Picture this: I'm sweating on an indoor cycling bike. I’m in a room full of strangers. The opening chords of Madonna’s “Borderline” are booming and there’s a microphone in my hand. A television camera is staring me in the face and they’re all waiting for me to sing.
No, this was not a dream.
This is the Karaoke Ride at Crunch gym in Chevy Chase.
Let’s be honest, this is kind of up my alley. I don’t shy away from attention, especially when it comes to karaoke (we won’t mention what happened on New Year's Eve 2011). So when I can combine working out (even if it’s on the dreaded indoor cycle bike) with singing Madonna, I’m sooo in.
So how does this all work? We start with singing a group song. Instructor Chad Raymond kicks it all off with a rendition of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” From there we move on to solos and duets. There’s the Rolling Stone’s “Satisfaction,” Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive,” even a duet of “You’re The One That I Want” from the Grease soundtrack.
While all this singing is going on, we’re furiously pedaling. Chad’s shouting the typical indoor cycling class instructions -- "Gear up!" "Sprint!" "Stand up!" It’s also our job to provide back-up vocals. Let me tell you, it’s not easy to sing and cycle, especially if you’re like me and have no qualms singing at the top of your lungs.
Next thing you know, we’re all sweating but at the same time we’re all laughing. The people in this indoor cycle class have been singing together for quite a while now. They have a whole routine including matching knee socks. I’m not going to lie, I’m a little jealous. If I didn’t have a day job, I’d be a regular here (hmm … is it possible to have a doctor’s appointment every Wednesday at 1 p.m.?).
Health
(Note: If you're wondering why this class is referred to as an indoor cycling class instead of that word that begins with an "s," click here and here.)
Lauren Dunn is News4's medical producer.
