exercise is an important part of any healthy/balanced lifestyle. today where we spend most of our time running from one activity to the next (may it be occupational, social or recreational) it is hard to find a moment to fit in physical activity.

indoor cycling offers a perfect solution to a busy schedule while trying to fit a challenging workout into a set amount of time. within 45 minutes to an hour of an indoor ride, i am rejuvenated, energized and i have taken one more step toward bettering my fitness and myself.

i have been an active member of quad since november 2006, and i am both proud and elated to now be a part of the quad instructing team. each and every instructor has something different to offer, so your mind nor your body will ever adapt or tire of the classes.

i look forward to leading you toward your fitness and lifestyle goals, may it be riding beside you in a class or in front of you during my own.

i have been a devoted fitness guy for more than 30 years and have always been a distance swimmer and runner. being a corporate guy for most of my life, i finally stopped "lunch meetings" and started to hit the pool every day instead. about 11 years ago, my regular pool was closed for maintenance and a friend convinced me to try spinning at a small studio in toronto ? i loved it, and started taking about 7 classes a week. this led me to doing triathlons, getting certified as a spin instructor and i began teaching in toronto 2 years ago.

i discovered quad about a year ago, and still do as many classes as i can every week. i love the atmosphere at quad and the people and instructors are the best. i am delighted to add my variety to an already tremendous group of teachers. whether you are just starting out, or you are an experienced spinner, i want my classes to be fun for every skill level and try to make sure that everyone rides at their own pace. my classes always have a theme and feature the quad west synchronized spinning rides.

In my life I have three passions: yoga, house music and indoor cycling.

My first spin class was at a summer training camp for varsity cross country. Believing I was in the best shape of my life, I was dumbfounded at how a 45 minute class could beat me to the ground as much as it did. From a combination of the music and the energy of everyone around me, I couldn't help but push myself to my absolute limit, I couldn't help but see how far my body could really go. And as the saying goes: from then on, I was hooked.

After a few years of taking classes, every time I would get a new album I could only think of how it would work in a cycling class. I took a schwinn training and let my love of music and spin marry.

I believe that the time we put into a class is truly for us, and in the lives we lead- that time is rare. When we come to a class, it doesn't matter what happened before. It doesn't matter what will happen after. For the time we're there we can forget everything that is happening in our lives; get lost in the ride, the music, the energy... And come out feeling -every time- like a new person.

While athletics has always been a big part of my life, I first turned to indoor cycling to recover from a running injury. I wasn't so sure about working out on a stationary bike ? it reminded me too much of the 80's, step-class and legwarmers! However, after my first few 'rides', I became aware of the depth of this sport. The unique combination of music and coaching really brought focus to my strength and cardio training. What appealed to me most was the opportunity to work at my own pace in a group setting.

Not only did I heal my running injury through regular training sessions on the bike, but I found a new and addictive passion. I also found the perfect environment at Quad. After checking out a few places, none of them matched the quality of instruction, the awesome tunes, and the warmth of Quad ? not to mention the beautiful environment that Mich and Martin have strived to create. The focus on form and fundamentals has ensured that every time I ride, I always find something to improve on. After four years in the saddle, I am truly humbled to now be leading rides. As a road cyclist, I have learned how indoor cycling can complement my outdoor pursuits, and vice versa. I'm excited to share my passion for the virtual road with beginners and enthusiasts alike.

When I first moved to Toronto, I often found myself walking along King Street West, curious of the sights and sounds emanating from Quad. I was looking for a new and exciting form of exercise to keep me fit, having grown tired with the uninspiring treadmill in my apartment complex. At first, the energy and intensity I?d witnessed during my frequent Quad walk-bys seemed daunting, but at last, one day, I was finally compelled to overcome my initial anxieties, and try my first indoor cycling class. It simply snowballed from there. I found myself taking several classes a week, noticing vast and steady improvements, and eventually made a natural progression into instruction.

Quad offers a type of exercise that never gets boring, constantly presenting fresh challenges to both new and experienced riders. During classes everyone is free to develop at their own pace, while simultaneously feeling part of the overall group experience. As an instructor, I pride myself on offering students a stimulating, dynamic ride. Hope to see you soon.

I have been active in sports since I was 6 years old, and since then I have never stopped moving! I stared my athletic career with running. But, around the age of 20 I left it and found my true passion: rowing. Since 2002 I have been involved with the Toronto Argonaut Rowing Club and other rowing clubs in and around Southern Ontario. In the winter of 2009 I will be heading out west to Victoria in an attempt to make a boat for the 2009 Canadian National Rowing Team.

