RIDE OR DIE | Cat Kamel, Instructor

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.