NASA astronaut Dr. Jessica Meir broadcast live from the International Space Station on October 22, 2026, joining Peloton instructor Robin Arzón for a first-of-its-kind 20-minute space cycling class that combined microgravity fitness insights with live orbital views of Earth.
Space and indoor cycling collided when Peloton released its inaugural Space Ride class to its on-demand library. Led by instructor Robin Arzón from a New York City studio, the workout featured NASA astronaut Dr. Jessica Meir broadcasting live from hundreds of miles above Earth.
As the current residents of @Space_Station, @AstroDrewMorgan and I thought we’d share some of our strategies for living happily in isolation. Tip #1: Exercise is vital not only for physical health, but also to your mental well-being. Here’s how we do it on @Space_Station . . . pic.twitter.com/Dzyh5WYBBj
How Astronauts Ride Bikes in Space
Exercising in microgravity requires specialized gear to keep the human body anchored. During the class, Meir demonstrated the Flight Ergometer, known as the FERGO, which serves as a minimalist stationary bike without a standard seat, handlebars, or front frame. To prevent her from launching backward toward the ceiling with every pedal stroke, Meir wore a wide waist belt secured to rigid side struts while her cycling shoes clipped into specialized strap pedals.
Maintaining muscle mass and bone density in space demands a strict daily commitment.
Meir explained to riders that astronauts dedicate two hours every day to physical training, rotating through cycling, treadmill running, and strength training. Without these countermeasures, the human body quickly breaks down in weightlessness.
We need the loading on our muscles and our bones to keep our muscles and our bones healthy. If we didn’t have that, we’d lose a significant amount of muscle mass and also bone density.
Dr. Jessica Meir, NASA astronaut
Beyond cycling, crew members rely on specialized equipment to maintain health in space.
What Astronauts Say About Water Recycling in Orbit
The workout offered participants a glimpse beyond physical fitness routines, highlighting the realities of long-term space habitation. She also discussed orbital life support systems, noting that the station recycles water, leading to the spaceflight saying that today’s coffee is also tomorrow’s coffee,
or from toilet to tap.
Looking out at the planet from the station’s cupola observatory, Meir reflected on the emotional impact of viewing Earth from orbit. She noted that the experience reframes how humanity views political divisions.
All of these borders and walls that we put up as human beings… really don’t exist when you see it from up here. It gives you a valuable perspective. Truly like in this ride, we are all in it together.
Dr. Jessica Meir, NASA astronaut
Meir emphasized that despite the complex and technical systems operating aboard the orbital laboratory, human cooperation remains the single most critical element of space exploration.
Finding the Class on Peloton and YouTube
The 20-minute class initially debuted on the Peloton on-demand platform. To make the unique broadcast accessible to non-members, Peloton released a special public version of the session on its YouTube channel, allowing viewers worldwide to experience the fitness session directly from home.
Different missions, one incredible community. 🫶Making history for Peloton and beyond, Dr. Jessica Meir brings a whole new perspective to what it means to ride together.The 20 min Space Ride is now available On Demand & launching on Youtube 10/23 pic.twitter.com/yGbmgDp3Yi