Flywheel
Although it’s new on Washington’s spinning scene, Flywheel has already made a name for itself in New York as SoulCycle’s archrival, and it’s guaranteed to bring out your competitive side as well. Perfect for Washington’s type-A crowd, Flywheel broadcasts the top 20 spinners’ stats on a screen during the class, so everyone knows who’s pedaling fastest and whose resistance is cranked up the highest. The Dupont Circle studio, which opened in March, also offers barre classes so patrons can mix up their sweat sessions with some low-impact workouts.
Individual classes are $28. 1927 Florida Ave., NW; 202-830-0755.
Zengo Cycle
For those who are serious about spinning but who still want a hip studio setting, Zengo is the rock ’n’ roll to all the Top 40 studios out there. It’s an intense routine that’s more about calories burned than it is about looking cool. You’ll find the same low lights, motivational playlists, and full-body workout, but without any kitschy catch phrases such as “tap it back” or “find your soul.”
Individual classes are $22. 4866 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, 301-312-6658; 1508 14th St., NW, 202-588-1600; 215 Kentlands Blvd., Gaithersburg, 301-330-8333.
SoulCycle
This popular studio from New York has built a cult following—and we mean cult. Group sessions are referred to as “riding with the pack,” and classes target empowerment almost as much as improving your physical fitness. Expect to find strongly scented candles, a slew of inspirational slogans, and many SoulCycle-swag-clad ladies. If you’ve always been “the hot girl,” these are your people. If you’ve always wanted to be one, you have your chance at the two area studios.
Individual classes are $30. 2301 M St., NW, 202-659-7685; 4931 Elm St., Bethesda, 301-803-7685.
This article appears in our April 2015 issue of Washingtonian.
Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
