Indoor Cycling Is on the Rise, Garmin Finds

Cycling is experiencing a resurgence, according to new data that shows a notable increase in indoor cycling usage rates

Strength training may get top billing this year as the leading fitness modality, but a new report demonstrates the strength of cycling, which is gaining popularity among Garmin users, who are riding more this year with an impressive 7% rise in cycling activities and a 12% increase in indoor cycling.

Using cycling mileage data from the Garmin Connect community, the tech company also discovered that female cyclists are the fastest-growing demographic, showing a 9% increase in cycling activities this year. Cyclists in Italy are leading in stamina, participating in the longest rides (more than two hours on average), while cyclists in the UAE are the fastest, averaging an impressive 16 mph on their rides.

Garmin’s findings come as basketball great LeBron James and Canyon Bicycles have partnered on a new initiative where Canyon will provide bikes to the LeBron James Family Foundation’s ‘I Promise’ students, which began in 2011 to encourage young students to be active and complete school.

Fitness Brands Promote Fun ‘Behind the Bars’

Crunch Fitness is also meeting the needs of cycling enthusiasts , investing in its indoor cycling offerings at its Crunch Signature premium facilities through a partnership with Struct Club, a music-oriented programming platform and app. The two will also roll out a certification and continuing education program for new and current indoor cycling instructors.

In Sherman Oaks, California, Spinergy has opened to offer a fully immersive indoor cycling and yoga experience with the help of a 300-square-foot projection screen and cinematic visuals. The 45-minute cycling classes are suitable for all levels, as attendees can adjust the resistance knob on their bikes.

Iconic HIIT fitness brand Barry’s has also expanded its Ride x Life class format to its West Hollywood location, bringing a 50-minute indoor cycling experience that was once exclusive to Barry’s Chelsea location in New York City.

“Cycling is low impact and is less of a barrier to entry,” Charlie Meredith, Ride’s chief curriculum lead, told Athletech News, adding that Ride is not just a great workout but is fun for class attendees. “We ride to the beat of the music, something we don’t get to do in the (treadmill) class.  It’s a vibe, but still kicks your ass.”

Cycling On

Despite the challenges faced by some indoor cycling studios and at-home cycling brands like Peloton in the post-pandemic era, other platforms are certain there’s a bright future for the modality.

Zwift, an at-home online cycling and running company that raised $620 million last year, recently debuted an adjustable, space-saving gamified smart bike for $1,299.

Zwift cyclists can engage in a multiplayer online game, competing in virtual worlds and routes or participate in races, social rides or train in a structured program.

Garmin’s full report on cycling can be viewed here .

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