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<ul class="summary-list"><li>Business Insider looked at how young adults aged 25 to 34 spent their money in 1989 compared to 2022.</li><li>The findings show us how prices and habits changed since boomers were young adults.</li></ul>In 1989, you could see "Batman" and "When Harry Met Sally" in the movie theater. People wore <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/i-tried-to-live-like-i-was-in-the-80s">brightly colored fashion</a> and bought <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/nintendo-game-boy-history-evolution-ds-3ds-switch-2019-4">Nintendo Game Boy</a> consoles.In 2022, many people were still <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/dream-job-in-office-work-full-time-flexibility-benefits-2024-3">working from home</a> amid the pandemic's disruptions to the workplace. They were wearing a lot of athleisure, and perhaps venturing back to movie theaters — this time to see "The Batman."In the intervening 33 years, how young adults spent their money changed dramatically. Business Insider analyzed spending data for young adults aged 25 to 34 in 1989 — which would cover part of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/typical-baby-boomer-net-worth-debt-real-estate-retirement-2021-12">baby boomer generation</a> — and in 2022 — which would largely be people of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/millennials-annual-income-price-of-happiness-wealth-retirement-generations-survey-2023-11">millennial</a> generation — on various kinds of food, housing, education, and more.Young adults in 1989 were spending more — when adjusted for inflation — on beef, alcohol, and homes they owned than this age group decades later in 2022.Here's how expenditures looked between the two:For this analysis, Business Insider compared average annual expenditures for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/cex/csxgloss.htm">households</a> that were headed by 25- to 34-year-olds in 2022 to similar 1989 households. We used data from the Consumer Expenditure Surveys program published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS. BI calculated inflation-adjusted figures for 1989 using <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/cpi/">consumer price index</a> data to put those costs into 2022 dollars.We wanted to examine how spending for baby boomers when they were young adults compared to millennials who were around the same age in 2022.The differences in average spending between young adults in 1989 and 2022 could be due to changes in prices or shifting habits.Take a look at rented dwellings, for example. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CUUR0000SEHA">consumer price index data for rent of primary residence</a> suggests a lot of the increase between 1989 and 2022 is because of price increases but can also be explained by young adults being more likely to rent apartments.Millennials and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-working-to-live-rather-than-living-to-work-2024-1">Gen Zers</a> also have different habits and living situations than their parents' generations. For example, millennials are finding it hard to become <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/millennials-house-home-real-estate-mortgage-rates-rent-debt-boomers-2022-9">homeowners</a> in the US. <a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/509690/young-adults-drinking-less-prior-decades.aspx">Young adults who drink alcohol are consuming fewer alcoholic drinks</a> on average than older peers in 2021-2023 or young adults back in 2001-2003, and diets have changed.Taken together, the data offers a window into how young adults' budgets have changed over the last three decades, either due to rising costs for things like healthcare, seafood, fresh fruits, housing, and used vehicles, or due to changing habits and lifestyles. Below is a closer look at what's going on. <h2 id="c8ec59cd-d329-4fbf-8c48-7568d2b85e03">Millennials are spending a lot more on healthcare and rented housing</h2>Health insurance spending stands out between the average young adult in 1989 versus in 2022. After adjusting for inflation, the average young adult spent $755 in 1989. In 2022, it was over 200% higher.A Bureau of Labor Statistics <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-12/how-did-the-covid-19-pandemic-affect-healthcare-spending.htm">report</a> from November 2023 by Grace Hill looked at the effects of the pandemic on healthcare spending overall and broken down by age groups and other groupings."The only age groups to increase overall healthcare spending in 2020 were the 25–34- and 45–54-years age groups," the report stated. "These age groups had the largest increases in health insurance expenditures: the largest component in healthcare spending."Additionally, young adults in 2022 were spending more on rent and related expenses than was the case in 1989. Based on average data, young adults were spending roughly 60% more on apartments and other rented housing.<h2 id="0ff748d5-9c31-4517-a485-9e80a72ee47f">Millennials are spending less on used vehicles and mortgage interest</h2>The average young adult in 2022 spent more on gas and motor oil than this group in 1989. However, they weren't spending as much on used cars and trucks.Data not adjusted for inflation shows that used cars and trucks expenditures increased more than the CPI for used cars and trucks between 1989 and 2022.A December <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/reports/consumer-expenditures/2022/home.htm">BLS report</a> about consumer expenditures said households in general, not just among young adults, spent more in 2022 on rent and related expenses and owned homes than in 2021."High home prices, high mortgage lending rates, and particularly high rental rates for apartments placed upward pressure on spending over the year," the BLS report said. "Mortgage interest and principal payments are essential expenditures for owned dwellings, and a rapidly changing mortgage environment sent an exogenous shock through the market."The report added that the high 30-year fixed rate mortgage in 2022 led to "consumers on the margin out of owned dwellings and into the rental market."While BLS doesn't directly track price changes for owned housing, it approximates them with a measure of owners' equivalent rent of residences, which is up over 160% between 1989 and 2022. Meanwhile, young adult spending for owned dwellings was up over 120% before adjusting 1989 expenditures for inflation.<h2 id="22a433a5-514a-4ec4-aa67-c64ab853a237">Young adults in 2022 spent more money on fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood</h2>Young adults in 1989 were spending less on fresh fruits and vegetables — as well as processed vegetables — than those in this age range decades later. The average young adult in 2022 spent 71% more on fresh fruits than their counterparts in 1989. Plus, the average young adult in 2022 spent 22% more on fish and seafood and 4% more on poultry.While not the exact years we looked at for our analysis, an analysis from the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2016/12/13/whats-on-your-table-how-americas-diet-has-changed-over-the-decades/">Pew Research Center</a> shows how food consumption has changed between 1970 and 2014 including a big increase in chicken and cheese per year.We can also look at consumer price index data to see how inflation impacted food spending. Before adjusting 1989 data for inflation, young adults in 2022 spent 304% more on fresh fruits than young adults in 1989. Over that period, prices for fresh fruits based on CPI were up by nearly 170%, meaning that while part of the change in spending between the two years can be explained by price increases, young adults were also eating a lot more fresh fruit in 2022 than in 1989.