Business & Tech
Charity Meets Fitness at Cycle House [VIDEO]
Take a spin, feed the hungry by taking a class at the West Hollywood studio.
Cycle House recently opened its doors in West Hollywood, and already the boutique indoor cycling studio is making a difference—not just for the glutes, but for the greater good. That's because for every class purchased, Cycle House donates two meals to feed Americans in need.
"I think that you are able to do more in class, because you know that you are fighting for something and that your exercise has a purpose," said Nichelle Hines, an instructor at Cycle House. "It's not just about you, it's about the greater good. I think that really helps inspire the riders to keep coming and work harder."
Cycle House is the dream and creation of Lara Gillman, who combined her passion of spinning and helping others to start the two-for-one program. The La Cienega Boulevard location officially opened Oct. 4.
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"I felt that West Hollywood was the perfect location, because the people here are great," Gillman told Patch. "They are really athletic, they love to spin, and it's just a real community feel."
One session at this spin studio not only benefits the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity, Feeding America, but also means between 500 and 1,000 calories burned.
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Spin sessions incorporate choreography, interval training and weights. Everyone is encouraged to spin at their own level and classes with various musical preferences are available.
"It's just amazing and fun," said Weho resident Alexander Chong. "Nichelle Hines is like the best instructor ever. She has this way of motivating people that is really special. I don't think anyone else can do what she does."
Cycle House uses a colorful chalkboard wall to keep clients in the loop, instead of using paper. Reusable water bottles are encouraged and alkaline water, which Gillman says can hydrate you faster due to a higher pH balance, is offered as well.
Clients are free to mingle on the porch after workouts over fresh fruit.
"Come take a class. Do it at your own level, and after your third or fourth time, you are really in a good place," Gillman said. "Then you get hooked, because spinning is a total cult. People love it."
Cycle House, 624 N. La Cienega Blvd.; 310-358-0888; $26 per class.
