Today we’d like to introduce you to Liza Solberg.
Liza, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My mom took over Spynergy in Winnetka with her twin sister in 2002. Spin and especially music (always finding the perfect “spin” song) have been a part of my family identity ever since. I taught Teen Spin in high school, Physical Education (some might call it gym class) in college that featured spin, and worked at a local spin studio for a few years while living in Denver. In college I studied Peace and Conflict Studies as well as Spanish, and took a job after graduation in Marketing. Though I wasn’t directly in the fitness space, I quickly realized that – regardless of my other interests/responsibilities -the best part of my day was always teaching spin. So finally, last summer I decided to make the leap and convert my passion to my profession by committing to opening Spynergy Wicker Park. As I’ve always been inspired by the close community the Spynergy Winnetka studio has fostered over the years, I am excited to bring that local, neighborhood vibe to a new wave of spin riders in Wicker.
Has it been a smooth road?
This may come as a cheesy analogy, but I’ll say it’s like a spin class: it’s been a ride! At the beginning of every phase (real estate, construction, hiring, training, marketing etc.) I had to build my confidence and my knowledge base – and also know when to ask for help – all while making sure each phase of the process was moving along smoothly until I was ready (despite a handful of unforeseen disruptions) to get going on to the next. Sometimes that leap can feel uncomfortable, but because I’m doing something I care about those challenging moments did not deter me, but rather, motivated me to finish strong. I’ve been especially lucky with the people I’ve worked with: broker, landlord, contractor, architect, instructors, janitorial staff – everyone has been amazing!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Spynergy Wicker Park story. Tell us more about the business.
Spynergy Wicker Park offers beat-based cycling classes for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete. Our ride is all about the music and a pure cycle format focused on endurance and cardio work to build a room full of amazing energy. We are known for doing one thing really well. We are most proud of our personalization and approachability. Sometimes people are intimidated by something new. At Spynergy, however, we do everything we can to support each and every rider and let them know we’re there for you! If it’s your boyfriend’s birthday and he loves Bruce Springsteen, we’ll play a song for him! Led by a team of inspiring instructors and stellar soundtracks, we’re committed to ensuring all of our riders had a challenging, yet motivational class that keeps them coming back for more!
Who else deserves credit?
My mom and aunt who own Spynergy in Winnetka, of course, I owe so much credit too. I taught for a year in Winnetka and did their email marketing and developed teacher training and they let me try things out and grow and learn so much as I was working on construction etc in Wicker. They are my mentors, heroes, cheerleaders, all of it! Also, the Winnetka riders have been so supportive, spreading the word and being engaged with our growth along the way.
My dad is always my go-to for final decisions I’m wavering on, he’s been a huge help as well. While on the topic of family members my cousin Jenny who owns Rhinehall, a distillery in Chicago, has been an amazing advocate as well and part of my inspiration to make the jump into small business ownership.
Charlie Gaff owner of Crosstown Fitness and Britt Moylet, owner of Pure Barre Bucktown have been so generous with their time and insight and I really look up to both of them and the community they have fostered in their studios.
And lastly, I’d like to thank Jeanna Anderson Cohen and Maggie Underberg, founders of ASweatLife. These ladies crush the fitness scene! Their mission is to meet new people and try new things. Does it get better than that!? They host fitness and wellness events all over the city and have a really special following of active and interested enthusiasts! I feel so lucky to have their platform to help us promote the studio as we get rolling!
What are your plans for the future? What are you looking forward to or planning for – any big changes?
We’re really excited to be integrated into the Wicker Park community. We want to be a staple when you think of what to do on West Division St. We want to be the “Cheers” of Wicker! Where everyone knows your name, and you’re always glad you came!
Pricing:
- Monthly Unlimited for $199
- New Spynner 3 Ride for $40
- Walk In Rate for $27
Contact Info:
- Address: Spynergy Wicker Park
1632b West Division Street, 60622 - Website: http://spynergychicago.com/wicker-park/
- Phone: 773-661-9446
- Email: info@spynergychicago.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spynergywickerpark/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/spynergywickerpark/posts/?ref=page_internal
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/spynergy-chicago
Image Credit:
Salvador Tor Camorlinga Solberg
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