February 2019

Meet Jess – originally a Vancouver Rider, turned Vancouver Instructor, who now teaches at our Ossington Studio with her infamous class, The Graveyard, Sundays at 11:45am. Jess will make you work hard, overcome obstacles and encourage you to truly show up for yourself – all while boasting a 1000 watt smile and a whole lot of charm.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up just outside of Vancouver in the burbs’ and moved to Toronto almost exactly a year ago. Don’t ask me which city I like better 😉

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

My first RIDE class was with JJ at the Hamilton studio in February 2015 – it was a disaster (me, not the class). I couldn’t find the beat, the choreography was a big no for me, and I was sore for at least a week after. After a four-month hiatus, I forced myself back in the saddle, determined to simply “not suck”. It took me a while (slight understatement), but once I got the beat, I moved from the back row to the second row. Once the choreography clicked, I made my way up to the front row. Once I got to know and love the incredible RIDE community, I was fully addicted to the workout and the feeling.

As for becoming an Instructor, I knew I loved riding and admired each Instructor, but never in my wildest dreams believed I could get up on that podium in front of all of those people and lead a class. It took a couple of friends and several conversations to convince me (aka force me) to audition. Let’s just say I’m grateful for those people who have pushed me and motivated me when I didn’t believe in myself. I owe you one.

How would you describe your teaching style?

It’s intentional, high energy and motivating, while at the same time being playful, intimate, and challenging – which remains true to who I am as a person outside of RIDE. I have a hard time not smiling when I am up on that podium, even in my most serious moments.

Dani “Pizza” Pagnan describes my classes as: “like an after party everyone wants to be invited to, rowdy, loud and always fun.”

Best part of being an Instructor is…

Aside from the sweat, playing music I love and running around a dark room feeling 100% like myself, I can without a doubt say the people: the Instructors, the entire front desk staff and the clients. I love walking into the studio, knowing I am going to see dozens of beautiful faces that I not only love and relate to, but who I have deep admiration and respect for. I’ve met my best friends (both in Vancouver and Toronto), and genuinely feel a part of something so much bigger than myself. I am forever inspired by the people and to the community.

Track you’ve had on repeat?

If you know me and my class, you know my favourite after arms song is “My Princess” by Lexer (extended, with lyrics). Also very into “Let me Feel” by Jeremy Olander is currently playing after my first Toronto Coda experience.

AM or PM RIDES?

PM. Unless it’s the Sunday 11:45AM “Graveyard” class (does that still count as AM?).

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Barry’s Bootcamp with the morning crew. Hands down.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

RIDE has helped me find out who I am. If you had asked me a few years ago if I ever thought I could teach in front of 56 people, I would have laughed (and then maybe cried). RIDE has made me more confident and more acutely aware of other people and their feelings, and has given me a network of friends that feel like family.

RIDE has also changed all of my dance moves into pulses, tap backs and two up two back – which might be for the best anyway (you won’t find “dancing” in the hidden talents question below).

Go-to quote or words to live by?

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou.

Who motivates you?

Tyler, for being the hardest working person I know inside the studio (world record of 30 RIDE’s in 13 days) and outside the studio. My family, friends, fellow Instructors, front desk staff and clients – basically everyone that I surround myself with, which makes me feel pretty damn lucky.

Favourite book?

Can’t choose just one: “To Shake The Sleeping Self” – Jedidiah Jenkins, All The Light We Cannot See – Anthony Doerr and When Breath Becomes Air – Paul Kalanithi.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Crest White Strips.

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

I live on Ossington, so I usually don’t stray too far from RIDE (because why would you?). You’ll find me either at the studio or Barry’s Bootcamp, followed by fries and a glass of wine at Union with people I love. During the summer, you’ll always find me at Trinity Bellwoods park drinking rosé, getting my tan on and petting all the dogs I can get my hands on. #hideyodogs

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can RIDE an outdoor bike decently fast and far – who would’ve thought, bikes can actually move! And karaoke – I make those high notes my bitch!

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

My Aunt. I would love to share a laugh with her again.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

I have two amazing memories that will always stand out to me.

My first-ever friends and family co-teach with Barb in the North Van Underground. I was incredibly nervous leading up to class, however all those emotions left my mind as soon as the music started. We had the time of our lives, running around the tiny (and ridiculously hot, and quite frankly, weird room) cheering each other and every other Rider on. It was like Hurricane Barb and Hurricane Jess – I don’t think Lonsdale knew what hit them.

Right after class, Julie told both of us we would be getting community classes at the Hamilton studio–- it was an epic milestone of sheer joy that I will never forget. Thanks Barb for always being my stage Mom and number one fan!!

