Liesl

My slightly older sister, Micheline, can once again be held responsible for my introduction to something new. One visit to her SPINNING® studio in California and I returned as one of the converted. Back in Toronto, I continued to SPIN® (forever seeking out the perfect studio) and rushed out and got certified to teach. I have been physically active and somewhat fit my entire life, however SPINNING® proved to be the missing link.

My first attraction was the fact that this intensive workout for both the body and mind, fit so nicely into my busy and hectic lifestyle. After 9 years of working in film and television, I needed a program to suit the long work days. I've often started the 12 to 14 hour day with a SPIN® and have even been crazy enough to break up the day with a SPIN® and then returned to work re-focused and rejuvenated.

At quad with my sister and partners, we have tried to create the type of atmosphere that will inspire others to enjoy SPINNING® and ultimately change their lives.

Anouk

I have always been an active individual with lots of energy. My mom MADE me take a class one day! It was a tough and painful ride but I was determined to get better and make this sport my own. I got certified six months later and have been teaching since then. I have been teaching for five years in a variety of gyms. My passion for cycling and my swimming background pushed me towards triathlons. I do a few during the summer. I find that having a goal makes it easier to attain intensity and stimulation when training.

Although I train at all times of the day, I am a morning girl. I shine when the sun comes up! Spinning is a healthy escape in my manic workday. I manage to take my rides wherever I want and try to help my students do the same. We can go from Bora Bora to southern France all in one morning. A temporary escape in which you let imagination dominate your thoughts is always a healthy way to start off our day.

I felt at home after the first class I taught at Quad. It is a community that comes together to get healthier. I am excited to be a part of their team.

Chris

I first tried spinning about a year ago, expecting the exercise equivalent of cauliflower - something that's barely tolerable but (supposedly) good for you. But what I found was something else completely.

Whereas most sport or exercise is very goal-oriented and results driven, spinning to me is all about The Experience. Regardless of whether you're an elite athlete or a first-timer, whether you've having your best day on the bike or you've just rolled out of bed, spinning offers you the opportunity to push yourself to your personal limits in a fun and supportive environment.

As an instructor I find it incredibly rewarding to see the impact that spinning can have on individuals, who arrive drained from the daily grind and then transform again through the simple joy of movement. The best things in life really are free.

Ultimately, spinning will be a fit for some people and not for others. However, I truly believe its core value of exploring and challenging your own personal limits - whatever those may be - will always be an essential part of a healthy mental and physical lifestyle...

Magz

I came to Quad at a crossroads in my life. Full of anxiety and stress, my first Spin class offered an escape. Here I could focus on what really mattered, my breathing, my health and my strength. Quad also offered a warm and comfortable social atmosphere and awesome music.

Getting work at the desk, I felt inspired to spin consistently. I felt my body changing and my mind clearing. I was eating and sleeping better had more energy during the day. I suddenly became more conscientious of my overall health and realized the benefits were reaching far beyond the one hour class.

This enthusiasm and the exposure to all the talented instructors made me eager to teach. I wanted to share this experience with others, to help others feel the enormous benefit and fun of a spinning routine. I have always been active, playing sports, running and climbing, but spinning stuck as a consistent workout because it is always new. Different instructors bring different styles and different music. There is no better motivator than good music and this intrinsic link with the exercise makes spinning challenging and demanding yet FUN!

I am very excited to share this experience with others and hope to see you for a ride.

Virginie

Nothing feels better than getting through the initial minutes of warm up and feeling your muscles loosen up, your motivation increase and your thirst for the ride surface: it happens every time... No sport provides me with more energy and satisfaction than spinning. And truly, no sport combines a team environment with an individual journey quite the same way.

I have been teaching spinning for six years. This sport has taken me through my schooling, my first real job and my first pregnancy and now, it is taking me through my daughter Lola's second year.

The determination and passion I feel towards spinning is reflected in all my classes. I am very excited in being a part of the team at Quad.

Rehana

Spinning has been an important part of my life for several years now. I was an aerobic instructor prior to spinning, but once I was introduced the intensity of each spinning class, I knew I wanted to instruct classes that could fuel that power. I always found working out to be a necessity before being introduced to spinning. Now, it is my hour to escape and do something good for my mind, body, and spirit.