Rowing is where my true passion lies, but when I discovered quad I was pleased to have an excellent cross training tool for those long winter months. I found it to be an excellent medium to develop one's aerobic base which is essential for my sport. In addition to the cardiovascular benefits of indoor cycling, it is also great because in a class setting we are all working together. Because every individual has full control over their resistance setting, an entire range of fitness levels can be accommodated in one class. In essence, it allows you to achieve your individual goals, while working in a group setting. Nothing can be more motivating!

As an instructor I do my best to model each class on my personal training. My focus is on consistency, mental awareness, and providing a fitness base for sustainable growth. To facilitate this I tend to choose from a wide variety of music: instrumental, classic and modern rock, rap, world, classical, pop, R&B, movie themes, trance, dance, and house. I am always open to suggestions from participants.

Yak

Fitness is a way of life for me. I have been in the fitness industry for 26 years. I hold certificates in coaching, fitness, personal training and two different spinning curriculums. I am a cycling and running enthusiast with a passion for sharing my knowledge in all these disciplines. I train both young and more mature competitive and non-competitive athletes.

I have a very competitive spirit. This spirit manages to manifest itself in all my sessions whether it is spinning or personal training. I believe in setting and achieving new goals on an ongoing basis. Since, the body (guided by the mind) is very powerful and resilient; I try to encourage participants to test this theory on all their journeys.

I look forward to sharing this wonderful journey with you. I hope that you make it out to one of my classes.

Indoor cycling has been an important part of my life for several years now. I was an aerobics instructor before, but once I was introduced the intensity of each 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 cycling. 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 you!

Hi everyone!

My name is Christine, and I am a fitness enthusiast! I have been in the fitness industry my entire life. I decided to make it a career 5 years ago. I am a personal trainer as well as a Pilates Instructor. I am in the midst of receiving my Yoga certification as well.

I believe in the power of health; may it be physical, spiritual, mental or social. I consider these to be a circle of life, and when one of these elements of health is out of sync, the body and mind can become sluggish, and weak.

Spinning, I believe, can satisfy any and everyone at some physical and spiritual level. The music, the instruction, as well as your will, can create the most intense class you crave. I started spinning 4 years ago, and have not looked back. My inspiration intensified after riding with the best. Johnny G himself. He allowed me to delve deeper into my spiritual mind and regard spinning as not just a ride for the superficial body, but the mind and soul as well. I am a true believer in incorporating core, stability, balance and breath in the equation of spinning. Remembering that "you're only as strong as your weakest link", and then working towards strengthening that link. Bringing the intensity and energy of spinning and yoga together, or spinning and Pilates can be euphoric for the physical body and the spiritual mind.

I have taught spinning in numerous clubs and studios, but I can honestly say without a doubt, that Quad West is by far the most beautiful studio I've ever taught in. But that is superficial. What ISN'T superficial is the dedication and love Micheline and Martin have for their facility. I am extremely proud to be a new addition to their studio.

The reason I love to teach, I can say without hesitation, is the thrill of seeing new riders come in and fall in love with the class. Watching veteran riders getting in touch with their breath, and their inner strength. Their sweaty, smiling faces, the pounding music in the background. Getting lost in a thick seated hill climb, and then racing downhill as fast as you can. So many reasons why this sport will never fade...

Have a wicked ride!

Namaste

Indoor cycling is the perfect staple to any fitness routine. Whether your goals is weight loss, muscle conditioning, strengthening your heart, building endurance, improving your overall health, or all of the above, cycling is the way to do it.

I love the high intensity/low impact nature of the sport and every ride is another chance to challenge your body & mind.

I'm very proud to be a part of the quad team and look forward to helping you reach your goals.

The results you can achieve when you believe there truly are no limits are amazing.

i'm a mother of 2, nurse, quad instructor and a personal trainer. health and fitness are an important part of my life.

i discovered indoor cycling 9 years ago, and have been passionate about it ever since, loving the music, the energy, and the pure satisfaction you get out of every ride. for the last 8 years I have been an instructor.

quad west has given me an opportunity to teach in a "perfect studio ", with great people, great energy and great atmosphere! i am truly honored to be a part of such a talented and dedicated team at quad.

i'll take you on a journey of strength building, increasing your endurance and reaching above and beyond your limits, using my energy and love of cycling to motivate you to ultimately achieve your own personal health and fitness goals!

I came to indoor cycling 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.

The class, like so many wonderful things, is simple in its elements : Bikes, Music, People. Mixed together, they form a thrilling, energizing and rewarding work-out. It 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 class after class, 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 at Quad, I have become an 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.