Feeling brazen, I recently found myself strapped in and ready to embark on an indoor bike ride that has become a kind of religious experience to those who are workout fanatics. As I’ve managed to bypass the spinning trend since its inception- which I’ve never been able to master oddly enough, yet I can hike up mountains for hours…and in heels, by the way- I couldn’t resist another go at it, as this particular brand of inspirational cardio burn and strength training is now literally within walking distance from my home.
Soul Cycle was founded seven years ago by New Yorkers Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler, and has recently expanded to Los Angeles, with 60 more locations scheduled to open nationally, since Equinox purchased the company last year. These classes are so coveted, they tend to book up a week in advance, and wrangling for a spot on the never ending wait-list is the norm for these cycle-possessed. With bold-face names like Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper and Kelly Ripa saddled regularly on these bikes, this gruelling – yet motivating- workout takes you on a forty five minute challenging and sweat-filled ride, energizing even the most sedate.
So as I began to spin, perched atop the bike in a darkened room- back-lit by candles, with grapefruit scented aromatherapy wafting through the air…most likely to cancel out the unpleasant fumes coming from my co-riders- I began to get into the Soul Cycle zone. With loud music blaring- a very serious mix of heart-thumping tunes to guide you through the relentless ride- I then realized why everyone has become crazed…as this is more than just a workout, it’s also a spiritual thing. Although, at times, I thought I was going to fall off the bike and/or die during class, I did manage to hang on for the duration- feeling as if I’d just completed the Tour de France, while limping home. Yes, delusional…however, all the more fired up for perhaps another class…after soaking in a long epsom salt bath, of course. www.soul-cycle.com
