When Amanda O’Haver and her mom Rachael O’Haver opened the doors to StarCycle in September of 2023, it was a dream come true. “We’ve always wanted to open a business together, and after I started riding at StarCycle in Portland, my mom started coming with me.”
They loved the classes and decided to buy into the franchise. “Every StarCycle is owned by a woman, and I believe there are 14 studios now, but we are the only mother-daughter team,” says Amanda.
Participants cycle in a candlelit room to upbeat and energizing music, and classes are structured for every fitness level. “You don't have to stand up in the saddle or ride as fast as others - we are for everybody and every body,” she emphasizes. “You can make it as challenging as you want it to be.” Right now, they have a member who is 13 and another who is in her 70s.
Each class is 45 minutes long, and in addition to providing a great cardiovascular workout, instructors also incorporate weights and different movements on the bikes for a whole-body workout. “It’s also a really good low-impact, high-intensity workout,” states Amanda.
Different memberships and packages are available, so clients can sign up for what works best for them. “We have an unlimited membership where you can come in as many times as you like or even take two classes back-to-back,” says Rachael. “We also have class packages if you don't think you can come in multiple times a week. Or, you can buy a 10 pack of classes and use those within an allotted amount of time.” It is also possible to try out a class for free.
Classes are held early mornings, during the day, many evenings, and on weekends, to make it convenient for everyone. Childcare is also provided on site for children from 6 weeks to 10 years old. “That’s a huge game changer,” Amanda notes. “It's great for the mom or dad who wants to come in and take 45 minutes for themselves and know the kiddos are well taken care of.”
She knows personally how important this is - she has a 14-month-old daughter, Laine. “I can still teach classes and I don't have to find childcare somewhere else. She loves being here.”
Many of the instructors have been with StarCycle for years and have a lot of experience. “We also have brand new instructors who bring a really fun energy and excitement for the brand,” says Rachael. “When hiring, we tried to find women from all different walks of life, with various body types and of different ages. They love helping support and encourage women.”
Although StarCycle is geared more towards women, they are open to adding male instructors to their team, as well as having male clients come in and be part of their community.
“We want to have a very positive community, and we love the fact that now we have groups of people who are meeting here, becoming friends and hanging out afterwards,” remarks Amanda.
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