Dynamo Is a Great Spin Studio — And Not Just ‘for Paris’
When I came back to Paris from L.A., my chief concern was how to keep up my workout routine. Jogging is off the table for me and my old-lady knees, and Paris isn’t exactly known for its boutique fitness scene — or wasn’t, anyway. Luckily, the recent surge in cross-Atlantic travel and Americans settling in Paris (please spare me the term “expat”) has created the demand for SoulCycle-like venues, even in a city where the “bon vivant” still reigns.
Dynamo Cycling, which now boasts four central studios, unabashedly copies the SoulCycle model — from the 45-minute class format down to the white-and-neon décor and wheel logo — and it does it well. You can expect a sweaty workout complete with weights sequence, fiercely upbeat music and motivational mantras screamed in your face, i.e. the whole Soul package.
Their full programme includes the original Dynamo class, as well as Dynamo Encore (a one-hour session), Dynamo Esprit (45 minutes spinning, followed by 15 minutes yoga and stretching on the bike) and various themed rides (girl bands, electro, Fergie). They even do classes in English, called “V.O.” (Version Originale), which tells you everything you need to know.
Pricing
Like all self-respecting bougie spin studios, Dynamo doesn’t come cheap, at 27€ per individual class and slightly less for class packages. That said, your first class is just 10€, with the option to follow up with three classes for 45€.
Instructors
If you can, go to Lisa’s classes at the Lafayette location and John’s at the Opéra location. Both have so much energy and really push you to have your best workout, both through their rather ruthless instructions and through their mantra-shouting (is this a job? Can I do this job?).
Locations
Boétie: 79 rue la Boétie, 75008
Lafayette: 24 rue Chauchat, 75009
Oberkampf: 21 rue des Trois Bornes, 75011
Opéra: 14 rue Saint Augustin, 75002