When I first walked into Quad West, I was in awe with the open & serene studio, the knowledgeable instructors, the family feel, and the passion that unleashes once the music is on. After years of teaching, I still felt like a novice when I entered Quad West, and realized quickly that I had a lot to learn. I was incredibly fortunate to have met Martin & Miche, who saw something in me that I hoped to find myself. Being part of the team at Quad is truly a privilege because I really believe that the quality of instructing here is parallel to none. Through training at the studio, I learned all about the Quad philosophy Ð the focus that is put on correct form, proper technique, and how to truly maximize each class. The studio provides such a tranquil feel that it is impossible not to escape while you are here, taking time out of each busy day for yourself and working towards your goals.

I want each person who walks into my class to leave feeling stronger, healthier, and more confident. I want to work with each of you to reach your personal goals and to ensure that you have fun while doing it. I look forward to sharing my passion for spinning with you!

Niara

I came to spinning reluctantly. My buddy and spin-sistah, Shannon Farr, asked me if I wanted to check out "some interesting looking bike-thing in a basement on King Street". My first class was with Micheline. Despite all the beginner aches and pains I was hooked pretty fast.

Spinning, like many wonderful things, is simple in its elements : Bikes, Music, People. Mixed together, they form a thrilling, energizing and rewarding work-out. Spinning has returned me to a delight in the bike I haven't felt since childhood. The musical element provides great personal groove time and has introduced me to music I might not have listened to otherwise (hello hip-hip and so much more). I have also re-discovered a pleasure and confidence in my body, lost since earlier, more athletic days. To top it all, completing spin after spin, with all sorts of different challenges thrown at you, connects you to that inner ninja, I think lurks inside all of us.

Over a period of four years spinning at Quad, I have become a spinning enthusiast, plain and simple and what's more fun that sharing something you love with a bunch of other folks who love it too?

See you on a ride.

Maxine

I began spinning in 1997, at a gym where my membership was paid for by my employer. I fell in love with it right away, and was diligent in going 3-4 times/week. Unfortunately, about two years later, my employer stopped paying the membership dues, and since it wasn't worth the cost to use only the spinning, I sadly stopped. Then, in 2003, at a Running Room Marathon Clinic, Miche and Mike showed up with a spin bike to do a demo, and talk about Quad. Well, I almost burst at the seams with excitement watching Miche instruct while Mike broke into a sweat after only about five minutes, and the thought of a spinning only gym was unbelievable! About a week later I showed up for a morning class, and the rest is history! Since I began spinning at Quad/Quad West, I have done many marathons, triathlons, duathlons, and have become an avid long distance cyclist. Spinning is a huge part of my workout regime, and Quad & Quad West are like an extension of my family. I am proud to be a part of such a great place, and of an amazing team of instructors!

Claudine

I am the proud mother of 3, a personal trainer, and a fitness instructor. I have been involved in the fitness industry for over 15 years. I tried my first spin class in 2001 and thinking that I was fairly fit I assumed I would have no problem keeping up with the class. Boy did I get a reality check. As much as I struggled through the class I loved the challenge and was immediately hooked. I am now a certified instructor and have been teaching for 4 years. The music, the people and great energy makes for an incredible ride!

Susan

Spinning has been a passion of mine for over 10 years. Each time I spin, the stress and pressures of the investment industry, of everyday life, just fall away. Spinning has become much more than a workout. It's a positive escape, a way to relax and unwind. The motion of the pedal strokes, the rhythm of the music, the deep breath, the sweat...I lose myself in these moments on the bike. At the end, I'm smiling from the inside out.

Having suffered various injuries, I appreciate the low impact nature of spinning. I've done a wide variety of fitness activities Ð running, boxing, aerobics, step, aquafit, yoga, pilates. The one constant has always been the spinning. It offers an excellent cardio workout, and overall conditioning. It's accessible to everyone at any fitness level and any age. I have also found that yoga and pilates are excellent complements to my spinning program.

