Endorphin at Ryders

There were years past that you might have described me as «in shape.» That is… not now. So when my friend asked me to join her at Endorphin’s functional cycling class, I was nervous. I spent my first class alternating between feelings of absolute joy (OMG OMG THIS IS FUN) and feelings of terror (OMG I’m going to barf and then fall off the bike!).
Like I said, I’m not in great shape, so I have found that I have to take breaks or do things a lot more slowly than others in the class. The instructors have never made me feel ashamed of that and have been nothing but encouraging. The classes are small, the music is high energy, and the classes are just plain fun. I just finished my third class and I’m pumped at how much I’ve already improved.
I really can’t afford this place… but I’m going to keep going!

**Oh lawdy lawd lawd. PLEASE HELP ME. How much time left in this class? Am I gonna die? Am I going to barf?**
That’s pretty much what’s going through my head when I’m in class here. Think you know spin? Think you’re in shape and fit and buff? Come here and get your a$$ kicked by a variety of instructors. They all mean SERIOUS business and could probably go train the military or something. For example, I came to a class and thought I’d be ok b/​c the instructor had dislocated her shoulder. How hard could the class be? Surely we’d be taking it a bit easier than usual since she couldn’t use the one arm. I was so wrong. SO WRONG. Then, it’s even more maddening b/​c every instructor is so nice you can’t even really hate them as you drip sweat. I have never left this place with an ounce of negative energy left (who has the energy to be negative when you can barely lift your feet to walk?)
Signing up and making yourself come is the hardest part. You’ll definitely feel the rush of endorphins after. Guaranteed.

I wanted review 600 to be something of importance to me.
I realized after another check in this morning I have never reviewed this place.
I love Endorphin. The teachers, the community, the classes– all of it. I’ve been coming here for years, and after the Qi/​Endorphin split off I remained true to this gym. You will NOT find an easy class here. You will always leave dripping with sweat and I guarantee with a smile on your face.
I love the warrior classes– particularly the AM ones at 6:45. They’re only 45 minutes, it’s not too god awful early in the morning, and it’s over just like that and then you’re ready to start your day. I AM NOT A MORNING PERSON. REPEAT. I AM NOT. But I am able to make it here a few mornings a week and I have never once regretted it. They offer several different classes throughout the day so rest assured I can get my workout in one way or another.
Try any of the cycling/​warrior classes offered here, they have those kick-​ass Ryder bikes that move every inch of your body and even work your arms and core. I would name a favorite teacher but honestly they’re all amazing in my book and for different reasons.
Thanks Endorphin, for bringing fun into my workouts and giving me the ability to meet all kinds of great people, and push my body past the limits I never thought I’d see!

Endorphin at Ryders is a pretty small place, I think they have about 20 spin bikes, but I really enjoy the classes there. I usually take classes from Briana on Tuesday or Thursday morning and I love her music selection and energy. It’s a great way to kick off any weekday.
The bikes here are the kind that move around so if you haven’t ridden one like that it takes a bit of getting used to. But, the benefits are that a class on these bikes works out a lot of different muscles from your legs to your core to your arms even.
You can buy single drop-​in classes, packages, or a monthly membership. And while I’ve only ever been there for spin they do have some other cool classes that you can check out if bikes aren’t your thing.

Overall, a creative «spin» (yes, pun intended) on indoor cycling and yoga, with some extremely challenging options.
At the center of Ryders are their bikes, which are a step above most spin bikes. They’re mounted on spring-​loaded pivots (allowing you to stand and sprint) and have huge flywheels (so the resistance wheels maintain their momentum better, don’t worry about the science, it’s a good thing), making for a very realistic riding experience.
But don’t expect «just» a spinning class. Most of the on-​bike classes I’ve taken include core, upper-​body and balance work which definitely can take you by surprise if you come in just wanting to work out your legs.
I’m a former weekend warrior bike racer and these classes are PLENTY challenging. And, like most of Qi’s offerings, you can vary the effort and intensity to suit your current level of fitness, meaning newbies and elite athletes can co-​exist in the same class easily.
In addition to these purely on-​bike classes they also offer hybrid cycle-​yoga and cycle-​cross-​training (This is the «warriors» class) options. Just did my first Warriors today and let me tell you, if you push yourself it will absolutely kick your Effing A if you know what I mean.
The downsides of Ryders are few, but are there. The biggest thing for me is that no two bikes are the same, and some are a bit long-​in-​the-​tooth and/​or poorly maintained. Get there early to make sure you get a bike that is fully functional. Otherwise you may get one that creaks, leans to one side (making the balance portions of class more difficult), or can’t be adjusted to your preferred bike fit. Second, due to space constraints the area where they do the yoga and cross-​training is also the changing area, meaning it can get really filthy. So, make sure you use a mat for any of those parts of class, even if you normally don’t find them valuable (I don’t for cross-​training stuff).
I can’t deny that the pros FAR outweigh the cons at Qi (which is true for each of the locations). With the variety and quality of their class offerings I feel like I get more bang for my buck with Qi than with any other business I spend money with.

