quad

I love spinning and I love the instructors here but I think as soon as my pass is finished, I will look elsewhere. The bikes are just so old… I know theres better out there.

Went for my first spin class using my classpass. I let the instructor know that it was my first time doing spin and she was very helpful in setting up my bike and checking in on me. Throughout the 45min class, she kept up the energy and pace. Spin class was an amazing workout– I don’t think I’ve ever sweat so much in a single class before! The 45min went by very quickly. I was sore for almost 3 days afterwards but I can’t wait for my spin class this week!

I have gone to many spin studios across the city over the years and this might be my least favourite. The King location is dark and smelly and damp (being a basement and all) but the Leslieville location is nice. The bikes are poorly maintained. The place is often crowded. The change room at the King location is cramped and people are always putting their bags on the benches so there is nowhere to sit (the benches are for asses, not bags, people!). My main complaint though is that the instructors are not good. As a fitness buff and someone who appreciates getting taught by people who know more about proper training, fitness and exercise physiology than I do (isn’t that what I am paying for — their expertise and guidance?), the Quad instructors do not fit the bill. All of the ones I have had just pound it out on the bike, having you jump up and down in your seat and there seems to be little method to their madness. I guess it makes it «fun» and «energetic» for people, which is fine if that is all you are looking for. I am looking for a good workout though that has exercise science to back it up, and so that I am getting the most out of my time. I don’t feel that I get this here. If others are looking for the same kind of workout as I am, I highly recommend the nearby Cykl. The instructors there are actually competitive/​sport cyclists themselves and/​or know the science behind the exercise. This is evident through how they guide you through intervals at key moments, hill rides at key moments, active recovery phases, anaerobic vs. aerobic threshold, etc. they also explain their workout to you in advance so you know what to expect (the quad instructors I have had never do this).
I appreciate the enthusiasm of Quad instructors, but enthusiasm for spinning is not enough. You can tell when you read the bios on the Quad website as well — most do not have training or sport backgrounds (although some do). Many seemed to have come to it because they went to classes and liked it, so decided to teach. It would be more helpful if they understood proper exercise training better and developed their workouts in that way. That is a large part of what I expect in a fitness instructor.
Also, I do spin primarily for the cardio workout, but I find I don’t get that here in an effective way (due to the lack of knowledge of the intructors on things like proper interval training, which is by far the most effective way to develop your cardio fitness). If you are just looking for energy, loud music and more of a dance club vibe, and a place to just peddle and jump up and down to your heart’s content, then this might be your kind of place. but if you are looking for a more serious exercise routine (and by serious, i don’t mean not fun!) where the instructor knows how to guide you through a proper workout that is based on the latest exercise science and real training techniques, then this place might not be for you.

Have to say it’s kinda cool going downstairs into this spin studio dungeon. Unfortunately I did not enjoy the bikes they are rather old and the sound system is awful but from where I was on the left of the instructor I could not hear their voice as the bass was too Boom boom. Also does not help when the main speakers are behind the audience.

Much better spin than anything else in the downtown area (and I’ve tried them all); fabulous instructors and the desk staff are really nice! It’s a comfortable place for all ages, genders and fitness levels to work out at. But woooo is it ever hard; you sweat and the instructor kick your ass to pounding music.
The bikes are a piece of shit though– they really need to replace them for how much the membership costs. I kind of like how small and communal it is. Although some of the other reviewers do have a point, it’s hard to stretch or manœuvre around the bike. There isn’t adequate space to put away your stuff, so bring as little as possible to class.

I was a spinning virgin, and it’s harder than it looks.
Quad is a bit of a steamy dungeon. I have yet to see other places, but I hear they almost all have superior equipment to quad.
So you may ask why the 4 star rating? The instructor. He was amazing. I think his name was Braydon? He was motivational, easy to follow, explained things so well and kept everyone on track. I can see why my friends who took me come from across the city to see him.
I’m not a spin fan, but I’d go back occasionally to one of Braydon’s classes.