As a teacher my goal is to help you discover how spinning will fit into your own path toward fitness and well being. I hope to offer a good workout in a fun atmosphere. I want you to lose yourself in the moments you give to the spin, and in the end experience the bliss this unique workout offers.

Donna

Do I have a bit of a type A personality? Yah, I would say so! Is that why I love spin so much? Definitely, that is partially the reason!!

A Native to Northern Ontario, I moved to the Wild West right after I graduated from U.W.O. A bit of a fetish for extreme sports I spent most of my first 8 years there on the ski hill. Once the mountain bike was discovered I took to the mountains again for the summer months.

My husband introduced me to the mountain bike, I hung up the road bike and we spent many amazing hours grunting it out in the Rockies! And competed in a few Duathalons to keep my road bike from rusting out!

We were moved to Chicago in 2000, with not a mountain in site!! Baby #3 due in 4 weeks after arriving in Chicago, I spent my "free" time in the gym. Spinning was on the schedule (I have never been to a fitness class prior to Chicago as I spent all my gym time in the weight room), what the heck I thought maybe I could keep my bike legs in shape….I just about cried after the class was complete. How could indoor cycling be this hard?

Anyway the rest is history! I fell in love with the challenge, became great friends with the instructor that taught this great spin class. She then introduced me to Power Yoga and the combination was a winner for me. With a great cardio release in Spin, and a great athletic Yoga to stretch my hard working muscles, the combination really developed an incredible mind and body connection. The fitness club I attended in Chicago offered me some time slots to teach spin, but unable to work in the U.S. I had to wait until we moved back to Canada in February 2003.

Once we moved to Toronto, I was on the hunt for a great spin environment. I read an article in the Star about this spin studio called Quad. I booked a time, came to a class, loved the location the ambience and the shared passion from the instructors and the members. I called Micheline & Martin, begged for an interview and here we are!!

I love what I do, and it is all that I do for work. I continue to study yoga, take courses in spinning and always search for great music! I hope to be a part of the Quad Squad for a very long time! If you ever have any questions on my classes feel free to email me dgray0693@rogers.com

Matt

Having spent the summer of 2005 training for four triathlons, I was eager to find a new outlet in my hectic training schedule. A good friend woke me up one morning to ask me to go Spinning. Having never gone, I accepted the challenge and the rest is apparently history! From the very beginning I was drawn to the power of both the music as well as being one with the bike. Being lucky enough to be taken under the wing of both Micheline and Martin early on - my tour of madness began. Spinning truly allows freedom of the mind and body and taking the role of instructor, I want to pass on this truly paralyzing and indredible addiction Ð its for people of all walks of life Ð so rock on and lets rideÉ

Rae

physical activity has always been an important part of my life. having two active parents as role models only fueled my passion and it seemed only natural that i would fall into teaching. however my initial experiences were less than positive as i felt rushed and pressured. my first spinning classes were too big, too impersonal and unfriendly and so i decided that teaching and spinning were not for me. in 2003 i felt the need to add a bit of an edge to my work outs and stumbled onto quad in Toronto and decided to give spinning another try. the gym was cozy and intimate and the teachers were warm yet demanding. i was immediately hooked and when the opportunity came about to start teaching in 2006 i gladly accepted. I hope that I may perhaps rekindle your love of riding or introduce you to an exercise that I am so passionate about.

Quintin

i came to quad primarily to find a way to maintain my endurance fitness level and muscle memory in my downhill cycling off-season. being an avid mountain biker, it was very important to expose myself to physical challenges that related to my sport and found spinning to be the perfect thing. using resistance and speed the quad instructors provided me a challenging workout that kept me fit leading into my next riding season. then i came to a work-shop offered at quad west and after going over all of the basics of form and shown what goes into designing a great spinning class, i considered teaching. i am constantly surprised by all of the diversities and challenges that spinning provides and i hope to share those with you.

Ian

My friends affectionally call me the "Fat man" as a reminder of when I weighed 340 lbs. I tried many ways of getting the weight off, it was only through Spinning I began to get amazing results, I lost over 120 lbs. I was so blown away by the effectiveness of the program that I decided to become an instructor. As an ACE certified Personal Trainer, I recommend Spinning as an integral part of any training regime.

