature and muscle flexibility. Warming up also leads to a gradual increase in the heart rate without causing too much stress on the heart.The AHA also suggests cooling down after working out. If a person stops exercising suddenly, they may experience lightheadedness, causing the heart rate to drop rapidly.
The following are common questions and answers about MYX and Peloton:
Is MYX as good as Peloton?
Generally, both MYX and Peloton receive positive customer reviews.
Both brands offer live and on-demand classes. MYX does not offer the competitive features that Peloton does.
MYX bikes use friction resistance, making them slightly louder and less smooth than bikes with magnetic resistance, such as Peloton. However, MYX bikes are smaller and more likely to suit small spaces.
A person’s preference between MYX and Peloton will depend on their needs. However, MYX and Peloton are similar in features and customer ratings.
Who should buy a Peloton bike?
A person who wants to train regularly or competitively may prefer a Peloton bike because of its smart features and connectivity to other users.
Peloton offers various live and on-demand classes to suit different fitness goals. It also allows users to compete with other Peloton owners.
Who should buy an MYX bike?
MYX bikes may suit people looking for a low cost indoor bike or beginners to indoor cycling.
Users of an MYX bike will receive more personalized feedback than Peloton users. It may suit people who want to improve their health and fitness without looking for competitive training.
Can you watch Netflix on an MYX or Peloton bike?
No, a person cannot use the Netflix app on either MYX or Peloton bikes.
Do you need special shoes for an MYX or Peloton bike?
The MYX bike does not require a person to purchase special shoes.
Peloton does sell shoes designed for wear with their bikes at an additional cost. However, these are not essential, and a person can wear regular sneakers. Peloton does recommend a person to use the toe cages which attach to the pedals if a person wears other footwear.
Does MYX have live classes?
Yes, MYX now offers live classes when a person subscribes to the MYX Membership service.
Is Peloton or MYX better for beginners?
Both brands claim that their bikes are suitable for beginners. They can both offer low impact and short cycle rides that will suit those just starting with using indoor bikes.
Some beginners may prefer to purchase the MYX as it is low cost but offers similar features to Peloton.
People should compare MYX and Peloton exercise bikes before purchasing from one of these companies, as their bikes come with different features, accessories, and specifications.
Research suggests that indoor cycling can have many health benefits. However, people should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions while using equipment, as this can reduce the risk of injury
Weight benches: Options, considerations, and alternatives
A quick look at 9 of the best weight benches
- Best adjustable: Flybird Adjustable Bench
- Best for firm support: Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
- Best foldable: Ativafit Adjustable Weight Bench
- Best for app support: Fitness Reality Bench
- Best for most exercises: Marcy Olympic MD 879 Weight Bench
- Best for workout ideas: Finer Form 5-in-1 Adjustable Weight Bench
- Best ready out of the box: GYMENIST Exercise Bench
- Best affordable: Everyday Essentials Steel Frame Flat Weight Training Bench
- Best for a heavy-duty bench: Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench
This article explores what people should look for in weight benches, several weight benches to consider, alternative strength training equipment, and the associated health benefits and risks.
Weight benches come in four main categories:
- Flat weight benches: Supports heavy weights and are usually compact. They have no adjustable parts, making maintenance easy. However, they do not allow for changing angles, limiting the exercises a person can perform.
- Adjustable weight benches: Adjustable backrests and seats allow people to strengthen their muscles using various angles. However, having several moving parts make them prone to wear and tear.
- Olympic weight benches: These benches come with a multi-tiered re-racking system for a comfortable and safe reracking of barbells. A typical downside is their fixed angles and large size.
- Specialist weight benches: These types of equipment aim to target specific muscle groups by allowing precise movements and restricting certain motions. Examples of these include abdominal curl benches and preacher curl benches.
People should consider how they want to use their weight bench when choosing one.
Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:
- Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
- Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strength.
- Connectivity: Where fitness equipment has fitness memberships or subscriptions, MNT ensures variation in classes and services that benefit a person’s health.
- Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
- Ease of use: MNT selects simple-to-use products that have clear instructions. If set-up is complicated, MNT chooses brands that offer a set-up or installation service.
- Quality: MNT chooses companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.
- Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices and that offer reliable customer service and support.
