SoulCycle Is Back! Here Is Everything You Need To Know About Riding Outside
Since quarantine started six months ago, one of the things I miss most about my normal routine is studio fitness classes. I’ve learned to enjoy working out from home, but there is nothing like the energy of a group fitness class. That is why I was so excited to hear SoulCycle started an outdoor studio in Santa Monica! This spot opened about 3 weeks ago, and has been steadily growing their schedule and following. I took Pixie’s 11:00am class this morning, and it was the most energizing and fun way to start my weekend. She is one of my favorite LA instructors, so I was thrilled to see her back on the SoulCycle schedule.
“Here is everything you need to know before you ride outside!”
First Impressions: The SoulCycle Outdoors set up is fantastic. It is located on the roof deck of the Santa Monica Place shopping mall, next to Nordstrom. With views of the ocean and a cool sea breeze, I much preferred the outdoor SoulCycle location to the crowded studios pre-quarantine.
Check-In: Upon arrival, all riders sign a health waiver and have their temperatures checked. You can rent shoes, buy water, and peruse their new SoulCycle branded gear before class. There is a spacious waiting area with plenty of seating for socially distanced preparation before class.
My friend Nathan and I after a great class! I promise we’re smiling under our masks 😉
Covid Precautions: Masks were required throughout the entire experience. Our instructor Pixie even called people out during class to cover their noses. This made me feel extra safe. All of the bikes were about 6 feet apart and there was plenty of space to move around. Since the bikes are outdoors, I could see the cleaning team before class thoroughly wiping everything off and replacing all of the towels and headphones. I brought my own wipes, sanitizer, and shoes to be cautious.
During Class: I was very impressed by the in class experience. My bike was positioned under an umbrella, which was nice to be out of the direct sun. The sound system was similar to a silent disco, with bluetooth headphones connected to the instructor podium. The connection was clear and I could control the volume easily. The only annoying part was that I had to take off the headphones to remove my mask every time I wanted to drink water (🤦🏼♀️).
Waiting area before class.
Verdict: Overall, I thought SoulCycle did a great job bringing the studio outdoors. It was clean, safe and a beautiful location. I missed the inspiring messages and welcoming environment that SoulCycle is famous for. I will definitely be going back!
Other Useful Tips: 😎
Book your weekend classes exactly at noon on Monday. My 11:00am class sold out in 2 minutes!
I highly recommend bringing a second mask. Pixie even called this out during class, telling everyone to switch into their spare (less sweaty) masks.
Pack sunscreen! I applied right before class, but still managed to burn my shoulders 😅
The bathroom is located on the other side of the mall (on the same floor), so make sure to give yourself enough time if you have to go before class.
Finally, I chose a bike on the right side of the seating chart, which had a view of the water. There was no one behind me which made me feel even safer.
Have you tried any outdoor workouts yet? Let me know which classes you’ve tried in the comments below! 🚴♀️
