Lisa Palmer has always been an avid wellness supporter. Utilizing her passion to help others achieve optimal health, Palmer decided to bring the CycleBar phenomenon to the Queen City. Now, Palmer’s studio offers a wide variety of cycling classes that have us all a little too excited to set our alarms for an early morning workout.
How did you get into the industry? What do you think is important about wellness/fitness?
I think fitness and wellness are important for everyone to keep up with. For me, it’s time for myself and gives me the energy I need to be a good mom, business-owner, family-member, and friend. Since I owned my own training studio back in St. Louis, owning my own studios here in Charlotte came naturally.
Can you tell us about the origin of CycleBar?
When my family moved to Charlotte in 2012, I wanted to continue cycling but couldn’t find the right class for me. I knew of the national CycleBar brand and was a big fan of their energy, mission, and leadership, but there was no studio in Charlotte. Playing off my fitness and private training background, I decided to head down the path of franchising my own CycleBar studio here in the Queen City.
Describe what a class is like, and tell us about what types of people come in and use your services.
The CycleBar classes are a blast. The lights are dimmed, the music is bumping, and our instructors (“CycleStars”) are there to keep you motivated throughout the 50 minute classes. We offer top-notch amenities including fresh fruit, enhanced water, free shoes, towels, lockers, and showers. As cycling is a low-impact, yet high-intensity exercise, people of all ages come to our classes.
What is your relationship like with your clients?
We love getting to know our clients on a personal level. One of our riders who started with us at the opening of the first studio lost over 20 pounds in her first few months riding with us. It was a huge transformation for her, and she has become such an inspiration to herself, our CycleStars, and those on the bikes beside her.
Did you ever think CycleBar would be this successful? Why do you think it resonates with people?
I think that our strong sense of community is what really resonates with people. We learn your name from the first time you walk in the studio. We are always available to answer questions, or just to chat— whether you come once a month, or every single day, you are part of the #cyclefam.
