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Meet Jen – a Vancouver Rider who’s face is both well-known and loved at our Hamilton studio. Known for often doubling or tripling classes, Jen has an incredible energy and drive to RIDE – all while managing a demanding career and involvement in charity work throughout the city. Get to know Jen!

What do you do for your 9-5?

I’m a securities lawyer, specializing in mining. And not sure my hours have ever been 9-5. 🙂

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

Loyal, determined and strong (not necessarily in the physical sense).

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

Just over two years, since May 2016.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

RIDE!!!

How has RIDE impacted your life?

It has given me an outlet and an escape from the stresses of life.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to

I’m involved in a number of charities, the one I’m most proud of is my role in the Daffodil Ball in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. I have been a member of the organizing committee for five years, four of which have been as co-chair, raising almost $10M during such time for cancer research. I regularly do the Grouse Grind with clients in a challenge format for best time (my personal best is 48:11 – not bad for a Toronto girl who didn’t grow up with mountains!), I did the Ride to Conquer Cancer (Vancouver to Seattle) in 2015 in the crazy wind storm and I did the Tough Mudder in Whistler in 2016.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?

The combination of badass’ness and camaraderie.

Favourite Instructor and why?

Michael Kong – MK for the win! My first class at RIDE was Michael’s Tuesday 6AM and I had no idea what the f**k was going on. His energy is incredible and classes intense (like just the right amount of intense).

Best RIDE memory?

Maybe seeing Michael twerk for the first time. But then it became kind of ordinary course.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

I weight train with my personal trainer two times a week. During the summer do the Grouse Grind and I’m trying to get back into doing some yoga classes. But my multiple RIDES per day often get in the way of other workouts! 🙂

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Maroon 5 – Girls Like You

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

Audrey Hepburn

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

RIDE with MK at 11:45AM followed by brunch with a girlfriend complete with mimosas and then maybe some shopping and Door Dash with a movie to end the day.

Who motivates you?

My parents. I lost my Mom to cancer in September 2016. She still motivates me and I feel her presence and strength with me always, including during class. A couple times I may have been overdoing it (like four back-to-back classes, oops) and for no apparent reason her necklace that I never take off came undone almost like a sign to ease up. My Dad motivates me to always do better in everything I do which I try to strive for every RIDE class (sometimes more successfully than others).

Fave quote or words to live by?

Nothing is free (from my Dad).

Last book you read was….

I don’t read much for pleasure as I need to read a lot (of boring stuff) for work. But I just read The Alchemist.

What does RIDE mean to you?

EVERYTHING. Sounds corny but I truly love RIDE. Feels like home and gives me a real sense of grounding. I just got back from three glorious weeks at the family cottage back east in Muskoka but was so exciting to get back to RIDE!

Get to know Dani – known for her laid back yet motivating teaching style, killer abs and that signature voice, we can always count on Dani for a RIDE experience that is the perfect mix of fun and challenging. She keeps things chill while getting you to work hard and push yourself in the best way – a killer combination for a great RIDE.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Guelph!

Can you remember your first RIDE class? How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an instructor?

My first RIDE class was with Julie. I heard RIDE was coming to Toronto and needed to know what it was all about. She certainly sold me on it, and after one class (where I couldn’t find the beat let alone get out of the saddle) I was determined to join the RIDE team.

How would you describe your teaching style?

Pretty laid back. I let the music dictate a lot of the class. But if you drop your arms or sit down, I will call you out.

Best part of being an instructor is…

The people you meet…and getting to pretend you’re a DJ for 50 minutes.

Tracks you’ve had on repeat

Benoit & Sergio – The Way You Get (thanks Tor)
Gesaffelstein – Hate or Glory and OPR
Michael Jackson – Will You Be There

AM or PM rides?

Mornings are my favourite.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Barry’s Bootcamp when I need my ass kicked, MISFITSTUDIO when I need to reset.

How has becoming a RIDE Instructor changed you?

In a million ways. Most notably it’s given me a new crew of friends who are like family, and a place where I can completely be myself.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Don’t overthink it, just do what makes you happy.

Who motivates you?

My BFF (Best fitness friend) – my sister Dee.

Favourite book?

