This underrated Pixel Watch feature just helped me upgrade my workouts, but you’ll need the right equipment
Pixel Watch 3 Unlocks Peloton Superpower: Live Heart Rate Tracking Without Extra Gear
As someone who’s been rocking the Pixel Watch 3 as my primary fitness companion for over a year, I thought I’d discovered all its tricks. From AI-powered run recommendations to the new Personal Health Coach features, this smartwatch has been instrumental in keeping my fitness goals on track. But after a recent move to a building with a gym equipped with Peloton machines, I stumbled upon a hidden superpower that almost slipped through my fingers.
The excitement was palpable. I’d never experienced a Peloton workout before, and the prospect of trying one out was thrilling. Then it hit me – my Pixel Watch 3 could connect to the Peloton as a live heart rate sensor! This revelation sent my excitement levels through the roof.
The Initial Hurdles
Admittedly, the process of connecting my Pixel Watch to the Peloton wasn’t as straightforward as I initially thought. I found myself navigating through a maze of possibilities, trying to figure out the most efficient way to get these two devices talking to each other.
My first instinct was to download the Peloton Wear OS app. I figured this would be the golden ticket to seamless integration. However, I quickly discovered that the Wear OS app’s primary function is to allow you to start workouts directly from your watch and connect to your smartphone app with your live heart rate. While useful, this wasn’t exactly what I was looking for.
What I really wanted was for my Pixel Watch to act as a live heart rate monitor for the Peloton machine itself. And here’s the kicker – you don’t actually need the Wear OS app for this! The ability to use your Pixel Watch as a heart rate monitor for Peloton equipment is a separate function, independent of the Wear OS app.
Of course, to fully utilize your Peloton machine, you’ll need an account, the smartphone app, and a membership. Peloton memberships start as low as $9.99 per month, but for the best value, I’d recommend the $12.99 Peloton App One option. This gives you access to a vast library of classes and features that will make your workouts more engaging and effective.
The Connection Process: Easier Than You Think
Once you’re all set up with your Peloton account, it’s time to connect your Pixel Watch. And let me tell you, it’s much easier than you might expect. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
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On the Peloton machine, tap the Settings button in the top right corner, then select Heart Rate. The machine will begin searching for compatible heart rate monitors.
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On your Pixel Watch, swipe down to access the Quick Settings menu. Look for the “Connected fitness” icon, which resembles a heart with two lines on one side.
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Tap “Connect” on your Pixel Watch. The watch will become visible to the Peloton machine for a limited time.
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On the Peloton screen, tap “Connect” when your Pixel Watch appears in the list of available devices.
And just like that, you’re ready to go! Your Pixel Watch will now act as a heart rate monitor during your Peloton workouts. You can even save this connection, so you won’t have to go through these steps every time you want to use the machine.
One important note: this feature is not available on the original Pixel Watch. So if you’re still rocking the first-generation model, you’ll need to upgrade to enjoy this functionality.
The Real-World Benefits
Now, you might be wondering, “Why is this such a big deal?” Well, let me break it down for you.
First and foremost, this feature eliminates the need for additional equipment. Peloton machines are already a significant investment, often costing several thousand dollars. The last thing you want to do after making such a purchase is shell out more money for a separate heart rate monitor. With the Pixel Watch 3, you’re essentially getting this functionality for free (well, minus the cost of the watch, but chances are you already own one if you’re reading this).
But the benefits go beyond just saving money. Having your heart rate displayed prominently on the Peloton screen during your workout is incredibly useful. It allows you to maximize the effectiveness of your training without constantly interrupting your flow to check your watch.
Many Peloton instructors will guide you to aim for specific heart rate zones during different parts of the workout. With your Pixel Watch connected, you can easily keep track of your heart rate and ensure you’re in the right zone without breaking your stride. This real-time feedback can significantly enhance the quality of your workouts and help you achieve your fitness goals more efficiently.
Beyond Peloton: A World of Possibilities
While I’ve been focusing on the Peloton integration, it’s worth noting that the Pixel Watch’s connected fitness capabilities extend far beyond just one brand. The official list of compatible devices and apps includes:
- Tonal
- Strava
- Echelon
- iFit (NordicTrack)
- And more!
This versatility makes the Pixel Watch 3 an incredibly valuable tool for fitness enthusiasts who like to mix up their workout routines or have equipment from different brands.
Moreover, you can connect your Peloton account to other apps and devices, including Health Connect, Fitbit, Garmin Connect, and Strava. This integration makes it easy to share your progress across platforms and keep all your fitness data in one place.
The Bottom Line
The ability to use your Pixel Watch 3 as a live heart rate monitor for Peloton machines is a game-changer. It’s a feature that showcases the versatility and value of the Pixel Watch ecosystem, turning your smartwatch into an even more powerful fitness tool.
Whether you’re a Peloton enthusiast, a multi-brand fitness equipment owner, or someone who just wants to get the most out of their workouts, this integration offers tangible benefits. It saves you money, enhances your workout experience, and provides valuable real-time data to help you train more effectively.
So, if you’ve got a Pixel Watch 3 and access to a Peloton machine, don’t sleep on this feature. Give it a try and experience firsthand how it can elevate your fitness journey. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder how you ever worked out without it.
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