i'm a new spin-er so my experience is only after the three classes I've been to but so far I've really enjoyed them. They are challenging for me but very fun! I've seen two different instructors and like them both a lot. I'm excited to keep coming. The girls at the front desk are welcoming and knowledgeable and the instructors are fun. The class itself is very intense, but I know that I'm getting a good workout in. read more

The Handle Bar has been my favorite cycling studio I've tried in the area! Switched to the Harvard location after being a Charlestown regular because of the Hotbox studio update, and I've been so happy attending classes here. The studio is really spacious and I've loved every instructor I've tried. I give myself extra time to drive in so I can find parking but I've always been able to find decent street parking. Highly recommend Raisa and Courtney as instructors! read more

I absolutely love the Handle Bar. The instructors are all so positive and the classes are great mix of strength and cardio. In Cambridge, there are two studio options - Harvard Square and Kendall. Both of these studios have great facilities, friendly staff, and INCREDIBLE instructors. read more

Whenever I travel, I make a point of scheduling daily workouts to balance out my increased food intake- my recent trip to Boston was no exception. Booked a class online for this studio, first class was free. Arrived about a half hour before start time and staff were helpful, location is clean- I really like the welcoming, body positive atmosphere here. There are little notes and signage up about mental health awareness and eating disorders, and the class instructor made a point of emphasizing both correct form and incorporating the theme of confidence, which was cool. The workout was pretty solid. I do dislike that the bikes used in this studio are very basic and do not come equipped with any sort of tracker for distance or resistance. Also, both riders on either side of me had difficulty with setup because bike seats kept sliding despite adjustments. The instructor was friendly and the playlist was good, bike shoes are provided, would work out here again. Small location gets congested transitioning between classes, with no real area for changing clothes- bathroom has 2 stalls and 3 showers, little room to move around elsewhere, so plan ahead. read more

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I cannot speak highly enough about Handle Bar in Cambridge! The staff/instructors could not be more awesome and empowering- whether it's Maddy's early Saturday morning classes, or a nice post-work weeknight class, I leave feeling SO good. They encourage you to push yourself during the class but also modify at any time. Their studio is also very clean and accommodating- multiple showers and restrooms, towels, dry shampoo, face wash, etc. It's an actual joy to come here and my favorite part of my week! read more

Learned about this spot due to ClassPass. Great music, great sign up system. I was never able to reserve a specific bike through ClassPass but I am sure there are ways if you sign up directly with the studio. This place has a decent bathroom and changing area compared to other studios for spin but I would avoid using the shower if possible - never as clean as you'd like to it to be. The vibe was always high, instructors were motivating. They use a bar as the weight instead of 2 free weights for the arm portion of these exercises. Coming out of this class was a challenge and the impact on your body and energy is observed through as little as about 3 classes. In a COVID stricken world, it does seem like a cramped spin studio will not be the ideal scene to spend 45 minutes, sweaty and breathing heavily. But I know they have been trying to diversify their offerings during this time. Post-COVID, perhaps the bikes will have to be more spread apart, and more time will be needed in between classes to allow for serious cleaning to happen. Price wise, it is competitive to others in the area, with bulk classes being the most economical option. Location wise, it's great for Harvard students, Somervillians + Cambridge residents. read more

Great studio right in the heart of Harvard square. The place is a little cramp so be sure to come a little early if you need space to change your shoes. I went for a regular class through ClassPass. You can rent biking shoes for free, which is always appreciated! read more

Had a great first week of spin classes. Great location on Mass Ave, clean facilities, friendly staff who remember you when you walk in, and coaches make intense workouts fun with inventive playlists. read more

I have never done a spin class, although have done and taught many exercise classes. The people were welcoming, the facility clean and well maintained, the classes were empowering and fun! I was really happy to have discovered HB and plan to continue this (even after my running injury heals!) read more