What do I like about Spinning:

I like the high I get when I am in complete harmony with my body, breath and the bike.

Why Do I like Teaching:

I like giving back what I have received from the Spinning program. I also enjoy helping people achieve their fitness goals.

My favourite Spinning Move:

Long Standing Climbs

My Pet Peeve:

Country Music (Except Shania Twain)

Most Inspirational Person:

Lance Armstrong

Goals:

To compete in Adventure Racing
Bring my body fat percentage to under 10%

Martin

I have been spinning since the year 2000 after being very afraid of the SPINNING® classes I have walked by for 5 years. I have always been a bicyclist having rode across Europe in my teens but was primarily resistance training for the past ten years with 10 minute sessions on the life cycle.

After my 3rd SPIN®, I knew I had found my sport and feel it is almost the perfect work-out. I love the entire format; the length, the group dynamic, the motivational instruction and the music.

I learn something new every SPIN® I do or teach.

Dave

I've always been a bike guy. The bike appeals to me in so many ways - it's practical and pragmatic transportation, it's a ticket to freedom and adventure and competition and of course it's a great way to stay in shape - even more so for those of us whose knees are aging disproportionately to the rest of our bodies. So, as a bike guy, the Spinning concept instantly appealed to me and sitting down for the first class was an easy step. As with most first timers, that first class was exhilarating, exhausting, demoralizing and inspirational - but I knew the feeling I had when I climbed off the bike was one I wanted to have again and again. Seven years later, Spinning has become an important part of my life and I'm more addicted to that feeling than ever before.

After 5 years of taking classes and experiencing instructors that I loved and some that drove me nuts, I decided to become one. My teaching philosophy? Keep things simple (I came to ride - not think), select the best music you can and let people find their own limits. Stated another way - shut-up and ride! I try to follow the Spinning principle of only doing exercises that you would do on a real bike. Plenty of hills, interval training, strength training - all with longer sets that allow you to find your own rhythm and get lost in your thoughts. Let your daily worries fall to the floor with your sweat.

I inquired about teaching at Quad because they have great facilities (including a killer stereo!), a laid back atmosphere and committed members. I feel fortunate to be part of the team and I always feel privileged to lead a group of enthusiastic riders through an experience that I enjoy so much. If you haven't tried a Spin class yet, all I can say is - dive in and see where it takes you - there are a lot of people out there who will tell you it has changed their lives for the better. I'm one of them.

Micheline

quad owner , mother of three (Aidan, Sawyer & Mannix) and Auntie to Joachim and Wren.

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a teacher. First I became a school teacher like my mom, then an art teacher, then a film tutor. I moved to California where, enticed by a first free class, I stumbled into SPINNING®. I pedaled miserably and puffed my way through the most intense 45 minutes.

Tired of dieting and living with 30 pounds that didn't feel like me, I made up my mind to conquer this sport. I lost the 30 pounds in 4 months and was asked to start teaching. This led me to opening a SPINNING® gym in the San Fernando Valley in California. And now there is quad, a business I share with people I love.

I hope my classes radiate with the joy I feel when I am sharing the SPINNING® experience as it changed my life.

Cherilee

Fitness is my passion and passion rules my life. Through all of life¹s challenges, I find it essential to have a healthy mind, body and spiritual connection. It takes constant discipline but the journey is well worth the ride.

Growing up, I danced and competed in swimming and track but it wasn¹t until I moved to L.A. a few years ago pursuing my acting career that I had my first rides in the canyons. Well, I always prided myself in keeping up with the couriers on the streets of Toronto, but nothing captured me more than the thrill and challenge of the climb. I was hooked.

I got certified with Kaiser and Johnny G down in L.A. and taught for a year before returning to Toronto. Back in Toronto, I have been teaching Spinning, Swiss Ball, and Body Strength Classes as well as being a certified personal trainer. I am a self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie who loves to infuse my class with energy, challenge and motivation. Nothing thrills me more than to see people push themselves, feel good and have fun. See you on the road.

