RIDE OR DIE | Tommy Cole, Instructor

Meet Tommy – a Vancouver Instructor with the biggest heart and even bigger personality. His classes are fun, uplifting, filled with cat calls and cater to the newest and strongest Riders in the room alike. No doubt you’ll walk out of Tommy’s class feeling empowered, confident, and jazzed on life.

Where did you grow up?

Vancouver Island.

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

I remember taking Ashley Ander’s class in the winter that RIDE opened. I was a full blown sloppy mess…it was hilarious. It took me about a year to realize that I wanted to be an Instructor.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I like to put on great music and just facilitate a fun time.

Best part of being an Instructor is…

Being a part of something that impacts people’s lives in a positive way.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Is This Love (Montmartre Remix) by Bob Marley

AM or PM RIDES?

I prefer to take AM Rides, it’s the best way to start the day. But as an instructor teaching the PM Rides tends to be a little more fun because clients bring more energy, it’s a great way for people to blow off steam after a stressful day – and you can feel that in the room.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

I actually love going to the gym.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

It’s made me a better communicator. After doing this for almost three years as an instructor and 2 years as a client before that – everything comes pretty easily to me, it’s all muscle memory. So having to get into the mindset of a newbie and communicate how to move and what to feel properly is always a challenge.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

The Four Agreements: don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, be impeccable with your word and always do your best. They apply to everything.

Who motivates you?

My mother 🙂

Favourite book?

The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Don’t take anything personally.

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

In the winter I hope to be in Whistler on the ski hill, and in the summer I hope to be on a beach.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

If you’re in the mood for some entertainment throw me a wig and see what happens…

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

I’ve recently had one of my best friends pass away, it would 100% them. Be grateful for what you have while you have it.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Whenever someone tells me that RIDE has helped them in the bigger picture of their life, it always makes my heart warm.

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

To really listen and be present in the moment.

What has you stoked on life right now?

The future.

RIDE with Tommy – find him on the Hamilton or Kitsilano Schedule.