Below are some of the best weight benches to purchase online.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best adjustable: Flybird Adjustable Bench
List price around $240 Weight limit 800 pound (lb) Dimensions 34.65 x 15.94 x 10.63 inches (in) Warranty one year Pro does not require assembly Con according to reviews, it may be too tall for some people This adjustable weight bench features a unique triangular structure. It offers seven backrest settings, three-seat adjustment options, and two footpad positions.
It is compact when folded but can accommodate people up to 6 feet 2 inches (in) in height. It also does not require assembly.
This bench has 2-in soft foam padding with a faux leather cover.
List price around $120 Weight limit 600 lb Dimensions 43 x 14 x 17 inches Warranty two years Pro has a sturdy frame for support during workouts Con does not provide as many workouts as adjustable benches This bench uses a sturdy steel tube frame with a powder-coated finish to protect it from wear and tear.
Its boxed upholstery and high-density foam provide comfort and firm support during workouts.
The company claims this is a versatile bench that features a space-saving design.
List price around $150 Weight limit 330 lb Dimensions no information available Warranty one year Pro offers a range of backrest positions Con has a lower weight limit than other options This adjustable and foldable bench offers six backrest pad positions.
It also comes with two detachable resistance bands for resistance training and a soft foam padding foot support. This enables users to perform a range of exercises.
The cover comprises polyurethane leather and wipes clean. People can fold it when the weight bench is not in use.
List price around $150 Weight limit 800 lb Dimensions 59 x 23.5 x 48.5 in Warranty one year limited Pro comes with a fitness app that offers free features Con the MYCLOUDFITNESS app requires a subscription to access all features This adjustable bench offers a wide backrest and seat. Its backrest also allows for 12 adjustment options, including incline, flat, and decline positions.
It has a detachable leg hold-down bar with three adjustments. The bench is foldable, while the company claims it is easy to store.
This weight bench comes with the MYCLOUDFITNESS app for basic workout tracking and activity reports.
List price around $330 Weight limit 600 lb Dimensions 80 x 47 x 61 in Warranty two years limited Pro inbuilt weight holders Con one of the more expensive options available This versatile bench has a two-piece design, with a bench and a separate squat rack with two bar catches.
It also offers several features, such as an adjustable back pad, an adjustable arm curl pad, a curl handle, and a leg developer. It can sit in incline, flat, and decline positions.
The bench has pegs for storing weights and consists of a steel frame and vinyl covers for durability and safety.
List price around $160 Weight limit 660 lb Dimensions 34.25 x 13.78 x 10.24 in Warranty no information available Pro the company provides free PDF workouts Con some reviewers have difficulty making the bench flat This adjustable bench allows for five different positions, including incline, flat, and decline. It also has eight back pad settings and three seat settings. The bench is foldable and compact so it may suit small spaces.
Customers receive a free digital workout chart, which displays potential exercises for different bench positions.
Best ready out of the box: GYMENIST Exercise Bench
List price around $120 Weight limit 550 lb Dimensions 34 x 18 x 10 in Warranty one year Pro does not require assembly Con some reviewers state that the bench is not durable This foldable bench features six backrest adjustments, three seat adjustments, and three leg adjustments.
Users can rotate the legs of the bench to stabilize it on uneven floors. People should always ensure they are exercising on stable and safe equipment and surfaces.
The bench comes with a back pillow and a soft padded foam footrest. It does not require assembly and is ready to use out of the box.
Best affordable: Everyday Essentials Steel Frame Flat Weight Training Bench
List price around $40 Weight limit 600 lb Dimensions 40 x 16 x 19 in Warranty no warranty Pro comes with rubber feet to protect flooring Con this bench is not adjustable This flat bench has a durable frame and a support cushion. The bench also has rubber feet to help protect the floor underneath it.
The company states that the bench is easy to assemble and comes with a user-friendly manual.
While the bench does not have a warranty, Walmart offers a 90-day return policy.
List price $349 Weight limit 600 lb Dimensions 61.3 x 28.1 x 49.5 in Warranty no information available Pro includes wheels for easy transport Con one of the more expensive weight benches available This adjustable bench allows for six positions, including a minus 20-degree decline and a 90-degree incline.
Bowflex states that this bench has a heavy-duty steel frame for durability. Additionally, the company says it has a space-saving design and transport wheels for easier storage.
The company does not state whether this bench benefits from a warranty
The following table compares all the weight benches in this article.
