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Meet RIDE Ossington power couple Bradley Hammond and Melissa Di Costanzo. You can always count on them to bring the heat to Dani and Cat’s classes, and their warmth and love of community is felt and appreciated by the RIDE staff and Instructors. It’s riders like Brad and Melissa that have helped build and strengthen Ossington’s tight-knit, supportive community – grateful for you, B & M!

What do you do for your 9-5?

M: Communications/PR.
B: Senior Communications Manager at The Nuclear Waste Management Organization.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

M: Quirky, independent, curious.
B: Loud, quick, fun.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

M: About seven months.
B: Same.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

M: The playlists, the Instructors and the community – and the post-spin endorphins.
B: The music, friends and Melissa.

How has RIDE impacted your life?

M: It’s been fun getting to connect with people plugged into the fitness community and comparing common goals and drivers. Everyone’s experience is so unique, and everyone wants to share their tips and tricks. And ultimately, everyone wants to help you succeed and achieve.
B: RIDE is a lot of fun and provides an experience I want to go back to again and again. RIDE is one of the reasons why I’m now in the best shape of my life and the motivation to keep coming back comes from Melissa and all the other riders.

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

M: Travelling, yoga, reading, or eating at any of Toronto’s amazing restaurants.
B: I love to consume pop culture: music, comics, books, video games and serialized television are all hobbies I enjoy. Yoga and travelling are two big passions outside of RIDE. Currently planning our honeymoon together, and really looking forward to that as our next big adventure.

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

M: Great people either instructing or at the front desk, and everyone’s excitement at wanting to help you reach your full potential.
B: Everyone at RIDE, front desk staff, Instructors and other riders are all friendly, welcoming and committed to a good time and great sweat. It’s a wonderful environment to come back to again and again.

Favourite Instructor and why?

M: It’s a tie between Dani and Cat. Both are lovely, have great prompts and amazing playlists.
B: Same.

Best RIDE memory?

M: Any time I’ve been with friends or Brad!
B: May was a busy month for me at RIDE. I completed the challenge, and Melissa was in a busy work period, so we were doing more 6 and 7AM classes together. Good memories.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

M: Yoga and Pilates
B: Love practicing yoga at Union Yoga and Wellness. The studio is super welcoming and features some fantastic Instructors.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

M: Halls of Sarah – Neko Case
B: Spaceship – Galantis

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

M: Gabrielle Hamilton, author of Blood, Bones and Butter and New York City chef/restaurateur. It’s a rich read. Through her book, she forced me to confront my own historical culinary roots. It helped me connect with my grandmother through her cooking, shortly before she passed away.
B: Probably way too cliche, but I would love to have dinner with the Obamas. It would be fascinating to see firsthand the contrast with the current leadership in the United States.

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

M: Province Apothecary, MICHI, Saul’s Beauty Shop, any of the amazing restaurateurs we’ve been lucky enough to encounter lately!
B: The North Standard Trading Post is a personal favourite for clothing, as well as Union Yoga and Wellness on Bloor, The Ace restaurant in Roncesvalles and Bellwoods Brewery on Ossington.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

M: Coffee at Jimmy’s, RIDE with friends, brunch at Union and a trip to the beach (Hanlan’s or Cherry).
B: Cooking breakfast at home with Melissa, RIDE, second breakfast with friends and a patio with cold beer.

Who motivates you?

M: Brad and any of the amazing female leaders I’ve been lucky to encounter professionally.
B: Melissa motivates me a tremendous amount – her drive is contagious!

Fave quote or words to live by?

M: “You can’t change the wind, but you can change the sails.”
B: “Do or do not, there is no try” – Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back

Last book you read was….

M: Motherhood, by Sheila Heti
B: Bonfire of the Vanities, by Tom Wolfe

What does RIDE mean to you?

M: I really connected with RIDE during a really intense work period. RIDE became something to look forward to, and a great method to relieve stress. It began to push me to explore other complimentary exercise classes, and ultimately served as a launchpad for me to continue to expand my health and wellness journey.
B: There is something unique about the relationship between the community and the personnel at RIDE. During class, I feel plugged in to the people around me, and take inspiration from the effort of others. That said, when the lights are off, the anonymity of pushing against the beat and letting the music drive you is incredibly freeing. Getting these experiences in an awesome space with great people is what makes RIDE unique.

