Turnstyle Cycle

I started going to Turnstyle and originally loved the Real-​Ryder bikes. They were tough to get used to at first, but otherwise a fun new vibe to the usual stationary ones.
Now that they have stationary bikes, the studio definitely feels like it’s in a transition phase. The instructors have great energy but the classes are lacking a few things compared to other studios with similar bikes in the area.
— The routines and moves instructors are giving are not that unique or complicated, causing it to get a little dull 20 – 30 minutes in. More transitions to different hand positions and choreography will definitely amp them up!
— Staying to the beat of the music is key (and maintaining which foot is going first) and the last couple of classes I’ve gone to have been difficult to stay on beat. The music is either too fast, or the instructor doesn’t emphasize what beat to stay on, so the musicality is lost.
— Music needs to be louder as a whole. Its hard to stay on beat if you can’t hear it.
I really want to love this studio and I think it can be fantastic with a few adjustments. I live right around the corner so the location is fantastic. Fingers crossed it gets better!

Cool studio but needs a new sound system! Music turn downs when instructor talks into the mic– makes it hard to hear the best.

I signed up for my first spin class at Turnstyle this week and attended this morning. I was very impressed.
First, the Longfellow bridge was closed on my way in and I ended up taking the mass Ave bridge and coming around through MIT, leaving me running late. I called once I got to the area asking for clarification on how to find the actual shop and the amazing girl on the phone guided me to the parking deck. Even more amazing, Mick came out to find me. Best customer service ever.
Then I came in late to the class and they shined a flashlight so I could get clipped in. They were super nice about it — some places would not have let you in. I felt so bad but they couldn’t have been nicer.
The class itself was awesome. Chris made me feel like a dancing rockstar on that bike,
With elements of yoga too. The music was super upbeat and fun. The class flew by. It was amazing.
The studio is very nice and a little small — like everything else in Boston. Nicest showers I’ve seen as of late in a studio.
I’ll definitely be back. This place rocks.

Turnstyle is awesome! Rich is great! I took advantage of their one week offer for $ 10. I went Saturday morning (sick drops class) with my boyfriend (first spin class ever) everyone was super helpful from the second we walked in, setting up the bikes, and through the class. Rich was the instructor and he was so awesome! Music was great, work out was awesome, encouraging during the class, know your name, loved everything. I went again Friday night with my coworker to the Neon 60. So much fun, blacklights, glowsticks, neon paint. RIch was the instructor again and he was even better if that is possible! Both my boyfriend and coworker were equally as impressed as I was and both commented how much they loved Rich also.

I had done a class with a Realryder bike before and loved it! However, my experience today took my level of excitement for spinning on a Realryder up a notch, as this class incorporated weights and the music was on point! The class was really challenging and a blast at the same time! In addition, Tiffany was so encouraging throughout the whole class and honestly the 45 minutes felt like 20 minutes! I will most definitely be back!!!

As a Bostonian, there are plenty of local spin studios to choose from, but Turnstyle definitely offers a unique experience. The close proximity to my house, the bright smiles of the instructors on the homepage of their website and their electric color scheme gave me the green light to say «yes» to this studio.
Another key reason why I chose to spin at this studio was their Friday night «Neon 60» ride, where glow sticks, black lights and body paint were promised. Basically, a giant party on a bike. Count me in.
When I arrived to the studio for my first class about two weeks ago, I was immediately put at ease. The owner of the studio and my instructor for the evening, Rich, was smiling brightly at the front desk. I told him that this was my first spin class, and without any hesitation, Rich answered all of my questions about spin. I felt fully comfortable and confident before I even stepped foot onto the bike.
The class itself was definitely an adventure. I loved the music that they played, the high energy that Rich brought to the class and being challenged on the bike through a variety of different intervals. A unique aspect of this studio is that the bikes (Real Ryder) they use in the class move with your strides, so they are not your average stationary bicycles. This allowed me to work my core more than usual, which I definitely appreciated.
A few days later, I went back to Turnstyle for my second class (with Chris, another awesome instructor). It was still challenging, but I found it to be easier than my first class, which Rich told me was often what happened. By the end of the second class, I felt extra confident and prepared for my last Turnstyle class (part of the three-​class package deal for new members), which I will be attending very soon!
I also wrote an article about my experience for one of the websites I work for, if you’re looking for some additional information about spin and about Turnstyle:

