Ben Carter
SoulCycle is a popular fitness trend that involves cycling. One common ritual at SoulCycle is blowing out candles that illuminate the room. This is usually done at the end of a class by riders who have had a good ride or are celebrating a special event, such as a birthday. While some riders have noted that blowing out candles was more common in the early days of SoulCycle, it still occurs at some studios, depending on the instructor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Occasion | Birthdays, celebration rides, or other special events |
| Frequency | Depends on the studio and instructor |
| Timing | During stretch or at the end of class |
| Number of candles | One |
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What You'll Learn
SoulCycle's history and popularity
SoulCycle is an indoor cycling company with fewer than 99 locations but a brand presence that spans the globe. The company was founded in 2006 by spin instructor Ruth Zukerman and two of her clients, Elizabeth Cutler and Julie Rice. The trio's first meeting was described by Rice as "the best blind date we'd ever been on". Four months later, they founded SoulCycle. The first studio had just 33 bikes and was set up in a former funeral home on New York City's Upper West Side. The now-iconic SoulCycle logo was painted on a rickshaw parked out front.
SoulCycle's popularity has been attributed to its cult-like following, with classes eliciting obsession and all-consuming passion from riders. The exclusive nature of the classes adds to their appeal, with some describing SoulCycle as "the club you can't get into". The luxurious workout experience combines endorphins, candlelight, and a signature grapefruit scent to create a ""tribal experience".
The SoulCycle workout itself is high-energy and sweat-inducing, with 45-minute classes providing an intense and effective workout. The unique bikes, reminiscent of the "Spinning" brand, contribute to the dynamic class atmosphere. The modern studios feature impressive sound systems, with SoulCycle's New York City location boasting over 20 speaker sets and several subwoofers. The company's attention to detail extends to the post-workout experience, with well-equipped shower facilities and a range of amenities.
SoulCycle's popularity has sparked a wider trend for cycling-based workouts, with the fitness industry known for its ever-changing fads. While SoulCycle has faced competition and a bumpy ride since the pandemic, it has maintained steady growth on social media, testament to its loyal fan base.
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The ritual of blowing out candles
Blowing out candles is a common ritual at SoulCycle. This ritual is usually performed at the end of a class, with the instructor picking a few riders to blow out the candles. Riders may be chosen for a variety of reasons, including celebrating a birthday, reaching a milestone number of rides, or simply having a good ride. The ritual often takes place during the stretch portion of the class.
In the past, SoulCycle would tape a birthday candle to a coconut water, allowing the rider to blow it out during the stretch. More recently, some studios have replaced the coconut water with a studio grapefruit candle, and riders may have their Polaroid picture taken during the ritual. The practice of blowing out candles depends on the studio and the instructor, with some locations doing it more frequently than others.
While the ritual is not as common as it used to be, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many SoulCycle enthusiasts. It is a way to celebrate their achievements and create a positive association with the workout routine. The candle-blowing ritual is a simple yet powerful way to bring people together and foster a sense of camaraderie among riders.
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Candles during celebrations and milestones
SoulCycle is known for its unique rituals, and one of the most notable is the tradition of blowing out candles during celebrations and milestones. This ritual has become an integral part of the SoulCycle experience and adds a touch of magic and motivation to riders' experiences.
The candle-blowing tradition at SoulCycle is typically associated with birthdays. In the past, SoulCycle would tape a birthday candle to a coconut water, and riders would blow it out during the stretch portion of the class. More recently, some studios have replaced the coconut water with a studio grapefruit candle, which riders still blow out during the stretch and then get their Polaroid picture taken. This birthday ritual has become a beloved tradition, with riders looking forward to their free birthday ride and the opportunity to blow out their candle.
In addition to birthdays, candles are also blown out during other special events or milestones. For example, an instructor might bring candles to riders celebrating a certain number of rides, such as 50 rides. This allows riders to mark their dedication and progress in a meaningful way. The candle-blowing ritual is a way to recognize and honour the hard work and commitment of the riders, creating a sense of community and motivation within the SoulCycle family.
The candle-blowing tradition is not limited to riders but can also be extended to instructors. In one instance, a rider came into the class upset, and the instructor not only offered words of encouragement but also allowed them the opportunity to blow out the candle. This gesture of support and community is a testament to the unique culture that SoulCycle has cultivated.
While the candle-blowing ritual is not as common as it once was, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many riders. It adds a touch of celebration and motivation to the SoulCycle experience, making it more than just a workout but a community-building and uplifting adventure.
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Instructor's role in the ritual
SoulCycle instructors play a pivotal role in the candle-blowing ritual, which is a unique tradition within the SoulCycle community. This ritual has evolved over time, but the instructors remain central to its execution and symbolism.
Instructors are responsible for creating a celebratory atmosphere during special rides, such as birthdays or significant milestones. They initiate the candle-blowing tradition by providing the rider with a candle, which holds symbolic significance. The candle represents not only the rider's achievement but also the collective energy and motivation of the class.
Instructors are often the ones who select riders to blow out the candle, recognizing their dedication and hard work. This selection process adds a layer of exclusivity and honor to the ritual. The instructor's choice is based on factors such as a rider's birthday, a notable anniversary, or simply a desire to celebrate a rider's presence in the class.
During the ritual, the instructor ensures that the selected rider feels acknowledged and celebrated. They may offer words of encouragement, congratulate the rider, or even share their story with the class. This creates a sense of community and camaraderie within the SoulCycle family.
The candle-blowing ritual is a collaborative effort between the instructor and the rider. The instructor facilitates the experience by creating a safe and uplifting environment, allowing the rider to fully embrace the moment. The instructor's role extends beyond teaching the class; they are motivators, mentors, and facilitators of transformative experiences.
While the candle-blowing ritual has evolved, with some studios offering it during stretch or at the end of the class, the instructor's presence remains integral. They guide the class through the ritual, ensuring it aligns with the rider's journey and serves as a memorable touchpoint in their SoulCycle experience.
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SoulCycle's unique class experience
SoulCycle has become one of the biggest fitness trends, offering a unique class experience to riders. The SoulCycle experience is not just about the intense workout but also about the motivation and special rituals that riders get to be a part of.
One such ritual is blowing out candles. At the end of each class, the instructor might pick a few riders to blow out candles, especially if they are celebrating a special event, like a birthday or their 50th ride. This ritual is not as common as it used to be, but it still happens from time to time and is dependent on the studio and instructor. Riders have shared that it is a nice and motivating experience.
The candles that are blown out are usually studio grapefruit candles, although in the past, birthday candles were taped to a coconut water bottle. Riders would blow out the candle during the stretch portion of the class and get their Polaroid picture taken.
SoulCycle instructors are not just teachers but motivators, and they go through rigorous training to be able to create a special experience for riders. The candle-blowing ritual is just one of the ways SoulCycle creates a unique and memorable experience for its riders, making it more than just a workout.
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Frequently asked questions
Blowing out candles at SoulCycle is a ritual done to celebrate a rider's birthday or a special event, like reaching 50 rides.
The instructor will usually pick a few riders to blow out the candles.
The candles are usually blown out at the end of the class, during the stretch.
No, it depends on the studio and the instructor. Some riders have said that they have ridden thousands of times and have never seen someone blow out a candle in class.
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