THE COMMUNITY | Dylan Fonger, Toronto

Meet Dylan – a goal-crushing Toronto Rider who brings positivity, humour, and an all around great vibe to our Toronto RIDE community – even at 6AM. His energy, charisma and howling is infectious, and as you’ll read below, he’s become an integral part of our amazing group of die hard Riders.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

A year and a half – but I have only been fully addicted for a year or so.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

Best way to start the day with a clear head. Hands down. Plus if I don’t get my ass to class I get the ever so famous “late-cancellation” email which is enforced by the lovely humans behind the front desk.

How has RIDE impacted your life?

Increased focus and positivity. Physically I’m in the best shape of my life (or so I tell myself). A new inspiring group of friends that all grind together before facing whatever challenges the day holds for us individually. Not to mention a sick new bangers playlist on Spotify.

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

I recently became a licensed engineer and ran my first marathon (much credit goes to the homies who helped me study/train and support of friends and fam). If you’re looking for a massive endorphin rush and two days in bed without being able to move I would definitely suggest a marathon.

I also just got home from a 2 week vacation in Italy and Greece with my Fiancée. Funny enough we ran into Emily in Mykonos and had a great day/night involving free shots, blood, and people throwing dinner plates. You guessed it, all three are related 😉 Maybe not in that order. But full disclaimer: smashing plates in Greek restaurants is a common thing and collateral damage is inevitable.

But the biggest most badass thing is I get to marry my best friend next July. Love you Snipes.

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

Somehow you go from walking nervously down this candle lit alleyway for the first time leading to a dark room (which also has candles) having no idea how to size your bike but somehow someone knows that you have no idea so they come and help you (but you still have no idea what is going on) – to – why would I sit down when the beats still bangin’ and everyone is swinging their towels Why don’t I just dump water over my head and keep going?

The community carries you through those first classes; inspires you to work up to the front row; and continues to push you even when you think you’ve hit your peak. It’s the most supportive community that I’m super f*cking proud to be a part of.

Favourite Instructor and why?

Let’s not beat around the bush on this question Sarah’s baby has really been crushing the podium lately and everyone knows it. Let’s go.

Best RIDE memory?

*Sips wine, staring at the city skyline, thinking of all the good times had at RIDE*

Well… it would have to be the RIDE vs. Bond challenge last January. It was my first time riding and consistently running with Bond. It was the inception of my life as a runner and rider; two things I can’t live without today.

There was also this ONE time last May 24 the RIDE fam hung out at Bellwoods Brewery (I believe for Meg’s birthday) and I may have chirped Alex about the ease of her arms routine that day. She threw me up on the podium next day for a vigorous arm routine and let me finish the class up there. Pretty sure the last song was Here Comes the Sun – Tom Staar Remix (absolute slapper) and was a very humbling experience.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

Running. Barry’s Bootcamp is a killer workout. The odd Karma Flow class at Pure Yoga as well.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Found You – Kasbo (theme song of our recent Euro trip)

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

My Grandpa –I was too young when he passed to know or understand how great of a person he was and would love to just “shoot the shit”. Other than that I would say Elon Musk, but I’ll just live vicariously through Joe Rogen’s podcast for that one.

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

Extra Burger. It was started about a year ago by a family friend. They offer the Beyond Meat burger for the veg heads, regular burgers for the meat heads (lol – sorry, had to).

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

Usually followed by my ideal Friday night, I would wake up and go to RIDE. Afterwards probably hit a park (Bellwoods) with some friends for some fun/sun followed by good eats. Then getting ready for whatever Saturday night may bring. Maybe a TFC or Jays game – but there are always beers and sometimes Twisted Teas involved.

Who motivates you?

Piper, my RIDE OR DIE.
My brother, Jason. He is going to the 70.3 triathlon world champs this year in France. 6 or 7 years ago he wasn’t running, biking, or swimming. Love you bro – you’re going to crush it.
My parents – definition of unconditional love and support right there.

Fave quote or words to live by?

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Can you tell I played puck growing up?

What does RIDE mean to you?

R eleasing negativity.
I nspiring positivity.
D edicating myself to something bigger.
E nduring whatever the f*ck comes my way.