April 16 marks the grand opening of Zengo Cycle’s newest location in the Mosaic District. If you are a cycling newbie or are looking for a kick in the pants to hop back on the bike, Zengo’s instructors have just the tips you need to score stylish workout gear in the area, maintain a healthy lifestyle and get the most out of your first cycling class.
Name: Kelsey Harris
Q: Why do you love cycling?
I grew up dancing and performing, and as I got older, I really struggled finding a place to stay fit while having fun like I did in dance classes. When I found Zengo, my life was changed forever! It challenged me, allowed me to set the pace and gave me that dance party I needed. It truly is therapy on a bike. When I completely surrender to the music and the resistance, I’m transformed—it’s a euphoria that stays with me the rest of the week. As a former dancer and runner, the low- impact, high-intensity cardio has done wonders for my physical fitness with no injuries. There’s nowhere else I could walk out dripping in sweat with a huge smile on my face.
Q: Favorite activewear store in Northern Virginia and why?
I love the active pieces from South Moon Under; they have fun and funky patterns. They are constantly coming out with new styles and pieces, and they are so
Q: What should readers wear to their first Zengo class?
A headband for those whispies, spandex pants and a tank top that keeps you cool as you sweat and allows you to dance.
Q: Best tip to stay healthy and motivated?
Plan! Plan! Plan! With Zengo, the sign-up window opens for the next week Monday at 1 p.m. I make sure to schedule my workouts then, and it helps me stay committed the rest of the week. This also helps me plan meals and drinks. For example, if I sign up for a Friday 7:30 a.m. class with my favorite instructor, I’m going to make healthier choices the night before so I can enjoy the workout Friday morning.
Name: Melissa Kullen
Q: Why do you love cycling?
Zengo Cycle really is a place to ENJOY your workout. Once you’re clipped in on a bike, you can really let go and let the rockin’ playlist push you to the level you want to achieve.
If you find an exercise that is fun (cough cough Zengo :)), then staying motivated is so much easier. And being consistent makes you realize you miss that endorphin rush when you don’t get a workout in.
Q: What should readers wear to their first Zengo class?
Wear something that is comfortable and allows you to move and groove. You can usually find me in a cropped top and either a baseball hat or a Zengo bandanna to keep my hair off my face.
Q: Best tip to stay healthy and motivated?
I find it’s great to plan workouts with a friend. You feel a sense of commitment, and it’s always fun if you can look over and see your friend on the bike next to you!
What she’s wearing: Zengo women’s black tank (She cropped it herself to personalize it), Lululemon Inspire Tight II (Mesh) (available at Lululemon Clarendon; 2847 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 150, Arlington), Zengo black baseball cap, her own shoes
Name: Cassidy Banks
Q: Why do you love cycling?
I love cycling because it’s the most exhilarating combination of amazing music, personal motivation and a great sweat.
Q: Favorite activewear store in NoVA and why?
My favorite Activewear store in Northern Virginia is Lululemon. I can’t live without it. Their clothes fit incredibly, they have fun and funky patterns, and they are constantly coming out with new styles and pieces.
Q: What should readers wear to their first Zengo class?
Readers should wear any athletic clothing that makes them feel comfortable. Zengo isn’t about what you look like—it’s about how you feel.
Q: Best tip to stay healthy and motivated?
My best tip to stay healthy and motivated is to WAKE UP AND SWEAT! Working out first thing in the morning sets such a positive tone for the rest of my day.
What she’s wearing: Splendid Drapey Lux Racer Tank, Culture Shop Tie Dye Bandeau, (both available at South Moon Under Mosaic District; 2905 District Ave., Fairfax), Lululemon Wunder Under Crop II (available at Lululemon Clarendon; 2847 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 150, Arlington)
Name: Jason Greenwald
Q: Why do you love cycling?
I love cycling because it’s all about empowering individuals to stay happy and healthy. It’s 50 minutes out of your day that’s all about you, a time when you can release all the negativity and leave everything on the bike. Cycling gives you a real mind and body workout and of course the chance to party to some awesome tunes.
Q: Favorite activewear store in NoVA and why?
Lululemon—it’s all about comfort for me, and Lululemon has the perfect men’s gear to work out in. Whether it’s a lightweight pair of shorts or a shirt that’s built to sweat in, I’m always wearing something technical from Lululemon in class. With their amazing team and apparel, they are at the top of my list for activewear.
Q: What should readers wear to their first Zengo class?
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable, but avoid clothing that is too loose fitting. You want something that can move and breathe well. A lightweight pair of shorts or moisture-wicking shirt is a great idea. You are going to sweat!
Best tip to stay healthy and motivated?
Take it day-by-day and set small goals. It’s easy to obsess over results and numbers. Don’t focus on the 10 or 20 pounds you want to lose; instead, when you wake up think about your cardio workout for the day and making smart choices when you’re out at lunch.
Clothing in Photo: Zengo grey men’s T-shirt, Lululemon Pace Breaker Shorts (available at Lululemon Clarendon; 2847 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 150, Arlington).
