Pedaling Toward Change: Dr. Rachel Millner’s Mission to Redefine Fitness on Her Terms

Since its debut in 2012, Peloton has become a household name—synonymous with at-home workouts, charismatic instructors, and a passionate fitness community that grew exponentially during the COVID-19 pandemic. For many, it brought the gym into their living rooms with high-energy rides and a sense of connection during isolation. But for some riders, the experience has always come with a glaring omission.

“If you’re not thin, you’re not seen,” says Dr. Rachel Millner, a clinical psychologist, body positive activist, and devoted Peloton rider. Like many in larger bodies, Dr. Rachel noticed a lack of representation among Peloton’s instructors. “Representation matters,” she emphasizes. “Higher-weight people are not likely to enter into a community if there aren't people who look like them in leadership roles. It's one thing to have size diversity in a class. It's another to have someone in a larger body actually leading the class.” Dr. Rachel isn’t waiting for change—she’s creating it.

She’s on a mission to become the first plus-size Peloton instructor who is also a clinical psychologist, bringing a unique blend of therapeutic insight, body positivity, and lived experience to the bike. Her upcoming video series, Revolutionize Your Ride: Changing the Face of Fitness with Dr. Rachel, will do more than challenge the norms of what fitness "looks" like—it will center emotional well-being, self-acceptance, and the importance of taking up space.

“Rides that I teach will be all about taking up space in the unique ways that each of us takes up space in the world—both physically and emotionally,” Dr. Rachel explains. “Every single one of us is needed in this world, and we all need to support one another.”

Through her powerful message and unapologetic visibility, Dr. Rachel is building a new kind of fitness community—one that honors authenticity over aesthetics and emphasizes healing over hustle.

You can join the ride revolution by following her journey on Instagram at @plussizepelotonride.