Winnipeg’s first cycle studio offers high-intensity workout
Jess Korol, CONTRIBUTOR
Amie Seier teaches a spin class at Saikel, Winnipeg’s first cycle studio that combines a club-like atmosphere with working out. THE PROJECTOR/ Jess Korol
High-energy music blasts through the doors of a studio while cyclists push through the last interval of their 45-minute class. White lights shine through the dark room as they leave with sweat and smiles on their faces.
This spin class looks and sounds more like a club.
“It is a new spin on an old idea,” said the cycle studio’s owner, Dustin Marks. “I went to Calgary to take a few classes and collaborated with my business partner, Mike Booth, and we just ran with it.”
The owners named the business Saikel and opened it in April 2016. At the time, it was Winnipeg’s first spin studio, a cycling gym that uses intense music to motivate riders.
The concept has gained more traction recently with Winnipeg opening its second spin studio, WPG Cycle Studio, in October.
RRC grad Amie Seier teaches one of Saikel’s classes. Seier taught spin classes in Calgary before moving to Winni- peg. She wanted to develop a program here that was similar to the ones she taught in Calgary but with her own spin to it.
She came up with Saikel Sound, a high-intensity class that drives the cyclists to spin at the beat of the music while incorporating an upper body workout and a whole lot of dance.
During Seier’s time at RRC, she found herself not working out as much as she does now. She is more energized, even though her job is just as intense as school was.
“You think you won’t be able to fit it in, but when you do it makes a huge difference,” said Seier. “I am a huge advocate for daily cardiovascular activity.”
Seier said she’s more on top of deadlines and can think more clearly since adding a workout to her daily routine.
“I wish I knew that in college,” said Seier.
Saikel has classes for both experienced and beginner cyclists. Saikel challenges experienced cyclists with high-intensity intervals and hill stages. There are leaderboards located at the front of the studio to show participants how they are performing against other cyclists. Posting results on the leaderboard is optional.
Saikel’s beginner class, Saikel 101, is designed to build endurance and strength while participants learn the cycle lingo. Recently, the studio added a class called Saikel Starter, which helps cyclists learn about their bikes while still getting their sweat on.
Saikel offers a 15 per cent discount to students on their monthly memberships and class packages.
For more information on classes and where to sign up, visit saikelstudio.com