Classes at Qi Ryder are the BEST part of my day. After attending nearly 75 classes, I’m in awesome shape and the classes are still very challenging for me. What I love most about the gym are the instructors. Nick, Chris, and Jeremy are three of my favs. Their work outs are always unique and it’s an absolute guarantee that you will leave in a full-​on sweat. I love that they are actually doing the workouts with you and not the type that walk around the gym telling you what you are doing wrong.

OK, my only complaint before was the cleanliness… problem SOLVED!
Within a few hours of me posting my last review, I got an email from the owner saying that the problem was being addressed and they hired a new cleaning crew. Hard not to be impressed with that. I noticed improvement in the next few days, and after a few weeks, it looks like its going to stay pretty clean.
So, all of the good still stands from my last review, and none of the bad… whats not to like?!?

This place really kicks my butt. Really. And as I’m flailing like a lunatic, with sad, shaky punches whilst riding my bike as it swings haphazardly from side to side (yes, you work out with arm weights while on the bike AND yes, the bikes move around while you’re on them), those crazy instructors look at me and say, «You can do it, thirty more punches! Here we go!»
And they look like they really think I can do it. I don’t know if they’re crazy, or if I am, but whenever I work up the courage to sign up for a Ryders class, I do surprise myself.
I also feel a little bit like I’m dying the next day.
And I push myself a little harder the next time I’m working out solo. Because, as it turns out, I actually can do thirty more punches. Woof.

Any class at Qi Ryders is amazing! That said, they are definitely not a walk in the park. These classes mean business and they will get you into amazing shape! All the instructors are wonderful and high energy. By the end of class, it is guaranteed that you will sweat through whatever you are wearing and will feel as though you completed a full body workout! Every class is different and poses a new challenge. Maddie’s classes tough, but are some of my favorites, and you will finish class wanting her playlist on your iPod!

The Mountain Warrior classes here are brutal. Think ½ spin, ½ crossfit style class. That said, if one is consistent with these classes there is no doubt they will get someone in amazing shape. If you are a beginner, I’d stick with Qi’s cycling classes at their other locations and work your way up. I have only taken the Mountain Warrior classes here so far, but I plan to try the Qi Cycling class soon which is an hour of cycling.
One star off for cleanliness-​or lack there of. The floor could use a good vacuum, which wouldn’t be such a big deal if I didn’t need to use it for floor work from time to time. I’d also like to see sanitizing wipes for the bikes like they have at their downtown location.
With that said, the classes are great and the staff is friendly. It’s another great offering from the Qi family!

Great spin classes and instructors. Very challenging. The two drawbacks are the a/​c never seems to cool the room (hot spin) and the floor is dingy and old but be tough and deal and you’ll love the challengin classes.

I LOVE this place. If you are looking for a super-​hardcore workout, look no further. Most classes revolve around the Real Ryder bikes they have, including their boxing classes, which ensures that you get lots of cardio, in addition to body weight exercises. You never have the same class twice, which keeps boredom at bay. After each class, I leave completely worn out and feeling like I’ve given my all to the workout, but yet leaves me energetic and excited to return.
Everyone here is so friendly and it feels more like a family. This is not a gym, but a way of life. Get into Qi!

I can’t say enough good things about Qi Ryders. They will ensure that you leave exhausted and can’t wait to come back for more. All of the instructors are friendly and upbeat and will REALLY push you. They have some extreme classes and I would recommend picking something that is level one or two to scope it out. You will get a great workout in every class and meet some awesome people.
I normally get bored in gyms, but the music and attitude here keeps me going, especially in the winter when it’s harder to exercise outside. I highly recommend attending a class or two at Qi, you’ll be hooked. If you want to get in better shape this is the place to do it!
Also, the online signup for Ryders classes is very convenient, you can purchase more classes and browse their schedule online. The website is always up to date and easy to follow. Keep it up Qi!

So here’s the low down on QI RYDERS: It’s a great place if you’re really into spinning and you want a solid cardio workout. If you’re new to spinning or trying to get back into shape I would suggest starting out with the Mtn. Warriors (level 1) class on Sundays. Otherwise scope out any of the Level 2 classes. And if you’re super hardcore hit up any of the Level 3 classes.
The only throw back I see to Qi Ryders is the cleanliness to the place. It comes across as a little dingy. Most of the classes have you off the bike doing some sort of isometrics. I’ve noticed sitting on the floor or close to, that the place could use a good scrub down. I’d suggest they give the place a little bit of a face lift with some hardwood floors, fresh towels, and a cleaning crew that comes through more than once a month. Burn some extra calories in their summer at there birkram cycle classes — the a/​c sucks.

I am officially addicted to this club. In the past month, they have changed their membership options…$ 70 a month for unlimited classes. This membership is also month to month, so you don’t have to worry about signing a contract.
Each class is unique and different. You meet so many great people with like-​minded interests. And of course all the instructors are great and push you to the max! I am getting into amazing shape thanks to Qi!