Since opening our doors in North Vancouver almost a year ago, we’ve come to know and love the tight knit community of Lonsdale that we now call home. We asked our staff, Instructors and community to share their favourite North Van spots for pre-or-post RIDE – here is what you had to say.

Earnest Ice Cream

You’ll catch Barb here after almost every class.

The Workshop Vegetarian Cafe

Great little spot for our vegetarian friends that serves up amazing ramen.

Lift Bakery

The “heritage hash with avocado” is Rowan’s absolute favourite.

Anatolis Slouvaki

Julie and Noah’s favourite spot.

Tap & Barrel

You can catch half the RIDE Lonsdale team working here when they aren’t at RIDE.

Buddha-Full Provisions

Amazing fresh, healthy fare if you’re feeling like some nutritious post-sweat fuel.

Finch & Barley

Mediterranean-inspired pub grub & cocktails in a chill hangout with DJs & local music acts – what’s not to love?

Raglan’s

A fun tiki vibe with great burgers and nachos – a great treat for 50 minutes of tapping it back.

Orto Artisan Pasta

A delicious menu and home-cooked feel.

Pier 7

Awesome patio right on the water – perfect for a post-RIDE hang at golden hour.

Cates Park

Warm up pre-RIDE by exploring a waterfront trail, complete with beaches and tranquil views of Indian Arm.

Glory Juice Co.

Nothing like a refreshing juice to recharge after a killer RIDE. We’re a big fan of their healthy snacks for refuelling between RIDES, too.

So make a morning, afternoon or day trip of your visit to our Lonsdale studio – there’s so much to explore and enjoy here!

Get to know Barb – a Vancouver Instructor with a bigger-than-life personality who plays an integral role in our West Coast community. Whether it’s 6:00AM on a Tuesday or 5:15PM on a Friday, you can always count on Barb to walk into the studio with an infectious energy, warmth…and a few jokes. She’s dedicated to ensuring each and every rider feels comfortable, works up a killer sweat, and most importantly has fun – and it shows.

Where did you grow up?

North Vancouver and to be specific, it all started up Indian Arm in Deep Cove. Needless to say I love the ocean because of it.

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

Here’s a hot ‘Barb tip’ but I have the WORST memory ever. I am pretty sure it was Julie’s class and I was SUPER thrown when she went from her teaching voice to regular voice. I already taught fitness so getting the beat isn’t unfamiliar to me but my legs and body weren’t vibing the same as the playlist. It took me almost a year of riding and becoming friends with a certain bodybykong before I knew I wanted to be up there on the podium teaching beside him and the rest of our team.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I love to laugh and be crazy and say silly stuff. My classes are extremely loud and I have the voice to match the volume. I want riders to have the time of their life in the room while smiling and sweating from start to finish.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Connecting with people – Instructors and clients. I am such a people person and it’s all the relationships I make along the way that matter most to me. Plus, there is NOTHING better than a sweaty high five at the end of class.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Rewind – Rascall Flatts & Hostile – Skism & LAXX

AM or PM rides?

Both – my schedule is jam packed with a variety of class times and I wouldn’t trade any one of them for another.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Thursday Bootcamp at Oxygen Yoga Yaletown taught by yours truly.

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

Things finally make sense to me; like I was meant to do this. I’ve had a long journey over the past 4 years and can easily say that I wouldn’t have done it any other way.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

You are enough. You are so enough. It’s unbelievable how enough you are.

Who motivates you?

My youngest brother Stuart – catch him riding bike 18 on weekday 6AM classes.

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

I am not very good at leaving North Van. after I get home from teaching – catch me poolside in my backyard (best $60 I ever spent on that blow up pool).

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can crochet a toque in 45 minutes.

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

BLESS brunch. Happy to hit up a brunch with anyone as long as they don’t feel uncomfortable with me ordering 2 drinks as soon as we sit down.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Teaching my first (of many) Thursday 5:15PM classes at YT. The room was full and words cannot describe how full my heart was.

