RIDE OR DIE | Sarah Kreisman, Instructor

Meet Sarah – a Toronto Instructor, also known as theme RIDE Queen and an all around vibrant human. Every class Sarah teaches is fuelled with an undeniable passion for creating a sweaty, challenging, heart opening RIDE. Her love of fitness, music and fun is both motivating and inspiring.

Where did you grow up?

Born in Montreal, but raised in our nations capital.

Can you remember your first RIDE class?

I was visiting Vancouver in the fall of 2015 for a friend’s wedding and I tried Brooke’s class after hearing tremendous reviews.

I considered myself a strong Rider (riding multiple times a week) and I remember having to sit down which was a real surprise.

Brooke took my breath away, literally! That 50 minute experience left me inspired, and immediately reserving my next class with Julie early the next morning, I was hooked!

How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an instructor?

After my first few RIDE classes, I knew I wanted to join the family. Unfortunately at that time, living in Toronto, that was not an option. Fast forward to the fall of 2016, being an avid instagram’er, I saw a posting for RIDE’s new studio opening up in Toronto…the rest is history.

How would you describe your teaching style?

A rollercoaster of emotions. We rage, we cry, we laugh and we cheer. I try to connect with every Rider.

I design my classes to appeal to and challenge all Riders, regardless of their skill and experience.

Jogs, sprints, hills, fast legs, with some unique choreography sprinkled throughout. I strive to create an extraordinary environment where Riders are motivated to push their personal limits and give it their all.

Best part of being an Instructor is…

Getting a mic, a stage and an audience allows me to give life to my inner pop star.

For 50 minutes at a time, I get to be an enter-trainer (get it?) helping Riders achieve their fitness goals, getting a reprieve from the every day hustle, and challenging themselves.

Track you’ve had on repeat?

ANYTHING BY ODESZA

AM or PM RIDES?

Being an early riser, I love the AM RIDES, however, my 8:10pm class is a great way to end a day.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Barry’s Bootcamp. Training with Danielle, Kevin and Steven at Catalyst Health.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

RIDE has given me the confidence to show the world my true self. RIDE has given me the confidence and courage to keep challenging myself and pushing my personal limits.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.

Who motivates you?

My RIDE or DIE. My husband. Nate ?

Favourite book?

I don’t have a favourite book. I dedicate that time to TV. My favourite shows are Grey’s Anatomy, This is Us and Game of Thrones.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Grande blonde in Venti cup.

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

Wandering Ossington after my 12:50 class enjoying a post class treat, an oat milk latte from Pilot.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

Competitive flossing

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

James Corden. But maybe we’ll just go to a drive-thru and quickly proceed to carpool karaoke.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

As most of you know, I love themed RIDES. There is always one or two crowd favourites that everyone knows the words to. Once I hear the voices rise, I will turn the music down and let the crowd shine.

The first time it happened was to Britney Spears’ “lucky”, it was magical.

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

You’ve got 50 minutes to yourself, take a break from reality, close your eyes, listen carefully and open up your heart. Allow yourself to fall in love with the sound that fills the room – the music, the flywheel, your heart racing and your sweat dripping.

What has you stoked on life right now?

If you asked me a few months ago I would have said Coachella 2019, however, I will be staying in Toronto this year as Nate and I are expecting our first little one this summer!

What does RIDE mean to you?

Family. Happiness. My oasis.

Every single time I walk through the studio doors I become intoxicated with the contagious energy from every staff member and Rider. This place is special, it has helped me transform into my best self and allowed meet some amazing people who have now become family. I can’t imagine not having RIDE in my life, it will always have a place in my heart.

RIDE with Sarah – find her on the Ossington Schedule.