Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Montreal indoor cycling instructor and studio owner Yaron Spitzer, who launched his business to combine all elements he personally wanted to see (and share) in a fitness program...
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am indoor cycling instructor and studio owner. I provide a fitness experience different from any other spinning class in Montreal. CADENCEcycle is a full-body workout/dance party on a bike that is guided by beat or cadence of the music.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
CADENCEcycle opened its doors in May 2011. I saw a need for a different type of spin class and wanted to offer Montrealers the type of workout I was personally looking for. I had taken classes all over the city but I couldn’t find anything that combined the elements I wanted to see in a fitness program – a solid workout plus the fun factor coupled with amazing music. I travelled across Canada and the US for two years sampling cycling classes and educating myself on different techniques. With all of that research under my belt, I developed CADENCE.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The most challenging part of teaching any fitness class is creating an environment that is equally as comfortable for newcomers and as it is physically demanding for the die-hard daily riders. The best part of my job is accomplishing this, and watching these two groups ride as a community. Looking up from my bike and seeing the dance-like pulse of the class with their heads bopping, arms waving and hands clapping simultaneously gets me wired!
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
With the business taking off in the past year and welcoming our first baby all at the same time, I haven’t had as much time as I would like to visit with extended family. My dad has been coming in to the studio a lot in the past few months, though, which has been a great way to see him while working.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, CADENCEcycle will be four studios strong with over a dozen instructors. I am hoping to teach my technique and passion for Riding with Rhythm to every instructor that joins the team, have them add in their own unique choreography, and create their own playlists based on the clients that become addicted to their classes.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Figuring out the financial side of building a studio was a major challenge – it wasn’t something I was trained in at all. After spending a lot of time meeting with accountants and banking advisers, I began to learn about the ‘business’ side of business, which has helped me mold the studio into what it is today.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Money, cars, and tangibles are less important than they have ever been to me. I get to do what I love, listen to amazing music and energize a room full of people a few times each day. When exercise is your job, endorphins are a constant! I think I might be the happiest guy on earth right now.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
My first full class. We had a camera crew and photographer there to capture it. Though classes are always packed now, I can’t forget the very beginning and remember how proud I was.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Follow your passions, whatever they are. Whatever makes you get up in the morning and gives you butterflies is the first sign. Don’t let others persuade you or influence you in one direction or another, you are the best judge of YOU. Learn to tune into what really makes you happy and then go after it. Knock fear in the face!
Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
I’m a big fan of Middle Eastern cuisine and the freshest hummus and pita I can get is right down the street. Always quick on take-out and AWESOME on service. La Siren de la Mere (Jean Talon/Dresden).
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
That’s easy. My daughter is trying to grab the computer as I answer these questions. If I’m not with her, I’m downloading new music.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
The Big Apple. The bright lights inspire me. Make me feel like there’s nothing I can’t do… 😉 Plus they have great spin classes.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
See above.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
Riding my road bike to rhythm, somewhere in Europe (maybe the French Alps). My wife and daughter would be waiting for me at a lovely hotel after my workout. Soooooo not realistic, but a dreamer can dream…
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Chai Lifeline. This charity supports children and their families while going through the toughest times of their lives. We host spin-a-thons to raise money for this charity and brought in close to $10,000 for them during our last event!
What to you is notable?
Notable is something that one of your senses (smell, touch, sight, sound, taste) engages in and never forgets. This city is filled with notable experiences, from cuisine to festivals, music and art, and I would definitely say that CADENCEcycle is one of the notable experiences offered in Montreal!
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone!
#LYNL | Live Your Notable Life
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