I fell in to a camp of people (like a lot of people, I think) who really couldn’t find the motivation to go to the gym regularly. After stopping organized sports after high school, I was watching my athletic ability and physical prowess progressively drip away year after year.
Then I gave Qi Ryders a try at the recommendation of my fiancé, and this is it. I’ve been going since September ’10, and I couldn’t be happier.
Other reviewers are correct in saying that it is a serious workout. It probably isn’t for everyone, but it is for you if you want to feel like you got the absolute most out of the time you spent at the gym. Each workout is varied, and is always a good balance between strength conditioning and cardio. People who wear calorie counting gadgets regularly report burning upwards of 1000 cals per workout.
The Ryder bikes that swing side to side keep it interesting, but do more than just break up the monotony of spinning. Their inherent instability provides a plethora of new ways to work different muscles. The trainers have figured out how to exploit the bikes capabilities to their fullest potential, resulting in a more complete workout for you.
The best reason to do this class is the trainers. They are extremely expert at walking the line between pushing you to your true limit and being supportive and encouraging of your progress. They are tremendously friendly and get to know you to boot (which makes it a lot more enjoyable to come back again!). Not to mention that there is usually more than one there (one class I think we had 5 different spin instructors).
Qi Ryders is an awesome place!

I received info about Qi Ryders from purchasing a LivingSocial daily deal. I’ve attended 3 classes thus far… and love Jasmine’s class. Her music and attitude make you want to come back every week. It’s not only a great physical workout, but mentally this class is great if you want to just «get away» for a bit … and get in shape. I already feel great! Thanks Jasmine. You Rock!

This review also applies only to Qi Ryders. I bought the Groupon for 5 classes a while back and decided it was time to start cashing them in. The online reservation process was a piece of cake. I showed up for the Backcountry Training class with Briana a few minutes early and she checked me in and then gave me a quick yet effective overview of how to use the bikes (they are different and fun).
The class started on-​time, and after a few minutes of light warmup, Briana proceeded to make my heart rate red-​line on the bike for 25 – 30 minutes. I was glad that I grabbed a bike in the back so that only the instructor could see me cheating towards the end. I thought I was in okay shape, but this class proved that I have quite a bit of work to do. After the bike workout Briana set everyone in the class up at a core-​strengthening station (about 10 different things). Then we proceeded to cycle through the different exercises twice, again kicking my butt.
Overall, it was great! It is that extra push you need sometimes. I won’t be going multiple times a week, but I definitely plan to incorporate one of these workouts per week. I also like how you do not need to be a member and can just pop-​in for a reasonable price.

To continue with my concurrent obsession with Groupon/​LivingSocial & masochism, I’ve been attending a few of the Mtn Warrior/​Mtn Ascent classes at the Qi Ryders club and I can say with 100% certainty that it’s intense. 5am and these people are busting their butts. They are riding bikes without seats, doing wall seats with grins, doing planks on balance boards. It is quite the experience…
Now, you would think that this would mean that the instructors are crazier than Jillian Michaels, but I can say that even though they are buff & fanatical, they are also smiling, happy people that really want you to perform to your highest potential.
They want to know your name (ok, so that’s a little bit so they can call you out if you are slacking) but they also want you to feel welcomed in their little fitness cult, and get you revved to crush it before most people are entering their REM cycle.
When my groupon expires, I’m pretty sure I’ll sign up to keep going. It’s cool that you can do it as a «drop-​in» for a pretty reasonable price. I’m definitely excited about continuing my Warrier training and I feel pretty awesome about rediscovering my abs…

THIS IS FOR Qi RYDERS ONLY: This whole experience is partially my fault I think for not being more proactive and asking more questions. I signed up for a «free trial» session on the Qi Ryders program, and decided on the «Mountain Warrior» class (big mistake). I’m a hella mess right now from stress eating, not working out, quitting smoking etc. and am looking for something to GET ME BACK INTO shape… this program is for people who are already in shape btw. So I signed up, overslept, and hauled ass down to Colfax to get in at the 5:30am class.
There was punching bags and sledgehammers and hanging from the ceiling ab work, it was insanity! I will say that Chris and Nick (the instructors) were very «You can do it!» with me as was the rest of the class members who were trying to help my sorry pudgy ass, so that was much appreciated. But much to my dismay, the day I picked there was no spinning on the new cool bikes, just more grunting and lifting for an hour.
So yes, if you are a fitness freak (I know there are lots of you in Denver) or like to run marathons, Iron Man etc. by all means go here and be with your people. But if you like cheeseburgers, pizza, have ever been on weight watchers/​jenny craig etc, ever smoked, typed in your height and weight online and were told according to your BMI you are «obese» you might want to try something else.
I’d like to come back and try it again sometime, after I get a little more fit and sound a little less like I’m having an asthma attack freak out while I’m working out… Still love the Qi Yoga classes I’ve taken so far though! This one was just too much for me. It was like The Biggest Loser, but I was the only loser. But hey I stayed the whole time and managed to not throw up so that’s a plus.