Cheers!

Mike

Ok, my testimony:

"My first exposure to Spinning was five years ago when my mother (45 years old at the time - sorry Mom!) dragged me to a Spinning class at her gym. That first class was one of the most humbling fitness experiences of my life - firstly because prior to the class I thought that I was fit, and secondly because I was in a class with 15 women that were over twice my age, and spinning twice as fast as I was. Determined to get up to their level, I continued going to classes. The end result was a mentorship under an amazing instructor, and getting my certification to instruct 4 months later. I totally fell in love with SPINNING®.

The most intriguing part of a SPINNING® class is the journey that is set before you - and it is totally your choice on how you want to make that journey. The most important aspect of this though is that you can find your limits during every class - on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level, and then try to go a step beyond those limits. The result is a fully blown out rollercoaster ride, but always ending with the same feeling - accomplishment.

That's what spinning is to me, and I try to convey this in every class."

When I'm not spinning, you can often find me here!

Rob

Hi Everyone,

Why Quad:

I came to Quad first as a rider looking for some extra seat time during the winter months. As an avid Triathlete and Half Ironman racer I was looking for a great place to stay in shape during those tough winter months. It only took 30 min in my first class to realize that Quad was different from any other place I had worked out. The instructor got off the bike because I had a calf cramp and instructed me how to get rid of the pain and at the same time I had my water bottle filled up for. This was all in the effort to keep me on the bike and riding. This again was the reason I came to the class.

Why Teach:

This kind of experience was so interesting that when my wife, Charlotte, suggested I get my instructors, I agreed. It was a natural extension of my philosophy of sport and working with others to achieve their best. Martin and Miche gave me a call to try out a new 75 min endurance class Saturday mornings early fall 2003. We knew the potential was there for a great class and since its inception 1.5 years ago the class has grown to be almost full every Saturday morning. Friday evenings was a very similar experience and both of the classes are now my babies.

To my group (regular or new):

Most parents say they think their kids are the best, but really I have say that my two classes have really created an extended family of the best Spinners. I enjoy every class and seeing everyone come out, work hard on the bike and keep improving week over week. As new people have entered the group the atmosphere is always inviting and encouraging of others to do their best and rivalries amongst some of the guys makes for good fun in the final minutes of our last hill climb or sprint to the end.

Thanks so much for a great first year and supporting the classes I teach. This year will be even better than last.

See you on the bike!

Scott

Schwinn Spinning Instructor
Expert Mountain Biker
Adventure Racer

I have raced mountain bikes in Ontario for over 10 years and have been sponsored by various numbers of companies and organizations including OGC, Bontrager, Bolle, Freewheel Cycle, and Power Bar. I have also competed in numerous Ontario Cup events, several Canada Cup races, and 8 Hour and 36 Hour Adventure Races.

I am a certified Schwinn Spin Instructor specializing in longer Spin classes of an hour or more. I have 2 children who also participate in numerous sporting events such as: triathlons, Ontario Cup mountain bike races, Swim meets, and Equestrian events. I have also been active in the community in various capacities such as: coaching soccer teams, Big Brothers, and charitable events.

Natalie

I was introduced to spinning in California when my dear friend miche begged me to come and take her class and I was hooked. miche and spinning helped me get into the sveltest shape of my life before I had to be in a bikini on film which is terrifying for anyone. I returned home and started to teach for miche at quad became pregnant and spun my way through my pregnancy which I would highly recommend. quad is what spinning is all about a non-club, non-gym, groovy studio to have a fun ride in and sweat like you love it.

Brett

I have always loved cycling and as a fellow South African to Johnny G (the creator of this exercise) I jumped at a chance to try Spinning. As I am a University Professor and Can Fit Pro Certified it was a natural for me to incorporate my love of teaching with my respect for the bike.

Casey

I am bewitched, obsessed, and captivated with SPINNING®. I believe that your mind rules your body, and when your body is feeling alive, it rules your mind. This is what the ride does for me, every time.

