Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports was an indoor cycling and fitness studio brand that began in New York City in 2010. The company quickly became known for its innovative approach to group fitness, offering performance tracking technology and stadium-style studios that attracted a loyal following in urban markets. Within four years, Flywheel had expanded to more than 30 locations across major U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The brand also introduced FlyBarre, a barre fitness concept, broadening its appeal within the boutique fitness sector.

At its height in early 2018, Flywheel Sports operated over 42 studios nationwide, establishing a strong presence in affluent neighborhoods and earning a reputation for energetic classes led by engaging instructors. In 2017, the company launched a home bike and digital platform, aiming to reach users beyond its physical studios and compete directly with emerging digital fitness brands.

Flywheel’s trajectory changed dramatically in 2020. Facing intense competition, legal disputes over technology patents, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company announced the permanent closure of all its studios in September 2020. Later that year, Peloton Interactive, Inc. acquired Flywheel’s assets, including its home bike business. Since then, Flywheel Sports has ceased all operations, and its digital assets have been absorbed by Peloton. As of November 2025, there are no active Flywheel locations or corporate operations.

Flywheel’s rapid rise and abrupt closure highlight both the growth potential and volatility within the boutique fitness industry. The brand’s expansion into high-density urban neighborhoods and its early adoption of technology-driven fitness experiences offered valuable lessons for the sector, particularly regarding the risks and rewards of aggressive growth and innovation in a competitive landscape.