<h2 id="4a62dd21-8983-457f-80b3-798e0dfc5e5d">In 2022, young adults spent less on alcohol, beef, and dairy products</h2>Average annual spending data shows that the average young adult in 2022 spent almost 40% less on beef than the average young adult in 1989. The average young adult also spent around 55% less on fresh milk and cream. The Pew Research Center report mentioned earlier also showed people were eating a lot less beef in 2014 than in 1970. The same was true for drinking milk.Based on our analysis, the average young adult in 2022 was spending more on nonalcoholic beverages and less on alcoholic beverages than the average young adult in 1989. A <a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/509690/young-adults-drinking-less-prior-decades.aspx">Gallup post</a> shows alcoholic beverage drinkers who were between 18 and 34 years old for 2021-2023, which would also include <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-drinking-less-alcohol-bad-news-concert-venues-promoters-2023-6">Gen Z</a>, had an average of 3.6 alcoholic drinks in the past seven days. For 2001-2003, the average consumption was 5.2 alcoholic drinks among drinkers aged 18 to 34.Our analysis shows young adults weren't spending as much on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.today.com/video/why-cereal-is-losing-its-popularity-over-grab-and-go-options-193180229829">cereals</a> and cereal products, which was <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/cex/csxgloss.htm#cu">defined</a> as including "ready-to-eat and cooked cereals, pasta, flour, prepared flour mixes, and other cereal products such as cornmeal, corn starch, and rice," in 2022 as young adults in 1989. Based on reporting from multiple outlets, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/cereal-decline-breakfast-trend-6dd591e8">cereal's popularity</a> has fallen while <a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/food/2023/10/24/breakfast-sandwich-popularity-cereal/">breakfast sandwiches</a>, bars, and other items that are easy to take with you are now favorable.

Millennial vs. boomer budgets: How spending has changed for young adults in the last 30 years 

Ahead of the <keyword id="6360189" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="union-budget" source="Orion">Union Budget</keyword>, Finance Minister <keyword id="129243" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="nirmala-sitharaman" source="Orion">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> said on Sunday that she was aware of the pressures of the middle class but also recalled that the present government has not imposed any fresh taxes on them. <keyword id="679937" type="General" weightage="70" keywordseo="sitharaman" source="Orion">Sitharaman</keyword> will present Union Budget for 2023-24 in the Lok Sabha on February 1 amid expectations that the government will raise the income tax limit and provide relief to the middle class taxpayers, besides others. "I too belong to the middle class so I can understand the pressures of the middle class. I identify myself with the middle class so I know," she said while speaking at a function organised by the Panchjanya magazine, an RSS- associated weekly. In the same breath, the minister reminded the audience that the present Modi government has not imposed any fresh taxes on the middle class. Also, she added, income of up to Rs 5 lakh is exempt from the income tax. She said the government has taken various measures like developing the metro rail network in 27 cities and building 100 smart cities to promote ease of living. The minister assured them that the government can do more for the middle class as its population is growing and it has become sizeable now. "I quite recognise their problems. The government has done a lot for them and continue doing the same," she said without making any commitment. Sitharaman said the government has been raising the outlay on capital expenditure in each Budget since 2020. For current financial year, she said, it has been increased by 35 per cent to Rs 7.5 lakh crore as it has a multiplier effect on the economy. On the banking sector, she said, the government's 4R strategy --Recognition, <keyword id="1518048" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="recapitalization" source="Orion">Recapitalization</keyword>, Resolution and Reform--has helped in revival of public sector banks (PSBs). As a result of this, non-performing assets (NPAs) have declined and health of PSBs has improved greatly, she said. The government implemented an unprecedented recapitalization programme for PSBs amounting to Rs 2.11 lakh crore to support capital adequacy and prevent their default. PSBs turned the corner during 2020-21 with a combined net profit of Rs 31,820 crore supported by massive recovery, reduction in NPAs and windfall gains on their bond portfolio. Subsequently, the combined profit more than doubled to Rs 66,539 crore in FY22 despite COVID-19 pressure. They had booked collective losses to the tune of Rs 2,07,329 crore for five straight years from 2015-16 to 2019-20. The <keyword id="30067" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="rbi" source="Orion">RBI</keyword> last month said, banks' gross NPA ratio has fallen to a seven-year low of 5 per cent and the banking system remains sound and well-capitalised. Speaking about farmers, Sitharaman said the government is committed to doubling their income and has taken various steps in that direction. On trade with Pakistan, she said the neighbouring country never offered Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to India. Trade relations with Pakistan have suffered since the Pulwama terror attack in 2019, she said. With regard to freebies, the minister said, promises have to be made keeping in mind the financial health of the state and there has to be full transparency about it. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/more-unicorns-focused-on-profitability-now-than-just-burning-cash-as-funding-winter-sets-in/articleshow/97030045.cms">More unicorns focused on profitability now than just burning cash as funding winter sets in</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/over-5-4-lakh-housing-units-to-be-completed-across-top-7-cities-in-2023-anarock-report/articleshow/97029912.cms">Over 5.4 lakh housing units to be completed across top 7 cities in 2023: Anarock report</a>

I belong to middle class, understand their pressures: Sitharaman before Budget

