After meeting ABBY DRAPER, we've come to believe in fate. It just so happens that the first day Abby got a car in LA was the same day that SoulCycle opened. Stir crazy from sitting around the house, Abby came in for her first class and the rest is history. One of our most consistent riders, we see Abby most nights after work. She says that we make her feel refreshed and, we have to say, we feel the same way about her. As a rider since day one, Abby and SoulCycle have truly grown together. Coincidence? We think not.

How did you find out about SoulCycle?

Prior to moving to Los Angeles in February, I knew nothing about the city. In an attempt to learn about the area so I wasn’t a total fish out of water, I started to follow different LA focused outlets and their social channels. I moved to West Hollywood on February 6 and on February 10 my car arrived from the east coast. As soon as it got here, I had to drive somewhere and do something – I’d been going stir crazy! I got online and saw that the WeHo SoulCycle was opening that same day, and a spin class sounded like exactly what I needed. I did some research before I registered for a bike and was a little (a lot) nervous to ride, so I called the studio. All of my nerves were put to ease as soon as I called. Michael answered the phone and I told him that I’d just moved, and was totally nervous to take a class. He was incredible. He told me that it was meant to be fun and I’d be okay. He put me on a bike in the back and when I got there, welcomed me with open arms.

Why did you come back? 

In moving to LA, I had committed to my friends, family and colleagues that I would try to find a balance between my professional and my personal life. Until this move, I was working up to fifteen hours a day, including weekends, which obviously isn’t healthy for many reasons. SoulCycle seemed like the perfect outlet. My first class was with Roarke, and although it was challenging, I left feeling both empowered and calm afterwards. Two traits I’d been lacking. I went back because I knew I needed to. This class allows me to finish working at a decent hour, and leave my day at the office. No matter how long or stressful it may be, the instructors and staff at SoulCycle help me to forget it with their energy, kind words and encouragement. I leave feeling refreshed and strong, which in turn has made me a better person all around.

How often do you ride?

Now I ride five or six times a week.

What have been the mental and physical effects of riding so much?

Most importantly, I feel much healthier both mentally and physically. Mentally, I am much more thoughtful and calm in my day-to-day life. I feel more confident in my decisions and less stressed out by the small things. Physically, I’ve noticed changes in every part of my body. I just visited Baltimore last week (where my agency’s based, and where my parents and several friends live), and it was made very clear by others that my body is changing. For me, it’s most noticeable in my legs, booty and arms.

We notice you ride with lots of instructors. How do you make your schedule?

Typically, on Monday’s when the classes for the week are open, I register based on my schedule for the week. Although, if I am in town, I always reserve a bike in Roarke’s Sunday 10:45 class and one of the 8:30 classes with Ben right away. Lisa Natale is another one of my favorites, and when I know that I need extra positive energy, I ride with her. Each instructor has a different style and energy, and a different way that they run their class. There are also other riders that I enjoy taking class with, so we work around each other’s schedules to make that happen.

You inspire us. What inspired you?

Thank you. I am inspired by positive energy. Whether it be at work or outside of work, I truly believe that kind words can change someone’s entire day.  

Questions or comments? Email blog@soul-cycle.com!