Arcola offers a new spin on fitness, thanks to Ghislaine Carter's Rev Cycle & Fitness.
Carter offers indoor cycling classes on the eight new stationary bikes at her new studio south of town, and says: “Many people are both intrigued and apprehensive regarding indoor cycling. But I encourage them all to try something new. With indoor cycling, you're in control of your own workouts and you start at a level that's appropriate for you.”
Carter and Mandy Rushfeldt are Rev's instructors, and Carter adds: “The first class is free, so there's nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
Much like a traditional aerobics class, Carter leads the class from her bike and gently instructs and encourages, accompanied by an upbeat musical soundtrack; and she concludes the class by distributing cold towels infused with essential oils.
“ We'll even take (musical) requests,” she laughs. “But what I really want to stress is that I am there to instruct and encourage. I encourage exercise as a way of loving and appreciating the body you have and maintaining health and fitness.”
“My job is to motivate and to encourage people to push themselves,” says Carter. “The 'drill sergeant' is the little voice that comes within themselves-making them work harder and forcing them to go beyond their comfort zone to get the best and most effective workout.”
Carter says she will encourage-but never force-a participant to go beyond their comfort zone.
“After the first class I taught, one girl stated that her legs were a little shaky. That tells me that she worked hard and pushed herself in class. But I would never adjust the tension on the bike for any participant. She did that all on her own.”
“Indoor cycling is pure cardio and it's something everyone can benefit from and enjoy, men included,” adds Carter. “The exercises and drills performed in class are athletic and cardio-based, focusing on speed, power and endurance.”
Participant Michelle Cundall agrees, saying: “Ghislaine and I were in a bike race when she told me she was thinking of opening up an indoor cycling studio. I told her to go for it.”
“You work to your own level of fitness, you control the resistance, and the bikes are so user-friendly.”
“I went to a studio in Regina when I lived there,” adds Cundall. “There's only one there, so to have a studio here in Arcola is awesome.”
Personal trainer Laurie James says, “For me, as a personal trainer, it's great to change it up. It's great to have this in our area.”
Carter says a water bottle and a yoga mat are all a student needs to attend a class. “Hydration is really important,” she says. “And it's best to wear comfortable, form-fitting shorts or pants and a light, breathable top. And of course, your favourite running shoes!”
Information on class schedules, cost, and gift card purchases can be found on the studio's Facebook page at Rev Cycle & Fitness, or by calling or texting (306)-575-9983.
“You can also book your spot in class via the Mindbody Connect app, for Android or iPhone,” adds Carter. “But if you don't want to go that route, call me and we'll get you in a class.”
“Life is so busy,” she says. “It's hard to set aside time for ourselves-particularly those who have children. I am looking into creating a class specifically for busy moms, one that provides childcare. We'll be getting our sweat on while the children are cared for and playing together.”
“I'm excited about offering indoor cycling, because health is your greatest asset,” says Carter.
“I had a participant tell me she left the studio in a far better mood than when she arrived,” she says. “I felt that was one of the greatest compliments ever.”
“My goal is for people to feel happiness and a sense of accomplishment when they leave the studio. It's all about them. People purchase rides with their hard-earned money and they carve time out of their busy schedules to come to my classes. My hope is that everyone leaves feeling as if that were time and money well spent.”
Or as Candace Dionne says, “I love it. It's my new addiction.”
“It's 45 minutes of awesome.”
Rev Cycle & Fitness is located three miles south of Arcola on Highway 604. The approach is located on the north side of the bridge.
For more information, check out Rev Cycle & Fitness on Facebook or call (306)-575-9983.
