I had a phenomenal class here on the eve of Thanksgiving. The class was surprisingly full for midday, but I suppose everyone was trying to get a quick class in before they headed to visit family for the holiday. The location was centrally located, had great amenities, and an awesome playlist. They were even kind enough to rush me into class when I arrived a few mins late. I will definitely return when I'm back in Boston. read more

The Handle Bar - Inside - Pilates Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Amanda McClure's class on Saturday's at 9:15 is the perfect start to my day. I just love that she has a song before the last song where we just vibe and take the whole song for ourselves. Really therapeutic to take a second to pause and be grateful in our busy lives. Also love the work Handlebar does for mental health/recovery and raising awareness. Had to buy the "I Care About Your Mental Health" sweatshirt as soon as it dropped. You guys are really amazing, and now that I know there are fellow BPS teachers behind the front desk I just love ya all more :). Thanks so much for all you do! read more

Great studio in the South End (former Turnstyle space) where they run excellent cycling and strength classes. Really good instructors and the staff are all very helpful. read more

I love the Handle Bar studio! They offer great monthly membership deals. I also like that they have classes at 7:15 in the morning. I can still get to work by 8:30-8:45. The studios has really nice bathrooms so it's easy to shower before work. read more

Really enjoyed the instructor I had at 11:15 this morning. When I was getting set up with my bike a staff member came right over when she saw me struggling to get clipped in. The playlist had a good variety. I like that they use the bar for the arms section over hand weights. I like that you are pre-assigned to a bike vs a place like Turnstyle which is a free for all. I will be back. read more

My absolute favorite spin class in Boston! The music in Southie is far better than at the Fenway location (more hard hitting trap mixes) and the instructors are super fit and motivating. They always have interesting choreo while you are riding so you will never be bored. I have taken classes with multiple instructors and they have all been awesome, so no need to worry about which class you pick. The workout itself is challenging and you will definitely be pushed. Even for the arm workout, they use a 6 pound bar rather than the 2 pound free weights I've gotten at other studios. The front desk staff is really nice as well and they have been accommodating on many occasions when I have needed to switch my class time at the last minute. The location itself is fantastic, it is a 1 min walk from the Broadway T stop. The only reason I am not giving this studio 5 stars is because the studio is super small and can get very gross and sweaty by the 6:50 PM classes. Last summer their AC was out for quite a while and it was BRUTAL, but I kept coming back because the classes were so amazing. Overall, if you love challenging spin classes you will LOVE classes at The Handle Bar, but try to attend a class earlier in the day for a fresher studio. read more

I recently took a Friday afternoon class at HB Southie. I had previously been to a class at HB Fenway that I didn't really enjoy, but I know classes vary so much by instructor. Rachel was the teacher and it was a really good and fun class. They didn't charge me for shoes even though I have class pass (maybe that was a really shortly lived policy). The vibe was upbeat and fun. It also wasn't as dark as some studios (a plus for me, I've been in some where you can barely see what's in front of your face). If I'm in the neighborhood again I'll go back. The only con was that class started and ended about 10 minutes late due to a problem with the mic. Since it was post-work, it wasn't a big deal for me. Pro tip: get there early or come already in work-out gear. The line for the bathroom was long. read more

Tried the hotbox Sculpt class through ClassPass with Megan M and absolutely loved it! The class was heated but manageable and it was a great workout. I decided to do the new member 3 for $39 and did my next sculpt class with Maryna. The room was so hot I was sweating before class started but I thought maybe it was because a class before had just got out, but the heat just got worse and I could barely make it through the workout. I don't even feel like I really got a workout in because I could barely breathe never mind workout. Multiple people left in the middle of class probably to get air. Looking around many of the people around me were also not doing the full workout probably because it was so ridiculously hot in the room. The teachers are really responsible for this and need to be aware of how the people in class are responding to the heat. I checked the thermostat after class and the heat was set to 90 but the temp read 104!!!! I would never even stay in a sauna for 45mins never mind try to workout in that kind of heat. I will definitely not be returning to Maryna's class. Hoping to try some of the other instructors and hopefully they have a better grip on how to teach a heated class. read more

