Ride it Like You Stole it

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 21/12/2017 (3055 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Under the sparkle of a disco ball in a candle-lit room, an empowering fitness movement is rapidly gaining traction.

presents an “Ultimate Divas” theme ride. The instructor aka “tour guide,” Brooke Ward, greets the riders before launching into a high-intensity spin class soundtracked to her carefully curated playlist, featuring the likes of Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga and Beyonce.

The lights are low, the music is blaring and for 45 minutes, riders are guided through a challenging rhythm-based class.

As a longtime runner, Ward was initially drawn to spin class for the vigorous workout. But it was the positive, motivating atmosphere that hooked her in.

“It’s honestly so much bigger than
just a spin class.”

“From the second you walk in the door to the second you leave, you feel like you’re being pushed to be the best version of yourself.”

After regularly attending classes for more than a year, Ward was approached about becoming a tour guide. It was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. She went through the training process and now teaches at least two classes per week.

“As an instructor I honestly feel so fortunate for the opportunity to witness and contribute to 28 riders for 45 minutes,” she said. “You’re motivating and encouraging positive change, through physical movement and mental growth, and honestly the clients inspire you right back.”

Since the boutique spin studio opened its doors in Brandon in February 2016, a tribe of passionate riders has formed and continues to grow.

In addition to the physical fitness aspect, many spin enthusiasts are drawn to the class for the mental escape.

“It’s a de-stressor for me,” said Caelie Walker, who has been a consistent rider since the studio opened. “I know in that 45 minutes, I can turn my brain off, and I’ve got nothing else to think about but me and that bike.”

Walker enjoys the camaraderie and how the instructors shake things up with different routines, theme rides and challenges.

“Every time you go, there’s no two routines that are the same,” she said. “It’s always exciting and it’s always different. It never gets boring — that’s what I appreciate about it.”

Husband and wife duo Dana and Whitney Roberts took a leap of faith when they moved back home to

Brandon after several years in Calgary. They fell in love with spin in Alberta, and wanted to bring it to the Wheat City.

“I think we were the first studio to open in a smaller market, most of the others were in big cities,” Whitney said. “We were a little worried about that to be honest, when we first opened.”

The Roberts are thrilled to see how much it has caught on in Brandon, and are truly proud of their clients.

“We never really thought too much about how we would actually effect people’s lives, but it does have a positive effect,” Dana said.

The independently-owned studio at Unit 4 – 215 6th St. has 11 instructors, and offers 23 classes per week. The age range is wide — typically the classes attract people in their 20s to their 60s — but they’ve seen people as young as 12, and as old as 82.

“The feeling that we have now at the studio, that is what we were going for originally,” Dana said. “The community feel … everybody’s happy. It’s a good vibe.”

Riders build strength and endurance as they go through the interval training, which Dr. Savitra Ramaya said is key to a great cardio workout. In a Tour class, riders adjust the resistance on their bikes, as they are taken through “races,” face uphill climbs, and incorporate a variety of different movements that target different muscles in the body.

Ramaya was initially hesitant to try the class, feeling nervous and intimidated. But she was pleasantly surprised by how much she loved it — in her words it’s like “dancing on a bike.” She is now an avid rider, and encourages others to try it.

“Nobody’s watching you, nobody’s going to criticize you, and you can go as hard or as slow as you want,” she said. “You feel like a million bucks when you come out of there.”

Ramaya, an emergency room doctor in Brandon, credits the studio for keeping her accountable. She recently took part in a challenge, where riders commit to a certain number of rides within 30 days.

“That’s the biggest one, the accountability, and actually doing what you’re saying,” Ramaya said. “I’m trying to put my money where my mouth is.”

For many riders, the group fitness setting is preferred over a solo routine at a gym.

“I’m not a gym kind of person, so the fact that this is not affiliated with a gym is even more enticing, and more of a reason to want to go,” Ramaya said.

The spin class phenomenon is growing around the globe, with riders drawn to the music-thumping, cardio-party style. In Brandon there are varying spin class options available, such as at the YMCA, GoodLife Fitness and A&L Get Active. Tour has its own unique style and it stands alone as the city’s only boutique spin studio.

The classes seem to offer the ultimate trifecta: physical fitness, mental clarity and a sense of community. With that combination, it’s no surprise that transformations are happening on a regular basis — whether it’s weight loss, fitness goals or just a more positive outlook.

“They’re dropping inches around their body, and they’ll tell you they’re feeling so much better,” said Shane Robins, avid rider and tour guide. “Their energy level is through the roof… It is so motivating.”

All fitness levels are encouraged to take part in any class, as the rider is in control. While the classes are intense, riders add as much or as little resistance as they need and “ride to the beat.”

“The classes will always be challenging because you’ll find that you’ll increase your resistance as you get stronger,” Robins said.

The first class is free at Tour, and any passes purchased don’t expire for two years. The studio also offers private rides for staff parties and team building.

At the end of the Ultimate Divas theme ride, Ward had a motivating message for the group as they completed the final stretch:

“It’s truly incredible what a collective group of strong, empowered women working towards one common goal can accomplish in one room in 45 minutes.”

And as she often ends her class, she gave out one final piece of advice: “Remember to always drink lots of water and avoid anyone who treats you like you’re ordinary.”