As a (former) lazy girl, I can't praise The Handle Bar enough for energizing me to get moving and look forward to my next class. The instructors are all amazing! I have some old favorites whose classes I always try to attend, but each time I try a new instructor, I am never disappointed. Their energy and enthusiasm is awesome, and you can tell they truly love teaching their classes. Each one makes you feel great before, during and after class, and they always remember your name, even after one session! The front desk staff are wonderful, so helpful and friendly, and the studios are super clean and well stocked with everything you could possibly need before, during or after class. It's so easy to book classes online or on the app, and they have so many locations and class times to fit pretty much anyone's schedule. I want to add that I am considerably older than most of the others who take classes here, but that has never been a problem for me! The HB is inclusive and welcoming to all, so I highly recommend you check them out-you won't be sorry and will leave the studio feeling fabulous! read more

This place marked me feel empowered! So welcoming and friendly, the best playlists, just so much fun. And I love their commitment to mental health and our community! read more

Came here for a second class recently. It was the 45 min session on Sunday at 5pm with Jill K. The class was really not beginner-friendly, and I felt like I was pretty much on my own. Tried to watch what the instructor or other people were doing, but the room was pitch black. Tried to hear what she was saying, but the speakers were blasting and completely dominated her voice. I'm trying to work out, not go to the cIt's all right if it's your first class and you're only paying $10, but I wouldn't come back at full price. So I think it's relevant to note that I live across the street, so I'm willing to give this place more tries than I usually would. Today I came back for a Thursday 7am session with Ashley, and it was lightyears better than my experience last time with Jill. Ashley was so energetic, passionate and motivating. She infused the room with an energy and attitude that was really amazing. She clearly explained and demonstrated all the moves, and her choreography made sense. I actually felt like I was riding to the beat instead of being forced to bike in a disco. I would recommend doing a class with her if you come here. That being said, there were other factors in play, like me having gained more experience here and having a better sense of how things work, as well as a different bike seat. Last time I may have been closest to the speaker. read more

Best cycling studio in the Cambridge area! They are inclusive and welcoming. Always a great experience.

So I've taken plenty of spin classes in my day, but never at a boutique studio before! I'm a die hard Orangetheory gal and have been for almost 2 years, so I hadn't tried anything new in a while when I signed up for a class for charity at the Handle Bar. I LOVED it. Honestly-it felt like a club. The music was excellent, the lighting was captivating, and the coach was motivating and friendly! All of the spin classes I had taken before were at gyms, so basically you just adjust the resistance when the coach tells you to and maybe take your butt out of the seat a few times. This was not like that- all sorts of movement, crunches, and even a weight involved! Honestly I had no idea what I was doing but wasn't too embarrassed because it was too dark for anyone to see. I definitely plan on coming back! This class inspired me to take a class at handle bar and other fitness studios twice a month to switch it up from my usual routine. Thanks handle bar! read more

The Handle Bar Indoor Cycling Studio - Fitness & Instruction Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I'll start by noting that The Handle Bar (HB) is one of the most popular spin studios in the Boston area, and it's one of my favorite places to get a good spin workout. Amenities: The location in Harvard Square is probably their nicest location. It's recently renovated, with new bikes and new bike shoes (which are complimentary!). Their bathrooms and showers are also incredibly nice. There are 3 showers, which is more than what many of the other spin studios have to offer! The bathroom is fully stocked with everything you need to get ready: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, hair dryers, dry shampoo, and more! From my experience, there isn't usually a long line for the shower either. The Class: The vibe is very "club" like -- it's dark and the music is often comprised of remixes that you won't hear anywhere else, as the instructors go out of their way to find the best jams specifically for their HB classes (major perk!!). Expect choreography throughout the ride and a 5-minute arm workout towards the end of class. My main concern is that the music is SO LOUD and the cycling room is SO HOT! Now, I fully understand that these qualities are part of the experience, and I usually prefer the music to be loud and the studio to be hot....but the HB has taken it beyond the point of enjoyment. My ears are always ringing after class (besides the HB, this only ever happens to me after concerts). The overly hot studio can make it really difficult to work hard and reach peak performance, as the temperature seems to be better suited for hot yoga. Overall, it's worth giving it a try! The first class is only $10, and the HB is on ClassPass! read more

