Celebrating a birthday, a community, and a good cause with studio cycling – FIT IS A FEMINIST ISSUE

This past weekend I went back to the Lost Cycle studio for a workout.

I wrote about my trial with Lost Cycle previously, noting its inclusive vibe and sensory experience that left me (during a time of intense personal change) with an emotional as well as a physical workout.

Now I was back riding in the dark, this time for a private birthday party, and a pride-themed mental health fundraiser birthday party at that.

90s spin class playlist “ad” for our private event at Lost Cycle South

I know that @samanthabrennan hosts annual outdoor cycling rides for friends and family on her birthday. But I had never thought about how you could make your birthday party into a fundraiser for a national mental and wellness support organization, then have friends donate by reserving a seat on a studio stationary bike, then have that studio give you 50 minute of curated vintage 80s and 90s tunes, and (while you are sweating and singing) have your lovely exercise instructor wax eloquently about the importance of showing up and being loved and accepted by your community.

Oh, and then you get a popsicle or ice cream sandwich at the end.

There are many ways to celebrate and be celebrated on your birthday. If you are looking for an idea that outside the cake-hat-streamers-birthday box, then consider pulling together your favourite people and your favourite fun activity, then throw in some social responsibility and some frozen treats. It could be your best birthday yet.

In the studio after our birthday ride: tons of fun

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Published by elan.paulson

Elan lives in Ontario, where she curls, crochet, games, and explores feminist speculative fiction. A lifelong learner with a PhD in English and MEd in Educational Technology, she often writes about what team sports, personal challenges, and group experiences teach us about resilience, inclusion, and growth. Her cat, Theo, generously shares his home with her.
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