Just Keep Spinning
February 29, 2024
Writer: Libby Zufi
Editor: Jules Alfieri
February is a month often characterized by what some call the "winter scaries." While I'm relatively new to experiencing winters in Michigan, this being only my second, I'm familiar with the universal desire to stay indoors rather than braving the cold. This tendency has often led me to neglecting both my physical and mental health.
As part of my New Year's resolution to prioritize my well-being amid the stress of college life, I decided to do something kind for myself. Instead of fixating on improving my physical appearance or adhering to unrealistic workout goals, I set out to strengthen my mindset. When my roommate, who works at SoulCycle, mentioned a two-week unlimited deal, I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and signed up to spin every day for two weeks.
During my first class, I experienced a whirlwind of emotions and adrenaline. What stood out to me the most was the sense of camaraderie in the room. The love and encouragement radiating from the instructors made each class feel like a supportive community rather than a tedious chore. Despite the nature of the workout, I found myself immersed in an atmosphere of positivity and motivation, something I had been seeking in my fitness routine.
For those unfamiliar with SoulCycle, one of the biggest hurdles for new riders is syncing up with the music and bike resistance. With classes typically lasting 45 minutes, the pedaling intensity can be quite challenging. Initially, I struggled to keep pace with the rest of the class, feeling significantly slower. The competitive mindset crept in, tempting me to push too hard. However, I listened to the instructors' advice to "sync with the rhythm of the music, and it will click." After about a week, I finally found my groove, matching up with my classmates and feeling a surge of confidence. It was as if a switch had flipped in my mind, dispelling the doubts that had hindered my physical activity. From then on, I biked not just for the physical benefits but also for the mental empowerment I gained in each class.
While sadly this isn't a sponsored advertisement for SoulCycle, I can confidently attest to the positivity and sense of community I experienced during my time there. What began as a journey focused on physical outcomes ended up offering so much more - a stronger mindset, a newfound community in Ann Arbor, and a genuine love for biking!