<ul class="summary-list"><li>President Biden requested an additional $106 billion to the DoD budget, citing the Israel-Hamas war and other global conflicts.</li><li>The CEO of military contractor RTX said Tuesday the company could "benefit" from an increased DoD budget.</li></ul>On an October 24 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2023/10/24/rtx-rtx-q3-2023-earnings-call-transcript/">earnings call</a>, RTX Corporation CEO Greg Hayes said that the defense contractor stood to "benefit" from a US Department of Defense's budget increase which would fund the supply of weapons to Israel and the restocking of weapons in Ukraine."I think really across the entire Raytheon portfolio, you're going to see a benefit of this restocking," Hayes <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2023/10/24/rtx-rtx-q3-2023-earnings-call-transcript/">said on the call</a>. "On top of what we think is going to be an increase in DOD top line."The statement was in response to a question from Kristine Liwag, an analyst from Morgan Stanley. Liwag asked how quickly RTX Corporation, formerly known as Raytheon Corporation, could profit if Congress approves President Biden's request for a DoD budget increase in 2024."Looking at this request, you've got equipment for Ukraine, air and missile defense for Israel, and replenishment of stockpile for both," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2023/10/24/rtx-rtx-q3-2023-earnings-call-transcript/">Liwang said</a>. "And this seems to fit quite nicely with the Raytheon Defense portfolio."Representatives for Morgan Stanley did not return Insider's request for comment. A representative for RTX Corporation declined to comment, but pointed Insider to Hayes's October 24 CNBC interview, in which he said there is "very strong demand" for RTX products from Israel, the US, and "other partner countries around the world.""The war in Gaza or in Israel, again, a tragic situation — it will eventually lead to additional orders, most likely," Hayes said. "Our focus right now is how do we support the Israeli Defense Force? How do we make sure that they have what they need to be able to defend their country."<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/10/08/israel-attack-what-is-the-iron-dome-and-how-does-it-work/920a8e92-65d8-11ee-9753-2b3742e96987_story.html">Since 2014</a>, RTX Corporation has been working with Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to help produce Israel's Iron Dome, which detects and shoots down incoming rockets. The DoD has been funding the Iron Dome <a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/10/08/israel-attack-what-is-the-iron-dome-and-how-does-it-work/920a8e92-65d8-11ee-9753-2b3742e96987_story.html">since 2011</a>, a few years after Israel <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/10/09/world/iron-dome-israel-defense-explained-intl-dg/index.html#:~:text=The%20Iron%20Dome%2C%20explained%20and%20visualized&amp;text=The%20Israel%20Defense%20Forces%20said,batteries%20were%20deployed%20in%202011.">first began to deploy</a> it in 2007.Shortly after Biden visited Israel on October 18, Biden <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTxDZ6D1A1E">posted a video address</a> from the Oval Office, requesting an additional $106 billion to fund US <a target="_blank" href="https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3564475/biden-asks-congress-to-approve-fiscal-24-supplemental-request/">military aid</a> to Israel and Ukraine, and to bolster US <a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2023/10/20/1206301577/biden-ukraine-israel-congress-funding-request">troops along the southern border.</a> He called the budget request "a smart investment" in American security and emphasized the need to support Israel's Iron Dome.Biden's $106 billion supplemental budget request can't be approved until the Republican Party elects a Speaker of the House, following Kevin McCarthy's ouster from the position several weeks ago. Failure to approve a new federal budget by November 17 could lead to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/next-house-speaker-will-have-a-mountain-of-work-2023-10">government shutdown,</a> resulting in a halt in all payments to federal workers, contractors, and members of the military.National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said in an October 20 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3564475/biden-asks-congress-to-approve-fiscal-24-supplemental-request/">press release</a> that the US has already given Israel "interceptor rockets" to support its Iron Dome missile defense system following the October 7 attack from Hamas.In 2020, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rtx.com/raytheon/what-we-do/integrated-air-and-missile-defense/irondome">RTX Corporation</a> and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rafael.co.il/press/raytheon-missiles-defense-and-rafael-team-to-establish-u-s-based-iron-dome-weapon-system-production-facility/">partnered to</a> create the joint-venture "Rafael USA," a US-based company that produces both the missile interceptors and launchers that make up Israel's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.raytheonmissilesanddefense.com/capabilities/products/irondome">Iron Dome Weapon System</a>, and a new "U.S. derivative" of the weapons called SkyHunter."This will be the first Iron Dome all-up-round facility outside of Israel, and it will help the U.S. Department of Defense and allies across the globe obtain the system for defense of their service members and critical infrastructure," Sam Deneke, RTX's vice president of land warfare and air defense business execution, said in a press release when the partnership was announced.The RTX Corporation earnings call also reported that the company anticipated its 2023 adjusted sales to be about $74.0 billion, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rtx.com/news/news-center/2023/10/24/rtx-reports-q3-2023-results">which it says is </a>"up from $73.0 - $74.0 billion" compared to last year.Following an October 7 attack by Hamas militants into southern Israel, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/24/more-than-700-killed-in-overnight-israeli-attacks-gaza-officials-say#:~:text=Israel%20launched%20an%20assault%20on,southern%20Israel%20on%20October%207.">an estimated 1,400 </a>Israelis have died, and <a target="_blank" href="https://thehill.com/policy/international/4269262-israel-increases-number-of-hostages-taken-by-hamas-to-212/#:~:text=The%20estimated%20number%20of%20hostages,Defense%20Forces%20(IDF)%20spokesperson.">more than 200 people</a> have been taken as hostages into Gaza. Following the attack, Israel began a series of air strikes that have killed an estimated <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dw.com/en/israel-hamas-war-5000-killed-in-gaza-health-ministry-says/live-67180974">5,000 people</a> in Gaza, including about 2,000 children, according to Gaza's health ministry. Israel, which controls almost all of Gaza's utility access, also cut off its electricity and water access following the Hamas attack and hardened its 16-year blockade on the territory. This prevented any food, water, and medical supplies from entering Gaza until this week, when <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/oct/22/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-strikes-to-intensify-israeli-military-says-west-bank-mosque-hit">small convoys of trucks</a> were allowed to begin bringing aid through the Rafah crossing bordering Egypt.

