Dear Peloton,
Girl, I owe you an apology. Big time.
See, Peloton, up until last March when it became clear the smartest and safest thing to do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 was to stay home whenever possible, I cursed your name.
It wasn’t that I didn’t like you, because honestly, I have always adored you and your sleek frame, endless buffet of fabulous teachers, and your epic playlists. It’s just that the thought of working out at home didn’t sit well with me. For me, and so many moms, working out is a chance to get out of the house and a chance to get some encouragement and friendly competition in a world where we’re used to being the encourager and emotional heavy lifter of our household.
Here in Los Angeles, we’re nearing our sixth month of life being all but shut down. That means gyms, yoga studios, spin studios, and pretty much any other place where one might burn some calories and get a sweaty mental health boost is not an option. For some of us, not working out is like not breathing. For me, exercising is literally like a therapy session that also comes with my jeans fitting better and me being able to patiently navigate all the various emotional highs and lows that come with raising human beings. Simply put, my working out is good for my family.
That’s where you came in.
The hubs and I were quick to order our Peloton as soon as our governor ordered everyone home. And boy, are we so happy we did. Every day, without having to worry about getting a spot in a class or getting the bike we want, we can work out.
While the kids are relaxing, doing homework, or just plopped in front of an iPad, one of us can tune into an amazing Ally Love playlist or get our butts kicked by Alex Toussaint. We get community. We get a workout. And most important, we get to take care of ourselves when and if we want.
Sometimes those 45 minutes I spend on the bike with Kendall Toole are the only time I get to free myself of making meals, helping with Zoom links, or putting out emotional fires that come with a worldwide pandemic that never seems to end.
So Peloton, I’m sorry for doubting you. You’re keeping moms sane during this quarantine and helping us get a bit of time to ourselves — playlist included. Truth be told, even when the quarantine has been lifted, I’m not sure I’ll go back to a gym again. You’ve given me a dream commute, and I can always get a spot in my favorite teacher’s class. And it’s nice to know that no matter what happens or when, you’re waiting for me when I’m ready to clip in and take a few minutes for myself.
We moms need it, and we thank you.
XO,
Quarantined Moms