I just recently returned to Toronto from New York via Los Angeles. It was in sunny LA LA land that I found my dream of passion, SPINNING®. That was five years ago, and at that time I was spinning five times a week at RPM (Micheline's former LA spot). I was asked to get certified and have now been teaching in New York and Toronto for 2 years.

I am driven by my students' energy and determination. I believe that the ride can take you to any place you are willing to let it take you.

Larry Eduardo

I was born in Venezuela and came to Canada less than a decade ago to work in the fitness industry. I have over 15 years experience as an instructor, teaching Hi and Low Impact, Step, Spinning, Hip-Hop, Body-Toning and Aero-Salsa. At the age of eight I jump-started my athletic career by swimming competitively in Venezuela, winning many competitions along the way. In 1987 I competed in the National University Championships, representing my university in Track and Field. Then in 1992 I designed my own training program becoming Venezuelan Triathlon Champion in my age group and became a member of the national team to compete in the World Championship. In 1994 I won top prize in the Venezuelan Aerobics Competition and I also placed 16th at the World Aerobics Championship in Las Vegas. I have a great love for biking and my best triathlon time in the 40 km bike has been 55 minutes. I hope that my experience and love for Spinning will bring you a new admiration for this intense and excellent exercise.

Jane

I started teaching in the fitness industry 12 years ago. I have since outlasted many trends in that time. Since I have discovered SPINNING, I have found a way to continually motivate and inspire people to reach beyond their current expectations.

Canfit Pro Specialist in Post and Prenatal Exercise

A.C.E. Lifestyle Consultant for Weight Loss Management

C.P.T.N Personal Trainer

Karen

My first introduction to spinning came when I got a job working the front desk at Quad. Not knowing much about the sport, I was reluctant to give it a shot - thinking those who did spin were crazy! After working the desk for a few months I finally worked up the courage and got on the bike. Having been a dancer and athlete my whole life, I figured I could handle spinning - boy was I wrong! With the aggressive ("I can do anything") athlete attitude, I pushed myself too hard and barely finished the class. However, that same attitude is what brought me back the following week (enough time to allow my body to recover...), as I wouldn't allow myself to give up. I got back on the bike for my second class, to only discover the "spinner high" - I've been hooked ever since.

After leaving dance full time, I was looking to find something that would provide the same benefits. I found that spinning was the perfect solution as I was able to maintain long, lean muscles, as well as increase my endurance and stamina.

I have since been an avid spinner at Quad - training and learning from the best. The atmosphere at Quad radiates an amazing fun and positive energy. I hope my classes will help to dispel any negative thoughts on the sport (as I once had), and share with you an incredible experience and ride.

Marc

i am a personal trainer, spinning instructor and a tri-athlete..

spinning is a journey to the extreme for me just like the iron man competitions that i train for and perform in each year. but spinning is where i build my endurance and is one of my favorite power building routines.

i like to push my class to the maximum and allow them to find new and fresh personal thresholds based on intense beats and cadence control.

Tom

My goal is to bring the outdoors in.
My classes are like mountain biking in aggressive terrain. Simply put: Spin, rinse, and repeat.

I emphasise chunky climbs (strength training) with motivating climbing oriented music and dialogue for optimum experience/performance.

I believe that 90 per cent of Spinning is showing up and then inspiration is provided by the person next to you, the group and the teacher. That is why my music has a crank element to it.

I am an avid Adventure Racer so I hope to add a running element to my program in the coming months if there is a demand.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or experienced Spinner bike rider, I will welcome and challenge each and every one of you.

Ed

I've been a competitive cyclist on and off for the last 10 years. Initially I was into mountain biking in a big way, but in the last 4 to 5 years I have been strictly racing road bikes. I find it truly addictive, humbling, and occasionally very rewarding.

During the racing season I will usually ride over 10,000 km and enter 30 to 40 races. I compete mostly in the local scene but will travel into the US and Quebec for some of the large races a few times each summer. I am currently riding for KHS Bicycles Canada, entering my second year on this team.

I began SPINNING four years ago as a means to maintain some fitness through the long, cold Toronto winters. After my first winter of SPINNING I was able to start the season with better fitness than ever before, and already at my optimal race weight. The program works, and it was a great way to stay motivated and meet like-minded people. I will be leaving quad in a few weeks to head south and kick off the season with a training camp in South Carolina, but will return to Quad in October for some intense winter sessions.

