Like millions of people, I watched that Peloton ad where a husband gifts his already fit-looking wife a Peloton exercise bike. Many were outraged while others made jokes because you’re not supposed to give an exercise-related gift to a woman. The ad did not upset me though. If anything, I thought, what’s the big deal?
I can see why people would mock a commercial where a husband gets his wife an exercise bike. It’s not a romantic gift and some even consider it to be offensive. In the past, I would have been one of those people. And because the woman was already slender, that added to the jokes because apparently she didn’t “need” the bike.
Many people thought the woman had a look of fear and angst on her face, but that’s not what I saw, nor was that the intent of the ad itself. You can’t blame an ad for the actress’ facial expression which sparked a lot of the negative comments. Still, I thought the woman looked touched and was emotional about a potentially life-changing gift.
It’s all about perspective. It didn’t bother me that the woman looked like she was already in shape. It’s more than a piece of exercise equipment for weight loss. The bike represents a journey of self-love and self-care. It symbolizes a commitment to one’s health, healthy habits and consistency.
By prioritizing one’s health, consistency and hard work can create lasting change in one’s lifestyle and mindset. At least that’s my perspective of that Peloton ad.