Raytheon's CEO said on an earnings call that the company stood to 'benefit' from DoD budget increases due to the war in Israel

The government is unlikely to announce capital infusion for public sector banks (PSBs) in the upcoming <keyword id="6358021" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="budget" source="Orion">Budget</keyword> as their financial health has improved significantly and they are on track to earn a combined profit of Rs 1 lakh crore, sources said. Their capital adequacy ratio is much above the regulatory requirement and varies between 14-20 per cent. To augment their resources, banks are raising growth funds from the market and also by selling their non-core assets, they added. The government last provided capital support to banks in 2021-22. It had earmarked Rs 20,000 crore for recapitalisation of PSBs through supplementary demands for grants. The government infused Rs 3,10,997 crore to recapitalise banks during the last five financial years i.e., from 2016-17 to 2020-21, out of which Rs 34,997 crore were sourced through budgetary allocation and Rs 2,76,000 crore through issuance of recapitalisation bonds to these banks. Finance Minister <keyword id="129243" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="nirmala-sitharaman" source="Orion">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> is scheduled to present the fifth and final full Budget of the Modi 2.0 government on February 1. All the 12 public sector banks earned a cumulative profit of about Rs 15,306 crore in the first quarter which increased to Rs 25,685 crore in the September quarter. On a year-on-year basis, the growth was 9 per cent in the first quarter while it surged to 50 per cent in the second quarter. During the second quarter, <keyword id="13451504" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="sbi" source="Orion" meta.marketcap="528426.26077014" meta.tagname="State Bank of India" meta.tagpopularcount="0" meta.sectorid="15" meta.entitytype="company" meta.matchtype="exact" meta.aum="0" meta.entityid="11984" meta.tagseoname="state-bank-of-india" meta.sector="Banks" meta.tagnameorg="State Bank of India">SBI</keyword> reported the highest-ever profit of Rs 13,265 crore. On a year-on-year basis, this was 74 per cent higher. In the first half of FY23, the cumulative net profit of all PSBs increased by 32 per cent to Rs 40,991 crore. The combined profit more than doubled to Rs 66,539 crore in 2021-22 despite COVID-19 pressure. Many state-owned banks after a hiatus also declared dividends in last financial year. In all, nine banks, including SBI, declared dividends of Rs 7,867 crore to shareholders. Recently, the Finance Minister had said the government's efforts to reduce bad loans are yielding results with 12 PSBs reporting a 50 per cent jump in combined net profit at Rs 25,685 crore in the September quarter. NPAs declined as a result of the government's 4Rs strategy of Recognition, Resolution, Recapitalisation and Reforms, she had said. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/rupee-breaches-80-level-against-usd-for-the-first-time-in-2-months/articleshow/97241273.cms">Rupee breaches 80 level against USD for the first time in 2 months</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/banks/news/canara-bank-q3-profit-surges-92-to-2882-crore/articleshow/97245895.cms">Canara Bank Q3 profit surges 92% to ₹2,882 crore</a>

Govt may not announce capital infusion for PSU banks in Budget 2023-24

When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a><ul class="summary-list"><li>The <a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stryde Bike</a> is thoughtfully designed, with a comfortable saddle, magnetic resistance, and a 22-inch touchscreen tablet with pre-loaded apps. </li><li>When you subscribe to the Stryde app, you're able to gain access to hundreds of classes filmed at top cycling studios around the country — and they add new ones daily.</li><li>One of its unique perks is that you can watch Netflix, surf the internet, and even check your email while you ride — an option that sets Stryde apart from its competitors.</li></ul>Before the pandemic disrupted my daily routine, I wasn't a big at-home exerciser. I belonged to a gym down the street from my apartment, I loved attending <a href="https://www.insider.com/best-online-yoga" target="_blank" rel="noopener">yoga classes</a> at my favorite studio, and I even ponied up for monthly <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/classpass-fitness-studio-subscription-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ClassPass</a> credits to attend a few boutique studio classes when I felt like it. Then COVID changed everything — including how I stayed fit. Since March, <a href="https://www.insider.com/best-at-home-workout-programs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">at-home workouts</a> completely replaced my typical gym and <a href="https://www.insider.com/work-from-home-workout" target="_blank" rel="noopener">studio visits</a>, and I really don't see myself going back to the gym anytime soon, if ever. A crucial factor in coming to this decision was my time spent with an <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-exercise-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exercise bike</a> called Stryde. Thanks to this perfectly sized, high-end-fitness-studio-quality, and (yes), even stylish bike, I can get in a heart-pumping cardio <keyword id="24256" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="60" keywordseo="workout">workout</keyword> (and some strength work) with the nation's top instructors any time, right in my living room. Equinox, who?! Currently <a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">offered</a> at $1,550, the Stryde Bike is significantly more affordable than Peloton's Bike, which previously retailed at $2,245. (It's worth noting here that on September 8, Peloton introduced the new Bike+, and slashed the price of the original Bike to $1,895.) There is an optional Stryde streaming membership that sets you back an additional $29.99 per month, though recurring costs for updated content on a bike like this is expected. While I found that the classes have a slightly different feel than what Peloton (or even NordicTrack/iFit) offers, the Stryde setup does provide everything I need in an at-home exercise bike. Here's what I loved, what I didn't love, and what else you need to consider before purchasing one yourself. <h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Stryde Bike" height="3024" width="4032" msid="78241826" hostid="261"></div></a></h2><h2>A familiar-looking bike</h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stryde</a>, a Boston-based startup, launched in spring 2020, just as everyone started to cope with spending more time indoors and altering their routine for keeping fit in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This, of course, was fortuitous timing for an at-home <keyword id="18974" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="fitness">fitness</keyword> brand. Indeed, Stryde's first shipment of hundreds of bikes nearly sold out before it even arrived in the U.S. in late April. Fortunately, they've worked hard to keep up with customer demand. Currently, bikes are scheduled to ship out roughly three weeks after you order, and then will take another five to 14 days to arrive at your house. In non-COVID times, the company offers white-glove setup service, though that isn't available right now. That said, the company reports that set-up is completely doable but since the bike frame is fairly heavy, it strongly recommends you have at least one other person to help. In full transparency, I received a fully set-up bike from the cofounder of the company,Measuring 50 by 24 inches, the bike itself is big, but not that big. I wheeled it into a corner of my small studio apartment and it honestly doesn't feel that intrusive. Plus, the sleek black frame and silver flywheel are aesthetically pleasing — as long as you're okay with your apartment vaguely resembling a high-end gym. The most notable aspect of the bike is the large 22-inch touchscreen which is fantastic when you're riding (or watching Netflix or checking your email).