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

Sitting is chic if you are having a hard time catching the beat (especially in runs or jogs). Trust me when I say, I was awful when I started, but everything will come with time and when it does you’ll be super amped you came back.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Waking up everyday and doing what I love EVEN if it means I am teaching/riding 20 plus classes a week.

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE is that place that allows one to truly be who they are. It’s much more than a spin class; it’s a community and my family. Every single person who walks through those doors matter to me.

Catch Barb on the podium at both our Hamilton and Lonsdale studios.

Photo credit: Marcy Media

Meet Ashley – a Toronto rider whose passion for the RIDE experience and warm, friendly presence is felt in a big way. You can count on Ashley for always showing up, introducing friends to the RIDE community, and sharing how RIDE impacts her on a daily basis.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I wear a few different hats. I have a freelance business where I manage communications and social for various brands. I’m also a published writer with a background in Journalism, and most of the RIDE community probably know me as the Manager of Bond Running.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

Funny, loyal and giving.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

I first went to RIDE back when it was the Underground. It was one of Winter’s Instructor training classes and I remember leaving and thinking to myself ‘Girl, you have ZERO coordination and don’t even know your left from your right”. When the RIDE x BOND Challenge started I met a lot of the RIDE community and decided that maybe I was a little hard on myself the last time and signed up for one of Kyle’s classes. I hid in the back row but I made it through. Now I’m a  front row, towel wiping, hype-person, die hard.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

I’m big on accountability. If I know my crew is all dragging their asses to class right along with me, I’ll be there. I’m 100% guilty of sending this text: “RIDE tomorrow, 7AM?”

How has RIDE impacted your life?

This is a big one for me. Without getting too emo, I’ll say this…I’ve had some major life changes over the past year, some of which left me a bit fragile and my confidence shattered. If shit got too heavy, I’d sign up for a class and sweat it all out. Those 50 minutes in the dark, with the music blaring, drenched in sweat played a big role in building back a lot of things that had disappeared – most importantly my confidence. I’ve spent many, many RIDES DEEP in my feels.

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

I like to hustle and normally have 5 different things all going on at the same time, but I love it that way. I’m also a runner and spend a lot of my time training for races. I like the thrill of pushing myself, both physically but also creatively too.

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

The passion. Everyone RIDES as one and there’s no bullshit in class. We are all one pack that vibes and pushes together. A packed class, all riding in sync with a dope song playing real loud and that lighter flicks – damn, it’s electric.

Favourite instructor and why?

HA! Nice try!! It sounds diplomatic, but I really do love them all. Every Instructor has a different vibe and I look to them all for something different, it’s part of what makes RIDE so special. I tend to go to the 7AM classes the most so I see Alex and Kyle most often.

Best RIDE memory?

1000% running through the RIDE cheer squad at the Waterfront 10K this past summer. It was a full circle moment for me and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. Major feels.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

My run coach keeps my running in check and my trainer keeps me strong and makes sure I can run and RIDE without injury. So lots of running and gym-ing. I’ve been wanting to try a workout at Studio Lagree as well.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Frank Ocean everything, all the time.

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

I would have loved to sit down and have a chat with Anthony Bourdain. His inquisitive mind and beautiful storytelling are both huge influences of mine and my passion for storytelling. Remember to check in on your strong friends.

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

I’m fortunate to have a lot of entrepreneurial friends in my circle all of whom inspire me daily – so it’s hard to pick JUST one. BUT if I had to pick I’d say Sam James – and it’s not just because I’m addicted to coffee. It’s inspiring to see how he’s grown his brand and built his business to the scale that he has over the years.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

Coffee from Sam James, RIDE, more coffee and that Earl Grey scone from Crafted, and really good food with friends. Oh and dogs, there needs to be dogs in there too.

Who motivates you?

Hands down, my friends and family. I’ve really won the friend lottery.

Fave quote or words to live by?

It’s not so much of a quote, but right now I’m really trying to live by just doing me.

Last book you read was….

I’m a 5-books-on-the-go-all-at-once, type of person. But the last one I couldn’t put down was Jen Agg’s I Hear She’s A Real Bitch. It’s a memoir, it’s beautifully written, and you should read it!

What does RIDE mean to you?

Community and strength. Few things make me feel more powerful than the 50 mins I spend grinding in RIDE, sweat dripping off my nose, rapping along to the best playlists.

