Cycling with the moon and stars

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Real rides
But there's another, very different group of cycling classes that are increasingly popular, according to Blahnik. These are the "real ride" classes that are intended to simulate an authentic road race, such as a segment of the Tour de France, or to train people to participate in road races.

Over the last few years Blahnik says he's been seeing more gym members, particularly athletic women, come to cycling class to gain an edge on their outdoor competitive cycling. Having already achieved the fit body they desire, these women and men are drawn to the challenge of competition. They may compete in bike races or even triathlons, and use the gym for their training.

Cycling indoors is beneficial because the difficulty of the terrain is under the biker's control, Blahnik explains. “It’s hard to make it hard without the terrain," he says. "Indoors you can instantly make it hard.”

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Bryant says these classes are an example of how clubs are increasingly trying to extend their services beyond four walls with classes that appeal to people who are also active outside the gym. Some cycling instructors even lead their classes on road races, he says.

'An incredible workout'
Whatever the motivation, cycling classes have their share of devoted fans.

Among them are Larry and Jill Spiegel, who met in a cycling class eight years ago and got married a year later.

They've been taking Astro Rev since it began at the Sports Club/LA last fall. Jill, 46, says she likes the class for its high energy level. "I feel like I'm in a revival," she says. And she enjoys hearing the astrological readings, which she thinks hold true "sometimes."

Larry, 56, says Gaines is one of the best cycling instructors he's ever had.

"It's an incredible workout," Larry says. "He's very inspirational."

But the inspiration comes from the coaching rather than the cosmic element of the class.

"I don't believe in any of that," he says.

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