Fitness Startup Ladder Claims Peloton Copied Its App Design
Austin-based fitness startup Ladder has publicly accused Peloton of replicating key elements of its strength-training app following the launch of Peloton’s new Strength+ platform. The controversy emerged after Peloton’s app exited beta on December 4, 2024, with users noting striking similarities to Ladder’s interface.
The Allegations: Inspiration or Imitation?
Ladder’s investigation revealed:
- 15 Peloton employees across product, engineering, and design teams actively used Ladder’s app since January 2024
- Beta testers reported nearly identical user experience and interface designs
- Shared comparison charts showing Peloton staff’s frequent app usage
In a blog post, Ladder stated: “We’re flattered that the Peloton team was really, really (really) inspired by our work for Ladder members.” The company stopped short of direct legal accusations but highlighted the similarities through clever marketing.
Image Credits: Ladder
Peloton’s Challenges vs. Ladder’s Momentum
Peloton’s recent struggles:
- Pandemic boom followed by post-lockdown decline
- Supply chain disruptions and product recalls
- May 2024 layoffs (400 employees) and CEO replacement
Ladder’s growth trajectory:
- \(105M Series B funding in November 2024 (\)90M from General Catalyst)
- 69% YoY download growth (Jan-Nov 2024)
- 15M+ workouts completed by users
Marketing Genius or Genuine Grievance?
Ladder has launched a viral “Ladder Versus” campaign inspired by Apple’s classic “Get a Mac” ads, featuring:
- Peloton personified as a stereotypical “gym bro”
- Ladder represented by diverse, approachable trainers
- Series of comparison videos on YouTube
When asked about potential legal action, Ladder responded: “Our focus remains on making strength training accessible. While we’ve enjoyed this campaign, we’re prioritizing our members.”
Data updated December 5, 2024 with latest app install figures from Appfigures
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