Spin Instructors, Tricia Amanda Lee and Jocelyn Tan share about the joys of teaching at Sync Cycle, the myths of spin cycling, and what makes their humble studio special.
(From left to right) Jocelyn Tan and Tricia Amanda Lee in the East Coast outlet. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG
With both outlets situated along serene roads in East Coast and Yio Chu Kang, Sync Cycle does not only provide tranquility for its riders but also for its instructors. Established in 2016, Sync Cycle’s studios are known to be smaller as compared to other spin cycle studios in Singapore but according to its instructors, Tricia Amanda Lee and Jocelyn Tan, this is what sets them apart.
“I think that’s what makes us unique and special in that sense, we are able to build a closer-knit community. The vibes are very homey,” Tricia said before she reminisced about her days as a rider at Sync Cycle. “That’s the feedback we received from riders as well. Especially if it’s your first time coming, you don’t feel as intimidated. I think that’s one of the reasons why I decided to teach here as well. I started here as a rider and that was the experience I got myself.”
Both Tricia and Jocelyn began as riders at Sync Cycle before they became instructors together. While riding and teaching are both ways to distress, there are significant differences between the two, and getting to enjoy both aspects is what both instructors find so enticing.
“When I’m a rider, it helps me to chill out after a stressful day at school and everything. As an instructor, it’s about connecting with your riders and building relationships and having fun.” Jocelyn said as she also shared the difficulties of being an instructor who is slightly more reserved in nature.
Sync Cycle Instructor, Jocelyn Tan teaching a class. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG
“Sometimes before a class, you might not be feeling the best emotionally, physically, or mentally but when you come in for a class, you have to be your 100% and bring that energy up in the room. I think for me that might be the hardest part because I am not naturally the most energetic and hype kind of a person.” She broke into a shy smile as Tricia chimed in on how tuning out while instructing is not possible, compared to when you are riding.
“Your mind has to be engaged 100% of the time and you can’t afford to even zone out for a split second because you might miss a cue or a drop in the music or miss being aware of a rider who needs help.”
Sync Cycle instructor, Tricia Amanda Lee setting up for class. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG
As instructors, the duo hopes to bust some of spin cycling’s myths and bring to light the inclusivity it has to offer. Tricia’s friends often have the misconception that spin is only for women. Since riders are predominantly female, she finds herself understanding why that misbelief exists but believes the sport is becoming more popular amongst men. "We welcome guys here as well! It’s very much a cardio thing so maybe it appeals more to females but it's not an only female exercise or sport.”
Another bewildering myth for the pair is that riders will develop chunky and muscular legs if they attend too much spin. The two laughed as Tricia used their own physiques as examples to debunk the myth, “I mean, I don’t think we look bulky and buff! I think because it’s cardio, it makes you look leaner or more toned. You won’t have super bulky or chunky legs!”
PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG
In spite of having busy schedules with university and other full-time job commitments, the joy that comes with being a spin instructor on the side radiates from both Jocelyn and Amanda. It would not take much to see that the comfortable and snug studio has become like a humble abode for the two and the good vibes that come with that transmit easily to anyone who comes for a spin class at Sync Cycle.
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