Spin Teacher Switches Gears, Opens Own Studio

The sign hanging in the spin room at NexCycle reads, “You’re only one workout away from a good mood,” which, besides feeling exhilarated and challenged, will most likely sum up the feeling you get when your tires stop spinning and your feet are back on the ground after a class is completed.

The spin studio, which shares space with Prana Pilates and Yoga Studio on North Country Road in St. James, is owned and run by St. James resident, Mary Keneally, who has been in the fitness field for over thirty years.

The studio, which opened in January, is, and not coincidentally, just a stone’s throw away from Energy Gym and not far from Gold’s Gym. The proximity was part of the plan, said Keneally.

“I wanted these classes to compliment the gym,” said Keneally. “We offer a punch card for classes so you don’t have to be a member to attend. You can pay per class or buy a group of classes.”

Technology has its role in the studio. Class sign ups are online, a convenience that Keneally thinks is key in a Smartphone world.

“People can make the decision the night before to come and once they commit like that, I think it motivates them to stick to the plan.”

Spin bikes are equipped with small computer screens, providing feedback on heart rate and average speed. Riders can monitor their performance throughout the class and adjust accordingly. Perhaps the best feedback you will get though, is through instructors like Keneally, who motivate without sounding hollow, but give you just enough encouragement and words of wisdom to make you smile through the toughest climb.

Nesconset resident, Dianne Martin, who has been spinning for close to three years said she finds the classes motivational and challenging. Videos play on a large screen at the front of the room, giving a visual diversion in addition to heart pumping music.

“I am here because of Mary, I love her as a trainer. She is inspiring and having the video screen keeps it interesting,” said Martin.

Keneally, 48, has spent the better part of her life in the fitness industry, starting when she was just 16 and has worked for Gold’s Gym and Energy among other places. She decided to take the leap into owning her own business when she came to the conclusion that as she ages, she may not be able to work at the same pace.

“This allows me to do what I love and stay in the field that I love,” she said.  “Some people don’t want to go into a gym. A space like this feels a little more comfortable.” In fact on a Friday night, it is typical to see students from Prana wandering over to NexCycle to share some of the fruit and snacks Keneally lays out for her students.

“This is a great spot.  I don’t even feel like I am teaching,” said Keneally. “It’s so much more.”