I’m torn between giving this place 5 stars (for the instructors) and 0 stars for the facilities and patrons. I purchased a 2 week unlimited pass over the holidays and went more than half a dozen times. Let me start with the positives.
Instructors: One word — AMAZING! I’ve been spinning for years and the instructors here give me a run for my money. They are high energy, effective, and intense. It felt like classes taught by aggressive downtown bike couriers on steroids.
That’s everything nice i have to say about Quad.
Now on to the negatives.
Bikes: One word — DILAPIDATED. Holy shit i don’t think i saw a single bike in there that wasn’t rusty. If you show up wearing runners instead of spinning shoes, good luck. All their foot straps are faulty. The bikes are old and poorly maintained and none of them have a watt meter. I tried four different bikes and the brakes on some of them are so hard that turning the knob by more than 2 centimeters renders it unmovable.
Facilities: Unacceptable at best. Tiny change rooms that cannot possibly accommodate the 30 – 60 women they attempt to cram into a dark and dank basement. Ventilation is extremely poor and there is no room to stretch before and after each class because your neighbor is practically sitting on your bike seat. It’s like bikram spinning on a crowded train in Mumbai.
Reception: They don’t even have a key card scanner so anyone who shows up has to present their membership card to the receptionist who manually enters names into a log book. At one point I’ve seen 20 people queue up to check in. Really? I didn’t realize i stepped into a basement and got transported to 1973.
Patrons: Oddly competitive and bitchy. During the 50 minute session you’ll have women clad in head to toe lululemon attire (regardless of age) staring at or giving other spinners the side eye. It got so bad that during one class the instructor reiterated at least 8 – 10 times that we are not competing with each other and that we should focus on our own efforts, nobody cares if you’re the fastest spinner in here etc. These bitches need to calm the fuck down. If you’re so good at cycling your ass would be competing in the Tour de France and not sardined in a clammy and odorous basement in Toronto.
Again it was a tremendous workout despite the shitty equipment, shitty people and ineffective front desk.

I was browsing some exercise that makes me repeat my visits to work out and a girlfriend talked to me about this place and we started going together. I was amazed with the energy in the air, the loud and vibrant music and the staff.
The studio I enjoy the most is the Queen East one. I am not a fan of the King West one. It’s dark and old. The changing room is not comfortable, a totally contrary experience is Queen East. A clearer location with 2 changing rooms (1 at the main level and other in the second level).
Classes price are within market price range, not cheaper not more expensive.
This new year before committing myself with a 3 or 6 months membership I am going to explore other spinning studios. I hope to update my review when I finish my expedition!

Compared to Quad East, this location is not so good. It’s a small space that they’ve really tried to make work. You’re crammed in a close together as possible and the air is ridiculously muggy. I find I have to take things a little easier here because it’s so hot during a class. What’s normally 70% effort at Quad East is 85% effort here.
What makes up for the terrible location is the staff. Great instructors that change things up and keep your muscles working week-​to-​week.

Dark, damp and loud.
Perfect.
Love this spot for spinning classes. Everyone is really friendly and it feels like an underground dance party when you’re riding. I like the changerooms and this place just has a good feel to it. I will definitely be back for more classes.

I’ve been to quad a few times now, and I’m very pleased with the classes. They have a wide variety of class types and instructors which really means you can find something that suits your tastes. Plenty of bikes, relatively new equipment (compared to some other studios I’ve tried, at least), towels are provided, staff is friendly. The only con I have is the layout of the space and the size of the change room. The change room could probably comfortably fit 5 or 6 people and before a class that typically has about 50 people, it’s just a nightmare. There’s no where to leave your stuff, there are no lockers, coat racks are scattered around and are difficult to get to once class has finished. If you live in the area and can leave all of your stuff at home and come to class changed and ready to go, you’d probably find the experience to be a bit more pleasant.

Quad is a wonderful place to exercise. I have been going for the past 6 months and I have never looked back. The instructors are friendly, the space at both Quad and Quad East are beautiful and the bikes are in good condition.
I can truly say Quad turned my fitness routine around and I feel that I am in the best shape I have ever been.
They are great with beginners and will take time to set you up on the bike.
GO TRY IT OUT!

