Your First Ride, Step by Step
New things can feel intimidating. Your first SoulCycle ride doesn’t have to. From the moment you walk through the door, our Studio Crew is there to help you get settled, set up your bike, and get ready to ride. All you have to do is show up.
Before Your Class
01 · Come ready to ride
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early so there’s plenty of time to check in at the front desk or in the app. If you haven’t checked in 4 minutes before class, your bike may be released. For your safety, late entry isn’t permitted once class begins.
Need to cancel? Do it by 5 PM the night before, and the class goes back to your account.
02 · Dress to move
Wear something you feel comfortable moving and sweating in, and don’t forget your socks! Your first cycling shoe rental is on us. Our bikes use clip-in pedals, so cycling shoes are a must.
03 · Watch the bike setup video
See how to set up your bike and clip in and out before class, so it all feels a little more familiar when you arrive. Our Studio Crew will show you exactly how once you’re there, too. Watch our bike set-up tutorial here!
When You Arrive
04 · Tell us it’s your first ride
Our Studio Crew will show you around, help you set up your bike, teach you how to clip in and out, and answer any questions before class begins. Our bikes are designed to fit every body, so we’ll adjust your seat and handlebars together until everything feels right.
Before you head in, be sure to leave your phone in your locker or with our Studio Crew. This is your time to unplug, be fully present, and get the most out of your ride.
05 · Get to know your resistance knob
While you’re settling in before class, give the resistance knob a few turns. It’s what puts you in control of your ride: turn the knob right to add resistance and left to take it off.
It’s also your emergency brake. Push down on the knob at any time to stop your wheel. Always keep enough resistance on so you can feel it as you pedal. You'll adjust the resistance throughout class, but never ride with no resistance.
During Your Class
06 · Find your flow
Once the lights go down, your instructor will guide you through the entire ride as you move to the rhythm of music, with changing paces and choreography.
You’ll know you’re on the beat when your foot reaches the bottom of the pedal stroke in time with the music. Keep an eye on the podium to follow your instructor’s pace and choreography, and adjust your resistance as guided throughout class.
07 · Grab your weights
During class, your instructor will guide you through an arms series using hand weights, which you’ll find just below and behind your seat. Before reaching for your weights, make sure you have enough resistance on and gradually slow your legs down, allowing your heart rate to come down too.
08 · Make the ride yours
Go at your own pace, take breaks, adjust your resistance, and catch your breath whenever you need to.
And don’t forget to stay hydrated before, during, and after class. Every studio has water stations, and bottled water is available at the front desk. And if the music’s a little loud? Grab earplugs at the front desk or studio entrance.
After Your Class
09 · Unclip with care
When class ends, press down on the emergency brake to keep your wheel still, then turn your heel outward, away from the bike, to release your shoe from the pedal. Repeat on the other side. If you're having trouble, don't force it. You can unstrap your feet and step out of your shoes, and our Studio Crew will help you.
Leaving early? Let your instructor know first. Cycling shoes aren't made for walking, so change back into your regular shoes before leaving the studio.
10 · Give yourself time
You’re not expected to get everything on your first ride. The rhythm, choreography, and even clipping in and out can take several classes to feel familiar. With each ride, you’ll understand a little more, feel a little more confident, and start to find your rhythm.
We can’t wait to see you on the bike!
Have other questions before your first ride? Email yoursoulmatters@soul-cycle.com or give your studio a call.
SoulCycle on the go
SoulCycle on the go
