THE COMMUNITY | John Wong, Vancouver

Get to know John – any Lonsdale rider or instructor knows John and his dedication to RIDE. Having completed the 30 Day Challenge in just 16 days, he’s proof that a strong, supportive community and encouraging instructors can help you crush even the most ambitious goals.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I’m a helicopter technician. Work for a company that maintains, repair and overhauls dynamic components of the aircraft.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

Culinarian, Dedicated, and Adventurous.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

About a year. Started in August of 2015, but stopped going after a few months. Then I heard about Lonsdale studio opening and offering free underground rides with the new instructor trainees. That lit the fire to get my ass back on the saddle. Now I’m hooked!

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

Best ?’s in town! ?

How has RIDE impacted your life?

RIDE has help me get back into shape to live a healthier lifestyle. There’s nothing else like it. Spending 50 mins in a dark room sweating it out with like-minded people.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to

Snowshoe 13 kms in a blizzard for a one night stay in the mountains and back the next day. So much to explore in beautiful British Columbia.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?

I think it’s like a cult. Many of the riders including myself join in this 50 min sweat session religiously. AM or PM, weekday or weekend we connect at the studio.

Favourite instructor and why?

They’re all so good!
Going to name a few, ff that’s okay.

My current go to is Joce. She kicks my butt every class. Combined with the awesome playlist and her wicked moves. Keeps me coming back for more even though she laughs at my mistakes when I’m in the front row. Definitely give her class a try if you haven’t yet. She’ll get you on the right foot in no time.

Barb is da ? – so intense. Classes are so loud with so much energy you’ll definitely feel the beat.

Danielle is ? – her vibe on the podium is amazing. Playlists are fun and lots of energy. Love her RIDE voice, even though she’s yelling at you to get your ass up!

Taylor is awesome! He’s definitely pushed me to be better. His classes are super fun but the intensity is picking up. I’m enjoying the challenge though. Killin’ the playlist! #brosridetoo

Best RIDE memory?

So many to choose from… definitely have to mention the 30 Day Challenge. I knew I could finish it no problem. Just in how many days I could do in. I had booked vacation for the middle of the month for a week, so my time was cut short. In my mind I wanted to finish the challenge before I left on the 17th of May. New challenge accepted! Lol 30in16. So that’s what I did! Went to RIDE Lonsdale every day except 1 class at the Hamilton location. It was mostly double classes per day except Fridays, only 1 slots available for my schedule. Made up for it when a new class time was posted for Sunday Funday. TRIPLE! Definitely struggled that day. It was just a handful of classes left to finish the challenge after that. Felt amazing after finishing the challenge! Definitely crushed some goals. #30in16

Meeting so many great people during the challenge was amazing. Everyone supporting each other during their journey through the challenge. Congrats to everyone that crushed the 30 Day Challenge.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

I run, hike, snowshoe and circuit train with friends.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Dua Lipa – new rules (Alison Wonderland remix)

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

Past boss that I still keep in touch with and currently brunch/lunch with once a week.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?

My parents. They owned/ran a bakery in Burnaby until they retired. Their passion to bake created the culinarian I am today.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

Spin, brunch, nap, golf and snowshoe.

Who motivates you?

Everyone! Hahaha
Parents, family, friends and coworkers. Always want to do better!

Fave quote or words to live by?

Just smile!

Last book you read was….

Calvin and hobbes
.
.
.
It’s been a while since I’ve read an actual book… last one I remember is American Sniper.
A friend recommended “puzzle of pieces” so that’s next on the list.

What does RIDE mean to you?

A place to release toxic energy. Leave everything in the room and floor. Walk out with a clear mind.