Meet Danielle – a Vancouver Instructor whose energy, rhythm and passion for RIDE has played an integral part in building our West Coast community. For Danielle, it wasn’t necessarily love at first RIDE – rather, she saw an opportunity to challenge herself and create a positive workout experience for others that fuelled her journey to teach.

Where did you grow up?

Vancouver, then West Vancouver, then the interior of BC, then Vancouver again. I was super into competitive dance growing up and I think that has definitely carried into my RIDE vibe. I get to travel a lot for work and I love being in new places, but the feeling I get when I fly back into Vancouver…it’s home.

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 after Alex from Ossington essentially dragged me there against my will. I remember walking down the street with her after class thinking that I had just gone from being not down, to impressed, to mind blown. To be honest, I never considered becoming an instructor until Alex signed me up for the auditions a year and a half later (wow Al you are getting a lot of play here). I knew I loved it, I knew I was looking for something that would challenge and push me personally. It was the right time for me.

How would you describe your teaching style?

It’s physical and emotional. I don’t think I can actually do one without the other. You’re going to work really hard with a lot of muscle focus, and hopefully also work some stuff out mentally. If a client can achieve something physical & let go of one thing that is holding them down in some way, I’m stoked on that.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Helping clients to realize that they are so much stronger than they think they are. So many times in life we tell ourselves that we can’t do something – catch a beat, RIDE a challenging class, reach a goal – but coaching people towards turning off the doubt and seeing them get stronger every time they’re in the room really inspires me. I love watching people beat personal bests.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Personal – Plaza

AM or PM rides?

AM, but only 7AM (confession – I have never taken a 6am class).

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Everything & anything. Starting my day with a sweat is the one thing that clears my head and chills me out. Right now I’m into Lagree, Boxing at All City Athletics, weight training alone or with my fire gym crew, and this crazy Ass Class that I swear by.

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

RIDE has made me more humble & more centred. Training to become an instructor had a lot of highs and lows, and I had to work at it. I’m naturally more high-strung and teaching has chilled me out a bit in the best way. Seeing the energy that builds in the room from everyone’s collective efforts brings this feeling of responsibility to meet my class at their level – I don’t want to ever let them down.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Be a tough act to follow.

Who motivates you?

I’m definitely more internally disciplined, but anyone who is going after what they really want out of life every single day inspires me. I want to forever do better and try to be the best version of me for the people I love.

Favourite book?

I’m very into reading. Shantaram, Pride & Prejudice, Scar Tissue, The Sun Also Rises are some heavy hitters.

What’s your #1 life hack?

If you can’t live somewhere with a rooftop, get a best friend who does. Also meal prep.

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

Cruising back from teaching my 9:35AM Lonsdale, doing a workout, then on my roof/Jacs roof or getting tacos (if you don’t know where Los Cuervos is go there asap – best tacos in the city!)

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I am an insane parallel parker.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Underground! Before we opened Lonsdale we had this tiny, VERY sweaty, old brick building that used to be a bank. We crammed in 30 bikes, 4 fans, a step stool to balance our computers on, and a group of new instructors and just had the best summer. The first time I taught a mini class there I had that insane crazy magic RIDE feeling and I couldn’t wait for more.

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

Give yourself a little bit of grace. You aren’t going to perform the same way every time you get into the room but who cares? I’ve also been really into putting focus on one specific part of your RIDE & dedicating your 50 minutes to that – maybe it’s form, tension, hitting your jogs, something mental. Just listening to what your body needs that day and going with that.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Having just turned 29! I’m so excited for the last year in my 20s and beyond.

What does RIDE mean to you?

A commitment to yourself and a place where that is supported by everyone around you. RIDE is a challenge, but it’s made me so much stronger and the energy of every single person in the room contributes to what makes it so so good.

Find Danielle on the Hamilton and Lonsdale Schedules. 

Meet Shauna – a Toronto rider who has been riding with us since day one. Shauna shows up for most 6AM rides – and you’ll never hear her complain about the early hour. Instead, she brings a warm smile and genuine love for an early sweat – every time. Her dedication and low-key badass vibes are something the whole team has grown to love and admire.