<h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Stryder Bike" height="5304" width="7072" msid="78241831" hostid="261"></div></a></h2><h2>The ride and the workout</h2>The <a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stryde bike</a> is, quite simply, a joy to ride. From the handlebars with spaces for two water bottles to the comfortable saddle, the design is thoughtful, sleek, and supremely sturdy. The bike's mechanics rely on magnetic resistance, which you'd find on comparable high-end indoor cycling bikes, making every ride quiet and silky smooth. It comes with SPD pedals with toe cages, so you can either clip in with cycling shoes or just use sneakers. I've been using my regular sneakers which were perfectly sufficient, though I do plan to invest in proper cycling shoes soon.The bike's 22-inch tablet comes equipped with several apps pre-installed, including an internet browser and the Stryde app, though you'll need to sign up for the above-mentioned $29.99 per month membership to access the classes. If that's not your speed, the bike still offers one incredibly great perk: Rather than being limited only to Stryde's workouts (as you are with Peloton or NordicTrack), the tablet allows you to surf the web, check your email, watch Netflix, and even download other fitness apps to use directly on it.Though it gives you the flexibility to try other apps, you won't necessarily need to. When you subscribe to the Stryde app, you get access to hundreds of classes filmed at top cycling studios around the country, including High Ride Cycle in Denver, CO (voted the best fitness studio in Denver by ClassPass in 2019); Vibe Ride in Atlanta, GA; and Ride House in Dallas, TX. Classes range from 20 minutes to an hour, and <a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stryde</a> often releases themed classes like a 90s hip-hop ride or a country music ride to satisfy a range of musical tastes. Some even have upper-body strength sections utilizing hand weights (which, unfortunately, aren't included with the bike). While there aren't live classes currently, Stryde adds several new classes daily, so you'll never run out of new rides to try throughout the week. <h2>Tough, varied classes with one nitpick</h2>This content model is what sets Stryde apart: Rather than filming and streaming the workouts from a centralized studio (a la Peloton), Stryde relies on partner studios to supply video content. For me, this is both an advantage and a disadvantage. First, the good. You can try out tons of different instructors and class styles and actually feel like you're truly in the room with them — and the classes are seriously tough, too. They also have a leaderboard screen so you can see how your rides stack up against other Stryde users. That said, I found the production quality of the videos to vary since they're filmed in various cycling studios around the country. Frankly, they have more of a homegrown feel and aren't quite as sleek or well-produced as the videos streamed by Peloton or NordicTrack's iFit — both of which have spent big bucks building top-of-the-line production studios. NordicTrack's even traveled the globe to film location-specific rides in places like Japan, Mallorca, and Moab, Utah.But do they really need to have a higher production value? Honestly, I don't think so, and I didn't feel they were lacking at all. The instructors, while their hair wasn't perfectly coiffed or their clothing superbly styled like Peloton, were highly motivating, enthusiastic, and professional. And they expect a lot from you for each ride which is extremely motivating in itself.Most of the workouts I did were with Alyssa and Rae from High Ride, two high-energy instructors who clearly have a ton of fun being on the bike — and made me have fun, too. Their classes incorporated a lot of different movements, such as tap backs, side-to-sides, and four corners, which come together to deliver a challenging workout that strengthens (and exhausts) a variety of muscle groups across my body. And again, if you don't feel like riding along to an instructor's cues one day, all you have to do is tap the free ride option on the Stryde app, and you can DIY your ride while seeing your metrics populate on the screen.<h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Stryder Bike" height="1365" width="1820" msid="78241838" hostid="261"></div></a></h2><h2>The drawbacks</h2>As mentioned, the production quality of workouts isn't consistently at a high level. If you want your instructors to look like fitness influencers, former dancers, and/or be professional athletes, Peloton, SoulCycle, or NordicTrack might be more your speed. Otherwise, I'm confident anyone can enjoy riding with Stryd's wide range of instructors and learning the different teaching styles the app offers, just as I did. There is one other minor nitpick, too: The app currently offers on-bike workouts only, so there are no separate strength-training or yoga classes to choose from. Though it's easy to navigate to YouTube and load up your favorites there, an all-in-one app is preferable (though certainly not a dealbreaker).<h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><div type="image" title="Stryder Bike" height="2316" width="3088" msid="78241842" hostid="261"></div></a></h2><h2>The bottom line</h2><a href="https://www.strydebike.com/the-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Stryde bike</a> offers a worthy option for the home exerciser on a budget. It's a truly top-of-the-line cycling experience from the ergonomic design of the bike to the various entertainment options it offers. The classes, while not as sleekly produced as its competitors' versions, are wildly fun, extremely challenging, and effective.<ul><li>Should you buy it? Yes. If you're looking for a high-end at-home cycling experience at a more affordable price point, with the flexibility to design your own ride (and watch Netflix as you do), then the Stryde bike is money well invested.