James

Whether I'm spinning for an hour or touring for days, on the bike is where I feel the most alive. From triathlons to the long road, I bring my love for the bike into the indoors, and share with participants some of my wildest cycling adventures around the globe.

Ride with me, through some of the most spectacular endurance Tours in Europe, or put yourself to the challenge of the Andirondacks in Lake Placid or tackle the climb up Whistler Mountain.

Being a Montreal Boy, I remember riding up Mount-Royal thinking that it was the biggest mountain in the world. Just recently moved to Toronto, September of 2003, I have decided to retire my cleats from the circuit and focus on indoor cycling. I am excited about joining the quad crew and look forward to some great rides with all of you.

William

Hey there!
My name's William; I'm 33yrs old, I am known for my intense "type A" personality, loving life with a passion and living it to the fullest as much as I possibly can.

"I Would Rather Die of Thirst than Drink from the Cup of Mediocrity!!"

STRENGTHS: Power climbing, intensity, endurance, staying strong under extreme pressure, ability to push the pace at the toughest of times.

Life before SPINNING: When I was 10 yrs old, I decided I wanted to be a "head-banging" linebacker in the Superbowl, hit a Grand-Slam in the World Series, and blast through the finish line in La Tour de France, proudly sporting the "yellow jersey." Even at that young age, I knew my little body was built for hardcore and intense sports. I followed my dreams till I was about 20 yrs old and then lost myself in the world of Hospitality. Cafes, Restaurants, Bars, Clubs, etc...Waiter, Bartender, Manager, Maitre'd, etc…you name it in that biz and I did it...and still do it extremely well.

I's a great business to be in especially if you love people as much as I do. For me it was all about being able to create a positive impact in the lives of others at any given time. I immediately realized that I was damn good at that and quickly became consumed by the whole industry; I loved it and lived it everyday for about ten years. Unfortunately, the wonderful world of hospitality ended up being long nights of drinking and drugs, which I was also very good at. So of course down the tubes went my dreams of wearing any kind of "yellow jersey" (aside from that extra-large beer T-shirt from Labatt)…or hitting a "homerun," (except for maybe getting to 3rd base with the hot "chick" at the end of the bar).

Well, when I turned 30 I finally woke up "hung-over" (just before it was too late) and smelled the coffee for the last time. I realized that I'd had enough of the whole "booze, drugs and rock & roll" lifestyle and that it was time to re-find myself and my lost soul. The next day I walked myself in to the Addiction Center, quit drinking, stopped using drugs (even caffeine), and decided I wanted more out of life than late nights and smoke-filled environments.

soon found out that my body had never lost its love and passion for sports & fitness. I tried this "Spinning" thing once and at first thought it was for girls. I tried it a few more times and well...here I am!

I's been 2 years that I've been living a "clean & sober" lifestyle; I'm a vegetarian, lost 50lbs, and haven't felt this good in over ten years. I play hockey, squash, I rock climb, am getting into adventure racing and of course race bikes as much as I can (mountain & road).

I knew Spinning would be a great work-out alternative in the winter / off-season but once again, I wanted more out of it than just a great work out. Since I am always looking for a personal challenge and seeking to make a difference, I saw that becoming a certified spinning instructor would allow me to continue doing just that.

So I'm the "new guy" here at Quad and am just loving it! I feel that Spinning and coaching others to Spin have helped me to re-connect with myself -- Mind Body & Soul -- while affording me an opportunity to "give back" to life and hopefully still leave a positive impact on the lives of others.

I would like to thank everyone here at Quad, especially Micheline & Martin for seeing something in me and giving me a chance; their continued support is greatly appreciated and pushes me to be a worthy instructor and a better human being. Thanx for everything guys!!!

"RIDE HARD...LIVE LIFE...BE FREE!"

See you all out there!

Trina

For the love of the Bike!!

