Roundup: Indoor Cycling Studios

If you're feeling like a challenge, head to one of these local cycling-only studios.

Spinning studio image via Shutterstock.

Spinning studios image via Shutterstock.

Group indoor cycling classes can burn up to 500 calories during one 45-minute spinning session, according to the Mayo Clinic. Each class, which is led by an instructor, is a virtual outdoor bike ride, with steep climbs, valleys, straightaways, and finish lines. The classes tend to be high intensity and very challenging, although you can adjust the level of resistance on your bike if you find yourself getting tired during a workout.

RealRyder at Sweat and Soul Yoga

This small, 14-bike studio offers multiple 45-minutes classes each day. You’ll get a killer workout on the RealRyder bikes, which tip from side to side to mimic the movement of a real bike when you turn and require you to use your core muscles. Plus, each instructor develops upbeat playlists to accompany you on your rides. Sign up online or you likely won’t get a spot.

$15 to drop in for a single ride, but other package prices vary; 1032A Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston; 617-375-9642; visit sweatandsoulyoga.com for more information.

Spynergy Cycling Studio

Located in Wellesley, Mass., this studio is completely dedicated to indoor cycling classes with upbeat music and low impact, high cardio components. Siblings Bill Pryor and Alex Klemmer of Needham opened the studio because they are avid cyclists, and they are always around to make sure that the classes flow smoothly. Through Spynergy, you can get an online “ride card” and family ride cards are also available. Plus, they offer special discounts for “vintage riders”, or cyclists over 65, as well as to teachers and first responders. Making a reservation to ride is encouraged.

Classes cost between $12 and $18 each, depending on the package you choose; temporary location during July 22 to August 22 renovation at 40 Abbott Road, Wellesley; permanent location after August 22 renovation at 386 Washington Street; 781-235-0520; visit spynergywellesley.com for more information.

Just Ride!

This Plymouth studio focuses on providing awesome music, cool lighting, and energetic instructors to push you through challenging workouts. Because the bikes are adjustable, classes can be geared towards any fitness level. The studio offers straight cycling classes, as well as 45-minute cycle and abs classes, DJ cycling classes, music video cycling classes, and even virtual road trips. Although Plymouth is a bit of a drive from Boston, these classes are the cheapest we’ve found.

Classes cost as little as $6 with a ride card, depending on your choice of ride package; walk-in rides are $12; 74 Camelot Drive, Plymouth; 508-591-0776; visit justrideplymouth.com for more information.

The Handle Bar

The Handle Bar, South Boston’s newest cycling studio, recommends that everyone purchase a pair of bike shoes if you plan to cycle frequently. If you just want to try a class, however, you can rent a pair of shoes for $2 per pair. Although walk-ins are welcome, you should make a reservation to ride online— the 30 available bikes in each class fill up quickly.

$20 for a single class, and multi-ride packs are often discounted; 141 Dorchester Avenue, Boston; 617-451-1270; visit handlebarcycling.com for more information. 

Recycle Studio

It doesn’t matter whether you choose the Recycle Studio in the South End or the one on Newbury Street— you’ll find yourself sweating and sore after every class no matter where you ride. There are different kinds of classes offered from beginner to advanced.

$22 for a single ride, or 5, 10, 20, and 50-ride passes are also available for discounted prices; South End location: 643A Tremont Street, Boston; Newbury location: 9 Newbury Street, fifth floor; visit recycle-studio.com for more information.