</li><li>What are the alternatives? You can't talk about connected home fitness without mentioning the dominant player, <a href="https://www.insider.com/peloton-digital-membership-round-up" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peloton</a>. The Peloton Bike did recently come down in cost (from around $2,245 to $1,895), so the $1,550 price tag on Stryde's option may not look as appealing as it did a few weeks ago. That said, the freedom the Stryde tablet provides you to program it as you please might be the deciding factor for anyone on the fence. Other options include <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/nordictrack-commercial-s22i-studio-cycle-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NordicTrack's S22i Studio Cycle</a> or <a href="https://www.insider.com/echelon-ex5s-connect-bike-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Echelon's EXS5</a>. You could even opt for an <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-indoor-bike-trainer">indoor bike trainer</a> for something a little more analog. </li></ul>Pros: Supremely well-designed bike, perfect size for small spaces, tons of classes to choose from, huge 22-inch display screen, good audio, flexibility to download other appsCons: Quality of classes varies since they are filmed in cycling studios around the country, Stryde app only has on-bike workouts

The Stryde Bike is a budget-friendly alternative to Peloton that's perfect for small apartments, streams Netflix, and offers a variety of app-based workouts

When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"></a><ul class="summary-list"><li><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">The Echelon EX5S</a> connected bike brings spin classes to your home for a price that's competitive with other brands like Peloton and NordicTrack.</li><li>Live classes and a substantial collection of on-demand courses are available in the Echelon Fit app, which also includes many non-bike workouts.</li><li>Other modes such as free ride and scenic views let you pedal to your heart's content if you want to feel like you're just hitting the road solo. </li><li>I tested the bike, and while I enjoyed the experience, I found many of the extra features on the top model superfluous.</li></ul>Table of ContentsEverything is going digital these days, including <a href="https://www.insider.com/work-from-home-workout" target="_blank" rel="noopener">your workouts</a>. Stationary bikes have changed drastically to accommodate the demands of modern <keyword id="18974" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="fitness">fitness</keyword> enthusiasts, replacing the clunky one-note analog bikes of old with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-exercise-bike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multifaceted fitness machines</a> that offer far more than just pedaling in place. NordicTrack and Peloton may be the current leading brands, but other companies are hot on their heels, looking for an opportunity to overtake the brand. One such brand, Echelon, is quickly becoming the Pepsi to their Coca-cola. To see if it stacks up to its stiff competition, I decided to take its bike and service for a spin. <h2>The hardware<a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="Bike 4" height="900" width="1200" msid="76654386" hostid="261"></div></a></h2>Echelon sells four bikes, all of which provide what you'd need to participate in Echelon's app experiences, but the company adds refinements and features with each tier. All bikes have 32 levels of magnetic resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and pedals with fully adjustable toe cages, but they're also SPD compatible (if you prefer more direct integration).My test unit was the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Connect EX5S</a>, the top-tier model that, apart from a few additions, is identical to the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5bike-ex5" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">EX5</a>. There are just a few components and adjustments that elevate the two bikes to a more pro-level status. Both have an updated handlebar with an aero bar for those who are used to that riding position. They're also fitted with two handlebar-mounted water bottle holders.From here, the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">EX5S</a> adds a couple of refinements such as kick guards on the frame and convenient power ports on the front and back of the bike. Its main feature, however, is its 21.5-inch HD touchscreen, which takes the place of the standard smartphone mount found on other models. <h2>DIY setup</h2>From start to finish, assembly took me roughly an hour and a half, and all the tools and instructions were included in the packaging. For the most part, the illustrated instructions were clear enough for me to get through the process without too much head-scratching.When put together, the Echelon bike is a hefty 124 pounds, but front-mounted wheels make positioning easy with a tilt, and it feels sturdy when planted. The frame itself feels equally robust and doesn't dominate available space too much, though the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">EX5S's</a> massive screen distorts that perception. Adjustments to the seat, handlebars, and ride height are easy to make and, with a little experimentation, it's easy to find your ideal ride position (even if you share the bike with someone else, too). <h2>The software<a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="Bike 6" height="900" width="1200" msid="76654388" hostid="261"></div></a></h2>Once you have the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Echelon bike</a> ready to go, it's hard to know where to start, especially with the many options the Echelon Fit app presents you. Luckily, there's a beginner playlist that's worth taking the time to run through, even if you're eager to pedal your heart out. The starter pack does a good job of walking riders through the fundamentals like proper seat and handlebar positioning, pedaling technique, and how to utilize the on-screen metrics effectively. Those metrics are vital to the instruction riders receive from either the live ride sessions or one of the thousand classes in the on-demand library. Though you're spoiled for choice when it comes to the variety of class length, music, and intensity, each workout puts you in a virtual room with the instructor and a leaderboard of others in your session. Echelon has a decent enough rotation of trainers with diverse personalities, too, which keeps rides refreshing and you'll quickly find favorites.Personally, I found I got the most out of instructors who guided me closely using the RPM (revolutions per minute) and resistance metrics. It's a system devised to work simultaneously for an untold number of participants with different levels of fitness, but it's easy to discern the effectiveness between instructors.For instance, a highly technical coach has you chase specific numbers, and working to maintain it is as mentally engrossing as it is physically challenging. While doing these, before I knew it, I'd burned off a whopping 600 calories. A full schedule of live classes and a deep catalog of previously recorded ones should keep you plenty busy, but there are scenic rides to enjoy if you want more of an open-road feeling. There's also a freestyle ride mode if you're just looking to set your own pace, though this is oddly buried in the settings menu and not easily accessible.Depending on your choice of membership, all the non-cycling workouts from FitPass are included in your menu, which further rounds out the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Echelon bike</a> as a fitness station.