For the past couple of months you’ve probably noticed that I’ve become a bit of a SoulCycle addict. I’ve swooned over why I love it, but I’ve yet to fully explain what the class is like for those of you who have never been (or heard of it). So here’s a bit of ins-and-outs of SoulCycle, and my attempt at being unbiased in reviewing it 😉

What to expect:

SoulCycle is not your average cycling class…or your average fitness class, for that matter. The energy of it is unlike any other fitness class I’ve experienced. When you enter the studio, you’ll automatically feel your adrenaline go up. You’ll be welcomed with high energy music and low (candlelit) lighting. It’s an environment where you’ll feel empowered no matter what your fitness level, and you’ll be able to let loose + fully leave behind anything else that may have taken up your attention that day.

More practically speaking - the class combines speed, resistance, choreography, and hand weights for a full-body (and mind) workout. Be prepared to at least try to keep up with the tempo/rhythm as SoulCycle is not an “oh I’ll just do my own thing” sort of class. I’d suggest a bike toward the back for your first time. Be sure to tell someone that it’s your first time, and someone will help you set up your bike, get clipped in, etc.

Pros:

* It’s a killer workout. I’ve been to a handful of other spin classes, and SoulCycle is definitely takes cycling to another level intensity-wise. If you follow the instructor’s speed and resistance, it is definitely not an easy workout. I’ve been going for a few months and there are still parts of the class that I can’t fully keep up with.

* Fun + great energy. SoulCycle is hands down the most FUN I’ve ever had exercising. The 45 minutes seem to fly by because you’re not just going through the same old spin motions - the choreography is energized, keeps you alert, and keeps everyone synchronized. I’m also a sucker for the “soul” part - the instructors have been trained to pump you up with motivation (sometimes inspirational, sometimes tough love) and that is something that definitely pushes me to do my best.

* Great music. This is KEY for me, and another reason the classes seem to fly by. I always love the music the instructors play, and it’s usually always different (even with the same instructor - they’re constantly mixing it up). Combined with the synchronized choreography, sometimes I forget that I’m in SoulCycle and not a night club!

* Sense of community. As with most fitness trends, SoulCycle riders are pretty loyal to the brand. It becomes a bonding experience to go with your friends. I remember before getting involved in SoulCycle I didn’t understand why people were so obsessed with it, but once you “get it” you realize why people are so dedicated.

* Level of excellence. SoulCycle sets itself apart from other spin classes (and boutique fitness studios) but just doing everything 100%. Their branding, instructors, studios/cleanliness, apparel…it’s all done with excellence, consistency, and pride. And when a brand has that level of excellence/pride, you almost can’t help but want to be a part of it.

(pic stolen from Rachel)

Cons:

* Cost. At $34 a pop, classes aren’t cheap. In my opinion, though, you can afford what you value. I make up for it by dining out less, etc.

* Primarily cardio workout. With the exception of bike resistance and arm weights, SoulCycle isn’t necessarily an ideal workout for strength training. But as with just about any workout, you get what you put into it.

* You can “cheat.” Unlike some other cycling studios, there’s no screen or monitor saying what speed or resistance you’re at. I personally like this because it makes the class more of a personal challenge and I can be more in the moment rather than staring at a screen.

* Small locker rooms. Some of the studios are better than others, but trying to maneuver getting your stuff (or even dare get ready) while a class just got out and another class is arriving…well, good luck with that.

* It’s loud/dark. This is actually one of the top pros for me (part of what makes it so fun!), but I’ve heard a lot of people say they don’t like this about SoulCycle.

My favorite NYC instructors:

Charlee
Conor
Jaws
Mantas
Stevie
There a few more that I really want to try soon - Akin, Danny, Sydney, and Stacey (all per my roommate Rachel’s recommendation…she’s the one who has told me who to take from the beginning ;))

* Edited to add: I’ve recently taken Akin, Danny, Sydney, and Eve. They’re all great too! I’d add Akin and Danny to my list of favorites.

The verdict:

Clearly, I’m a huge fan of SoulCycle (did you like how I negated most of the cons? haha). I think what gets me so excited about it is that - after over 10 years of working out regularly - discovering SoulCycle was the first time I genuinely loved and had FUN exercising. So whether you’re someone who is “into” fitness or not, I definitely suggest trying it at least once (but be careful - you may get hooked like I did).

SoulCycle has expanded to a handful of cities, so check out their website to see if there’s one near you!

Please note I have zero affiliation with SoulCycle…just love it.

Have you tried SoulCycle? Interested in it?

(I’m going to be doing more fitness class reviews soon! Any you’d like to read about most?)