Can’t think of a particular favourite…I just re-read Kitchen Confidential, if you haven’t read it, I suggest you do.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Always order extra dipping sauce.

Where can we find you on a Saturday afternoon in the city?

Union / the Drake / Trinity Common – essentially any patio with good company, or trying to learn to ride a bike that is not stationary.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can do the worm, kind of.

If you could brunch with any person (past or present), who would it be and why?

I’d probably choose Taylor Swift and bring my Mom along, she’s obsessed. I’d win daughter of the year for sure.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

There are way too many… the lululemon Waterfront 10k cheer squad definitely goes down as one of my favourite days of the year, training in the Underground, watching the classes grow and everyone slowly develop into amazing Instructors, the studio opening its doors last May, or Dez dressing as a snowflake during our Christmas RIDE. Dez should always dress as a snowflake.

#1 piece of advice for someone looking to have a killer RIDE?

It’s dark in that room for a reason – no one can see you and nothing else matters so let yourself completely go.

What has you stoked on life right now?

It’s summer which is hands down the best time of year in TO.

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE means a lot of things to me, and it’s hard to think back to a time before RIDE was part of my life. It’s my favourite place to hang out, sweat, blow off steam, or shake a bad mood. The riders, the staff, and our boss man Ash make the RIDE community what it is, and I’m so so grateful I get to be a part of it.

Catch Dani on the podium at our Ossington Studio.

Meet RIDE Ossington power couple Bradley Hammond and Melissa Di Costanzo. You can always count on them to bring the heat to Dani and Cat’s classes, and their warmth and love of community is felt and appreciated by the RIDE staff and Instructors. It’s riders like Brad and Melissa that have helped build and strengthen Ossington’s tight-knit, supportive community – grateful for you, B & M!

What do you do for your 9-5?

M: Communications/PR.
B: Senior Communications Manager at The Nuclear Waste Management Organization.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

M: Quirky, independent, curious.
B: Loud, quick, fun.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

M: About seven months.
B: Same.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

M: The playlists, the Instructors and the community – and the post-spin endorphins.
B: The music, friends and Melissa.

How has RIDE impacted your life?

M: It’s been fun getting to connect with people plugged into the fitness community and comparing common goals and drivers. Everyone’s experience is so unique, and everyone wants to share their tips and tricks. And ultimately, everyone wants to help you succeed and achieve.
B: RIDE is a lot of fun and provides an experience I want to go back to again and again. RIDE is one of the reasons why I’m now in the best shape of my life and the motivation to keep coming back comes from Melissa and all the other riders.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to

M: Travelling, yoga, reading, or eating at any of Toronto’s amazing restaurants.
B: I love to consume pop culture: music, comics, books, video games and serialized television are all hobbies I enjoy. Yoga and travelling are two big passions outside of RIDE. Currently planning our honeymoon together, and really looking forward to that as our next big adventure.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?

M: Great people either instructing or at the front desk, and everyone’s excitement at wanting to help you reach your full potential.
B: Everyone at RIDE, front desk staff, Instructors and other riders are all friendly, welcoming and committed to a good time and great sweat. It’s a wonderful environment to come back to again and again.

Favourite Instructor and why?

M: It’s a tie between Dani and Cat. Both are lovely, have great prompts and amazing playlists.
B: Same.

Best RIDE memory?

M: Any time I’ve been with friends or Brad!
B: May was a busy month for me at RIDE. I completed the challenge, and Melissa was in a busy work period, so we were doing more 6 and 7AM classes together. Good memories.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

M: Yoga and Pilates
B: Love practicing yoga at Union Yoga and Wellness. The studio is super welcoming and features some fantastic Instructors.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

M: Halls of Sarah – Neko Case
B: Spaceship – Galantis

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

M: Gabrielle Hamilton, author of Blood, Bones and Butter and New York City chef/restaurateur. It’s a rich read. Through her book, she forced me to confront my own historical culinary roots. It helped me connect with my grandmother through her cooking, shortly before she passed away.
B: Probably way too cliche, but I would love to have dinner with the Obamas. It would be fascinating to see firsthand the contrast with the current leadership in the United States.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?