Dimensions Weight limit Warranty List price Flybird 34.65 x 15.94 x 10.63 in 800 lb one year around $240 Marcy Flat Bench 43 x 14 x 17 inches 600 lb two years around $120 Ativafit no information available 330 lb one year around $150 Fitness Reality 59 x 23.5 x 48.5 in 800 lb one year limited around $150 Marcy Olympic Bench 80 x 47 x 61 in 600 lb two years limited around $330 Finer Form 34.25 x 13.78 x 10.24 in 660 lb no information available around $160 GYMENIST 34 x 18 x 10 in 550 lb one year around $120 Everyday Essentials 40 x 16 x 19 in 600 lb no warranty around $40 Bowflex 61.3 x 28.1 x 49.5 in 600 lb no information available $349 There are several factors that people might want to consider before buying a weight bench:
- Body type: The bench’s frame should match the person’s body type to ensure safety and stability.
- Price: More sturdy types and those with additional features are generally more expensive.
- Set up and storage: People should consider the time and ease of setting up the equipment. Some types come with wheels or are foldable for easy storage.
- Comfort: Check for the quality of upholstery and the thickness of the cushion to ensure comfort during training. A person should also ensure that the bench matches their height.
- Space: Some weight benches require a lot of space. If a person has limited room to work with, they can opt for a compact or folding bench.
- Warranty: People should consider the length and coverage of the equipment’s warranty.
- Maximum capacity: The weight capacity should cover the user’s weight and the maximum load of the weight they plan to use.
- Experience level: A beginner may have different training needs and experience than experienced lifters.
- Fitness goals: The equipment a person needs depends on their goals and the type of training and exercise they need. An individual should also consider the other equipment they will use with the weight bench.
- Upgrades: If a person is looking for long-term use, they may opt for upgradable benches. These types allow people to add accessories, such as preacher pads and leg extension attachments, which help progress training.
People can check brand websites and product specifications for measurements and recommendations. Researching online reviews can help with identifying the best product for their needs.
There are alternative types of resistance and strength equipment a person can consider, including:
- Power tower: An all-in-one piece of equipment that uses a person’s body weight for a full upper body and abdominal workout.
- Kettlebells: Cast-iron weights with handles that come in various weights. A person can incorporate this versatile equipment in many types of exercises.
- Pull-up bars: This tool consists of a bar on a stand that individuals can use for several upper-body workouts.
- Suspension trainers: This type of equipment uses a person’s body weight and gravity to add resistance during suspension training.
The
World Health Organization (WHO) recommends adults aged 18–64 years perform 75–150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week.They also advise moderate-to-high muscle-strengthening activities on major muscle groups for 2 or more days a week.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), strength training offers numerous health benefits. Specifically, strength training:
- strengthens muscles
- supports bone health
- improves food metabolism and reduces the risk of diabetes
- lowers the risk for stroke and other chronic diseases
- improves self-esteem
A recent
2019 study found that as little as an hour a week of resistance exercise may reduce the risk of all-cause death and cardiovascular disease.One 2014 study found that muscle strengthening and conditioning exercise may lower the risk for type 2 diabetes.
Research in 2016 also found that people with high muscle mass and low fat mass had a lower mortality risk than other body composition types.
Here we answer some questions about these products.
Are weight benches worth the cost?
A weight bench may be worth the cost if a person is looking for a piece of fitness equipment that allows most exercises.
Weight benches are versatile and people may use them for lifting dumbbells, chest presses, core exercises, and more.
Is an adjustable weight bench worth it?
An adjustable weight bench may be more suitable for people who prefer to use decline and inclines during their workout.
What can I use instead of a weight bench at home?
People may use any flat, stable, surface if they do not have a weight bench at home.
However, it is important to ensure that the surface can comfortably support a person’s weight and the weight of any other pieces of equipment, such as dumbbells.
Weight benches are versatile pieces of workout equipment that can support a wide array of workouts. Adaptable and adjustable benches allow people to perform different exercises and work out more muscle groups. However, these benches usually cost more than static options.
A person looking into buying a weighted bench must consider their exercise and lifestyle needs, such as available space for the bench, fitness goals, and budget. Comparing online customer reviews can help narrow down the many options
- Marcy Olympic MD 879 Weight Bench
- Source - Medical News Today
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