Dig Cycle & Strength was one of the first businesses to open in the brand new shopping center at the north end of Las Virgenes Road. Locals who like a good exercise class should appreciate Dig Cycle’s cheerful atmosphere, varied workout menu, and its big parking lot.

Dig Cycle opened last year, adding another spin studio to the local area (others I’ve tried are Soulcycle and Cycle Bar). For me the location is pretty convenient, and the class schedule has many sessions that fit my own. I tried out two different instructors, and found the class as high energy and tough as the other studios. What Dig Cycle offers that the others don’t though, is an additional gym space with strength and conditioning options. You can take classes that incorporate those into your workout. For my feature, I only tried cycling.

By now the gym is getting more popular and as I strapped my shoes on for a recent class taught by instructor Lauren, I noticed many other participants greeting each other by name and getting ready together. It was clear that they had met each other at this gym, which is a nice place to find a supportive community. Lauren’s class that evening was titled “Dig50,” listed as the gym’s signature 50-minute ride. Lauren guided us through intervals of speed cycling, simulated hills, some movement, and hand weights. The bikes at Dig have little screens that show you your RPMs, and Lauren shouted out goal RPM ranges for each of the different intervals. If you could sustain the target ranges during the specified time periods, you’d be hitting what she set as a goal for you.

Well.

At my first Dig Cycle class several months ago, I felt strong enough to think I could hit those goals with an instructor named Tina. I only learned lately that Tina is considered a particularly challenging instructor. At the time though, I pushed myself so hard I thought I was going to pass out, throw up, or both. To be fair, I think that every time I exercise, so it’s not her fault at all.

The point is, I learned my lesson that day, and in giving Dig Cycle another chance I made a pledge to myself that I would take it easier this time. So in Lauren’s recent class, I did. I tried to hit the RPM goals and turn up the resistance when she ordered us to, and I succeeded most of the time. But when I felt myself being pushed too far, I backed off, turned down the resistance, and slowed down so that I could make it through the whole 50 minutes feeling good.

It worked. I was able to work up a sweat, enjoy the music and Lauren’s banter, and feel good at the end of the class while still feeling like I got a serious workout. The next time I go back will be even better. I will go back. My body is worth it.

Dig Cycle & Strength
5727 Las Virgenes Rd. (3.42 mi)
Calabasas, California 91302
digcycle.com
Classes are $22 each or available by membership or volume discount.

I took two complimentary classes at Dig Cycle to facilitate this feature. Opinions and elevated heart rate are my own.