M: Province Apothecary, MICHI, Saul’s Beauty Shop, any of the amazing restaurateurs we’ve been lucky enough to encounter lately!
B: The North Standard Trading Post is a personal favourite for clothing, as well as Union Yoga and Wellness on Bloor, The Ace restaurant in Roncesvalles and Bellwoods Brewery on Ossington.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

M: Coffee at Jimmy’s, RIDE with friends, brunch at Union and a trip to the beach (Hanlan’s or Cherry).
B: Cooking breakfast at home with Melissa, RIDE, second breakfast with friends and a patio with cold beer.

Who motivates you?

M: Brad and any of the amazing female leaders I’ve been lucky to encounter professionally.
B: Melissa motivates me a tremendous amount – her drive is contagious!

Fave quote or words to live by?

M: “You can’t change the wind, but you can change the sails.”
B: “Do or do not, there is no try” – Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back

Last book you read was….

M: Motherhood, by Sheila Heti
B: Bonfire of the Vanities, by Tom Wolfe

What does RIDE mean to you?

M: I really connected with RIDE during a really intense work period. RIDE became something to look forward to, and a great method to relieve stress. It began to push me to explore other complimentary exercise classes, and ultimately served as a launchpad for me to continue to expand my health and wellness journey.
B: There is something unique about the relationship between the community and the personnel at RIDE. During class, I feel plugged in to the people around me, and take inspiration from the effort of others. That said, when the lights are off, the anonymity of pushing against the beat and letting the music drive you is incredibly freeing. Getting these experiences in an awesome space with great people is what makes RIDE unique.

Since opening our doors in North Vancouver almost a year ago, we’ve come to know and love the tight knit community of Lonsdale that we now call home. We asked our staff, Instructors and community to share their favourite North Van spots for pre-or-post RIDE – here is what you had to say.

Earnest Ice Cream

You’ll catch Barb here after almost every class.

The Workshop Vegetarian Cafe

Great little spot for our vegetarian friends that serves up amazing ramen.

Lift Bakery

The “heritage hash with avocado” is Rowan’s absolute favourite.

Anatolis Slouvaki

Julie and Noah’s favourite spot.

Tap & Barrel

You can catch half the RIDE Lonsdale team working here when they aren’t at RIDE.

Buddha-Full Provisions

Amazing fresh, healthy fare if you’re feeling like some nutritious post-sweat fuel.

Finch & Barley

Mediterranean-inspired pub grub & cocktails in a chill hangout with DJs & local music acts – what’s not to love?

Raglan’s

A fun tiki vibe with great burgers and nachos – a great treat for 50 minutes of tapping it back.

Orto Artisan Pasta

A delicious menu and home-cooked feel.

Pier 7

Awesome patio right on the water – perfect for a post-RIDE hang at golden hour.

Cates Park

Warm up pre-RIDE by exploring a waterfront trail, complete with beaches and tranquil views of Indian Arm.

Glory Juice Co.

Nothing like a refreshing juice to recharge after a killer RIDE. We’re a big fan of their healthy snacks for refuelling between RIDES, too.

So make a morning, afternoon or day trip of your visit to our Lonsdale studio – there’s so much to explore and enjoy here!

Get to know Barb – a Vancouver Instructor with a bigger-than-life personality who plays an integral role in our West Coast community. Whether it’s 6:00AM on a Tuesday or 5:15PM on a Friday, you can always count on Barb to walk into the studio with an infectious energy, warmth…and a few jokes. She’s dedicated to ensuring each and every rider feels comfortable, works up a killer sweat, and most importantly has fun – and it shows.

Where did you grow up?

North Vancouver and to be specific, it all started up Indian Arm in Deep Cove. Needless to say I love the ocean because of it.

Can you remember your first RIDE class? How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an instructor?