Disclaimer: maybe I'm just not a spin person and don't share the same mentality. I tried out a class here and would describe my workout as...moderately unpleasant. The folks at the front desk were perfectly friendly and helpful, but the instructor had a bootcamp-like approach. While I don't mind a tough girl persona, it's important for a fitness instructor to respect boundaries and understand that we are adults in charge of and in tune with our own bodies. The instructor would yell things like "if you aren't being reckless, if you don't feel out of control, then you aren't pushing hard enough!" Ahem. Disagree. At one point, during a slow song, even though I had my resistance up as high as I could manage (with my heart rate clipping along at 180 bpm, if fitbit is to be believed), she actually walked over to my bike and cranked up the resistance even higher. Ahem. Rude. I'm sure she thinks berating people into badassity is motivating and effective. To me, it was simply irritating. And to others, I could see this potentially leading to injury. read more

After taking a month break to try another spin studio closer to my apartment. I've decided its worth extra commute and go to Handle Bar. It's still my favorite spin class. I took Wednesday night class with Natasha and man she is amazing. So much energy, super energetic, I definitely felt I was getting a workout. It's hard to coast through her class. She is constantly moving around encouraging you to push yourself. Handle Bar is expensive but they do have deals for new clients. Handle Bar you are still awesome and I will be coming back!! read more

Had my first class with Maura this morning and will definitely be back! She is AMAZING and the classes are so much fun. As someone who is trying to get back into shape, this is a perfect way to do it, and a non-intimidating environment too. read more

Went to a 5:45 class with Alexa today and it was awesome!! Jess-- the owner--was nice enough to spare me the 2 dollar fee for the spin shoes since I was clueless they are required for taking classes there. The space is CLEAN, ORGANIZED, and has all the essentials: towels for drying off, water cooler in the back, cubbies, and gum and hair ties. PROS: -music is LOUD and GOOD. feels like you are in a legit. night club (i.e. don't bring your mother over age 45; she might not like it!). -awesome teacher who was high energy and didn't spin during the class but instead danced around and motivated you -45 minutes so easy to get in before work or after before a happy hour :-) -good vibe; all women and some gay men which was fun! -shoes for 2 bucks; the shoes are very stabilizing. -liked the fact that weights were used in the class at the end. Would have liked slightly more direction in terms of what level we should have been at; i..e level 3 vs. 10 for the intensity... sometimes the teacher just motivated and danced which was amazing but I wanted to know like how hard should I be working at any given point in time. ONLY MAJOR CON and this is a big one: why in the world is a spin class 20 dollars plus 2 dollars for shoe rental :( i know that Recycle and other places charge insanely for classes but c'mon; a 45 minute spin class should never ever be over 15 dollars. Even some of the best yoga classes in the city at Exhale which are 1.5 hours are only 20--24 dollars a class and those include using spa amenities at say, Exale or Equinox. As someone who pays 200 a month for CrossFit Southie I understand that people say CrossFit is so much blah blah blah but when you break it down, CrossFit is actually only 10--16 a class... I wish spin could could be more affordable especially because South Boston/Southie is not as high end as South End or Back Bay. However, I won't hold it against Handle Bar or Jess because I understand that they are trying to be competitive with other places in the city and make a profit... Def. worth trying and if you want to give up your gym membership or you are a Boston millionaire you could probably make this place a regular work out spot for you! Tamara W read more

This is the best place on the entire planet. No really. It is. I started going to the Handle Bar about a month ago, even though I already had a gym membership at another famous Boston women's gym that offers spinning classes as part of their membership. Why would one pay *extra* to go to the Handle Bar when you can just go the "free" classes at your gym? Because the instructors at the Handle Bar ARE THE BEST. They come up with countless ways to motivate and move you. You totally forget that you are sweating your face off for 45 minutes. And, it's like a night club, only you are exercising. Who knew you could dance in that many different ways on a stationary bike? Their routines are always new, so you're never bored. And I get a waaaaay better workout at one of their 45 minute classes than I ever did in my other gym's spinning classes. I've now signed up for their unlimited pass because I am completely addicted, and will probably leave my other gym as soon as it warms up enough outside to do my other cross training. Go. You won't regret it! read more

