Why Community Still Matters in the Age of At-Home Fitness

Just a few years ago, Peloton was at the center of the at-home fitness revolution. With sleek bikes, energetic instructors, and a cult-like following, the company soared in popularity—especially during the pandemic, when gyms were closed and people craved structure and connection from the comfort of home. But fast forward to today, and the buzz has noticeably faded. Peloton’s stock has plummeted, once-loyal users are selling their bikes online, and the company is facing serious questions about its long-term viability.

So, what changed? The answer lies in a mix of market saturation, shifting consumer habits, and one big challenge Peloton—and many of its competitors—have yet to solve: keeping people engaged once the novelty wears off. They are essentially today’s version of the Bowflex or P90X: hyped, convenient, and flashy… but not always sustainable.

Working out at home sounds great. There’s no commute, you can choose when to work out, and you can tailor the duration to your schedule. But let’s be honest—most people don’t stick with it. Just take a look at Facebook Marketplace—secondhand Pelotons are listed all the time. And many end up as nothing more than expensive coat racks. Sound familiar? Think of the folks who committed to 90 days of P90X… and then hit a wall asking, “Now what?”

The truth is, home workouts can be time-efficient, but they require a level of discipline that most of us (myself included) don’t maintain on our own. So what’s the missing piece? Accountability through community.

Humans are wired to connect. Even introverts benefit from being part of a group. Historically, our survival depended on it—some hunted while others cared for the tribe. That sense of interdependence is still in us today. We thrive when we’re surrounded by others.

Think about education. If you’re like most people, you didn’t get through college by reading textbooks alone in your room. You had instructors guiding you, peers supporting you, and a structured environment that kept you accountable. The combination of leadership and community helped you learn faster and more effectively.

The same is true for fitness.

At Colfax Strong you’re not just getting a workout—you’re joining a community. Our coaches guide you, correct your form, and help you stay on track. You’re surrounded by people who encourage you, push you, and celebrate your progress.

We build accountability into everything we do—whether it’s a casual “See you tomorrow!” or the commitment that comes with RSVPing for the 7:30 class. And beyond the workouts, the friendships formed before and after class relieve stress and build real human connection—something a screen can’t replicate.

That’s the key difference between us and companies like Peloton.

We don’t just offer workouts—we offer connection, accountability, and a community that actually helps you stick with it.

Want to see what our community is about? Set up a free welcome meeting here