Munich Startup: What does your startup Pepper do? What problem do you solve?
Emilia von Keyserlingk, Pepper: We combine proven electrical muscle stimulation technology (EMS) 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 train not only easily and safely, but also independently of time and location. The main problem we solve lies in the time and motivation barriers that prevent most of the population from exercising enough. By integrating EMS technology, Pepper users can achieve more effective results in less time. Due to the different and personalized training programs and intensities, Pepper is suitable for both beginners and experts. It has proven effective 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 managed to integrate it into a comprehensive home training concept. This is where Pepper comes in, and we believe our solution marks a turning point in the fitness industry.
A key part of our success is undoubtedly our innovative app. It not only offers an extensive media library with pulse-synchronized training videos, but also allows users to track their progress and health data. Additionally, the app allows users to adjust training intensity for each muscle group individually, creating a personalized fitness experience at the highest level.
EMS group training thanks to Pepper app
With the advanced Pepper app, up to 20 people can now train together with synchronized pulses in a group training session. This opens up an entirely new dimension of the fitness experience by integrating social interaction and mutual motivation into training. Thus, 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 unreachable.
Munich Startup: What’s your founding story?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: My everyday life in management consulting was characterized by long, stressful days at the desk. Exercise and adequate movement quickly became low priority, so I was already dealing with serious back problems in my mid-twenties. My doctor recommended that I start EMS training due to my busy schedule. Within just six weeks, my back pain had disappeared, but the experience at the EMS studio was anything but pleasant. For a twenty-minute training session, I had to spend thirty minutes commuting, and with the large glass frontages, I felt like I was being displayed in a shop window. The preparation of wiring and spray-wetting someone else’s suit was tedious, and it was also very expensive. It was clear to me: there must be a better solution. I wanted to take EMS training to the next level!
Pepper: “We have already successfully proven the market”
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Our biggest challenge with Pepper so far has been finding a balance between innovation and user-friendliness. We aimed to develop EMS technology that is effective and efficient, but at the same time simple and pleasant for users. The challenge was to design the complex technology so that, with the help of the Pepper app, it is accessible and user-friendly for everyone without compromising on performance. Features like synchronizing the EMS pulse from the suit with the interactive workout videos in the Pepper app required a lot of development and feedback from our users to ensure that our product meets their needs while also offering high quality and effectiveness.
Munich Startup: Where do you want to stand in a year, and 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 financing, we have set a clear goal for this year and especially for the next year: to help more people on their journey to healthy fitness. We want to serve and scale existing strong demand in new markets.
In five years, we see Pepper as a leading company in EMS technology that helps people worldwide achieve their fitness goals. We will expand our product offerings and remain true to our philosophy by developing close to our customers and their needs to realize our vision: using technology and design to connect the world through fitness and enable 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 offer a rich array of support and funding for aspiring founders. Additionally, Munich also offers a thriving startup ecosystem, characterized by its diversity of 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. Regular exchange with other founders and the opportunity to learn from their experiences has proven invaluable.
Munich Startup: Risk or security?
Emilia von Keyserlingk: Through Pepper, I know firsthand how important it is to take risks to drive innovation forward. When I decided to leave my secure job and found Pepper, it was associated with many uncertainties. I didn’t know if my idea would be successful, but I realized that risks are inevitable, especially in business. Without risk, there is often no progress or innovation.
The beautiful thing is that risks can be limited by working close to the customer and continuously gathering feedback. Through iteration, seeking advice from mentors, and exchanging ideas with other founders, I was able to minimize our risk. A balanced approach that combines risk-taking with safety measures has enabled me to build Pepper successfully and realize our vision.