Been going to the Handle Bar for a few weeks now and love it here. Great location close to the Redline and the instructors always bring high energy!! My friends bike was squeaky again but hopefully it can be an easy fix. read more

I CAN'T BELIEVE YOUR LOGO IS NOT A MUSTACHE... You would cover your overhead in merchandise sales alone. Plus you may attract the bear population, and they make everything more fun. Now onto the review. Yay for more home spun variety! The Handle Bar just popped up in Southie sporting a fantastic new spin studio with 30 bikes, a white washed meets DIY branding campaign, and a sound system to rival House of Blues. I just took 2 45 minute classes for their grand opening, and this is exactly the kind of business I love to support. The owner/instructor, Jess, has clearly taken a page from the books of the mega-spin-nation model, but modified in all the right ways. There was attention to form, cues about resistance (1-10 scale), variety in terrain, and at the end of my 45 minutes, I had worked my ass off. I went to Ch'ien's class the second day, and could see buying a class pack just to spend time in his presence. He is ferociously flamboyant and can make everyone in the room feel included and at ease, all while cracking jokes and gently reminding you to not let your form get sloppy. He's a cyclist in the real world and works on a 1-4 scale. 1 = easy breezy, 4 = you wanna punch him in the face (his words, not mine). Most importantly, the music kicked ass in both classes. I cannot tell you how many times I have found myself spinning to mid-90s motivational ballads (totally without irony) regretting my decision to take a FREE class. Jess played awesome music, kept us pumping our legs to the beat, and cranked loud enough to drown out thoughts of anything else. Just like I like it. Nice job! read more

I have nothing but GREAT things to say about The Handle Bar. The instructors are amazing and always switch it up so no 2 classes are the same. They have theme rides which are really fun too. Everyone who works there is friendly and really cares about everyone who walks through the door. And the energy is amazing...if you don't leave The Handle Bar feeling great you didn't push yourself hard enough. I've been a runner for about 14 years and only used to run and weight train. Since I've implemented spinning into my training I've had MANY personal bests and I attribute this all to spinning because it's working other muscles that I don't typically work when I run which is making me a better runner. Cross training really works wonders so, THANKS Handle Bar! :) read more

I recently took my first ever spin class here, and it was great! The instructor (Sarah) helped my clueless self get set up, teaching me how to adjust the height of the seat, the handlebars, and clip in (you need special shoes, rented for $2 at the front desk). She did a great job of explaining the basics of what the class was going to have, and the entire time she was motivating and helpful! I attended one of their "themed" classes, which was $25 instead of the usual $20, but it was well worth it! The "MasquRAVE" had beads, masks, and stickers to go home with. Plus the best part: a glass of champagne at the end! Talking with other people at the class and friends that love spin, the handle bar seems to also be great for more advanced spinners. Great place! read more

I'm a total spinning convert - obsessed in the best kind of way. I'm always jammed for time and seemingly forever stressed. I usually a yoga and meditate kind-of-girl. Running sometimes too, but that can get hard on my joints. I started spinning frankly because it's only 45 or 60 minutes - much less than a 90 minute yoga class. And I loved it. Literally, I am dancing on the bike and rocking out to the music - and I LOVE dancing! Who knew you could dance on a bike?! I get into the mindless zone so needed to clear my head and help me figure out stuff that's nagging. The same peace and clarity I get from yoga. So if you're new, don't be intimated - Jess and team make it so easy and approachable. You can make it as easy or as hard as you want with a twist of the little red dial. I've taken classes with Jess, Elise,and Ali - they are AMAZING! I am trying to get to all the instructors - just trying to get my schedule to make that happen. Also, btw, I love supporting female business owners and entrepreneurs - there are too few of them in the world. read more

I've been a big spin fan for the past few years and a huge Handle Bar fan since they opened in June 2013. The rides are all rhythm rides in the truest sense - everything is completely beat-driven. All the instructors choreograph the rides really well with great, upbeat music that really keep the class engaged and time really does fly. All classes are a mix of tap-backs, hovers, jumps and crunches (yes, crunches). The classes feature 1 to 2 "arm songs" depending on class length where everyone picks up a weighted bar for upper body strength. Don't be alarmed. :) All riders are required to wear spin shoes, which the studio has available for rent if you don't own your own. Don't let spin shoes intimidate you: they TRULY make for a better workout and from what I've seen most people haven't used them before starting at the studio, so "I've never used them before" is completely the norm for them. The staff will show you how to set up your bike and clip in. I highly recommend them for a great workout! read more

