We knew franchising would be the best route, since we didn’t have a lot of experience. We initially looked at more established boutique fitness franchises, but we really liked the up-and-coming, San Diego-based Rush franchise and their culture, with its focus on building a community. We took a few Rush classes and had an amazing experience. We felt that this was something we should bring to North Carolina. Rush Cycle franchise founders, Tim Suski and Corey Spangler, provided a great deal of support for us as first-time business owners, which made the process very smooth for us.
presenting cold lavender towels, the idea quickly spread to other Rush locations. After a spin class when you are hot and sweaty, who wouldn’t want a cold ANYTHING?! Riders actually look forward to the towels right after class. Sometimes it seems like they just want the towels rather than the workout.
much of an emotional experience this would be. It has been amazing to be able to bring positive change to people’s lives through fitness, to hear and understand everyone’s “Why’s,” and to provide a time and a space for people to connect. This community, bursting with positive energy, is truly something to be experienced. t
What’s been the best, or most surprising, aspect of owning a business?
The most surprising and best aspect of owning a business has been realizing how
3024 Village Market Place, Morrisville (919) 234-0042 rushcycle.com/morrisville/
Fitness is a crowded market. What makes Rush Cycle unique?
Rush is a 45-minute total body workout experience in a dimmed room, where you ride to the beat of the music. You’re competing against yourself, what you did yesterday, not others in the room. Our instructors also go through a rigorous one-month training before they can start teaching – even if they have prior experience. This is not typical for fitness studios, which can be a few days or weeks. We carefully screen each applicant to make sure they are the right fit before they even go through the training process. We have an amazing lead instructor, Becca Schutt, who is passionate about her team, mentoring them and being a part of the community. We aim to provide the best customer experience from the moment a rider walks through the door. They are greeted by name, and at the end of every ride, we have a cold lavender towel waiting for them. Our staff is focused on providing every level of support to ensure the rider’s experience is as smooth as possible and to make them feel at home and comfortable. How did cold lavender towels become part of the Rush experience?
Lavender has been known to have relaxing, calming effects. Since our studio began
Instructor Melissa Howald has taught at Rush Cycle in Morrisville since it opened last year. “I call this my happy place,” she says.
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