RIDE OR DIE | Meagan Renshaw, Instructor

Meet Meagan – a Vancouver Instructor who brings authenticity, fire and inspiration to every RIDE she teaches. She’ll motivate you to be your best self on the bike, always leading with a big heart and love for music.

Where did you grow up?

I’m North Shore born and raised. I don’t know why I’m always embarrassed to say I’m from West Van, it was a wonderful place to grow up honestly.

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

I do – it was one of Shira’s family and friends RIDES, and when she asked me after if I liked it I responded with “meh, it’s just not for me”. Needless to say it took a while for me to even fathom being on the podium. Actually until Ashley suggested it! I don’t even think I thought I could do it once training was complete and I was already teaching. The whole process was incredibly challenging in the best of ways. Hard to ever believe you’re confident enough to be a RIDE Instructor 😉

How would you describe your teaching style?

Mixed bag – sometimes I’m intense and have no mercy for the insane athleticism in the room, some days I’m a goofy idiot, others I have so much I want to say that it becomes more about using the stage to give meaningful reminders. Kinda like real life I suppose…

Best part of being an instructor is…

….besides the local fame? Joking! I think it’s that I get to live out my lifelong dream of being a DJ. Music has never not been at the forefront of my life and getting to move in synchronicity with 40 other people to songs that give me a visceral reaction lights me right up inside. Oh and being on the podium has taught me that what other people think of me is none of my business.

Track you’ve had on repeat?

PAAX (tulum) – epico and forever and always London Grammar – hey now (Arty remix). Nail the lights and these are both gold.

AM or PM RIDES?

AM all the way. Fire it up for the day!

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

I try and get in a couple of days weight training a week, but I’m all about mixing it up. Boxing, dancing, the class, you name it I’ll try it.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

Besides the obvious health benefits I’d say I’ve given myself permission to be unapologetically myself on and off the podium. I really feel as though we are all repressed in many ways, and each time I teach, a little something gets shaken up and unearthed. Maybe that’s what’s so addicting about it, the constant growth.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Reminder to everyone that “your best” doesn’t mean pushing yourself to your breaking point. “Your best” means the best you can do while being the best you. Get enough sleep, give yourself breaks, listen to your limits. “Your best” is better when you’re happy and healthy.

Who motivates you?

In the room the Riders motivate me! I can’t count the amount of times I’ve looked around totally gassed and my front row is just givin’ er. Outside the room, my relationship motivates me. It’s pretty tough not to always want to be improving for your partner.

Favourite book?

The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge – I’m so obsessed with the human body and brain and the things we are continually learning about them.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Using my gas cap as a lever for the pump so I don’t have to freeze my a$$ off at the gas station.

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

Probably brunching somewhere after class with friends or in the woods with my beloved pooch.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can tie a maraschino cherry stem in a knot with my tongue.

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

My mom. Because there will be a day when I can’t anymore and I want to take all the time I can get. I’d say Jason Momoa or something but my mom is smarter and cooler AND better looking soooooo….

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Probably staring at Kelly Ripa and her massive front row smile in the face, twice!

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

Haha have a crappy day first? No, I kid. Find the right Instructor for you, shut off the mind, lead with the heart and body, find the edge you think you can’t push past, then take a deep breath and push past it.

What has you stoked on life right now?

People speaking out! Seems to me that there’s a recent rise in voices and a willingness to listen. I love that sh*t. Let’s not be afraid to ruffle some feathers.

What does RIDE mean to you?

In one word I’d say transformation. The amount of lives I’ve witnessed RCC positively impact is pretty neat. Physical, mental and emotional transformations are happening in that room every day and I couldn’t feel more proud to be a small part of them.

RIDE with Meagan! Find her on the Hamilton and Lonsdale Schedule.