The post below is sponsored by Green Oak Village Place. All opinions expressed belong to me.
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” ~ Neale Donald Walsch
This is one of my favorite quotes ever, and one that often comes to mind when self-doubt starts to take over or I’m encouraging my own children to try something new.
So when I was asked to check out The Ride, a state-of-the-art spin studio located in Green Oak Village Place in Brighton, I hesitated…but this quote quickly came to mind. I’ve never tried a spin class and going to a new gym is anxiety-producing enough when you don’t know what you’re getting into!
Boy was I glad I didn’t listen to those first thoughts because I would’ve missed out on a really cool experience and a fantastic workout.
ABOUT THE RIDE
The vibe at The Ride was fab the moment I walked in the door, and I felt confident it was going to be a great class. Everyone was friendly from the gal at the front desk to the amazing lady working in the childcare room. It helped one of my childhood best friends was there and helped show me the ropes too!
Taylor, the class instructor, was happy to help me set-up my bike and explain an app I could use on my bike while riding, and was encouraging every step of the way.
I try to work out and really sweat three times each week, so I’m not in terrible shape, but I’m also not really the athletic type. I did The Shred class, which was a combo of cycling, weights, and TRX {easy-to-use flexible bands that hang from the ceiling}. I definitely felt it was a whole body workout and my sweat definitely indicated my body was working hard.
A few things I loved about my experience:
- The atmosphere. If you need a place to workout that is uplifting and encouraging, I suggest this. The instructors are amazing and motivational. I loved the quotes they put on the screen; they really get you thinking about how to keep pushing yourself.
- How easy it was to modify. If you want a harder workout, you’re in control with the levels on your bike. If you want to take it easy, that’s possible too! This makes it an ideal place for people of all fitness levels.
- Variety of classes. Depending on your workout style, there are different classes to work different muscle groups, or have a little friendly competition.
- The facility. There were some fantastic perks such as several bathroom stalls, a shower, and even a water bottle-friendly water dispenser.
- Childcare! This is such an asset to any mom of littles. It’s so great to workout and know your children are being well cared for. It is a separate cost, but it’s nice to have it as an option and it’s great for socialization. {For the record, my little guy loved it!}
- There are various price points, depending on your budget. You can do drop-ins {$20/class}, but your best bet for saving money if you can make it 3x/week is an auto-renew monthly fee. Membership costs can be found here. They occasionally run specials too, so keep an eye out!
Overall, I would definitely suggest checking out The Ride if you’re interested in trying spin. Best of all, your first ride is FREE…so what do you have to lose?!
Learn more about The Ride by visiting them on the website | Facebook | Instagram.
The Ride is located at 9715 Village Place Blvd., Brighton, Mich. 48116.
ABOUT THE FUEL
Following my amazing workout at The Ride, I popped down to one of its sister businesses a few storefronts down to The Fuel. This amazing cafe seeks to be a refuge for ALL people — even us meat eaters 😉
The restaurant describes itself as “a high-vibe eatery that seeks to redefine healthy eating in a welcoming, open-minded atmosphere,” and all dishes are dairy-free, gluten-free, oil-free, plant-based, & made with love from fresh whole foods.
I absolutely LOVED it here. The vibe is great, the workers were friendly, and the food was phenomenal, even for someone who doesn’t follow any specific diet.
I’ve never tried sweet potato “toast” but I can honestly say I’m now a convert. The Southwest Toast was outstanding, and definitely something I’d come back for. The flavors were fantastic, and it was very filling.
The Fuel is also known for its amazing smoothies. These fruit-filled drinks are packed with nutrients and oh-so-delicious. This meal was exactly what I needed after a tough workout!
I definitely want to go back and try an Acai bowl, too. You can find the current menu here. While it’s a bit pricier for some items, I think it’s a great value for the quality of food you are getting. I’m seeing lots of lunches with friends here in the future!
Learn more about The Fuel by visiting its website | Facebook | Instagram
The Fuel is open from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. and is located at 9689 Village Place Blvd., Brighton, Mich. 48116.
GIVEAWAY
I”m thrilled to have a 10-pack of classes at The Ride to giveaway. This would be amazing to win!
Enter using the prompts below. Must be a U.S. resident age 18+ and willing to drive to Brighton, Mich. to use it. Giveaway ends on June 26, 2019 at midnight.
Have fun if you go — don’t forget that first class is free!
Would love to try The Ride! Used to do a spin class in Howell, but they closed up shop and haven’t been able to find another place locally. Thanks for the detailed review!
Can’t wait to try the ride! Love the first class is free option!
I have been wanting to try spin for a while. It sounds like fun, which is really important to me in order to stay motivated!
Intrigued by cycling,would love to try
Spinning is a great workout!
Love, love, love the Ride! Best place for spin!
I would love to win some spin classes!
Ready to get my sweat on!