Here’s a hot ‘Barb tip’ but I have the WORST memory ever. I am pretty sure it was Julie’s class and I was SUPER thrown when she went from her teaching voice to regular voice. I already taught fitness so getting the beat isn’t unfamiliar to me but my legs and body weren’t vibing the same as the playlist. It took me almost a year of riding and becoming friends with a certain bodybykong before I knew I wanted to be up there on the podium teaching beside him and the rest of our team.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I love to laugh and be crazy and say silly stuff. My classes are extremely loud and I have the voice to match the volume. I want riders to have the time of their life in the room while smiling and sweating from start to finish.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Connecting with people – Instructors and clients. I am such a people person and it’s all the relationships I make along the way that matter most to me. Plus, there is NOTHING better than a sweaty high five at the end of class.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Rewind – Rascall Flatts & Hostile – Skism & LAXX

AM or PM rides?

Both – my schedule is jam packed with a variety of class times and I wouldn’t trade any one of them for another.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Thursday Bootcamp at Oxygen Yoga Yaletown taught by yours truly.

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

Things finally make sense to me; like I was meant to do this. I’ve had a long journey over the past 4 years and can easily say that I wouldn’t have done it any other way.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

You are enough. You are so enough. It’s unbelievable how enough you are.

Who motivates you?

My youngest brother Stuart – catch him riding bike 18 on weekday 6AM classes.

Where can we find you on a Saturday afternoon in the city?

I am not very good at leaving North Van. after I get home from teaching – catch me poolside in my backyard (best $60 I ever spent on that blow up pool).

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I can crochet a toque in 45 minutes.

If you could brunch with any person (past or present), who would it be and why?

BLESS brunch. Happy to hit up a brunch with anyone as long as they don’t feel uncomfortable with me ordering 2 drinks as soon as we sit down.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Teaching my first (of many) Thursday 5:15PM classes at YT. The room was full and words cannot describe how full my heart was.

#1 piece of advice for someone looking to have a killer RIDE?

Sitting is chic if you are having a hard time catching the beat (especially in runs or jogs). Trust me when I say, I was awful when I started, but everything will come with time and when it does you’ll be super amped you came back.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Waking up everyday and doing what I love EVEN if it means I am teaching/riding 20 plus classes a week.

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE is that place that allows one to truly be who they are. It’s much more than a spin class; it’s a community and my family. Every single person who walks through those doors matter to me.

Catch Barb on the podium at both our Hamilton and Lonsdale studios.

Photo credit: Marcy Media

Meet Ashley – a Toronto rider whose passion for the RIDE experience and warm, friendly presence is felt in a big way. You can count on Ashley for always showing up, introducing friends to the RIDE community, and sharing how RIDE impacts her on a daily basis.

What do you do for your 9-5?

I wear a few different hats. I have a freelance business where I manage communications and social for various brands. I’m also a published writer with a background in Journalism, and most of the RIDE community probably know me as the Manager of Bond Running.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?

Funny, loyal and giving.

How long have you been coming to RIDE?

I first went to RIDE back when it was the Underground. It was one of Winter’s Instructor training classes and I remember leaving and thinking to myself ‘Girl, you have ZERO coordination and don’t even know your left from your right”. When the RIDE x BOND Challenge started I met a lot of the RIDE community and decided that maybe I was a little hard on myself the last time and signed up for one of Kyle’s classes. I hid in the back row but I made it through. Now I’m a  front row, towel wiping, hype-person, die hard.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?

I’m big on accountability. If I know my crew is all dragging their asses to class right along with me, I’ll be there. I’m 100% guilty of sending this text: “RIDE tomorrow, 7AM?”

How has RIDE impacted your life?

This is a big one for me. Without getting too emo, I’ll say this…I’ve had some major life changes over the past year, some of which left me a bit fragile and my confidence shattered. If shit got too heavy, I’d sign up for a class and sweat it all out. Those 50 minutes in the dark, with the music blaring, drenched in sweat played a big role in building back a lot of things that had disappeared – most importantly my confidence. I’ve spent many, many RIDES DEEP in my feels.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to

I like to hustle and normally have 5 different things all going on at the same time, but I love it that way. I’m also a runner and spend a lot of my time training for races. I like the thrill of pushing myself, both physically but also creatively too.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?

The passion. Everyone RIDES as one and there’s no bullshit in class. We are all one pack that vibes and pushes together. A packed class, all riding in sync with a dope song playing real loud and that lighter flicks – damn, it’s electric.

Favourite instructor and why?

