Cycling studios are all the rage. They must be doing something right because people keep flocking to them -- myself included.

The thing about cycling, I think, is that you need to find the right studio -- with the right instructor, music, and ambiance. Otherwise, it’s just not that much fun. And while there are tons (and I do mean tons) of cycling options in this city, there are only a few that stand out. 

I’ve rounded up some of the most popular ones that have proven to hold the attention of large amounts of people over time. 

Soul Cycle

Various locations in Washington, D.C. 

I’m convinced that Soul Cycle is some sort of cult, but it’s a cult people are willingly joining and raving about. It’s one of those places that is more than just a cycling studio; it’s a studio that aims to revolutionize your mindset about working out, life, attitude, all of that. So while you’re sweating through every orifice in your body, your instructor will preach all these motivating rants. It’s basically like being on the best natural high. If you need that in your life, it’s worth paying the hefty class prices.

Courtesy of mvtimes.com

Fly Wheel

City Center: 824 9th St. NW B, Washington, D.C., 20001
Dupont Circle: 1927 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20009

Fly Wheel is cool because it’s the toned-down version of Soul Cycle (in both environment and price). Don’t get me wrong: it’s still intense, so don’t come expecting not to put the work in. It’s just less soul, more cycle. 

Each cyclist can also connect their bike to the main screen and see how well they’re doing compared to others; you can use that as fuel to push harder. 

Courtesy of charlottesmartypants.com

Zengo Cycle

14th Street Corridor: 1508 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
Cathedral Commons: 3308 Wisconsin Ave. #202, Washington, D.C., 20016
Various locations in Maryland and Virginia as well

I like Zengo Cycle because it’s a smaller studio compared to the first two, and one of them is conveniently located on the 14th Street Corridor. They pride themselves on giving you a complete, intimate, and intense full body workout, all from your bike. Come here for the excellent customer experience and one-of-a-kind feel. 

Courtesy of certifikid.com

Biker Barre

738 7th St. SE, Washington, D.C., 20003

Biker Barre is similar to Zengo Cycle in the sense that it’s got that smaller studio feel, where you’re going to get the individualized attention you may not get anywhere else. Located in Capitol Hill, here the focus is on playing playlists that will keep you energized and excited the whole ride through. People have called the music some of the best in town, and they also love the candle-lit atmosphere, meaning that all the classes are in the dark, with only the candles lit, so you’ve only got yourself to focus on. 

Courtesy of fitreserve.com

A lot of the cycling studios I mentioned also offer barre classes, and if you’re interested in adding barre to your workout routine (it’s great for toning), you can do a two-in-one with these studios. Or check out these five favorites around D.C. 

What is your favorite cycling studio in Washington D.C.? Let me know in the comments below!

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