What do you do for your 9-5?
I work at Jane Gill PR, a public relations agency that specializes in beauty, fashion, lifestyle and travel. I’m very fortunate to work with an amazing and talented team and we represent some of the best brands in the world.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?
Focused
Adventurous
Fun (I hope ?)

How long have you been coming to RIDE?
I’ve been coming to RIDE since they opened their doors.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?
It doesn’t take much to get me to class. I spring out of bed most mornings knowing that I’m going to get in a great work out. Daily exercise and healthy living is important to me and I’m an avid cyclist outside of RIDE. It’s the perfect way to start the day.

How has RIDE impacted your life?
It’s all about the energy here. Most mornings, it’s electric.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to.
This may not necessarily sound bad ass, but my main focus is family, raising our children, we have 12-year-old twins (boy and girl) and our new labradoodle puppy and trying to catch some quality time with my partner.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?
The word community gets tossed around a lot in my business. At RIDE I feel genuinely connected. As a brand, RIDE gets it.

Favourite instructor and why?
I like the female 6am triumvirate of Sarah, Dani and Liz. More recently Alex. They all push me past my boundaries and consistently kick my ass in different ways. Studios are only as good as its instructors and RIDE has picked the best.

Best RIDE memory?
Probably the first time I walked into RIDE when the entrance was off of Ossington. I just remember the row of candles and the darkness, and that feeling of stepping into the unknown. It was sort of scary and thrilling at the same time. Then boom, there was Sarah with a big welcoming smile on her face.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?
Studio Lagree, Moksha Yoga, Downward Dog, MISFITSTUDIO (wish they had a 6am) Pure Barre, F45.

Song you’ve got on repeat?
Lorde – Green Light
Britney Spears – Work B*tch
Drake – Nice for What
Kendrick Lamar – Love

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss who would it be?
Glossier founder Emily Weiss. She’s got it going on.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?
This is an easy one. I’m obsessed and very loyal to two Toronto-based fashion brands – SMYTHE and Horses Atelier.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.
I don’t spend a lot of my weekends in the city, but when I do, it would be RIDE, Sud Forno (for the bombolones), neighbourhood hangs in Trinity-Bellwoods and a backyard BBQ (with take away from Agora and beer from Bellwoods Brewery).

Who motivates you?
My mom, family, friends, colleagues. I love to extract a little bit from everyone. Our children are a pretty powerful force too.

Fave quote or words to live by?
Be kind to others.

Last book you read was….
I’ve got two – Sapiens, A Brief History of Humankind and Lincoln in the Bardo.

What does RIDE mean to you?
RIDE is my favourite place to check in, work hard and sweat.

Get to know Jacs – a Vancouver instructor with a big heart and fun-loving vibe that lights up the studio. Jacs has been riding with us since our OG days – what began as a favourite way to sweat has evolved into a passion for empowering riders. Always one to show up, Jacs is an integral part of the Vancouver RIDE community.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Squamish, BC. Thanks to my parents, I grew up snowboarding, Mountain Biking, along with several other team sports. Throughout High school, I competed in Mountain Biking and Cycling on Team BC, competing in 3 National Championships as well as participating in the BC Summer Games. Squamish is the place where I was first introduced to my love for the bike.

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 JJ, shortly after Hamilton Studio first opened back in September of 2014. I remember the class was packed and I was hidden somewhere in the back. The energy of the instructor, the vibe of the room and the intensity of the riders, sparked excitement in me… I was immediately hooked! RIDE quickly became my home and the clients/staff I met, my family. I was a #rideordie client for 3 solid years before I decided to become an instructor. For me, it was the next step on my RIDE journey. Today, I feel so lucky to get to recreate the excitement that I felt in my very first class.

How would you describe your teaching style?

Brooke and Julie both say “Sweaty, Saucy and NFA”. I have to admit, I do have the nickname “Sweaty Jacs”. I own that.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Personally, the best part of being an instructor is watching your clients advance. There is nothing better than seeing a client stand up for an entire Jog for their very first time. It makes me feel so proud and it reminds me of how it felt for me.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Fade – No Mana.

AM or PM rides?

PM. Finish the day with a RIDE and you will sleep easy.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

My favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE is with my fam at All City Athletics. I have been boxing for just over a year now and it compliments RIDE so well. If you haven’t tried it out yet, I would definitely recommend!

