SOULCYCLE WHEELS INTO YALETOWN
Classes offer something ‘part cardio dance party and part mindful inspiration,’ writes Aleesha Harris.
You don’t have to be a cycling fan to know what SoulCycle is. Why? Well, the New York City-spawned indoor fitness craze has taken on a life of its own.
Fans of the brand flock to its studios for a signature sweat session that mixes stationary bikes with heart-pumping tunes and positive affirmations.
And now, Vancouverites can get in on the celebrity-approved spin action with the opening of the first SoulCycle location in Yaletown.
Gabby Etrog Cohen, senior vicepresident of PR for the company, recently chatted with Postmedia News about the new location, what makes Vancouver a fit — and why people are so obsessed.
Q For those who aren’t familiar, what is SoulCycle?
A SoulCycle evolved the entire concept of indoor cycling, and made it a 45-minute full- and mind-body workout. Part cardio dance party and part mindful inspiration, SoulCycle classes are held in dark, candlelit rooms set to expertly curated playlists where instructors push riders to reach new physical, emotional and spiritual levels.
Q What is it about cycling classes, in general, that make people such crazy-loyal fans?
A Indoor cycling is a highintensity, low-impact workout where riders move and tone their entire body. Our instructors and studio teams create an incredible experience for riders, which is why they come back.
Q And what’s so special about SoulCycle, specifically?
A SoulCycle created the boutique fitness industry when it was first founded in NYC 11 years ago. Our classes are physical, mental and spiritual as the dark studio allows riders to lose themselves in the workout. We offer riders the opportunity to disconnect for 45 minutes and push themselves to new levels. The class focuses on rhythm and we ride to the “energy of the
pack,” which creates a strong bond between riders. This sense of community is very strong and makes the SoulCycle experience really unique.
Q What made this the right time to open in Vancouver?
A We’ve received requests for years to open a studio in Vancouver, and we are excited to be opening our doors in July. We always look for active and dynamic communities for new studios, and as Vancouver is such a health-conscious and fitness-oriented market, we are thrilled to be opening.
Q And what made Yaletown a good fit for the brand?
A Yaletown is the perfect neighbourhood for our first Vancouver location as it is such a vibrant community.
Q What can people expect to find on offer at the new location?
A Our signature SoulCycle class is 45 minutes and includes the use of hand weights, choreography and core work. It truly transforms the way you look and feel. Soul-Survivor is a 60-minute class which offers a little more challenge, a little more sweat and a lot of soul. Soul-Challenge is for our hard-core riders who want to double up. Push up, tap back and rock out in our 90-minute cardio party. We also offer expansive SoulCycle retail collections with new pieces each month. We love spotting our riders wearing soul gear outside of the studio.
Q What is the price range for classes/passes/memberships?
A The first class is $20. After that each class is $30. You can also purchase five, 10, 20 and 30 class packs.
Q Lastly, any further expansion plans you can share in Vancouver — and beyond?
A We are always looking for great opportunities in new and existing markets. Stay tuned! SoulCycle is located at
1128 Mainland St. in Vancouver.