The new Soul Cycle studio on 76th and Amsterdam just opened on Monday!
As I was straightening my closet, was just thinking about the rocking out in the basement of the original on 72nd and Columbus.
Sad they’re closing it, but the new one next to the Equinox should be amazing.
Let us know if you go. Tell us about it!!
Well, this obviously isn’t going to be a post about how hot I look in these pants….I am NOT one of those girls who puts on makeup let alone brushes her hair to go to the gym.
But, I do enjoy nice workout gear that fits well :)
A reader wrote to me yesterday asking about my affinity for loud spandex. My answer is simply this: I like bright colors! They’re even more exhilerating in the gym. How can you not be pumped up wearing loud green pants? Combo them with red sneaks and you’re set to kick butt!!
Stacy*, my spinning mentor, wears vibrant yellow pants to class when the sky is gray in an attempt to coax the sun to come out and put a smile on our face as she tortures us. Her mentality around color in the gym stuck with me, and now I really feel like the colors bring a positive energy to my workout.
For example, these Nike Training Capris are awesome for so many reasons.
They’re super comfortable, affordable ($35) , and have lasted through countless workouts and washes. Plus, I get a million compliments on them (mostly from people wearing black). I’m telling you, there’s something about the color that just makes the exercise more fun.
In general workout gear is not this affordable, but you will wear every penny out of a black pair of spandex pants. Mine have lasted for 4 years! Now, if you like color, you’ll find great stuff in the Nike “Last Chance” bargain bin. Other places to check for reduced prices: Marshall’s and Target.
(*Stacy Griffen teaches at Soul Cycle in NYC, mostly at the Upper East Side location.)
almondbutter asked:Hi Mary,
First, I love your blog!! I’m not sure if you’ve already answered this but how did you go about becoming a spin instructor? What sort of certifications do you need and where did you get yours? I’m interested in becoming one.
Thanks
To be honest, anyone with a brain can technically be certified as a spin instructor. You can go towww.spinning.com, take a day course, and then an online test.
Your real resource is the teachers you enjoy because inevitably you will take their routine and manipulate it to be your own. I advise spinning for at least a couple of years so you can watch, learn and let your ride evolve.
To get hired and be a successful instructor is not so easy. Just like anything else, you have to be passionate about teaching, like to perform (because you have to be “on” to get your class motivated), and desire to inspire others. Anyone can put on a cd and scream. You really have to want to connect with others and understand how to do that with the music, your banter, and your energy.
Q:laceybee asked:Hi, Mary -
I just started spinning at NYSC and Soul Cycle (as much as I can afford) and would like to invest in a pair of good spin shoes. I’m tired of renting them at Soul Cycle and trying to make it work at NYSC. Do you have any recs?
I appreciate any guidance you offer!
A:
I don’t think the brand is as important as comfort when it comes to spin shoes. You can spend $60-$90 and get a great pair.
If you like the ones at Soul Cycle, they will order a pair for you, just ask!
So glad you’re loving spin.
I can’t remember the last time I sweat as much as I did last night in Melanie’s spin class at Soul Cycle!
When she took my classes, she was the obvious rockstar (who, truth be told, is a stronger rider than I am).
Last night she commanded a packed room with an incredible playlist and perfectly choreography to hit the beats. She pushed us to the limit and we loved every minute of it.
I’m checking the schedule at all of the NYC locations to see when I can get back in her class asap.
My holiday gift guide for your friend, lover, and love of your life.
Cheap and easy (around $50 or less):
Under $100:
A little bit more:
SPLURGE!
Helpful Websites:
Not at all glamorous, but I would be so excited to receive:
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade!
Once I figured out iMovie wasn’t going to work and the geniuses at the Apple store didn’t have time for me this morning, I ran out the door to make Stacy’s 10:30 class at Soul Cycle. OMG I feel so much better!
Now I’m racing to get dressed for the tents. Livestream starts at 1pm. See you there!
This Sunday I’m teaching THREE classes at Soul Cycle on the Upper West Side.
8:30am, 10:45am, and 5:00pm
Here’s the kicker…I teach right after I get off the redeye from LA. Not to worry, I’ve performed this stunt before.
As for the fall, I’ll be teaching Thursdays at 5:30pm and 7:30pm. Come by for a 45 minute ass kicking, I mean ride :)
If you know you’re coming, email me song requests.