Wish I could give Turnstyle Cycle 6 stars! If you’re looking for a tough workout while having fun doing it – this is the place for you! I’ve honestly never met a more friendly, welcoming crew.
I can only speak to the two instructors I’ve had, Mick & Rich, but I’ve heard only great things about the others…
If you’re looking for a boot camp class, Mick Davis is your guy. He’s an incredibly talented instructor; energetic, fun, motivating & highly knowledgeable. I took the boot camp class offered at their (almost) new South End location and it was one of the most fun yet challenging classes I’ve taken — we were laughing for half of the class! (and I’m struggling with the stairs today). His energy and enthusiasm is contagious.
The realryder bikes are tough to adjust to at first but after one or two classes, you’ll be addicted! Rich Downing is truly the zen master of all indoor cycling. His natural ability to engage his class while pushing them to their limits is unparalleled.
Turnstyle Cycle has mastered the art of radiating positive vibes and taking your stress away. You’ll feel rejuvenated after — I promise!

Just finished my first Cycle class! Chris is an AMAZING instructor, so friendly and everyone there in general is really helpful.
A really good workout in general, love the vibe there. The music is great but the acoustics aren’t, I was in the first row and the instructors voice was kinda fuzzy at times so not easy to hear, but not particularly difficult either. I think I’ll give it another shot to see if I get the hang of it!
Overall, I thought it was a fun workout. Not addicted to it and didn’t necessarily blow me away, but I really enjoyed it and will def come back again.
Tip: would def recommend the clip on shoes. I’m pretty sure my feet would have otherwise fallen out many times so it’s worth it to get them.

Turnstyle is awesome! I’ve been there twice now taking advantage of their three pack promo (and student discount). The instructors were very helpful during my first time. They helped me adjust the bike and get situated to have a good workout. Also side note: spinning is a really good workout — upwards to 650 calories in 45 minutes! I’d definitely recommend checking Turnstyle out.
Overall: great workout, friendly instructors, reasonable starting promo pack

The facility, equipment and classes here are truly one of a kind. But what keeps everyone I know coming back is the tight-​knit staff and welcoming atmosphere you experience when you walk through the door. Turnstyle instructors and staff have found the perfect balance of professionalism and personal touch, which is hard to come by in the world of Boston/​Cambridge area studios.
The instructors want everyone to succeed, and it is so evident in every class. Rich, Laura, Mick, Chris and Caroline each have their own style of riding, but have the same end goal in mind: for each person to let go, shake off your day, and focus on you for 45 minutes. In my almost 70 classes at Turnstyle, I can’t say I have ever seen someone left in the dark, to fend for themselves and «figure it out.» Whether it is your first class or 20^th class, help is always offered to set up your bikes and get comfortable.
Don’t be intimidated for any reason, and give this place a try. The $ 30 for 3 classes is a great value for the starter pack. Give yourself 3 classes and all of these positive reviews will all make sense!

My fiancé and I first signed up for the trial 3-​pack and then signed up for a 3-​month ‘Sweating for the Wedding’ special discount that Turnstyle offers to future brides and grooms (and future bridesmaids/​groomsmen!)
I admit that when we first tried out Turnstyle on the 3-​class trial membership, we were put off by how expensive we perceived Turnstyle to be. Membership isn’t cheap and I was wondering whether we should join since my fiancé already has a free student membership to the MIT fitness facilities in the area and I’m already a member of the BSC. But I can tell you right now, Turnstyle is an INCREDIBLE value and well worth the money!
To us, the instructors are Turnstyle’s greatest assets. All of the instructors take the time to learn your name and encourage you during your work outs without hovering. They teach you how to set up your bike and the proper form/​technique when cycling or TRX training. They also put a lot of time and energy into crafting an effective and enjoyable workout with special attention to the music and lighting to make sure you’re having fun while exercising.
I would highly recommend Turnstyle to anyone! I especially encourage those who are already members of a gym or have student access to their school’s fitness facilities to join Turnstyle (they have 20% student discounts!). If you’re finding yourself paying for monthly membership to a gym that you never go to, or going to the gym daily and never seeing any results, join Turnstyle! Honestly, it’s kind of nice to let yourself be mindless and follow someone who’s delivering very specific instructions while motivating, encouraging you and kicking your butt into shape!

