Treadmill running has always been a last resort for me. I find it incredibly boring, no matter how advanced or high-tech the treadmill is. However, my perspective on treadmill running completely changed when I tried a demo level of Lanebreak on the Peloton Tread.
Lanebreak is an in-app video game that Peloton originally launched for its bikes. It combines elements of spin classes, rhythm games, popular music, and Tron light cycle aesthetics. The game has now been adapted for the Peloton Tread, with mechanics designed specifically for walking and running.
In Lanebreak, players are encouraged to switch between virtual lanes by scrolling the incline wheel on the Tread. Visual cues prompt players to earn points by switching lanes, increasing their pace, or staying within a specific cadence range. The game focuses on hills and speed intervals, simulating them through automatic adjustments to the Tread’s incline.
While it takes a bit of time to master the controls, once you get the hang of it, Lanebreak makes treadmill running much more enjoyable. Even as someone who can run outside for hours, I usually can’t last more than 20 minutes on a treadmill. However, during a 20-minute Lanebreak level, time seemed to fly by. I was engaged and motivated throughout the entire session.
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One of the reasons Lanebreak is so effective is its ability to visualize intervals and gamify workouts. Instead of fixating on the numbers and countdowns, I was focused on the virtual hills and the progress I was making. It felt like a psychological trick that encouraged me to push harder and keep going.
Gwen Riley, Peloton’s senior vice president of music and head of content, explains that Lanebreak provides immediate rewards for reaching higher inclines, making the experience more incentivizing. Unlike traditional classes where instructors give instructions that can be ignored, gamified workouts like Lanebreak offer a tangible payoff for meeting the challenges presented.
Lanebreak’s ability to make treadmill running more engaging reminded me of an immersive Les Mills cycling class I recently attended. Similarly, the combination of technology, gaming, and fitness created an enjoyable and motivating experience. This has changed my perspective on immersive fitness, as I now see its potential to enhance real-world workouts.
Unfortunately, games like Lanebreak and Les Mills’ The Trip require expensive equipment and memberships, which may not be accessible for everyone. However, it’s not hard to imagine incorporating elements of Lanebreak into group classes or regular workouts. Peloton plans to expand Lanebreak’s catalog on the Tread, with regular updates and member feedback in mind.
In conclusion, Lanebreak has completely transformed my opinion of treadmill running. Its gamified mechanics, visual cues, and immersive experience make workouts more enjoyable and motivating. While immersive fitness may not appeal to everyone, it’s clear that Lanebreak has the potential to enhance traditional workouts and create a more engaging fitness experience.