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

Confidence. If you had asked me 3 years ago if I would get up in front of a room full of people and lead a 50 minute class, I would have laughed. Now, it is the space where I feel the most confident, strapping on a mic, dancing around the room and completely letting go.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Tomorrow is a new day.

Who motivates you?

Other instructors. We are constantly supporting each other by sharing music and giving feedback. I couldn’t do it without them.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Avoid city traffic: ride your bike.

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

After my 9:35am RIDE class, you will find me on the seawall with my dog, Stanley.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

Unofficial RIDE photographer. Shout out to Portrait mode.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

My best memories are summer RIDE events. There is nothing like sweating in the sun! Last summer, we hauled down 10+ bikes to the Lonsdale night market and road for hours in the heat of summer. Couldn’t stop smiling.

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

Don’t be so hard on yourself. Soak up the energy of the room and have some fun.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Summer in Vancouver!

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE has changed my life. It is so much more than a workout because of the community that I’ve become a part of. I have met some of my best friends here.

Find Jacs on the Hamilton and Lonsdale Schedules.

Get to know John – any Lonsdale rider or instructor knows John and his dedication to RIDE. Having completed the 30 Day Challenge in just 16 days, he’s proof that a strong, supportive community and encouraging instructors can help you crush even the most ambitious goals.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I’m a helicopter technician. Work for a company that maintains, repair and overhauls dynamic components of the aircraft.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

Culinarian, Dedicated, and Adventurous.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

About a year. Started in August of 2015, but stopped going after a few months. Then I heard about Lonsdale studio opening and offering free underground rides with the new instructor trainees. That lit the fire to get my ass back on the saddle. Now I’m hooked!

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

Best ?’s in town! ?

How has RIDE impacted your life?

RIDE has help me get back into shape to live a healthier lifestyle. There’s nothing else like it. Spending 50 mins in a dark room sweating it out with like-minded people.

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

Snowshoe 13 kms in a blizzard for a one night stay in the mountains and back the next day. So much to explore in beautiful British Columbia.

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

I think it’s like a cult. Many of the riders including myself join in this 50 min sweat session religiously. AM or PM, weekday or weekend we connect at the studio.

Favourite instructor and why?

They’re all so good!
Going to name a few, ff that’s okay.

My current go to is Joce. She kicks my butt every class. Combined with the awesome playlist and her wicked moves. Keeps me coming back for more even though she laughs at my mistakes when I’m in the front row. Definitely give her class a try if you haven’t yet. She’ll get you on the right foot in no time.

Barb is da ? – so intense. Classes are so loud with so much energy you’ll definitely feel the beat.

Danielle is ? – her vibe on the podium is amazing. Playlists are fun and lots of energy. Love her RIDE voice, even though she’s yelling at you to get your ass up!

Taylor is awesome! He’s definitely pushed me to be better. His classes are super fun but the intensity is picking up. I’m enjoying the challenge though. Killin’ the playlist! #brosridetoo

Best RIDE memory?

So many to choose from… definitely have to mention the 30 Day Challenge. I knew I could finish it no problem. Just in how many days I could do in. I had booked vacation for the middle of the month for a week, so my time was cut short. In my mind I wanted to finish the challenge before I left on the 17th of May. New challenge accepted! Lol 30in16. So that’s what I did! Went to RIDE Lonsdale every day except 1 class at the Hamilton location. It was mostly double classes per day except Fridays, only 1 slots available for my schedule. Made up for it when a new class time was posted for Sunday Funday. TRIPLE! Definitely struggled that day. It was just a handful of classes left to finish the challenge after that. Felt amazing after finishing the challenge! Definitely crushed some goals. #30in16

Meeting so many great people during the challenge was amazing. Everyone supporting each other during their journey through the challenge. Congrats to everyone that crushed the 30 Day Challenge.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

I run, hike, snowshoe and circuit train with friends.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Dua Lipa – new rules (Alison Wonderland remix)

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

Past boss that I still keep in touch with and currently brunch/lunch with once a week.

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

My parents. They owned/ran a bakery in Burnaby until they retired. Their passion to bake created the culinarian I am today.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

Spin, brunch, nap, golf and snowshoe.

