RIDE OR DIE | Marlon Thompson, Instructor

Get to know Marlon – a Vancouver Instructor who brings his heart and soul into each and every RIDE – and it shows. Marlon’s classes offer a unique blend of realness, challenge and honesty – it’s not about being perfect, but connecting to yourself and having fun while you’re at it.

Where did you grow up?

Oshawa, Ontario

Can you remember your first RIDE class? How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an Instructor?

The only reason I tried RIDE 3 years ago was because I hated running so much. I went in with an open mind, but I was expecting to walk out halfway through class. Ashley Ander lead the room, offered the most insane playlist (Bitch Better Have My Money almost killed me in so many ways) and I was 100% sold.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I think my classes are intimate, mysterious and high-energy. Brooke says my classes are “loud and sexy”.

Best part of being an Instructor is…

Instructing at RIDE is a creative outlet for me. I still get nervous before every class, because I’m putting a piece of myself into each class.

Track you’ve had on repeat

OH YEAH – Dieni & MISSING U – Robyn

AM or PM rides?

AM every time.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Running – just kidding, running sucks. I seriously love squats.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

Even though I came to RIDE with a bit of teaching experience, my first class as an Instructor at RIDE was absolutely terrifying. Since that first class, I’ve become really comfortable with not being perfect on the podium.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

It’s okay to fuck up. Just fuck up on your own terms.

Who motivates you?

Rihanna.

Favourite book?

All 5 books from A Song of Ice and Fire.

What’s your #1 life hack?

I work, play and rest with equal commitment.

Where can we find you on a Saturday afternoon in the city?

On my couch guzzling science fiction and eating take-out.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can draw.

If you could brunch with any person (past or present), who would it be?

My brother.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

My first SEAWHEEZE cheer station with RIDE will be impossible to forget.

#1 piece of advice for someone looking to have a killer RIDE?

Prioritize having fun over being perfect. No matter what you do, you’re going to have a hard workout, so lean into the fun and let yourself checkout mentally…

What does RIDE mean to you?

I love people. I love music. I love sweating. RIDE brings those 3 things together in the best way possible; RIDE, to me, is pure bliss.

RIDE with Marlon – find him on the Hamilton and Lonsdale schedule.