Fantastic spin place! I’m back in Toronto temporarily and took a intro class and went back again today, this place is just great. Everyone has been so friendly, welcoming and most importantly encouraging.
I’ve only experienced two classes and both were fantastic instructors who knew how to play current and updated music. Most of the spin classes I’ve attended in the past are a bit, well — meh.
Quad was super, by far the best spin class I’ve ever been to. The only downfall is I have to go back to Vancouver and there is no place like this.
Anyone who wants to cycle should definitely try Quad.

I have bought a 10-​class pass at Quad and I am happy — and I usually dislike gyms. I told the staff, on my first class, I haven’t spun in YEARS and my experience was mostly riding as a commuter. They were incredibly friendly, I even got some freebies on my first day, lots of help and attention setting up the bike.
I like their teachers and the musical selection is not that bad (well, for spinning classes). The showers could be better, but are good enough for a quick shower after exercise. I like that they rent spinning shoes for $ 3, I don’t have to worry about buying an expensive thing I’d only wear there.
Overall, it’s a great place, warm and welcoming staff, good teachers and plenty of classes.

I started at Quad in January and I have enjoyed my experience. The change rooms are small and ventilation could be a bit better but I will continue to go and renew my membership. I did alot of hunting before signing up for membership at a Spin studio.
The instructors are positive and generally have a great energy. When I first started I was a complete novice and the instructor helped get me set up. She would also check in after a few weeks to see if the configuration was still good and notice if I made tweaks along the way.
I will say that Quinton’s 1 hour endurance class is by far the best reason to keep going back. If you like pushing yourself check that one out.
It’ s not cheap but I get alot of value out of it.

I’m taking an 8-​week class at Quad right now and I’m two weeks in and loving it. As other reviewers are saying, it’s a bit cramped, but really, you’re intended to be on your bike for the duration of class so once you’re on, it’s not a big problem. Packed classes just mean more sweating and isn’t that the point?
The instructors are fantastic, funny, and motivating. Music is selected to be motivating too and cranked which just makes me want to go faster! They’ve got a disco ball and coloured lights set up too to keep you pumped about being there.
We did abs after our last class and that’s when the cramped space becomes more of an issue, but we made it work… and it still hurts to laugh so I know it was worth staying for.

Great for in the winter when I’m not riding my real bike. I loved Matt’s Sunday am class but I haven’t been back since he’s left. I plan to return in the fall though. I always feel like I get a great workout. I agree with the other reviewer though… it can feel a little squishy when full and boy does it get hot, hot, hot!

I got a free week pass here, and I didn’t go back after.
I found the front desk staff … well, they ignored me.
They’d listen for the ‘beep’ of my card, and not look up.
And the owner, is a bit of a cocky a-​hole. I overheard him talking to a few members, and was shocked at his attitude.
When he’d enter the facility, I’d watch staff disperse in different directions.
It’s underground, and circulation sucks, so watching condensation running down the windows only feet away from your back is common.
It change rooms are tiny & squishy.
Stinky after class.
They have cubes you can stuff your shoes, etc into during your class. They also have towel rental, but I can’t recall the price. It seemed excessive, though, which is why I remember to bring my own.
A couple of the classes were great — as i felt the energy from the instructors, while others left me wanting more. Maybe the instructors were tired? I don’t know, but I didn’t feel the same energy, which made me feel like the classes were touch & go.
After my week was up, there was no follow up.
No, ‘how was your visit?’, no «would you like to extend your membership?’, nothing.
I just felt like I drifted off into space, and they didn’t care.
So, i never returned.
And was left with a bad taste in my mouth.

Quad is the original quad spinning studio located at King and Portland-there’s two other locations one in Oakville and my usual Quad East base near Queen and Broadview.
The set-​up is in an underground loft-​like space on the basement level of a building. There’s not as much natural light as Quad East and the bikes are older and slightly more cramped in together. Oh and the change rooms are tiny and can seem like a zoo particularly when you have hordes of other spinning enthusiasts struggling to get their gear ready for class. Or conversely, sweaty spinners making their way back from a strenuous workout!
However! The same great Quad attitude persists at this original location and that is to make spinners of all ages and skill levels motivated and enthusiastic about fitness. They also offer ab/​pilates classes to round things out a bit and boot camps for those really looking to kick things up a notch. The instructors at this location are dedicated, energetic folks who aim to have you sweating, smiling and groovin’ to the beat at each class!