Lauren Brooker, SoulCycle Instructor

What are the benefits of SoulCycling?
"The benefits are having a phenomenal body just from cycling a few times a week. And also the time to give yourself five minutes, chill out, let your mind be free, and really have fun!"

What's your signature move?
"My signature move would be the shake weight."

What is your motivation motto?
"My motivational motto: You come in here to just have fun and there doesn't have to be so much pressure. Keep it simple."

What motivates you during class?
"If I see someone head-banging or fist-pumping, I think, 'Great idea! Let's fist-pump!'"

What songs are on your playlist?
"Black-Eyed Peas, all of Kanye West, and anything Drake."

What makes SoulCycle different than the average spin class?
"I think it's not just a spin class. It's a production. You have to like the sound. Everyone's working together to put on a show."

What's the craziest fanatic story you've experienced?
"Someone came out the other day from Long Island and she asked to get a picture with me after class. She was going to show it to all of her family."

What's the best reaction you can have from your clients?
"I just want them to come up to me and say, 'I really look forward to your class every day.' And that's it, that's all. If SoulCycle is the highlight of their day, then great, I'm doing something right."

What muscles specifically do you use during a workout?
"Abdominals."

What do you say to people who call it a cult mentality?
"I think it is a cult mentality. But there's no negative connotation to cults. I mean, it's a place for people to all have fun together. I think it's a positive thing."

Photographed by CJ Isaac