Teaching Dez’s birthday class at the Ossington Studio last Fall was absolutely epic – the room was filled with all of Toronto’s best – the energy was truly electric and nothing quite like I’ve ever experienced. That RIDE will be hard to beat. Thanks Dez for bringing us all together <3

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

Only you are in control of your RIDE, no one else – so whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth time in that room, let it be and embrace all the feels. Drop your head, close your heads, smile, laugh, or yell – you do you. Just make sure you turn up that tension dial!

What has you stoked on life right now?

Dreaming of summer – patios, sunshine and all the amazing upcoming shows and festivals.

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE means grit, inspiration, determination, resilience, no-judgement, acceptance, motivation, perseverance, laughter, sweat, community, friendship and so so much more. RIDE means family. RIDE means home. RIDE is my sanctuary.

RIDE with Jess – find her classes on the Ossington Schedule.

Meet Taylor – a Vancouver Instructor who has been riding since the Hamilton UNDRGRND days. You can expect high energy, lots of fire and long-ass isolations that don’t feel so long thanks to his fun vibe and sense of humour (get ready to crack a smile or two).

Where did you grow up?

Area code 780 (Edmonton, Alberta). You can often catch me wearing a “Still In Edmonton” sweater. I love Vancouver, but I’m proud to be from YEG.

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

First RIDE was in the basement of Gastown with a couple of bikes and some Dyson fans keeping us cool – the OG training grounds before Hamilton opened. I had no idea I’d become an Instructor one day and now I can’t see myself ever stopping.

Best part of being an Instructor is…

Connecting with everyone on and off the bike. RIDE is more than just a spin studio. You become a part of a community of “RIDE or DIES” that I look forward to seeing every week.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Clearest Blue (Gryffin Remix) by Chvrches. I still get chills every time I play it.

AM or PM RIDES?

PM RIDES. Not saying I’m not a morning person, but I’m not a morning person. In all seriousness though, after a long day of work, nothing’s better than getting on the bike and just letting everything go.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

In the gym. It’s a place of relaxation for me where I can listen to music and go at my own pace.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

It’s given me a platform to get in front of people and share my love for fitness with them.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Lose Yourself by Eminem. I still picture 12 year old me listening to that song. 16 years later and still relevant.

Who motivates you?

My girlfriend. She’s basically my part-time manager.

Favourite book?

Guilty. It’s been a while since I’ve made the time to read a book.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Ironing my shirts. I love a crisp tee shirt.

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

If the sun is out, riding my bike along the seawall to the beach. A place you can find me for hours.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can make the best french fries and chicken wings. Oh and chips with guac.

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

Conner McDavid. Go Oilers Go.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

The first class I taught, November 14th 2017. I still have the playlist saved on my computer.

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

Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Although RIDE is a group fitness class, it’s a very personal experience. Find the Instructor that challenges you and the rest will fall into place.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Socks. If you know you know.

What does RIDE mean to you?

Family. RIDE is more than a fitness studio, it’s a place where you go to meet people and make real connections.

RIDE with Taylor – find him on any one of our Vancouver schedules.

Get to know Natty – a die-hard Toronto Rider who has been coming to RIDE for over two years. If Natty is riding, you’ll likely know it – his energy and enthusiasm are infectious. We’re so grateful to have Natty as part of our Ossington community.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I recently quit my 9-5 to focus on filmmaking. I’m a writer and director. My first feature EDGING can be rented or copped here. Pardon the plug, but that’s the gig.

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

He’s still dancing?

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

Um, let me check. *scrolls through hundreds of class reminder emails* nearly two years? Wow. That’s longer than almost all the relationships I’ve been in.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

If I don’t go to a class most days I get punchy and unpleasant to be around. It is a public service.

How has RIDE impacted your life?

To be a person that exercises every day has had all the obvious health benefits like sleeping better, but mostly it allows me to eat and drink everything I’d like to. Sometimes if I’m up against a plot problem I’ll take the problem into the class and something in the dark and the mania frees up an extra bit of freedom to think.

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

Mostly I just think about movies, which was a problem at my 9-5, but I also garden. This summer I’m looking forward to trying my hand at a rose bush that I’m transplanting from my grandparents house.

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

Everyone’s so good looking.

Favourite Instructor and why?

Nah, no favourites. Whoever will play some dancehall, soca, or Beanie Sigel tho.

Best RIDE memory?

Rebecca’s riddim RIDE was the best I’ve ever felt in that room. Everyone there was trying to dance.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

Tennis. Basketball. Trying to do some yoga to balance out the loud with some quiet.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Koffee – Toast ‘Gratitude is a must’

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

Spike Lee, but I’d rather it be dinner.

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

I very heavily f*ck with The Legends League, who have a store on Camden and Outclass, who have a store at College and Dufferin. Both thoroughly Torontonian clothing lines and made up of good peoples and friends.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

It’s June, like 16 degrees at nine in the morning, I’m tired from being out the night before. I water the backyard with a cup of coffee and then take a half nap on the couch on the deck.
The first round of lettuce is ready to harvest so I pull up a couple heads and wash them for later. My dog and I walk to Schmaltz Appetizing on Dupont and she eats some fish skin while I have a bagel with lox, capers and hot peppers.

