An open letter from a 60-something woman who is trying, sweating, and absolutely not training for a marathon.
Dear Peloton — and honestly, any brand built around getting people moving —
I love what you do. I mean it. Coaching works. Having someone in your ear who’s been there, done that, and can push you past the moment you want to quit? That’s powerful. That’s my whole life’s work, actually — I believe deeply that experienced people help other people grow.
So this isn’t a breakup letter. It’s a “we need to talk” letter.
Because I think you forgot about me.
I’m over 60. I’m not in terrible shape, but I’m not in great shape either. I’m somewhere in the beautiful, frustrating, very real middle — working toward good health, not a finish line tape and a Sports Illustrated cover.
And when I clip in, lace up, or press play — the voice in my ear is a 28-year-old with abs I’m fairly certain were sculpted by someone other than God.
I don’t need a supermodel. I need someone like me.
Someone who knows what it feels like when your knees have opinions. Someone who’s had to rebuild their fitness after life got in the way — because life does get in the way. Someone who celebrates “I finished” just as loudly as “I PR’d.”
Where is that coach? Where is the 62-year-old who still shows up even when she doesn’t feel like it? The one who’s not training for an Ironman — she’s training to feel good, stay strong, and keep up with her grandkids?
There is an entire generation of us out here. We have disposable income. We have Pelotons. We have the desire. We just want to hear from someone who gets it — not someone who makes us feel like we wandered into the wrong party.
I’m not asking for less inspiration. I’m asking for real inspiration. The kind that meets me where I actually am.
So here’s my unsolicited advice, offered with love: Get some coaches who look like your whole audience. Not just the ones who look like the highlight reel. Give me the woman who’s over 60, not perfect, and showing up anyway — because that is the most motivating thing I’ve ever seen.
I’d volunteer, but I’m busy running a company.
Mostly.
Wendy Wollner is the founder of Balancing Life’s Issues, a national workforce education company. She believes in real, relatable, and showing up — in business and on the bike.
