For those seeking multi-sensory, exhilarating indoor cycling experiences, CycleBar West Chester unites riders of assorted ages and fitness levels into a tight-knit, supportive community that promises fun as well. "We welcome and accompany new riders through their various stages, including assistance with bike setup. We're there for you every step of the way in your journey," says Lisa Kenny, CycleBar West Chester general manager.
She says all of their classes are inclusive of every fitness level. "It's really each person's own ride. While instructors guide riders through certain aspects, each person should listen to their body and apply themselves accordingly. That's just one advantage of indoor cycling."
With a significant number of people struggling with self-motivation regarding exercise after two years of COVID-19 pandemic circumstances, Lisa says more people are realizing they're tired of working out on their own and are coming back into community exercise options. "Our members tell us they are ready to get out of their homes and into a group atmosphere," she adds.
CycleBar classes are grouped by strength, mindset and endurance categories referenced internally as connecting, classic, performance, empowerment and "xpress" training. Additionally, CycleBar offers rides specifically for companies, groups and families to help raise proceeds that benefit a cause.
Lisa says many prospective customers are delighted to discover that CycleBar's bike equipment is based on clipping into the bike's pedals with cleat-equipped cycling shoes. CycleBar bikes accommodate both SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) and Delta clips. She says the studio bikes are outfitted with Delta clips but they also sell TIEM shoes that are SPD clips. "In general, clipping in makes you be at one with the bike and provides better workouts," she adds.
CycleBar's approach is beneficial to a variety of athletes, Lisa explains, such as runners who need lower impact exercise, people recovering from injuries and those who enjoy outdoor cycling but are looking for variety or a place to still go in inclement weather.
Through CycleBar West Chester's state-of-the-art technology and equipment in the studio's theater, riders can see their individual performance stats on their bike monitors, as well as where they rank in class. They also can participate in group challenges and rider competitions on the big screen leaderboard monitors, if they desire.
During last December, Lisa took the reins of the West Chester facility. Additionally, as a holistic health and body confidence coach, Lisa says she guides, mentors and empowers women by providing ongoing support and guidance as they set goals and make sustainable changes that improve their health, happiness and confidence. "I've been involved in the fitness world for a long time. I've always been passionate about fitness. I discovered CycleBar was an incredible environment, and it's been awesome to help the business grow," shares Lisa. "I've become a bit obsessed with cycling, and now do it at least three times a week."
One of the CycleBar West Chester members recently completed his 600th ride. "One differentiator about this form of fitness is that it always remains challenging, even after that many rides. Members also like that our smart bikes track their power and stats. It's nice to check stats on your cellphone and see that you're at the top of the leaderboard after a ride, or that you beat the stats from your own last ride. It's great immediate feedback," Lisa says.
"We're a fitness family here. Everyone's close and it's nice to support -- or to push -- each other," she adds.
Fitness industry specialists indicate the following range of health benefits from indoor cycling:
- Improved cardiovascular health.
- Results with low-impact exercise.
- Strengthening lower body.
- Increased core strengthening.
- Improved posture.
- Better coordination.
- Reduced risk of overall diseases.
- Boosts in positive moods.
- Increased mental toughness.
- Results in meditative experience and peaceful escapes.
Members and instructors just celebrated the studio's third business anniversary in May with owner Rob Friend, who launched the facility in 2019. He says CycleBar members actually look forward to workouts and getting the results they want to achieve. "If you need something to get you started on a workout routine that you will stick with, that would be CycleBar," he adds.
He says a rider's first CycleBar class is complimentary at his studio.
“Just start. You don’t have to already be in shape to start a cycling journey. You don’t have to look a certain way. No one expects perfection whether you’re a rider or an instructor. You may be telling yourself that you aren’t enough of something to start, but I promise you are and the things that you’re most worried about, others likely don’t care about," says Amanda Blevins, CycleBar West Chester lead instructor.
CycleBar West Chester classes are offered for morning sessions (6 a.m., 7:15 a.m. or 9:30 a.m.) or evening sessions (4:45 p.m. and 6 p.m.).
610.242.9285
Cyclebar.com/Location/West-Chester