This place is amazing. It's addicting it's so good, although a pricey addiction. :( I've been to other studios and Handle Bar is up there with the best. The music is always amazing and I haven't had an instructor who is bad - they all are great! However, some teachers are better than others. If you're athletic and like a more challenging class, Ali, Elise and Erin are the way to go. The others while still great instructors, aren't as challenging as those three. Elise is the best for motivating you and making you go harder. Erin does a lot of arms and jumps and Ali rarely gives you a break in between songs - goes from one song to the next and makes you keep working which I love! My only thing about this place is how expensive it is - if I could afford it, I would be there every day, but I'm not sure anyone right out of college can do that. I'm hoping for another Black Friday - ish sale so that I can purchase another month pass or 10 classes. Great work HB! read more

I've been to a few spinning studios around Boston (Soul Cycle, Turnstyle, classes at BSC), and this Handle Bar location is right on par with the best in the biz. For one, the service at the front desk is top notch - I was the first person from my class to arrive, and I was greeted with a friendly smile from a young woman managing the front-of-house. She showed me around, asked me questions to make sure I was fully prepared for the workout, and made herself available if I needed anything before class. She definitely went above and beyond the standard meet-and-greet of most fitness studios. The class itself was great. I took the 4:30pm Handle Bar 45 with Anna Sise. She was super bubbly and energetic, which always helps give that extra bit of motivation when your legs start feeling heavy. Her choreography was varied - lots of tap backs, push-ups, sprints, pulses, and jumps. And her music was on point - I loved the heart-pumping EDM/hip hop beats. One part of the workout was dedicated to strengthening shoulders, lats, and triceps with a weighted bar, and it was a nice addition to the cycling sets. The only reason I give this studio 4 stars is because of the cubby storage/bathroom area situation. There are no lockers, only cubbies, so if you go, make sure you don't bring anything valuable. The two bathrooms are actually very clean and beautiful, but there's no shower facility, which is pretty essential for a fitness studio that makes you sweat like a pig. Beyond that, Handle Bar South Boston is A+ ALSO - extra points for free shoe rentals! read more

As a spinning enthusiast, and big Soul Cycle fan, I was really excited when The Handle Bar opened up down the street from my work. The instructors are so friendly, the sound system rocks, and the studio itself is beautiful. Last Friday I took part in the "Bar Fight" class, which was choreographed to new school/old school hip hop music and I couldn't have been more impressed with the workout. I could tell that the instructors were having a blast teaching, and that type of energy was contagious. There was definitely a sense of community within the class, which is pretty unique! The 60 min workout flew by. Afterwards, I called my best friend to let her know that she just missed out on "the best spin class ever." In comparison to other cycling studios currently open in Boston, The Handle Bar is by far the nicest studio. The detailed branding and "theme rides" definitely put this studio a step up above the rest. Its a treat to take a class there and I recommend it to anyone who loves to work up a good sweat. read more

I've been to my fair share of spin studios before (handlebar, flywheel, soul cycle, peloton, Turnstyle, etc) and have always walked out of class happy until my most recent experience at Handlebar Southie. I went to the 9:15 60 minute spin on Saturday and felt like the instructor basically screamed at us the whole class. Her introduction lacked initial benchmarking and just kept yelling "turn it up!!!!" throughout the entire 60 minutes. My thoughts throughout class ranged from "Am I on a hill?" "Why are we sprinting as fast as we can with no resistance?" "Holy sh*t the bike behind me could use a little WD-40!!" The studio is nice and clean and the ladies at the front desk were pleasant and friendly but the instructor really ruined it for me. Another side note - the bikes are unbelievably outdated and obnoxiously squeak. No music can be loud enough to block that out!!! read more

I was thrilled when the Handle Bar opened a few months ago in my neighborhood. It has been a good experience so far - classes are fun and upbeat, Jess is probably my favorite instructor. It is a great workout for people of all cycling abilities. The only con I will mention is that they often don't air out the studio enough. It is really gross when you take a class right after another one lets out and the air is so humid - sometimes I wish they would open some windows so that the studio isn't so sweaty before the workout even begins! read more