I tried a spinning class here this morning. I can’t say I’m a fan of the real ryder bikes. It took too much coordination and I couldn’t focus on using the appropriate level of resistance or RPMs. The staff here was great, though, and I like the electronic lockers. I took an early morning class and it was easy to get a metered (but before the meter time) parking spot.

what an intense cycle class! I am afraid of most spin classes, real ryder, anything that resembles a bicycle but I didn’t get my usual «everyone is watching me struggle» feeling. An off duty instructor approached me and helped me set up my bike. It was a tough class with Mick teaching but the sick playlist and camaraderie we really helpful!
I’ll be back!

Turnstyle is a great, pretty unique cycling studio. The place isn’t huge so don’t expect to be blown away by a spacious looking gym sorta space. This was my first time spinning in a while so I was a little nervous but as soon as I walked in, the staff at Turnstyle put me at ease.
They got me hooked up with a pair of their Reebok cycling shoes (you can bring your own, rent or just wear athletic shoes). Normally there would be a cost to rent these but they let me try them for free since I was a noob.
Our instructor, Laura, was excellent. Went around to each new person in the class and got them set up and comfortable. It did take a little while to get used to the real ryde bikes but with a little practice and the right posture you gradually find your comfort zone.
The workout was energetic and intense without being discouragingly hard. The class ended just as I was starting to get tired, which is what I want. Just right.
The facilities are clean and well stocked with toiletries to freshen up after class. A quick disclaimer that there are only two showers. So if you are the kind of person who likes to rinse off after an intense 45 minutes, just be prepared to wait a few minutes if you don’t make a beeline the shower right after class.
Overall an excellent experience and I will be back.

Turnstyle is a sleek and modern little workout studio tucked underneath 1 Kendall Square.
I’ve mostly attended TRX classes here, and I really like them. This was a new workout for me, but I’ve really enjoyed it and feel like I am getting a good strength workout. I especially like the upper body workout, probably because I struggle with the core workout components due to their difficulty (a sure sign I need to keep working on my core!). I’ve had several different instructors for the class and think they’re all good.
I did take one spin class here on the Real Ryder bikes. I’m not a huge fan of the bikes; I’m not super-​coordinated, so adding another plane of motion to a spin class is enough to make me feel like a mess. That said, I thought the instructor was excellent and I really liked how well-​integrated the music was to the workout. I don’t think the spinning at Turnstyle is for me, but I would heartily recommend it to anyone.
Any complaints I might have about Turnstyle would be the fault of the tiny location (e.g. the TRX room gets crowded or the lockers are small), but the Turnstyle crew truly worked miracles with what they had. They’ve crammed two walls of free lockers, two nice restrooms and a shower room, and a retail area into a tiny little area, and done it with style.

Turnstyle is the first cycling studio I could actually stick to going! The classes with Tara as awesome, highly recommend. People are always so nice, they do the little things that go a far way. Shower areas are great and fully stocked, only complaint is with busy classes 2 showers can make the wait long.
Again it’s the little things… Instructors know your names, the social aspect after class, help you make sure your bike is perfect fit, and always great you with a smile.
Haven’t tried TRX but have been to around 15 spin classes. Some instructors push you harder than others. One piece of advice, try it 3 times before you make a good judgement as the bikes are hard to get used to.

