Blazing Saddles

Specialties

Spinning® is a no-​impact aerobic exercise program that takes place on a specially designed stationary bicycle and can be done by people of all fitness levels. Our classes combine coaching, strength-​building, energizing music, cardio-​vascular health, and a monster calorie burn. Using music to motivate and coordinate, the instructor guides students through a series of hills, sprints, and jumps. During the 50 – 60 minute class, the pace and intensity will vary — sometimes it’s fast pedaling on a «flat road» and other times it’s slower «uphill» pedaling. The instructor creates and orchestrates the overall group experience, and students themselves further customize their own workout experience by adjusting their pace or the tension knob on the bike. Spinning burns serious calories. It tones the quad muscles, the outer thigh muscles, the glutes, abs and arms. It focuses the mind and pumps the heart. It is an upbeat, invigorating, efficient, addictive and fun group effort.

History

Established in 2011.

Susan Schwartz is an accomplished triathlete, adrenaline junkie, and dedicated weekend warrior. When she’s not tearing up the roads, she takes her passion indoors. After becoming a Certified Spinning® instructor and personal trainer in 1996, Susan’s career in the fitness industry took off. Her infectious energy and undying dedication to cycling, nutrition and fitness has spawned a loyal and dedicated following. Today, Susan is one of the most accomplished and well known Spinning instructors in Los Angeles. In 2002, Shirley and Steve O’Connor founded Black Dog Yoga in Sherman Oaks. It was an endeavor born of a pure intention to be part of the community and a desire to bring generosity, friendliness, and ego-​free, high-​quality yoga to the neighborhood. The family business thrived and became a place of nurturing and community, unmatched in its authenticity. In December 2011, Shirley and Steve joined forces with their friend Susan, and Blazing Saddles was born.

Meet the Business Owner

Susan S.

Business Owner

Susan Schwartz knows what it feels like to be on the go. She’s a Spinning instructor, personal trainer, and the mother of nine-​year-​old twin girls — her proudest achievement to date. Susan grew up in Toronto, Canada. In 1995, she moved to California with her husband, Al, and traded in her snow shoes for cycling shoes. Fueled by her love of cycling, Susan soon started teaching Spinning at several clubs in the Los Angeles area. As a Spinning instructor and personal trainer, Susan enjoys working with clients both in group settings and individually to help them realize and achieve their goals. She enjoys cooking (she worked in the catering industry for 6 years), camping, hiking, traveling, and — ever the Canuck — cheering for her beloved Toronto Maple Leafs. Ask Susan what she believes the key to happiness is and this is what she’ll tell you: «A healthy mind, an active body, lots of sleep, and comfortable shoes.»