Peloton Introduces Heart Rate-Tracking Wearable

Peloton unveiled the Heart Rate Band, a forearm-worn wearable compatible with its range of equipment.

What it is: The armband, affixed with optical heart rate sensors, is an upgrade to Peloton’s first-gen chest strap. The new device features colored LED lights that indicate various heart rate zones, signaling Peloton’s focus beyond the bike to boost its HIIT and strength training programming.

Behind the scenes. The release of Peloton’s wearable tech isn’t exactly new news.

Last summer, Bloomberg reported that the company would be releasing its own heart rate monitor. And before that, the connected fitness company acquired Atlas Wearables, makers of fitness/activity-tracking smartwatches.

In theory: The device unites Peloton’s exercise ecosystem, linking its equipment, app, and forthcoming motion-tracking camera, known as Guide.

In reality: From Apple Watch to WHOOP, Oura, or a host of other fitness trackers, Peloton members may already have a preferred device. Whether or not they’ll opt for another wearable remains to be seen, as does the accuracy of Peloton’s new tech.

R&D. More interesting, though, while Peloton’s community anxiously awaits the release of a connected rower or smart strength training equipment, the company continues to roll out underwhelming products.

While Guide was billed as an entrance into strength training, competitors from Tempo to Tonal offer more robust movement- and form-tracking capabilities.

As the company mulls restructuring, cost-saving measures could hamper potential products and further innovation.