Growing up in small town Ontario, (population 2500), where there are three stoplights and lots of spare time, I was always an active person. If we weren't in the fields, the boys were playing hockey and the girls were figure skating. Skating was my first passion and took me away from home to compete at the national level. This urge to compete and be the best lent itself to the driven person I am.

When it was time to move on from competitive skating, I found a new passion in Mountain Biking. My first race was a friendly 24 hr race with friends that captured my competitiveness and the challenges of being an athlete again. I parlayed this experience into The Fly Gulrz, who after one season of sport-riding, have now added me to their race team for 2005.

Spinning is a tool I use to help me get up to pace with my competition for the race season. Most of the competition had been racing for years, but since I begun spinning I have noticed how little the gap is between them and me.

Fitness and a healthy, well-balanced life is what I try to achieve every day. Spinning offers just that. A quick fast intense work out to make you feel accomplished.

At the beginning of every class I like to highlight the goals of the ride we are about to embark on. Whether it be heart rate, endurance, pedal stroke or breathing techniques to improve heart rate, there is something for all levels in every ride I teach. I like to pull out the competitive nature in everyone and challenge them to push themselves to a new level. See you in class….

Mr. Knightley

Ruuuuffffff.
                                                                                                                                                                                    

Amy

I have been a gym rat since I was 16 years old. I never led a fitness group until I got on a Spin bike and then I wanted to share my love with other Spinners. The adrenaline, energy, amazing music and the vibe of a class was something I wanted everyone to experience. It was my calling to spread the Spinning gospel.

Jess

Spinning for me is the perfect sport. It balances individual achievement, group spirit and great music all into one action-packed hour.

I used to run a lot, but after years of over training, poor diet and three marathons in one year, my body gave up. I spent two years in extensive physiotherapy for a femoral stress fracture and tendonitis. Gym equipment was my only option for physical exercise and I soon found myself feeling like a hamster in a wheel. The thought of an hour on gym equipment at the end of the day became something I dreaded. Gone was the feeling of achievement and personal success, not to mention the great "exercise high", I'd had while running.

Spinning became a place where my muscles were strengthened, my mind was challenged and my spirits were elevated. I'd found that "high" again. I had the leadership of great instructors, team spirit of fellow classmates, and I saw great results! The music was great and there was nothing holding me back.

Now stronger thanks to Spinning, I'm able to run again, but I'll never give up my passion for this great sport. Helping another team member make the successful journey through a class is a fantastic feeling and an opportunity to share my enthusiasm. I don't think you can ever stop learning or improving through Spinning. Having the opportunity to teach has taken this adventure to a new level.

I try to bring a level of energy to my classes through great music and a respect for each individual's ability to push themselves. Each class is an opportunity to try harder, move faster and extend your understanding of your own capabilities. I look forward to seeing you in class, and would love to hear your story and experiences with Spinning.

Laura

I have a 3 year background in personal training and SPIN instruction. Teaching and training has driven me to evolve through continued education, professional development and exceeding my client's expectations. I thrive in an environment that demands I remain firmly at the top of my game, and that's why I'm happy to be teaching here at quad.

Certification

• Certified Spinning Instructor - Madd Dogg Athletes
• Personal Training - Can-Fit-Pro
• Yoga Fit - Levels 1 and 2

Seminars

• Aerobic Base Building - Madd Dogg
• Spintensity - Madd Dogg
• Contraindications in Spinning Class - Madd Dogg
• Yoga Fusion - Donna Read & Helen Vandor Burg - Nike

Current Studies

• Wellness & Nutrition Specialist - Can-Fit-Pro
• Yoga Fit - Yoga Fit Training Systems

Matt

Having spent the summer of 2005 training for four triathlons, I was eager to find a new outlet in my hectic training schedule. A good friend woke me up one morning to ask me to go Spinning. Having never gone, I accepted the challenge and the rest is apparently history! From the very beginning I was drawn to the power of both the music as well as being one with the bike. Being lucky enough to be taken under the wing of both Micheline and Martin early on - my tour of madness began. Spinning truly allows freedom of the mind and body and taking the role of instructor, I want to pass on this truly paralyzing and indredible addiction Ð its for people of all walks of life Ð so rock on and lets rideÉ