Manayunk’s indoor cycling studio to take bikes to the street for a good cause

Who says spin class has to be indoors? 

According to Juliet Sabella, owner of The Wall Cycling Studio, not only can it be done outside, but it can also help put money back into the community. 

This Saturday, the Manayunk cycling studio will host a series of outdoor classes to benefit North Light Community Center. 

“The North Light Community Center brings so much to Manayunk. This is our small way of saying thanks and bringing awareness to such a deserving organization,” said Sabella. 

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The center, located on Green Lane in Manayunk, is a nonprofit organization that provides community services and programs for children and teens, as well as emergency assistance for families in need. 

The event will be held in the parking lot across from The Wall, located at 100 Levering St.

The idea of taking the indoor bicycles outside came from one of The Wall’s members and Sabella hopes the event will encourage non-spinners to learn more about spinning classes.

“We hope that by bringing it out in the open, people will see it’s actually pretty fun,” said Sabella.

Karen Smith, director of marketing and communications for North Light, says she was glad to work with Sabella on this initiative and explained that the fundraiser will help keep the center up and running.

“It’s a tight budget,” said Smith. “We’re 75 years in the community providing services that no one else does. With this economy, community centers across the city and the country are finding ourselves in the same situation.”

Taking it outdoors

By donating $30, participants will receive a “swag bag” that includes a free pass to The Wall, RowZone and Bikram Yoga, as well as other gifts from local shops. Smith says “swag bags” are also available for those who want to donate, but don’t want to spin.

Attendees can chose from three class times, 11:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:15 p.m., to spin with one of The Wall’s certified instructors.

The family-friendly event will feature a live DJ, face painting and other activities for children. Furry-guests from the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) will also be in attendance.

Those interested in participating are asked to sign up in advance for one of the 45-minute sessions to get the $30 rate, as the Saturday rate is $35.

Sabella, who opened her studio this spring, says the event focuses on fitness and community, which she believes go hand-in-hand.

“Health and well-being isn’t just about the individual – it’s about the community,” said Sabella.

To reserve your bike visit www.thewallcycling.com and select the “Events” tab at the top of the page.

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