I enjoy the classes and the instructors here. I'm fit and able to keep up but I think beginners may have some trouble as the classes are very fast pace and some moves are not always explained at the beginning of classes. I attended a class here yesterday with a friend who is a beginner and it was her first time taking a workout class in a while. A few minutes into the class she was having trouble breathing and decided she needed to stop. The lights were off and it was completely dark. She had to get off her bike and get to the door in complete darkness while maneuvering around other bikes to get to the exit. Please consider placing lights on the ground and not placing a bike right in front of the exit. If people have emergencies and need to leave there should be a clear and safe path to exit. read more

This review is long overdue! I recently moved up to the North Shore and had to look for a new spin studio. I have tried two studios so far and neither comes close to The Handle Bar! The energy that the instructors at the HB bring to each and every class cannot be matched at these other studios. If I'm going to wake up to go to a 6am class I need the energy that Jill and Candice bring to their 6am classes, not an instructor that's half asleep with a terrible playlist and awful choreography. The instructors at the HB will kick your ass but are also super motivating which is hard to find at other studios. The other studios that I've been to do not have the amazing sense of community that the HB has. The environment is so welcoming--everyone from the front desk team, to the instructors, to the people riding next to you are willing to lend a helping hand and support you in and out of the studio. If you are lucky enough to have a Handlebar studio in your neighborhood, I highly recommend trying a class! read more

Great workout, amazing instructor. Only complaint is the space is very small and you're not provided your metrics from your ride.

What was I thinking? Best studio around. ClassPass did its job and introduced my to a fantastic location to fulfill my cardio dreams, so I buy monthly packages now. Intense workout, new bikes, complete shower amenities, enthusiastic instructors. read more

On Yelp I feel like I am becoming sort of a self-proclaimed spin-class expert and connoisseur. I went to Handle Bar for the first time in the Cambridge location. It is about a 10 minute walk away from the Harvard red line stop, but also I went to a 7 am class and street parking is free and ample until about 8, so I had no trouble finding a spot and I was able to make it back in time to avoid a ticket. I liked this studio a lot. It is nothing too fancy, there are open cubbies, a mix of men and women, seems more causal and welcoming than most other studios I have been to. The actual cycling room is not the nicest I have seen, but it does the job. The only qualm I have is that some of the bikes need to be tightened, because my handle bars (haha ironic) were a little wiggly despite having all of my knobs tightened. I asked to move my bike to an open one near to the front and the desk staff they was kind and accommodating. I attended Brendon's class and I will be back for him, a good teacher makes all the difference. He went out of his way to make sure I was all set and make suggestions on how I can make myself more comfortable--something that has actually never been done for me in a studio. He had great music, rode with us almost the entire time, and worked us hard. It was a great workout, I left drenched--always a good sign. I went with ClassPass but there is a first class free to try and the classes are more affordable than most studios (and student discount woo!) I will be back to try other instructors, thank you for the good first impression. 4.5 stars!! read more

I've only been spinning a handful of times before, so I'm overall pretty new to the experience. I was honestly scared to come to spin due to the "cultish" reputation it has, but I found the Handle Bar to be very welcoming. I didn't feel judged for getting offbeat or not being able to do all the arm exercises. It was a really positive and encouraging environment. I noticed that several older reviews mentioned that they found it difficult to attend as a first timer. I didn't quite have the same experience but still see some areas for improvement. Before the class, my instructor asked if anyone needed help setting up and gave a quick introduction to the different hill levels and hand positions. However, I wish they'd also give a quick overview of what it means to run, bop, crunch, etc, or at least give a warning that I'd have to be prepared for those things. (Although maybe these are standard spin terms, and I'm just too new to know that?) It would be helpful for the front desk to have a "how to" print out for new cyclists to show them tips on good form and prep them for the class. I've been to both the Harvard Sq and Fenway studios and prefer Harvard. The third row is elevated for easier visibility HSQ, and they have a nice shower area. I have really enjoyed Matt's 60 minute class at 9:30 on Sundays. I even took my brother, who used to play D1 football, and he really enjoyed it too. I'm looking forward to going back soon! read more

My first spin class in Boston was at The Handle Bar Southie Studio. I loved taking classes there even though the classes are pricey. I decided to give the new location a try because I work in Cambridge. PROS: The Harvard studio looks amazing. The spin room is much bigger then the one in southie. Plus the fans on the ceiling are better then the fans that literally "blow you away" if you sit next to them in southie. The bathroom has a separate area for changing and showering! Plus there are a few products you can use to make yourself super pretty after spinning! I will be back. read more