<h2>The FitPass subscription</h2>Echelon offers subscriptions to its FitPass streaming service in a few different ways. Here's how it breaks down:<ul><li>Connect + Extra Mile: $39/month. This includes all Connect rides, as well as Extra Mile content consisting of Pilates, yoga, stretching, and others. </li><li>Connect Annual Plan + Extra Mile: $399.99/year.</li><li>Connect 2-Year Plan + Extra Mile: $599.99/year.</li><li>Flex Ride Plan: $19.99/month. This includes all live and on-demand Flex Rides. </li><li>Flex Ride Plan + Extra Mile: $24.99/month. </li><li>Flex Ride Annual Plan + Extra Mile: $239.99/year. </li><li>Extra Mile Plan: $12.99/month.</li></ul><h2>The experience</h2><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="Bike 2" height="900" width="1200" msid="76654389" hostid="261"></div></a>After a few weeks of testing, the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Echelon EX5S</a> has endured the abuse of multiple hard-riding sessions. Even with that strain, I've only had to infrequently readjust my seat-and-pedal tightening. During my time with the bike, I encountered a handful of connection issues between it and the app. At first, they were rare and easily sorted with the tried and true troubleshooting technique of turning things off and on again. After time, however, the instances became more frequent, with the bike not pairing or saying it was paired even though none of the metric gauges were budging. Having to pull a number of false starts just to get everything on the same page becomes a chore if you've been particularly consistent with your cardio routine. A great deal of the experience is controlled through the resistance knob located underneath the handlebar. It does the job, but the empty, fly-by-wire feeling to the inputs makes it frustrating to use, particularly in the heat of an intense session. Am I a full twist from the next level or half twist? There's no way of knowing, and you frequently find yourself overshooting and overcorrecting while trying to stay on task. Over a short period of time, I began to realize that the top-of-the-line <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Echelon Connect bike</a> wasn't for me. For one, the 21.5-inch centerpiece felt redundant. It's an enjoyable feature, to be sure. It helps immerse yourself in the class and makes it easy to follow a coach's movements, but in most cases, I found that I wasn't looking at more than the metric gauges. The large screen betrays the low quality of most of the scenic rides, too, and when on a free ride, it becomes a large black mirror that can't be ignored. Simply dropping down to the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5bike-ex5" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">EX5</a> would be a simple solution, but I'd argue that there's even a case to fall back to the <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dickssportinggoods.com%2Fp%2Fechelon-ex3-connect-bike-20jvuuchlncnnctbkbks%2F20jvuuchlncnnctbkbksnctbkbks" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">EX3</a>. Remember the aero bar? You don't need that either. It's meant to facilitate a specific streamlined riding position, so unless you use it in your own independent training or it's a personal preference, it doesn't come up in any of the sessions.Having the bottle holders underneath the handlebars is a very worthwhile convenience, but it'll be up to you to decide if the $200 difference between having them is worth it or not.<h2>The bottom line</h2><a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="Bike 5" height="900" width="1200" msid="76654391" hostid="261"></div></a>Those looking to take a ride on the virtual spin class craze can't do wrong with the Echelon Connect bike. The hardware feels solid enough to give users the confidence to give it their all when pedaling, be it from the seat pumping their hearts out or standing up to climb virtual hills. An app jam-packed with a back catalog of classes gives riders plenty to keep busy, and a diverse array of class types, music themes, and a multitude of trainers prevent things from getting monotonous. Its resistance knob could do to provide more feedback when adjusting levels, which would help to integrate adjustments more smoothly during intense sessions.Affordability varies, starting at $839.98 for the Connect <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex1bike-ex1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">EX-1 bike</a>, to our test unit, the $1,639.98 <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Connect EX-5S</a>. Each price includes one month of unlimited classes and Fitpass access. The 1-and-2 year membership plans cost more upfront, but save on the bottom line over time. Echelon offers other goodies in bundles like a heart rate monitor, shoes, and yoga mats, but those are extras, not requirements. <ul><li>Should you buy it? If you want a more affordable connected bike than something like Peloton, then yes, it's worth considering. However, we think many people will be happy with the more affordable <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dickssportinggoods.com%2Fp%2Fechelon-ex3-connect-bike-20jvuuchlncnnctbkbks%2F20jvuuchlncnnctbkbksnctbkbks" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">EX3</a> or <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5bike-ex5" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">EX5</a> options, provided they don't want the big screen. Echelon's connected bike and fitness app delivers on the promise of an at-home spin class experience and there's enough provided with a membership to keep users going for a substantial amount of time. </li><li>What are your alternatives? Peloton and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/nordictrack-commercial-s22i-studio-cycle-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NordicTrack</a> are clearly the bikes to beat. They've consistently been our benchmark for comparison for good reason. One of the main reasons you may prefer Echelon's bikes is that Peloton has one single all-in-one bike option, whereas Echelon has multiple options (as does NordicTrack). Though limited, there are at least some options for riders to find what suits them, both in terms of skill and price. Price-wise, Peloton's basic starter pack also costs more than <a href="https://go.skimresources.com?id=35871X943606&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fechelonfit.com%2Fproducts%2Fechelon-smart-connect-bike-ex5sike-ex5s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Echelon's top-tier EX5S</a> bundle. </li></ul>Pros: With a manageable price range and a lineup of bikes to choose from, Echelon delivers on a solid at-home spin class experienceCons: Lack of feedback from the resistance knob, connection issues between the app and bike start to become a frustrating part of the routine