This place is fantastic. If you're looking for a studio, look no further. I did the first time class and knew I needed more and signed up for an unlimited month. They run a special rate for your first month. It's a great way to figure out how many days a week works for you before committing to a higher priced package. All the staff were so friendly and helpful. Each instructor has his/her style, so there's something and someone for everyone. Shout out to my two favorites Candice & Channing!! Thanks for a great month - I'll be back! read more

I have been going to The Handle Bar a little over a year now and I will admit that I am fully addicted. I think it really says a lot when you look forward to going to a workout at 6 in the morning or after a hard work day. From the time you walk in the door to when you toss in your sweaty towel, you feel welcome. The accommodating front desk staff is always friendly and reliable- they have memorized my show size (free rental) and are more than happy to help anyone clip into or adjust their bike. Every instructor at The Handle Bar brings something a little bit different to the table, which I love. Matthew and Eve will make you feel like you are in the clubs dancing. Lena will make you feel motivated to do your best both inside and outside the spin room. Allie is so fun and makes anyone, no matter level or age feel like a rockstar. Candice will push your athletic side. Sarah C will keep you going and always asking for new great music. The focus of HB is spinning to the beat of the music and I love this as a former dancer. Their playlists are also great! You can fully engage or go at your own pace. Unlike other spin studios it is working out FOR you instead of a competitive atmosphere. They also give resistance cues that make me as a rider feel safe. After every class I leave having completed a great workout and in a better mood. With 3 locations across the city, it is definite spin studio you should check out! Logistics: -Only Harvard Square studio has showers, all other studios have 2 bathrooms which after work can have long lines due to people changing. -Free shoe rental -SPD clips on bikes -45 minute and 60 minute rides.Also GREAT theme rides and bar fights (2 spinning instructors with timely music battles) -Charity rides read more

I have to say Handle Bar truly impressed me! I had never been to a spin class before, while I am more of a runner, but I wanted to give it a shot. I went there on a Sunday and took Lena's class. First of all, the staff working at the front desk was very pleasant and social during the check in process. More importantly, Lena was so helpful when it came to setting my bike up correctly/ addressing any concerns before class, while she knew it was my first time. During the class she talked just the right amount-- I could follow her instruction/didn't get lost, but could also enjoy and spin to the music without too many interruptions. Her abilities were very impressive and her positive energy really kept me going. I felt very pushed and got a great work out. I will be back to spin with Lena again! read more

Went to my first class here and giving the amount of other cycling places in the area I probably won't go back. So much attitude at the front desk! I guess as a first time rider I would expect them to be a bit more welcoming, but she flipped her hair and told me to put my initials on the bike I reserved. I had to ask where the bathroom was, where to get water and where are the bikes (studio door way closed). Wouldn't have been that hard to explain that to me since I said I had never been there. I did find the bathroom and didn't seemed to be a shower if you wanted to go to work after. They did provide towels and shoes (I brought my own). I did like the class with Sarah C, although being new it was hard to decipher what her cues meant. I couldn't figure out why she didn't turn on the fans, but finally at the end she did. I really liked the weighted bar; it was so hard!! These places are pretty pricey, so while it was a decent workout I would rather go somewhere with less attitude. read more

Not my favorite. I don't mind the instructors on Saturday morning. Matt is the best. I hate the bikes though. My feet always hurt while riding. You clip in with the arch of your foot. I like Turnstyle, flywheel, and soul cycle way better. I only went because someone gave me a gift certificate. read more

I took a sample class here yesterday via ClassPass, and was not impressed. I'll give the caveat that it's not my style of spin. It's very much a choreographed, aerobics-like session, with a lot of bouncing up and down, moving your hands on and off the handlebars, jumps etc. I prefer my spin to be more like a real ride, with slow resistance climbs, sprints, etc. The practice of spinning quickly with lower resistance on the pedals is really hazardous for the knees, and I don't enjoy it. If you like this kind of spin, this will probably be to your taste, and it was a very vigorous workout. But to me it was a lot of yelling and because of the setup (instructor is kind of in the corner instead of the middle of the room), I couldn't really see the instructor to know what I was supposed to be doing. My second biggest complaint, after the style of spin was that there were no shower facilities. The space was very stuffy and super hot and I can't imagine working out here over lunch and trying to return to work. The best you can get is a wipe down in the restrooms (which are nice). Memberships for this place are super expensive, and for that amount of money I expect a shower. If you enjoy aerobics on a bike type spin, give this a try. If you don't like that style, or want to be able to clean up before you leave, give it a miss. read more

