In Ballard, RealRyder indoor cycling seems to be taking hold. More than just your ordinary stationary cycle, proponents laud the RealRyder as an evolution, claiming its dynamic method "integrates several muscle groups for a cohesive, total body workout that improves strength, stability and coordination, while increasing cardio capacity and burning extra calories (20 percent more than traditional 'spinning')."

Phew. It's a workout just reading that sentence.

In any case, a new studio called The Beautiful Bike is all about the RealRyder and says it's Seattle's first and only RealRyder indoor cycling studio. (Maybe it was the only one when the press release was written, but there is now a second studio, at CorePower Yoga in the Ballard Blocks building.)

According to a press release, the RealRyder indoor cycles mimic road bicycling by having articulating frames that turn, tilt and lean, delivering an "exhilirating" cardio and full body workout.

"Seattle has always been quick to embrace what is new and revolutionary in exercise, and we’re thrilled to introduce the world’s first unstationary indoor bike to a city that takes its fitness seriously," said Colin Irving, CEO, competitive cyclist and visionary behind the RealRyder concept. "RealRyder equipment was designed to appeal both to the cycling enthusiast who use it for conditioning, as well as amateurs of all ages who ride for health, weight loss, fun, or all three."

Apparently, though not in Seattle, even celebrities are using the RealRyder, including Tobey Maguire, Rihanna, as well as “Entourage’s” Adrian Grenier and Kevin Connolly.

The Beautiful Bike is located at 310 NW 40th St. in Seattle, WA. Studio# D (walk through gate entrance to the right side of building to access courtyard). For class schedules, reservations and additional information, visit www.thebeautifulbike.com or call 206-283-4567.

You can reach Zachariah Bryan at zachb@robinsonnews.com

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