(CNN) Peloton hears the criticism lobbed at that holiday ad. But the company says critics just misread its inspiring message.

The much-maligned spot features a fit woman documenting her progress on a Peloton stationary bike , a gift from her husband. Users criticized the ad's purported sexism and deafness to the privilege of its subjects in this and previous commercials.

But that wasn't the company's intent at all, it says.

"We constantly hear from our members how their lives have been meaningfully and positively impacted after purchasing or being gifted a Peloton Bike or Tread, often in ways that surprise them," a Peloton spokesperson said in a statement to CNN. "Our holiday spot was created to that fitness and wellness journey."

"While we're disappointed in how some have misinterpreted this commercial, we are encouraged by -- and grateful for -- the outpouring of support we've received from those who understand what we were trying to communicate," the spokesperson said.

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