The Echelon EX5S is built to take on Peloton, and costs much less, but if you're after a budget-friendly exercise bike, there are better options

When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a><ul class="summary-list"><li>The <keyword id="18974" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="fitness">fitness</keyword> app <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a> offers access to audio recordings of thousands of guided workout classes led by certified professional trainers.</li><li>Aaptiv features hundreds of routines designed for at-home equipment, no equipment at all, or for just getting outside for a run. </li><li>Membership costs $15 per month, or $100 per year, which is a relative steal compared to boutique studios or the cost of other streaming services. </li></ul>I used to hate <a href="https://www.insider.com/work-from-home-workout" target="_blank" rel="noopener">workout classes</a>. They seemed to always be filled with people who'd been emailed the moves to memorize three weeks prior and then waited to enroll until they already had the choreography down pat and six-pack abs.Then my sister recommended <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a>, an app with guided audio workout classes. Apparently, it turned her into a regular runner and as her sister, I can tell you she hadn't been a self-described runner for the last two decades. I figured that if it was enough to get her outside to run on purpose, it was worth looking into. A few months of using it later and I was glad I listened to her.<h3>What is Aaptiv?</h3><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a> gives you unlimited access to audio-based fitness classes led by certified professional <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/trainers" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">trainers</a> — of which have some great playlists to work out to, too. There are more than 2,500 guided workouts and they come in categories like <keyword id="32311" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="running">running</keyword> and walking, elliptical, yoga, strength training, indoor cycling, stretching, meditation, and others. The company reportedly adds about 40 new classes each week, allowing users to easily refresh their routine without feeling like they're repeating anything. <h3>What's it like to use?</h3>At least for a semi-introvert like me, it was ideal for getting back into shape.I always wanted to become more purposeful with how I worked out but until I tried Aaptiv, I was content to zone in on specific areas or focus strictly on running as a sort of all-over workout. I didn't want to spare the money to keep going to classes I didn't enjoy or hire an expensive personal trainer.<div type="image" title="Aaptiv2" height="800" width="1067" msid="76431852" hostid="261"></div>In terms of devoting time to researching my own fitness plan, I've often found it time-consuming and irritating to judge the information I found online. The information doesn't always come from research you can easily fact check and some fitness communities aren't always a reliable compass. That kind of unknown isn't the foundation I want to lean on to improve my fitness. Instead, using the workouts designed by Aaptiv's certified personal trainers means I don't have to create any myself, I don't have to go anywhere in person, and I certainly don't get yelled at by them in a mirrored-room fogged with the sweat of tens of other people. All told, this change of pace proved to be a great addition to a stale routine.<h3> Aaptiv provided a clear direction for my workouts</h3>Having a plan I trust without having to do the legwork takes the pressure off my workouts. It's easier just to drop in, sweat it out, and head home. I'm working out more often, it's incredibly cathartic, and, overall, it's working well.In terms of its recurring expense, Aaptiv only costs $15 a month for unlimited access or $100 for an entire year. In a world where boutique classes often run upwards of $30 for a single session, <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a> is a great deal. <h3>No technique feedback</h3><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a> doesn't include videos or many visual cues but the audio is enough if you're confident about basics like running, yoga poses, squats, and lunges. Though this is great for anyone looking to build strength and consistency, it also means that no one corrects you if you're doing a pose the wrong way.If you do need extra help, they have visual workout guides with 200-plus movements across more than 400 strength workouts in the app. It may not be the kind of comprehensive, real-time feedback offered by other apps, but it's still a great resource. <h3>The bottom line</h3>If you're looking for an inexpensive — and intimidation-free — way to get into better, smarter fitness, I highly recommend <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/3861930/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored">Aaptiv</a> (who offers a free 7-day trial to new signees). And, if it's not a fit for you, just make sure to <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/https://aaptiv.com/login?redirectUrl=/member/settings/membership-plan" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">cancel</a> at least 48 hours prior to the end of the trial period.<ul><li>Should you buy it? Yes. Even if it's just for the free trial, Aaptiv is worth the download. Its audio-based workouts provide a stress-free alternative to the more high-energy classes and services offered by other fitness brands, and offers a relaxed way to keep active and stay fit. </li><li>What are your alternatives? <keyword id="7889291" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="workout-apps">Workout apps</keyword> are a dime a dozen, with everyone from Nike and YMCA to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fightcamp-at-home-boxing-system-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FightCamp</a> and <a href="https://www.insider.com/peloton-digital-membership-round-up" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peloton</a> offering their own versions of on-demand workouts. Choosing one comes down to personal preference, so if you're not into audio-based exercises, there are <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-workout-apps" target="_blank" rel="noopener">plenty of paid</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-free-virtual-workouts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free apps</a> with a wide range of workouts. </li></ul>Pros: Audio-based exercises are a breath of fresh air from demanding personal trainers or the anxiety of a full workout fitness studio class and the $15 per month fee won't break the bankCons: Doesn't offer much in the way of real-time feedback

Aaptiv's audio-based workouts create the reliable and stress-free environment I look for in my weekly fitness routine — its $15 monthly fee is easy on my budget, too

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