Compass Cycling Studio
Compass Cycling Studio
Three sisters bring classes to HoliMont; open to members and non-members
The beginning of January is always a time of excitement and anticipation for the brand-new year! While we are all hoping the world is a safer, healthier place than it was last year, some might have more specific goals for 2022, such as enjoying more quality time with friends and perhaps meeting new ones, learning a new skill, getting healthier, practicing mindfulness or having more fun! If achieving all of these goals seems like a tall order for 2022, then you’ve probably never joined an indoor cycling class! Otherwise known as spinning, indoor cycling classes have numerous mental, emotional, and physical benefits, and anyone can join a class this winter through Compass at the Mont.
Ashley Biryla and her sister Nicole Branagan together founded Compass Cycle + Flow in Rochester six years ago, but the Rochester natives are hardly strangers to the Ellicottville area. “Nicole and I are St. Bonaventure alumni, and so are our parents,” Biryla said. “We’re third generation members of HoliMont and absolutely love skiing there every winter!”
Biryla and her family are thrilled to combine their two passions – skiing and cycling – and share them with others at HoliMont this winter. Compass at the Mont indoor cycling classes are held every Saturday at 8:00am and 10:45am above the ski school, and they are open to both members of HoliMont and non-members. Cyclers of all ages and fitness levels are welcome to participate in classes (those under 18 need a parent’s permission), and those brand new to indoor cycling are welcome, too.
“You’re going to get a great workout,” said Biryla of the 45-minute house ride that involves riding to the beat of the music together as a group under the guidance and encouragement of Biryla’s younger sister, Bry Glasser, who is Compass’ lead cycle instructor and trainer. “It’s cardio, of course, but also a strength workout. We do incorporate a weight/strength segment. There are also so many mental and emotional benefits … We encourage the mind-body connection that can be so difficult to find in the busy-ness of the day to day,” she explained.
Toward that end, the ride takes place in a dark, candlelit room with no cell phones to minimize distractions. While similar physical benefits can be obtained at home with a spin bike and a virtual class, Biryla pointed out that there’s really no substitute for the community and support of an in-person studio class. “It’s beautiful to be with people and have that energy,” she said. “We pride ourselves on being nonjudgmental. We want to know your name, get to know you, what brings you in, and how we can be of service. It’s about you and how we can help you and be a part of your journey. These 45 minutes are for you to do what you need to do: sweat it out, laugh, cry, hoot and holler - we strongly encourage and support that it’s your time.”
For Biryla and her sisters, Compass is not just a family business, but the realization of a dream that was several years in the making. Biryla explained, “I enjoy working out, and I love cycling. It was only when I started traveling and going to other studios out of town that I noticed that there was this thing that didn’t exist in Rochester - a boutique spinning studio would be new to the area! I went around and recruited those I vibed with, and it’s evolved from there into a team of 23 instructors now!”
While Biryla and Branagan work behind the scenes to run the business (and of course, participate in classes), their younger sister, Bry, plays a key role. “Bry is a Division One athlete, a lacrosse coach, and was teaching cycling when she lived in Albany,” Biryla explained. “She moved back to Rochester and she’s now our lead cycling instructor and trainer. She has a beautiful way of coaching, especially with her background. It’s truly a family business. My mom comes to every class! It’s worked out really well.”
However, the past six years have not been problem-free, Biryla said, specifically referencing the COVID-19 pandemic. “The most difficult part was that we were shut down twice: the initial shutdown and then the second time when the government shut businesses down based on zip code and COVID numbers. In general, I feel like the stigma against the gyms and the fitness industry as a whole was really tough.” Despite these challenges, Biryla and her sisters persevered. When the studio was forced to close, they offered pre-recorded and live virtual spinning classes to those who were able to join in from home.
She explained, “I think that one thing we’ve seen is our core group really come back: those that benefit from being pushed, encouraged, and supported within that community … It can be really difficult and isolating to be working out on your own. Sometimes you just need that person next to you cheering you on! Our thing is more connection, in-person community, and a welcoming atmosphere.”
Those who are interested in becoming part of such a community at HoliMont are encouraged to sign up for these classes in advance at https://www.compasscyclestudio.com/compass-at-the-mont. Biryla said, “There are limited spots and the reservation system is interactive, so you can pick where you want to go” (room layout looks slightly different on mobile device). If there are bikes available, walk-ins will be accepted. Vaccination proof is required for cycling classes. HoliMont requires everyone to be masked indoors, but once proof of vaccination is shown at the cycling class, participants do not need to wear a mask while working out.
Compass at the Mont indoor cycling bikes are cleat-only, and shoes are available for those who need them. “We will take the time to help with proper bike alignment and shoe clip-in,” Biryla said. “Whether you’re a first-time or experienced rider, we’d love to have you!” For more information, visit www.compasscyclestudio.com and follow them on social media.