HA! Nice try!! It sounds diplomatic, but I really do love them all. Every Instructor has a different vibe and I look to them all for something different, it’s part of what makes RIDE so special. I tend to go to the 7AM classes the most so I see Alex and Kyle most often.

Best RIDE memory?

1000% running through the RIDE cheer squad at the Waterfront 10K this past summer. It was a full circle moment for me and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. Major feels.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?

My run coach keeps my running in check and my trainer keeps me strong and makes sure I can run and RIDE without injury. So lots of running and gym-ing. I’ve been wanting to try a workout at Studio Lagree as well.

Song you’ve got on repeat?

Frank Ocean everything, all the time.

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss (past or present), who would it be?

I would have loved to sit down and have a chat with Anthony Bourdain. His inquisitive mind and beautiful storytelling are both huge influences of mine and my passion for storytelling. Remember to check in on your strong friends.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?

I’m fortunate to have a lot of entrepreneurial friends in my circle all of whom inspire me daily – so it’s hard to pick JUST one. BUT if I had to pick I’d say Sam James – and it’s not just because I’m addicted to coffee. It’s inspiring to see how he’s grown his brand and built his business to the scale that he has over the years.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.

Coffee from Sam James, RIDE, more coffee and that Earl Grey scone from Crafted, and really good food with friends. Oh and dogs, there needs to be dogs in there too.

Who motivates you?

Hands down, my friends and family. I’ve really won the friend lottery.

Fave quote or words to live by?

It’s not so much of a quote, but right now I’m really trying to live by just doing me.

Last book you read was….

I’m a 5-books-on-the-go-all-at-once, type of person. But the last one I couldn’t put down was Jen Agg’s I Hear She’s A Real Bitch. It’s a memoir, it’s beautifully written, and you should read it!

What does RIDE mean to you?

Community and strength. Few things make me feel more powerful than the 50 mins I spend grinding in RIDE, sweat dripping off my nose, rapping along to the best playlists.

Meet Danielle – a Vancouver Instructor whose energy, rhythm and passion for RIDE has played an integral part in building our West Coast community. For Danielle, it wasn’t necessarily love at first RIDE – rather, she saw an opportunity to challenge herself and create a positive workout experience for others that fuelled her journey to teach.

Where did you grow up?

Vancouver, then West Vancouver, then the interior of BC, then Vancouver again. I was super into competitive dance growing up and I think that has definitely carried into my RIDE vibe. I get to travel a lot for work and I love being in new places, but the feeling I get when I fly back into Vancouver…it’s home.

Can you remember your first RIDE class? How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an instructor?

My first RIDE class was with Ash after Alex from Ossington essentially dragged me there against my will. I remember walking down the street with her after class thinking that I had just gone from being not down, to impressed, to mind blown. To be honest, I never considered becoming an instructor until Alex signed me up for the auditions a year and a half later (wow Al you are getting a lot of play here). I knew I loved it, I knew I was looking for something that would challenge and push me personally. It was the right time for me.

How would you describe your teaching style?

It’s physical and emotional. I don’t think I can actually do one without the other. You’re going to work really hard with a lot of muscle focus, and hopefully also work some stuff out mentally. If a client can achieve something physical & let go of one thing that is holding them down in some way, I’m stoked on that.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Helping clients to realize that they are so much stronger than they think they are. So many times in life we tell ourselves that we can’t do something – catch a beat, RIDE a challenging class, reach a goal – but coaching people towards turning off the doubt and seeing them get stronger every time they’re in the room really inspires me. I love watching people beat personal bests.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Personal – Plaza

AM or PM rides?

AM, but only 7AM (confession – I have never taken a 6am class).

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

Everything & anything. Starting my day with a sweat is the one thing that clears my head and chills me out. Right now I’m into Lagree, Boxing at All City Athletics, weight training alone or with my fire gym crew, and this crazy Ass Class that I swear by.

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

RIDE has made me more humble & more centred. Training to become an instructor had a lot of highs and lows, and I had to work at it. I’m naturally more high-strung and teaching has chilled me out a bit in the best way. Seeing the energy that builds in the room from everyone’s collective efforts brings this feeling of responsibility to meet my class at their level – I don’t want to ever let them down.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Be a tough act to follow.