Who motivates you?

Everyone! Hahaha
Parents, family, friends and coworkers. Always want to do better!

Fave quote or words to live by?

Just smile!

Last book you read was….

Calvin and hobbes
.
.
.
It’s been a while since I’ve read an actual book… last one I remember is American Sniper.
A friend recommended “puzzle of pieces” so that’s next on the list.

What does RIDE mean to you?

A place to release toxic energy. Leave everything in the room and floor. Walk out with a clear mind.

Get to know Meg – a Toronto rider who has been an integral part of our Toronto community since day one. We can always count on Meg to show up – she loves a challenge, and keeps a signature cool, calm and collected vibe even through the most intense fast-legs. Meg also co-taught a RIDE x Flow in the Six (yoga) class earlier this year at lululemon which was a sold-out hit.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I am the Community Relations Manager at Love Child Social House which is a
multi-use venue designed for connection and collaboration to fuse Work, Play and
Grow and for my side hustle I teach yoga at Yoga Tree Studios.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?
Ambitious. Confident. Independent.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?
Since the UNDRGRND and I have not looked back.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?
The sweat, music and people.

How has RIDE impacted your life?
I have met so many amazing and like-minded individuals who I have developed
meaningful and long lasting friendships with. It’s actually crazy to me that it’s only
been a ~year and I have so many new best friends. I also had never worked out
before 8am in my life before RIDE, and now I’m obsessed with 6 & 7am classes.

Tell us about all the badass things you’re up to
I co-developed a hip-hop music vinyasa class with a brilliant yoga instructor and
dancer, Amanda Donato called Flow in the 6ix, inspired by Toronto’s incredible
urban music scene. The class is still rooted in traditional yoga, but really changes the
game for those who have a hard time finding presence and getting out of their head
in class. The continuous and dynamic movement mixed with loud music helps create
that space for students.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?
I have pretty much visited every fitness studio in the city, and RIDE’s community is
hands-down the most impressive for turning the workout into an experience and
social activity. I literally plan my week around RIDE classes, so I can see some of my
favourite people while getting an amazing sweat. The focus is on the movement in
the class, but what’s been created outside of the studio is really special.

Favourite instructor and why?
It’s so hard to pick just one! Each instructor is unique and has their own style which
I love. I will say Alex challenges me the most and pushes me to (read: off) my edge,
Dani’s Sat AM is the best way to kick off the weekend and DJ Winter’s playlists are my fav.

Best RIDE memory?
Ride vs. Flow in the 6ix. Matt and I co-taught a RIDE followed by a yoga class in The
Local and it was awesome to bring my two things together.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?
Besides yoga, I love going to Barry’s Bootcamp, Studio Lagree and MISFITSTUDIO.
All of these workouts compliment each other and thank god for all the
like-minded/psycho friends I have met through RIDE who will go to 2-3 classes a
day with me.

Song you’ve got on repeat?
I have literally not stopped listening to The Black Panther album, seriously it’s so
good. If you know me, you know I love all Kanye, Drake and Bieber, and I am an
advocate of Toronto artists – Majid Jordan, dvsn and Mickey Blue are definitely favs.

If you could brunch with any lady boss (past or present), who would it
be?
No shame that I’m gonna say Kim Kardashian. She absolutely owns her brand and
I’d love to have a conversation with her and Kanye would also be invited.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?
Amber Joliat, the creator and beautiful mind behind MISFITSTUDIO. Her classes are
pure magic, I highly recommend Fusion – her signature class blending Pilates, yoga
and dance. Also, Emily Palley-Samson has recently created her own tassel earring
brand and I literally never wear jewelry but I have two pairs and I wear them all the
time now. Check her out!

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.
Definitely RIDE/Barry’s/Yoga (or all three…) followed by Union brunch, sparkling
rosé in the park, and definitely an Aperol Spritz at some point.

Who motivates you?
All the Girl Bosses. I have so many driven and impactful females in my life who are
so inspiring.

Fave quote or words to live by?
Movement is medicine.

Last book you read was….
Eastern Body, Western Mind by Anodea Judith.

What does RIDE mean to you?
Unity. RIDE OR DIE