Props in Peloton Mat Classes: What’s the Problem?

Peloton has become a leader in at-home fitness, offering a variety of classes from cycling to yoga, Pilates, and barre. As the platform continues to expand its mat-based offerings, the use of props has become a hot topic among members. Should props be a standard part of Peloton classes, and how should the platform communicate their use to ensure members are prepared?

The Role of Props in Peloton Classes

Props like loop bands, yoga blocks, and Pilates rings can elevate workouts by adding resistance, improving alignment, or increasing the challenge. For example, in Greta’s first “Feral Friday” Pilates class, a loop band was used to intensify the workout. While the class was still effective without the band, the difficulty level dropped to what could be considered an advanced beginner Pilates class.

This raises an important question: should Peloton members start bringing a ball, ring, and band to every Pilates class, just as yoga enthusiasts often bring blocks, bolsters, and blankets to every yoga session?

Communicating Prop Usage: Filters and Notifications

One of the biggest challenges for Peloton members is knowing in advance whether props will be used in a class. While weights are already filterable in the user interface, props like loop bands, Pilates rings, and small stability balls are not. Currently, some instructors share this information on social media, but this method is inconsistent and can leave members unprepared.

To address this, Peloton could implement a filter in the on-demand library, allowing users to search for classes based on the props required. Additionally, a note on the live schedule could indicate whether props will be used, giving members time to prepare.

Based on a recent Reddit thread, many members would welcome this filter!

Current Approach to Props in Peloton Classes

Peloton has already made strides in integrating props into its ecosystem. Bala Pilates accessories, including their signature bangles and resistance bands, are available for purchase on the Peloton Apparel website. However, yoga accessories like blocks, bolsters, and blankets are notably absent. This may be due to Peloton’s long-standing relationship with Lululemon, a brand that offers a wide range of yoga props.

For those looking for guidance on the best Pilates props, Peloton has published a helpful guide on their blog: The Best Pilates Equipment for Your Practice. Similarly, for yoga enthusiasts, Peloton’s blog post on Yoga Props and Their Role in Practice offers valuable insights into how props can enhance your yoga experience.

Common Props for Yoga, Pilates, and Barre

Here are some of the most commonly used props in mat-based classes:

• Yoga: Blocks, bolsters, blankets, and straps. (Pro tip: It’s a safe bet to bring blocks, a bolster, and a blanket to every yoga class.)
• Pilates: Loop bands, resistance bands, Pilates rings, and small stability balls.
• Barre: Resistance bands, sliders, and light hand weights.

Are Classes Effective Without Props?

For members who don’t have access to props, most Peloton classes can still be completed without them. However, the intensity and effectiveness of the workout may vary. For example, a Pilates class designed with a loop band will naturally be less challenging without it, as seen in Greta’s “Feral Friday” class.

Yoga classes, on the other hand, are often designed to accommodate a range of prop availability. Blocks, bolsters, and blankets are optional but can significantly enhance the experience, especially for beginners or those with limited flexibility.

The Clip Out’s Picks: Bougie vs. Bougie on a Budget

If you’re looking to stock up on props for your Peloton classes, here are some top picks for both high-end and budget-friendly options:

Yoga Props

• Bougie: Manduka Cork Yoga Blocks, Hugger Mugger Bolster, and Barefoot Dreams Blanket.
• Bougie on a Budget: Gaiam Foam Yoga Blocks, Gaiam Round Yoga Bolster, and Utopia Bedding Fleece Blanket.

Pilates Props

• Bougie: Bala Bangles, Balanced Body Pilates Ring, and ProBody Pilates Mini Ball.
• Bougie on a Budget: Amazon Basics Ankle Weights, URBNFit Pilates Ring, and Trideer Mini Exercise Ball.

Barre Props

• Bougie: Theraband Resistance Bands and Core Sliders by Synergee.
• Bougie on a Budget: Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Bands and Elite Core Sliders.

Share Your Thoughts

What’s your take on the use of props in Peloton classes? Would you like to see filters for props in the on-demand library or notifications on the live schedule? Should Peloton expand its branded prop offerings or continue collaborating with brands like Bala and Lululemon? Share your opinions and let us know how you’d like to see Peloton evolve!

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