Peloton is now requiring a monthly subscription for anyone who owns their Tread+ treadmills.
The update follows a string of safety-related incidents involving children and pets being sucked under the brand's treadmill machines. These incidents, easily reaching 70 in number, have resulted in injuries and even one death. As a result, the exercise equipment brand has announced a recall of their Tread and Tread+ machines.
Related Article: Peloton Death: Child Reportedly Dies Over Exercise 'Tragic Accident,' CEO Confirms
This is not the first time a Peloton product has been involved in controversial issues. Just last week McAfee warned the public about hackers bypassing the boot verification process of the company's Bike+.
Peloton has also announced a new feature in response to the tragedy. Called Tread Lock, the feature will prevent unauthorized access of the machine, but with a cost
Peloton Tread+ Subscription: What You Need to Know
Peloton requires anyone who wishes to access Tread Lock to pay $39.99 a month.
"Unfortunately, Tread Lock is not yet available without a Peloton Membership," a Pelton statement sent to Mashable reads. The statement also indicates that without the subscription, Tread+ owners cannot access Just Run. Just Run is a feature that allows the use of Peloton's treadmills without the need for subscription or membership.
The announcement currently leaves no option for those who already own a Tread+ machine but to pay for the monthly subscription.
In a follow up statement sent to Mashable, Peloton clarifies that the company is working on the possibility of allowing the use of Tread Lock and Just Run without a need for subscription. No timeframe has been given regarding when this will happen, which means users are stuck with paying $39.99 a month to be able to even use their treadmills.
Peloton Announces Venture Into Wearables Market
On a brighter note, the company has also announced that it will be dipping its toes into the wearables market.
According to a report by Bloomberg, Peloton is developing an armband designed to monitor the wearer's heart rate.
The Heart Rate Band will come in small and large sizes. It is also expected to connect wirelessly with the brand's stationary fitness equipment, such as their bikes and treadmills, as well as devices that have the Peloton App.
The armband is expected to provide its owner with more accurate data during workouts.
The announcement serves as a concrete step by Peloton into the wearables market after acquiring wearables, artificial intelligence, and hardware companies early this year.
A Background on Peloton
Founded in 2017 by John Foley, Peloton is an exercise equipment and media company based in New York City.
The company's products focus on indoor exercise machines, which include treadmills and stationary bikes. It also offers accessories useful for workouts, such as resistance bands and dumbells, and apparel.
Online classes are also available for those who wish to avail, including HIIT, yoga, pilates, and many more. These classes can be accessed using the Peloton App.
Also Read: Peloton New Tread Plus: Treadmill With TV Screen and Apple GymKit Connect
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Isabella James
