Let me preface this review by saying that I’ve been a spin class lover for a long, long time. They always provide a tough workout, are the perfect complement to my running, and so much fun. I thought I had tried every spin/cycling class out there until a friend invited me to her class at The Rush Indoor Cycling Studio in Carmel Valley. After my first one-hour class, I was hooked! Think spin meets hip-hop dance class, but on a bike.
Photo credit: The Rush
How is that possible you ask? The concept, created by two longtime, high school friends, was born from an unfilled need to offer boutique-style, intimate cycle classes in a non-intimidating setting. Dim lights, incredible playlists, top-notch instructors and world-class Keiser bikes all contribute to the intense, yet personal experience. Whether you find yourself riding alongside first-time riders or triathlon competitors, all riders are encouraged to stay on pace to the beat of the music. No rider is left behind.
Classes are either 45 minutes or 1 hour, depending on the type of class, and often incorporate a weights series to help tone the upper body while you’re working the lower body. The instructors are all incredibly positive, knowledgeable, and fun which helps add to the overall experience. From warm up to cool down and everything in between, The Rush promises to deliver a heart-pumping cardio workout that’s second to none. I personally love how the studio feels more like a spa and less like a gym, but the classes are tougher and more fun than most I’ve attended at mainstream fitness facilities.
I just finished up my free trial week (I attended four different classes during that time), and was elated to find out they are one of dozens of fitness studios in North County San Diego that are members of the ClassPass membership I signed up for today. More to come on that, but it appears to offer a lot of flexibility and the opportunity to try so many different forms of exercise each month.
Insider’s Tip: Unless you buy a 6-month membership or have your own pair of cycle shoes, you have to rent shoes each class for $1. Try the class out first, but if you love it, spring for the membership and your very own pair of shoes is included.
In addition to trying new fitness classes, we also recently ran the third annual San Diego 50-miler and Trail Marathon. We can’t wait share our race recap with you in the next couple of days!
activeharmony 
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