What 100 “Soul Cycle” Rides Really Feels Like

I completed my 100th ride at Revolution Studio this week. And what may seem like a “balloons and confetti” accomplishment to some was in reality a very difficult journey. Over the course of the last seven months, many of my friends questioned why I shell out $185 every month to WORK OUT. Yes, it’s a lot of money, especially for someone like me, who doesn’t MAKE that much money. But I decided back in January that I would put my health and fitness first this year, and a monetary commitment was part of the process for me.

While I’m extremely proud of the milestone (literally), the power I found in the saddle is a power I’ll carry with me in everything I do. Almost every morning, I didn’t want to get out of bed, drive to the studio, and voluntarily sweat my butt off. Especially in the first few weeks, physical obstacles could have been a great excuse to stay under the covers. My butt hurt — a kind of hurt I imagine only happens to horseback riders and cyclists — the kind that aches in your bones and goes beyond muscle fatigue. My arms were sore from the targeted exercises and even bad form in the beginning.

Then, after the saddle soreness wore off, mental challenges took its place. The unique thing about spinning is that it exists to push your boundaries. Revolution instructors were not shy about that — they frequently reminded us we should be…