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I've been attending Handle Bar for a few years now, and I am never disappointed. This is a great work out for all body types and fitness levels and has been integral in my workout regime whether I'm marathon training or just looking to burn off some extra energy. The front desk staff and the instructors genuinely want to be there and love being there, this is contagious to the riders. Each instructor has their own slightly different styles but all instructors focus on giving you an amazing workout, making you feel empowered, and also feeling like you accomplished something. Candace, Raisa, and Ashley are some of my favorites. I also appreciate how the Handle Bar hosts numerous body image and mental health events- this is an organization that truly believes in self love and shows it. It is not a bunch of stick figured women in $300 dollar workout outfits spinning away like hamsters- all walks of life are welcome here. read more

Just took my second class here on Friday and it's becoming my second fave spin place next to FlyWheel! I will say this spin class is unique in that it focuses a lot on arms and crunching while on the bike. I feel like it's more of a full body workout versus FlyWheel is mainly cycling with a side or arms and abs exercises. Because of this style of class it is definitely not as intense as other classes. The studio set up is nice but the bikes are really close to each other and unless you're in the front you can't really see the instructor. The showers are nice and there are three of them, so I've never had to wait for one after class. If you're in the area, check this place out. The staff here are very friendly as well which is a plus. read more

I'm all about spinning. It has my heart, it makes my soul sing and I love a sweaty body post workout. If I don't look like I took a shower once my workout is complete, I don't feel like I worked hard enough. If that sounds anything like you The Handle Bar is THE place for you in Beantown. Scene: Saturday morning in Harvard Square Characters: Me, my best friend, instructor (Meredith) and loads of other riders Vibe: high energy As soon as I knew I was coming to Boston for the weekend, I knew I needed to get my sweat on at a local studio. I stalked several spin studio's Instagram accounts and that's truthfully how I settled on THB (& the fact that they're walking distance from my BFF's place). Once we got to the studio, I was beyond excited. Mind you, it's 8am on a Saturday morning. I didn't really know what to expect, but damn, not one bike was open in my class. THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT BOSTON. Meredith's vibes and playlist were so strong. I loved the fact that she taught on and off the bike. When she unclipped she was incredibly motivating and would come over and high five you or just sing right in front of your bike. Needless to say, we had a moment. It's those little things that take my experience from great, to spectacular. One thing I was surprised about was the lack of energy and woos from others in the class. Sure, I get that's is 8am on a Summer Saturday at Harvard Square, but this is YOUR TIME, so get into it however you gotta, girl. Next time I'm in Boston, I will be looking up THB once again. *They provide shoes. Their bikes are all clip-ins, no street shoes allowed. So if you have SPDs, bring your own. read more

I bought the one-month unlimited (usually $100, got it for $75 during their Labor Day sale) and am approaching the end of my month-long pass, so I figured I'd write a review for my experience at the HB so far! PROS: --Amazing workout. It's a killer cardio and leg workout for sure, but the choreography they do incorporates moves that target your abs and butt, and they have one song devoted entirely to arms. --Energetic instructors. Be it 8 am on a Tuesday morning or 6:15 pm on a Friday night, the instructors who have led my classes are always on top of their shit, and usually do a good job re-explaining the positions, etc. at the beginning of the class, and giving us time to towel off and drink water. --Beautiful space. The entrance is brightly lit and super happy. The studio itself is usually kept dark, but has different lighting options. --Non-judgmental, you can definitely ride at your own pace. It's not competitive and doesn't pit you against other riders at all. CONS: --Not super newbie friendly. Other reviews have touched on this, but I had to figure out clipping in and bike setup myself just with practice. When I raised my hand for instructors or staff to help, they would usually just do it silently without showing me how to. Now I'm fine, but I always felt awkward at the beginning when I was trying to figure it out. --Varying levels of bike cleanliness. I'm not sure how the staff does this honestly, and I know that you can't expect a squeaky clean bike or non-smelly shoes if you're the second or third ride of the morning, but sometimes I've been handed shoes that I feel like haven't been sprayed, or sat on a bike that stinks of the previous rider's sweat. It's not a deal-breaker, but it only happens sometimes, so I wonder if it depends on the cleaning staff. I'd give HB a solid 4.5/5, docking the 0.5 mostly for not having a more structured way of teaching beginning riders how to clip in and figure out their optimal bike setup. I'm so sad that my first month unlimited is already over, and definitely plan on continue riding with them! I used to hate cardio, but now I look forward to going to the HB to get a good sweat sesh in :) read more