Who motivates you?

I’m definitely more internally disciplined, but anyone who is going after what they really want out of life every single day inspires me. I want to forever do better and try to be the best version of me for the people I love.

Favourite book?

I’m very into reading. Shantaram, Pride & Prejudice, Scar Tissue, The Sun Also Rises are some heavy hitters.

What’s your #1 life hack?

If you can’t live somewhere with a rooftop, get a best friend who does. Also meal prep.

Where can we find you on a Saturday afternoon in the city?

Cruising back from teaching my 9:35AM Lonsdale, doing a workout, then on my roof/Jacs roof or getting tacos (if you don’t know where Los Cuervos is go there asap – best tacos in the city!)

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

I am an insane parallel parker.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

Underground! Before we opened Lonsdale we had this tiny, VERY sweaty, old brick building that used to be a bank. We crammed in 30 bikes, 4 fans, a step stool to balance our computers on, and a group of new instructors and just had the best summer. The first time I taught a mini class there I had that insane crazy magic RIDE feeling and I couldn’t wait for more.

#1 piece of advice for someone looking to have a killer RIDE?

Give yourself a little bit of grace. You aren’t going to perform the same way every time you get into the room but who cares? I’ve also been really into putting focus on one specific part of your RIDE & dedicating your 50 minutes to that – maybe it’s form, tension, hitting your jogs, something mental. Just listening to what your body needs that day and going with that.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Having just turned 29! I’m so excited for the last year in my 20s and beyond.

What does RIDE mean to you?

A commitment to yourself and a place where that is supported by everyone around you. RIDE is a challenge, but it’s made me so much stronger and the energy of every single person in the room contributes to what makes it so so good.

Find Danielle on the Hamilton and Lonsdale Schedules. 

Meet Shauna – a Toronto rider who has been riding with us since day one. Shauna shows up for most 6AM rides – and you’ll never hear her complain about the early hour. Instead, she brings a warm smile and genuine love for an early sweat – every time. Her dedication and low-key badass vibes are something the whole team has grown to love and admire.

What do you do for your 9-5?
I work at Jane Gill PR, a public relations agency that specializes in beauty, fashion, lifestyle and travel. I’m very fortunate to work with an amazing and talented team and we represent some of the best brands in the world.

If your bestie were to describe you in three words, what would they be?
Focused
Adventurous
Fun (I hope ?)

How long have you been coming to RIDE?
I’ve been coming to RIDE since they opened their doors.

What motivates you to get your ass to class?
It doesn’t take much to get me to class. I spring out of bed most mornings knowing that I’m going to get in a great work out. Daily exercise and healthy living is important to me and I’m an avid cyclist outside of RIDE. It’s the perfect way to start the day.

How has RIDE impacted your life?
It’s all about the energy here. Most mornings, it’s electric.

Outside of your 9-5 – tell us about all the badass things you’re up to.
This may not necessarily sound bad ass, but my main focus is family, raising our children, we have 12-year-old twins (boy and girl) and our new labradoodle puppy and trying to catch some quality time with my partner.

In your opinion, what makes RIDE’s community so unique?
The word community gets tossed around a lot in my business. At RIDE I feel genuinely connected. As a brand, RIDE gets it.

Favourite instructor and why?
I like the female 6am triumvirate of Sarah, Dani and Liz. More recently Alex. They all push me past my boundaries and consistently kick my ass in different ways. Studios are only as good as its instructors and RIDE has picked the best.

Best RIDE memory?
Probably the first time I walked into RIDE when the entrance was off of Ossington. I just remember the row of candles and the darkness, and that feeling of stepping into the unknown. It was sort of scary and thrilling at the same time. Then boom, there was Sarah with a big welcoming smile on her face.

What other workouts do you do outside of RIDE?
Studio Lagree, Moksha Yoga, Downward Dog, MISFITSTUDIO (wish they had a 6am) Pure Barre, F45.

Song you’ve got on repeat?
Lorde – Green Light
Britney Spears – Work B*tch
Drake – Nice for What
Kendrick Lamar – Love

If you could brunch with any male/lady boss who would it be?
Glossier founder Emily Weiss. She’s got it going on.