I love Handle Bar Southie! I made them my permanent workout studio about a year ago and haven't looked back since! I don't even know where to start. SARAH C IS THE BEST!!! I always walk into her class prepared to sweat and leave her class thinking I have never worked out harder!!!! I am always greeted with a smile when I walk into this studio - doesn't matter if it's the last class on a Monday or an early morning weekend class! They offer classes all throughout the day which is nice if you want to grab a lunchtime workout on the weekdays, or an early morning class on the weekends. The studio is always clean and they take care of wiping down/setting up the bikes for you. Also, shoe rentals are free!! I would definitely recommend this studio to anyone looking for a great workout with great instructors! read more

This is the BEST place to spin by Boston. Love the community and instructors! Everyone has been extremely accommodating during COVID. During the beginning they offered free MOVE classes and currently they offer virtual, in person, and outside spin and MOVE options. I have only amazing things to say about Handle Bar. I choose this studio above any of the other chains of cycle studios! They care about their riders and have a focus on mental health and well being. Truly a great environment and my favorite place to be. read more

Visiting from LA, regular at soul cycle LA and then cycle bar when in Aspen. First time trying out The Handle Bar while visiting Boston, and blown away. Had instructor Natasha, who was so energetic, motivating and had excellent music selection. Best cycle bar I've been to, literally a full body work out, pushed me to my limit, while still being fun and enjoyable. Price point was cheaper and make sure you look for Natasha's class as she was a rock star! read more

For the last 30 years, I've never liked exercising. I didn't like sweating. I didn't like exercise clothes. It took me nearly a year to get the balls to sign up for a spin class here. I took a recess ride for $10 in August 2014, and immediately signed up for their unlimited months. And now, 8 months later, I am obsessed. (Only with riding at the Handle Bar, I'm still not a fan of exercising.) I go about 4-5 times a week! Things to know: - If you're new, go up and let them know. There's set up with the bike and the shoes (included in the price) that take a few times to get used to. - It's dark. I like this because I didn't want to stare at other people and I didn't want others to stare at me. - It's a full body type work out. They incorporate push ups, chest presses, and an arm exercise. Just know that no one gets it immediately. You'll feel like a floppy fish for the first few times (I did, and occasionally still do!) But once you get the hang of it, it's awesome! - Yes, no lie- it's not cheap. But nothing is. It's comparable to all other riding studios, specialty gyms, barre studios, etc. Everything seems to be about the same price. - Getting a regular membership (versus Classpass) is worth it, because it becomes like a family. Instructors and staff will recognize you. You'll become buddies with regular riders. I like being able to go where people are supportive of each other. - All of the instructors are different. You have to try them all out to decide who's style, music, etc. you like most. They all push you to do your best and are very open to chatting/feedback after the class. - I see people of all sizes and ages here. PS. I still don't really like sweating. And yes, now I like some exercise clothes. read more

I love Handle Bar-- the classes and instructors are really good, and I feel like I've had a good workout when I leave. The themed rides are the most fun! The only problem with this location is it's really crowded between classes and there's no showers. It's worth it, though, because I love the workout. And I hate working out so that's saying a lot. read more

I love spinning (in fact you might say I am obsessed) and have been to many different studios in different cities. I recently relocated to Boston and was excited to try out a Monday afternoon class at Handle Bar. From the moment I walked in the door the front desk staff was less than helpful and actually a little rude. Not once did they acknowledge it was the my first ride at the studio or ask if I needed any help with set up, if I wanted to rent shoes etc. The girl working at the front desk actually seemed annoyed when I asked to purchase a bottle of water with cash. Once in the studio I had to waive down the instructor (after several tries as she was chatting casually with her friends) to ask if my bike was set up properly and her response was "I think that looks ok" and then she immediately walked away. For someone who had never been to the studio I did not feel welcome or like anyone wanted to take the time to explain to me what was going on or ensure that my experience was enjoyable. The instructors music malfunctioned at the end of class and she got off her bike and went out of the studio to get her ipod to play the song she originally wanted. I am sad to say I do not think I will be going back to Handle Bar after this experience. read more