It would be great if The Handle Bar published the profiles or the strengths of each of its instructors. I was disappointed in the class that I took here one morning just to "shake up" my morning workouts. I left thinking (a) that was really loud I should have worn earplugs, (2) the instructor yelling "chicken wing" at me doesn't even know where her lats are, (3) while it is clear they have a loyal following I am not sure that I actually got in a workout. Sweat does not equal workout. read more

I seriously love the HB! I've gone to a handful of cycling studios around Boston, but I've been going regularly to the Harvard Studio for about 4-5 months now. I can't get enough of this place! Got the unlimited membership because why not? It's worth it! l've really enjoyed every instructor I've had. Each has their own style, which keeps things fresh. Some go hard on sprints and you think you're going to die. Some like to climb heavy hills that make your booty pop lol. They all play awesome music and include fun add-ons/choreographey to boost your workout. Sometimes they team up for theme rides (so fun!). Cardio honestly can be a blast when you have a hype instructor and good james (said no one ever, but for real tho, they know how to do it here). Something else I appreciate about the HB is their attention to detail. Their bikes say "chase the beat" and that's their thing- ride to music. It's helpful because you'll then know how heavy to make your gear, based on that beat. They have earplugs if you need them, hairties if you forgot yours, you can buy water, socks, clothes, headbands, etc. Literally a one-stop shop. And they're local and team-up with many other local companies to support Boston- doesn't get better than that! It doesn't matter where you are on your fitness journey, you can always start at the HB. I mean your lungs and legs will be like "wtf?" at first, but you'll catch on :) The staff/instructors make sure you understand how to set-up your bike, and you can really gradually get yourself into shape, or push yourself to the max, as you wish in each class. read more

Community and a Killer Workout For me, HB has become a much healthier version of what Cheers was to Norm. When I walk in I am always greeted by name with warm smiles. No matter how tough of a day I am having, class at the HB lifts my spirit and energy. I love how the HB promotes connection between riders, encouraging us to generate energy together in class to get through the strenuous moments as a team. The work out is intense and I always leave feeling like I was motivated to give it my all. HB feels like a judgment free zone. I never feel like I have to fit a particular mold to be a part of the community. Most instructors put forth an inspiring message in class, giving me a much needed moment for reflection and empowerment in an otherwise overloaded day. One of the best additions to the neighborhood. read more

I did my first class at this location (through ClassPass) last week, and it was a bit of a mixed experience. The Good: The music was on point. For me, at least half of how much I'll enjoy a spin class is based on whether the music has the right BPM so you can keep up with it consistently without feeling like you're about to die. Very balanced workout- great cardio! The Not-so-Good: Even though the people at the front desk had confirmed it was my first time at the studio, they didn't let me know that there was assigned seating. I went in and stole someone's seat, was told I was in the wrong spot, then had to go back out to ask for help. Wasn't ideal. We started late. They only opened the doors a couple minutes before the class was meant to begin, so I felt pretty rushed setting up the bike. The atmosphere left something to be desired. Pretty much every one of my classmates was wearing workout gear from one of those expensive shops (you know the one!), which made me feel a little out of place. My instructor spent a lot of time off the bike. This wouldn't have been totally unusual, except that much of her time off the bike she was...DJ-ing? But since she was already pretty difficult to hear, this made the choreography hard to follow. The entire class got lost several times. read more

