WEHO Rockstars: Ophelia

WEHO Rockstar OPHELIA CHONG inspires us to no end. A graphic designer, illustrator, professor (at the Art Center College of Design), and accomplished writer (she writes a weekly column for KCET), Ophelia is an enthusiastic ambassador for other artists and agents of change. We're humbled that she's also an ambassador for Soul! One of our most regular riders, Ophelia is always willing try new instructors, meet new people and push past her comfort zone. Have we mentioned we love our WEHO community?

Ophelia depicted as Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty (done in oil paint). Painted by Jason Shorr, one of my students who just graduated the Art Center College of Design.

How did you hear about SoulCycle WEHO?
I first read about SoulCycle in the New York times about 2 years ago. I even cut out the article. I loved how it talked about the mood that the SoulCycle instructors created, the candles, the music, the different routines, the inspiring mantras. I was hoping to inspire the spin studio I was at.

Flash forward to January 2012 when I heard SoulCycle was opening in WeHo and that my favorite instructor Angela Davis were going to teach there. I was beyond delirious.

What made you come back?

I come back for the high that I get from the spin, but mostly for the empowerment I receive from the instructors. I followed Angela Davis from the spin studio she was at to Soul Cycle. I love her spirit and her dedication to each student's progress. She can hone in like a laser and push you to do better with each ride.

I love the front desk, Lisa, Michael, Tiffany, Jenny, Iris and all the smiling helpful people back there. I feel welcome from the moment I open the door. No question goes unanswered, no one is treated differently, everyone is treated with respect and care. The facilities are top notch, from the big fluffy towels to the lockers to the bikes and the cleaning staff is fast and efficient between classes.

How often do you ride?

I try to ride a minimum of four times a week. My schedule is tight but never too tight that I can't squeeze in a SoulCycle ride.

How do you choose your classes/instructors?

I go by what I hear in the reception. I will hear people talk about their last ride and how much they loved the instructor ( In fact, I've never heard anything less). I also try to reserve a bike for the visiting NY instructors. All have been amazing.

Do you have a specific fitness goal your working towards?

I had been at an office for quite a while when I saw a photo of me sitting at a desk and thought "Whoa, that's something that should be put out to pasture." I decided then to get back into the gym and I haven't looked back (only to see that my butt is higher and not in a different zip code). My goal is live a long healthy productive life and appreciate each day that I have been given with family and friends.

What results (mental or physical) have you seen after so many SC classes?

I have seen tighter this, higher that, and a growing network of like-minded friends. Mentally, I am able to get to my goals faster because during each class, I say to myself "If I get through this, I can get through anything."

Sea Change. See Change. Soul Change. SoulCycle.

Questions or comments? Feel free to email blog@soul-cycle.com!

Posted May 9, 12