This was the first class I've been to at the Southie HB location, and I was really disappointed. The primary problem I had was with the instructor--I had Lena, and she really wasn't great about instructing. She would say things without explaining what she meant, like "drop it back"...unclear if she meant resistance? Dropping to the saddle? Tempo? There was also a point in the class where she crouched in the corner for two minutes without saying anything, pretty weird and not very motivating. Finally, the music selection was cool but had a really tough beat to follow, or the choreo she would give us didn't match the beat at all. The other problem I had was with the room setup, but I don't think Lena helped. I had a bike in the back corner, and the bike wasn't facing the instructor at all. additionally, you couldn't hear what she was saying half the time, so adding that to not being able to see her meant a group of very confused people. Hopefully I'll make it back to try a class with another instructor, as this one was very disappointing. read more

I moved to Boston for a 6 week academic program, and wanted to try something new while I was in the city. The Handle Bar is by far the best cycling studio in Boston. Friendly instructors and friendly front desk staff. To the people who wrote a review saying that they "pushed you too hard and you felt you weren't in control", is not very accurate. The very first class I took with The Handle Bar, they made it VERY clear that this was a place where you could spin at your own pace, and try to keep up with the beat of the music. I felt no pressure at all. Such a fun and amazing experience I had with them! Would recommend to anyone to try it out. My biggest fear was going to my first class and not feeling confident and would feel awkward, but the second you hop off that bike after your first class, you feel at home surrounded by amazing and uplifting people. Give it a shot. I did and it turned out to be one of the greatest decisions I made while living in Boston. If you're new and trying to figure who to pick for your instructor: Allie and Jess take first place for class experience, music choice, energy, and making yourself feel that you are the best you can be! You will not regret taking these instructors especially for your first ride! They really set the bar high! read more

i took my first class here on Sunday and I cannot be more excited to have this studio in Southie! the space is clean and inviting and all of the staff are super friendly, the owner was there and personally greeted everyone coming into the studio. The studio space has TONS of bikes, which is rare in Boston, the other few spin studios have maybe 12 bikes, this one has a ton but you don't feel squished in. The staff are super helpful to get your bike set up and get you comfortable, I know spinning can be a little intimidating if you've never done it before, but here, you don't feel like a newb if you don't know what you're doing. My instructor was awesome, really upbeat and motivating, always pushing you to do your best, but reminding you this is your ride so do your best and you'll be great. The music was fantastic, everything is set to a great beat to get you riding in a challenging rhythm, and you will find yourself singing along, which definitely helps time go by during those tough hills! Overall this place is very welcoming, a ton of fun and a fantastic addition to South Boston. I can't wait to go back!! read more

I love the Handle Bar. Seriously, if you are even thinking of taking a spinning class go on their website and book it NOW. I started going here, because I love to bike and wanted a way to do so in the winter. I thought I would like it, but this place has turned into a second home for me. First, the staff and instructors are so friendly and will treat you like family. The owner, Jess is there everyday and Im not sure how she does it, but knows riders by their first and last name. Next, you seriously cant beat the workout. It is set to fun music, with the instructors leading different moves that really raises the energy level of the entire room, it also makes the time fly by. If this intimidates you at all, dont be. You set your own resistance so you can make it as hard or easy as you want. The instructors are so awesome, especially Lena, Elise and Jess, but they will kick your butt. Another great aspect of Handle Bar is the price. While more expensive than a boring gym, you can get an unlimited package that wont break your budget and is 100% worth it (also your first month is only $100!) and much much cheaper than other spinning studios. I have tried other spinning classes at studios around the city, but honestly Handle Bar is the best so book your class ASAP! Also, they will be opening a new studio in Fenway that Im sure will be amazing as well! Warning, though, once you take a class you wont want to stop. read more