I purchased the monthly pass after my first visit and making sure that everything works out nicely for me. Since then, I have been to the handle bar 6 times and here is a digest of my experience: 1) If you are a dude, like me, you will be in minority here. Most of the times, I'm the only male cycler in the room. That's absolutely fine with me. I have no idea how some sports activities have become gender-specific, but I have no doubt that your body will be challenged here, no matter who you are! 2) There are many trainers here. Each of them has a different style. You will eventually find some of them closer to your workout style. The good thing is that you can look up their schedule online and choose your trainer. (Shout out to my favorite trainers Matt Uzenski and Eve Morocco). 3) Space is limited. But everything is clean, nice and tidy. Especially, the bathrooms are always clean and well maintained. 4) The music is very loud. But you can get ear plugs from the front desk, for free. 5) There is no push from the trainers on individuals. you can cycle at your pace and nobody is going to stare in your eyes and yell at you. read more

So, I've been here for classes twice. I recently moved to the area and started taking classes with ClassPass, so I decided to try out this HandleBar location. My first class, I actually felt somewhat unsafe on the bike. The instructor came in and started class right away. There was no warm-up-- we went straight into sprints. The crunches, "tap backs," etc, were so vigorous and without much explanation of how to position your body while doing them. The instructor actually said during one set, "woah, almost tipped my bike over there!" I came back for a second class because I received an email that if I took a quick survey, I would be able to take a free class. Since it was free, I figured I should give the place another shot just in case. This instructor helped show how to set up the bike, but there was still no real warm-up. In this class the instructor would get off her bike and come around by the riders, looking at how fast everyone was pedaling, which made me feel uncomfortable, not really motivated (which was probably the intent). After my second class, I definitely felt better that maybe the experience just varies between instructors. However, I still think they could do an overall better job of giving modifications and emphasizing that you should listen to your body. For example, I never do standing sprints because I have knee issues. But if I didn't know this from previous personal experiences, I definitely could've hurt myself. In both classes I felt that the instructors could've done a much better job making everyone feel empowered in their own right. I'm also personally not a fan of the "handlebar" that's used for the arm exercises. Overall, I likely would give this studio 2 stars based on my experiences-- but the location, studio cleanliness, and locker room amenities are great, so it gets another star. read more

After buying my first month of ClassPass, I've been trying a bunch of different spin studios in the Boston area. The Handlebar was my 3rd in 3 weeks and by far my favorite! I had class with Eve who was AMAZING. When I checked in, I let the folks at the front desk know it was my first time. Eve helped me out with adjusting my bike and said if I had any questions to feel free to ask after class. She was full of energy, motivation, FUN, and a sick playlist. Unlike somewhere like FlyWheel (which I did really like), it's not competitive with the other riders. Instead, we were more like a team, which was actually really cool too, and totally put my perfectionism in check haha. Eve was super friendly after, and there was just a general good vibe! I only wish there was more storage space (they have cubbies, which I don't mind.) and that I got a little bit of a tour once I mentioned I was new. I was left with lots of questions.. Where were the bathrooms? (I still don't know.) Are there changing rooms? (No clue.) Where do I get a towel? (They leave one for you at your bike.) What bike do you use? (You're assigned one - there's a piece of paper when you sign in at the counter. Initial it!) Besides leaving with those questions/having to figure them out for myself, the class mostly made up for it. I will DEFINITELY be back. Highly recommend! read more

Came here for the 10am class the day after XMAS and it was def a solid ride (60 mins actually never felt so long!) ... I feel like A-OK appears to be a bad review but honestly this place was really great, I just don't think I would come back. The good: +first class is just 10 bucks +clean, simple space and easy check in process with parking @ meters or around the corner w/ Cambridge Permit Parking. +friendly instructor The bad: -I am going to knock off not 1 but 2 stars for the noise level of the studio. I felt unsafe almost in how loud it was in the class. I had the ear plugs in but half way through the ride they did fall out (and putting them back IN my ear is something I did because the noise was so insanely loud) -I was worried not just for my own health and ear drums but the health of the teacher-- listening to music @ that level for hours a day is probably bad for you. I really liked it just still not on par with Soul Cycle in Back Bay. I have been to Soul twice in the last few months and they hands down deliver a wonderful, amazing class that incorporates not just music but also a great release from stress with some yoga/spirit/body/soul aspect. I was in town visiting Cambridge from the South End so prob won't be back here but it was def worth a try! read more