Highly recommended. I’m happy I finally made it here. I’ve tried just about all of the cycling studios out there, and Turnstyle is hands down the best. The instructors are attentive and motivating, class sizes are perfect, music pumps me up, cost is reasonable, and the Real Ryder bikes are fun to ride! I know it’s a better workout because I usually spin twice a week, and this is the first time I’ve been sore in a while.
Their TRX suspension class complements cycling perfectly. (These are the yellow and black ropes that you see hanging in some gyms.) I’ve been curious, but never knew how to accurately use them. Turns out they work your whole body: arms, legs, abs — seems like a way better alternative to using weights since it uses your own body weight. The instructors and small class size make it easy to learn.
You won’t find me at any other studio besides Turnstyle from here on out.

My review only covers TRX — which I loved! I’ve taken class from three different instructors: Rich, Nichole and Laura and they are all delightful, super friendly, personable, and down to earth. The best thing about this studio is that the instructors seem to take the time to want to get to know you and I really appreciate that.
The TRX room is small but fits about 10 people — the perfect size for the instructor to walk around and correct form and monitor exercises. Instruction is clear and the moves are difficult. After taking 3 classes I’ve felt muscles I hadn’t worked in a long time!

An A-​OK addition to the fitness world in Boston/​Cambridge. Came here for a trial 3 pack class & was highly impressed by the level of welcomed energy by the instructor. Rich as kind, attentive, and very communicative in regard to how to function on the bike.
The moving bike certainly takes some getting used to (and I think I was doing it wrong!) therefore it was not the most comfortable ride but I am willing to try out my other 2 classes in the pack to see how it improves! It felt like the class was not very cohesive; the girl in the front was doing her own thing which was a little confusing to people in the back trying to follow/​learn/​be in the group. I just felt like I was a little lost regarding how hard I was to be working & what I was supposed to be doing.
I prefer larger/​full classes and this had only ~10 people in it which is nice for new people & a lunchtime ride, but does bring the energy level down a little.
Great things:
–gorgeous space
–easy metered and Cambridge resident permit parking
–great instructors
–music is NOT loud which is wonderful compared to the SoulCycle nightclub feel.
–Friendly front desk staff, 20 dollars for 3 class special with student rate
–TRX if you want to have variation in your work out.

In the past I was taking Rich’s class at an other studio. He’s recently opened TurnStyle so I have taken several classes at his new place to check it out.
First and foremost… Rich is a really good indoor cycling instructor who roughly follows the Les Mills RPM format of high intensity workout coordinated with energetic music. The songs are specifically chosen with beat pattern that matches the desired pedal stroke. He’s really good at explaining the workout, guiding you thru the class, providing form cues and inspiring you to push yourself. I really like that emphasis is placed on form as well as effort level. I haven’t taken a class with any other TurnStyle instructor so will adjust my review once I’ve taken a few more classes.
OK, more about TurnStyle as an overall cycling studio…
A real treat for me are the RealRyder bikes. They pivot left/​right on an axis a little above floor level. As a result the bikes engage the core as well as simulate the feel of being on a true bicycle. They aren’t 100% the same as being on the road and do take some getting used to… took me 2 – 3 classes to sort out «the wobble» ;) The bikes accept either regular sneakers via a cage or pedal-​less clips but SPD mountain not SPD road, that’s a small beef I have as most roadies will have SPD SL cleats on their shoes. The bikes have computers that can sync with a HR monitor.
The space has lockers and showers. The cycle room is small and the instructor stand is pretty cool as it is elevated and has some funky colored lights that illuminate the instructor. Towels are available and there is a water bottle filling station. The staff are great, they make a point of getting to know you and make you feel welcome and at home in the studio.
I can’t offer input on the TRX side of the house as I’ve not tried it yet.
9-​14-​2014 UPDATE:
So I’ve taken Turnstyle Cycle classes with Tara and Nichole and both were very good and I won’t hesitate to take their class in the future. Just tried TRX and it kicked my a** just like crossfit. No Olympic style lifting in TRX which is good for me as I’ve got a bad shoulder which doesn’t hold up well to some of the Olympic overhead lifting moves. TRX does emphasize core strength much like crossfit and I feel that I got a great overall workout from TRX. I’m ready to sign up for my next TRX class!