If you were to give a s/o to a local entrepreneur, who would it be?
This is an easy one. I’m obsessed and very loyal to two Toronto-based fashion brands – SMYTHE and Horses Atelier.

Describe your ideal Saturday in the city.
I don’t spend a lot of my weekends in the city, but when I do, it would be RIDE, Sud Forno (for the bombolones), neighbourhood hangs in Trinity-Bellwoods and a backyard BBQ (with take away from Agora and beer from Bellwoods Brewery).

Who motivates you?
My mom, family, friends, colleagues. I love to extract a little bit from everyone. Our children are a pretty powerful force too.

Fave quote or words to live by?
Be kind to others.

Last book you read was….
I’ve got two – Sapiens, A Brief History of Humankind and Lincoln in the Bardo.

What does RIDE mean to you?
RIDE is my favourite place to check in, work hard and sweat.

Get to know Jacs – a Vancouver instructor with a big heart and fun-loving vibe that lights up the studio. Jacs has been riding with us since our OG days – what began as a favourite way to sweat has evolved into a passion for empowering riders. Always one to show up, Jacs is an integral part of the Vancouver RIDE community.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Squamish, BC. Thanks to my parents, I grew up snowboarding, Mountain Biking, along with several other team sports. Throughout High school, I competed in Mountain Biking and Cycling on Team BC, competing in 3 National Championships as well as participating in the BC Summer Games. Squamish is the place where I was first introduced to my love for the bike.

Can you remember your first RIDE class? How long did it take until you realized you wanted to become an instructor?

My first RIDE class was with JJ, shortly after Hamilton Studio first opened back in September of 2014. I remember the class was packed and I was hidden somewhere in the back. The energy of the instructor, the vibe of the room and the intensity of the riders, sparked excitement in me… I was immediately hooked! RIDE quickly became my home and the clients/staff I met, my family. I was a #rideordie client for 3 solid years before I decided to become an instructor. For me, it was the next step on my RIDE journey. Today, I feel so lucky to get to recreate the excitement that I felt in my very first class.

How would you describe your teaching style?

Brooke and Julie both say “Sweaty, Saucy and NFA”. I have to admit, I do have the nickname “Sweaty Jacs”. I own that.

Best part of being an instructor is…

Personally, the best part of being an instructor is watching your clients advance. There is nothing better than seeing a client stand up for an entire Jog for their very first time. It makes me feel so proud and it reminds me of how it felt for me.

Track you’ve had on repeat

Fade – No Mana.

AM or PM rides?

PM. Finish the day with a RIDE and you will sleep easy.

Favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE?

My favourite way to sweat outside of RIDE is with my fam at All City Athletics. I have been boxing for just over a year now and it compliments RIDE so well. If you haven’t tried it out yet, I would definitely recommend!

How has becoming a RIDE instructor changed you?

Confidence. If you had asked me 3 years ago if I would get up in front of a room full of people and lead a 50 minute class, I would have laughed. Now, it is the space where I feel the most confident, strapping on a mic, dancing around the room and completely letting go.

Go-to quote or words to live by?

Tomorrow is a new day.

Who motivates you?

Other instructors. We are constantly supporting each other by sharing music and giving feedback. I couldn’t do it without them.

What’s your #1 life hack?

Avoid city traffic: ride your bike.

Where can we find you on a Saturday afternoon in the city?

After my 9:35am RIDE class, you will find me on the seawall with my dog, Stanley.

Any hidden or not so hidden talents?

Unofficial RIDE photographer. Shout out to Portrait mode.

Best memory since you joined RIDE?

My best memories are summer RIDE events. There is nothing like sweating in the sun! Last summer, we hauled down 10+ bikes to the Lonsdale night market and road for hours in the heat of summer. Couldn’t stop smiling.

#1 piece of advice for someone looking to have a killer RIDE?

Don’t be so hard on yourself. Soak up the energy of the room and have some fun.

What has you stoked on life right now?

Summer in Vancouver!

What does RIDE mean to you?

RIDE has changed my life. It is so much more than a workout because of the community that I’ve become a part of. I have met some of my best friends here.

Find Jacs on the Hamilton and Lonsdale Schedules.