Now it’s like, eleven, and I bike down to RIDE. After showering, I bike over to the lightbox and spend the days hot hours in the theatre. I sweat. After the film, I head home, stopping at Fiesta Farms for some groceries and the liquor store.

Then it’s a bbq. Prolly like 4 by now and folks start showing up in the backyard. Might make some chicken, a salad with that lettuce from earlier. I’m not really in charge of the food. Then that’s the night, frankly. If I’m good, I’ll have written a couple pages after the film and before the bbq. I’ll start cleaning up around 11:30.

Who motivates you?

The people I make films with. Always trying to justify the trust they put in me.

Fave quote or words to live by?

Know Yourself.

Last book you read was….

Dark Age Ahead by Jane Jacobs

What does RIDE mean to you?

I know that at some point almost every day, I’ll feel good. And it’s powerful to only have to rely on myself for that.

Meet Cat – an Ossington Instructor who draws people in with her unique combination of kindness and motivation. She is approachable, fun, and leads every RIDE in a way that makes Riders feel supported and encouraged.

Where did you grow up?

Ottawa!

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

My first RIDE class was with Ash during our auditions. I was simultaneously amazed and terrified. I couldn’t catch the beat, but knew it was something really special that I had to be a part of.

How would you describe your teaching style?

Balanced. I try to let the music guide my classes. I love really heavy, intense bangers but I also really appreciate the quiet, calm moments (the “after arms” moments, if you will). I always hope to give Riders the space to let go and lose themselves in the music, connecting with whatever it is they are feeling.

Best part of being an Instructor is…

There are so many incredible things about being an Instructor. I’m beyond grateful that I get to do it. The best part is probably being able to meet and connect with so many amazing people. The second-best thing is watching Riders grow. I’ve loved watching people start out in the back row, slowly make their way to the front, and then do crazy things like stand for an entire fast legs track (you guys know who you are!). The commitment to constant challenge and growth is inspiring.

Track you’ve had on repeat?

GUAP! Just kidding, I think I’ve outgrown that one. This changes all the time but right now it’s Call to Arms by Gareth Emery (thanks, Kyle!). Otherwise, I’m always obsessed with Lane 8 and Rufus du Sol.

AM or PM RIDES?

AM for sure. It’s the best way to start the day.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

It depends on what I’m in the mood for. If I need my ass-kicked it’s Barry’s Bootcamp or F45. If I need something a little more chill it’s usually MISFITSTUDIO.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

Becoming an Instructor has made me much more confident and comfortable in my own skin. I take myself a lot less seriously than I used to. Those who know me well know that I can be shy and being in front of a large group of people is kind of my version of hell. Now, being on that podium has helped me embrace all that vulnerability. I’ve also made incredible friends, I rarely wear colour, and I can’t listen to music without tapping the beat.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

As my Mom has always said to me, “this too shall pass”, which applies to literally everything – a bad day, heartbreak, a painfully long isolation or run. Everything.

Who motivates you?

He’s going to kill me for saying this, but, John Cengarle. He makes time for all of the things he’s passionate about and commits to them 100%.

Favourite book?

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Read it.

What’s your #1 life hack?

If you ride 9:35AM on a Saturday you can be first in line for brunch at Union ?

But actually, be kind to people. There’s no good reason not to be.

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

RIDE. Union. Repeat.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I’m not sure if you’ve seen me karaoke…

I also have an exceptionally good memory, mostly for useless information.

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

I’m notoriously indecisive so this one is hard and changes all the time. The Psychotherapist in me wants to say someone infamous so I could really pick their brain. The music lover in me wants to say Avicii. I just finished watching his documentary and it showcased both his genius and his struggles. The sentimental part of me wants to say all of my girlfriends near and far. I miss the ones I don’t see very often and it’s always so special when we are all together.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

There are honestly way too many to count but right now top of mind is the Spice Girls RIDE. It was absolute chaos, but it was hilarious. I’m still trying to get Ash to approve a reunion RIDE (if you’re reading, please support me in this). Dez’s birthday RIDE was also incredible. The room was full of strong Riders. The energy was infectious. Alex got stitches. Overall 10/10.

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

Get out of your head. It’s so easy to overthink and get intimidated. It’s also so easy to carry the day’s stress or worries into the room. Don’t let that happen. Those 50 minutes are all yours. Let go, connect with the music, and have a damn good time.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Life is pretty great right now. I love the start of a New Year. It’s a great opportunity to reset and get excited about all the amazing things coming up in the year ahead.

What does RIDE mean to you?

To me, RIDE is my second home. It’s one of the few places I actually forget about what’s outside that room and can just be present. I can let go and be myself. The community, energy, support, and pure joy that comes out of that place is second to none.

RIDE with Cat – find her on our Ossington Schedule.