Munich Startup: What does your startup, Pepper, do? What problem do you solve?
Emilia von Keyserlingk, Peppper: We We combine proven electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology with innovative design and interactive software to make training up to 300 percent more effective and efficient. With our wireless Pepper suit and the accompanying Pepper training app, users can not only train easily and safely, but also anytime and anywhere. The main problem we solve lies in the time and motivation barriers that prevent the majority of the population from exercising sufficiently. By integrating EMS technology, users can achieve more effective results in less time with the Pepper. Thanks to its diverse and personalized training programs and intensities, the Pepper is suitable for beginners and experts alike. It is proven to be suitable for targeted and joint-friendly muscle building, injury prevention and rehabilitation, fat burning, and strengthening connective tissue.
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Although EMS technology has existed for a long time, no one has yet succeeded in integrating it into a comprehensive home workout concept. This is where Pepper comes in, and we believe our solution marks a turning point in the fitness industry.
A key component of our success is undoubtedly our innovative appNot only does it offer an extensive media library of pulse-synchronized training videos, but it also allows users to track their progress and health data. Furthermore, the app allows users to individually adjust the training intensity for each muscle group, creating a personalized fitness experience at the highest level.
EMS group training thanks to the Pepper app
Thanks to the advanced Pepper app, up to 20 people can now train together in a group workout with synchronized stimuli. This opens up a whole new dimension to the fitness experience by integrating social interaction and mutual motivation into the workout. Pepper not only creates an effective and personalized training experience for individuals, but also opens up new possibilities for group fitness activities that were previously unattainable.
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: My daily routine in management consulting was characterized by long, stressful days at my desk. I quickly deprioritized sports and sufficient exercise, so that by my mid-twenties, I was already struggling with severe back problems. My doctor recommended that I start EMS training due to my hectic schedule. After just six weeks, my back pain was gone, but the experience at the EMS studio was anything but pleasant. For a 20-minute workout, I had to spend 30 minutes traveling there and back. The large glass fronts made me feel like I was being showcased in a shop window. The preparation, which involved wiring up cables and spraying water on someone else's suit, was tedious, and on top of that, very expensive. I knew one thing: There had to be a better solution. I wanted to take EMS training to the next level!
Pepper: “We have already successfully provided proof of market”
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Our biggest challenge so far with Pepper has been finding a balance between innovation and usability. We strived to develop EMS technology that is effective and efficient, yet simple and enjoyable for users. The challenge was to design the complex technology so that it is accessible and user-friendly for everyone with the help of the Pepper app, without compromising on performance. Features such as synchronizing the EMS pulse from the suit with the interactive workout videos in the Pepper app required extensive development and feedback from our users to ensure our product met their needs while offering high quality and effectiveness.
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: We have already successfully achieved our first milestone, proof of market. We are currently in the funding process for seed financing. With the completion of the financing, we have set ourselves a clear goal for this year and especially for next year: to help more people on their path to healthy fitness. We want to serve the existing high demand in new markets and scale.
In five years, we envision Pepper as a leader in EMS technology, helping people around the world achieve their fitness goals. We will expand our product offerings and stay true to our philosophy of developing close to our customers and their needs to realize our vision: using technology and design to connect the world through fitness and empower people to be the best version of themselves anytime, anywhere.
With support from Werk1 and Makerspace
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Munich is known for its renowned universities, which play a significant role in academia and provide a wealth of support and funding for aspiring founders. Munich also boasts a thriving startup ecosystem characterized by its diverse startup groups, meetups, and incubators. We have benefited enormously from this environment, particularly from the resources and programs offered by institutions like Werk1 and Makerspace. The regular exchange with other founders and the opportunity to learn from their experiences have proven extremely valuable.
Munich Startup: Risk or security?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Through Pepper, I know firsthand how important it is to take risks to drive innovation. When I decided to leave my secure job and start Pepper, it was fraught with uncertainty. I didn't know if my idea would be successful, but I realized that risks are inevitable, especially in the business world. Without risk, there is often no progress or innovation.
The beauty is that risks can be limited by working closely with customers and continuously gathering feedback. Through iteration, seeking advice from mentors, and engaging with other founders, I was able to minimize our risk. A balanced approach that combines risk-taking with safety measures has enabled me to successfully build Pepper and realize our vision.