I've been a fan of the Fenway location for some time. All the things I love about the other location goes for here too. Great instructors, great music and great bikes! A few things that are EVEN BETTER about this location: -SHOWERS! The bathroom area is huge and so nice. I would kill for a shower/changing area in the Fenway location. -The spin shoes at this location are killer. Brand new and fantastic. -The studio has a really intimate vibe. A little darker and edgier? You can definitely get the community feel in this class. The only thing that still bugs me is the open locker situation. I really wish you could lock your stuff up. And parking. But that is a problem everywhere in Boston, right?! BONUS: They have great discounts and deals on class packages throughout the year. I'm totally addicted and can't wait for my next class! read more

After hearing rave reviews and the benefits of spin class I decided to try it. I went with my manager and a coworker here as they've been to the handlebar and had great things to say about it. We came in and the person who checked us in was nice and even let us switch seats so that we could all be together. She asked me my shoe size (size 5) and she gave me a look that she didn't know if she would have anything that small. They did. There are no lockers here but there are cubbies to put your belongings in. The class I took was with Matt. As this was my first time, I went up to him and asked him to help me set up. He differed it to someone else which was a bit off-putting but no big deal. At one point my spin shoe came off the pedal and I had no idea how to put it back on. I had to raise my hand and ask Matt to help which it seemed he was a bit annoyed to do. I am not athletically inclined. At all. I was scared and nervous to take a nonstop cardio class because I didn't think I'd be able to keep up. The class was great, the music selection was great, the pace was great, I even surprised myself in that I didn't stop (with the exception of the part that my foot came off the pedal). What really kicked my ass was the arm portion. The bar was heavy! All in all, I sweated and had a great workout. I can definitely see why spin has become so popular. I would definitely recommend this studio and Matt's class, with the recommendation that he be more helpful to newbies like myself! read more

Love this studio! I've been riding at the Handle Bar in Harvard Square since it opened last summer. The front desk staff and instructors are incredibly friendly and helpful. Every class gives me a great workout and the instructors' music choices are amazing. I tried a bunch of studios around Boston and none of them are like the Handle Bar. Try the new rider special and get your first class for $10 - see if you like it. You won't regret it. read more

Super friendly instructors. While the classes can be tough (in a good way), the instructors will never point you out or make you feel bad about not being able to keep up or sitting down. There is always some mix of beginners and more seasoned riders. read more

It was a great workout. I was right next to the speaker so it was a little loud and the music selection was a bit less motivating than some other spin classes that I have been to but I generally enjoyed the class. The instructor (I'm so sorry I forget her name - she teaches Sunday's at 5) was super inspiring and really motivated you to push yourself but in smaller more manageable 20 second heavy sprints. I definitely look forward to attending class again. I just wish they had lockers with locks...that is strange to me that they don't. Oh, and the spinning shoes are free to borrow. read more

I'm loyal to the Handle Bar's Southie studio (and it's next to where I live!) but when I heard they were opening a brand new location in Cambridge, I just had to go! First impressions: -Gorgeous looking studio outside and in. It's open and inviting from the street. -Excited to see that this location has separate restroom/changing and SHOWERS! -It's located in the middle of Central and Harvard (I walked from HS and walked back to Central to get the T- only about 5 minutes). I'm excited to see that familiar faces will be spread out across all three studios! The manager, Maura, I used to see in Southie is now in Harvard Square, and my first class was with Cara from Fenway. When I looked at the schedule, I saw that Lena, Rachel, Candice, etc. were all going to teach classes there! I'm excited to try out some of the new instructors that will be filling up the new time slots across the city. For new riders, I recommend you also checking out reviews of the Southie and Fenway studios to see what classes are like. Highlights - I love the music and the theme rides. I love that it's pretty much dark, so you can really focus on yourself - not worrying about others. Not only are you in the saddle pedaling away, but they also incorporate workouts for the abs and arms! (Note: it's normal to take more than one class to get the hang of this... It took me a bit, but that's the fun of it! They really emphasize to do what you can and the moves will come!) To me, the cost is worth it. It's the best workout, plus it comes with such a fun, positive community - that's what makes people go again and again. read more