For Soundous, indoor cycling isn’t just a workout—it’s a journey of self-discovery and connection. We sat down with her to learn more about how she first discovered cycling, what keeps her coming back to the bike, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
For Soundous, indoor cycling isn’t just a workout—it’s a journey of self-discovery and connection. We sat down with her to learn more about how she first discovered cycling, what keeps her coming back to the bike, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
“I lived in London for six months in 2015 as part of an exchange program. After a few tough years at college, I was determined to start fresh and incorporate movement into my daily life. My lifestyle had suffered, and I wanted to change that.
I remember stumbling across an article about Vanessa Hudgens’ workout routine (I’ve been a fan since she was Gabriella and we have a lot in common ), and SoulCycle was one of her go-tos. I decided to find something similar in London, and that’s how I found Edge Cycle. It wasn’t the kind of rhythm-based cycling we see today, but it was my first time experiencing the combination of music and movement on the bike.
What drew me in was the ‘newness’ of it all and definitely the music. The coaches at Edge Cycle had this incredible energy—they pushed you hard, but they made it fun and rewarding. Even though the classes were challenging, I always left feeling proud of what I’d accomplished.”
“I’ve always loved movement. I practiced gymnastics for years, as well as running and swimming. But when I was 18, my priorities shifted, and movement slowly disappeared from my daily life.
One thing that never left, though, was dance. Anytime I felt stuck or overwhelmed, I’d find myself dancing in my living room—it always helped me think more clearly. Cycling, in many ways, became a bridge between fitness, music, and dance. It brought confidence back into my body and mind.
Cycling also sparked my curiosity about movement as a language—a way to communicate with life and my surroundings. Over time, I added strength training and yoga to my routine to deepen my understanding of the body and explore a wider range of sensations.”
“Cycling is my safe space. It’s where I can understand my body through movement and music. Sometimes, it even feels like a surreal trip—it transcends time and space.
Through setting intentions on the bike, I reconnect with my reality. One of the biggest lessons cycling has taught me is how deeply emotions shape everything we experience. And emotions, in turn, are built on thoughts. By understanding those patterns of thought, I’ve learned to better understand what I feel. On the bike, I’ve found a way to process those thoughts while letting myself feel everything fully.”
“It’s hard to choose just one, but I’ll never forget the moment I faced my inner voice head-on. There was this ride where that little voice in my head kept telling me, ‘You can’t do this. You don’t have what it takes to finish.’
But then something shifted. I closed my eyes, fixed my gaze on the candle in the room, and told that voice to be quiet. I kept pedaling, and by the end, I felt this powerful sense of triumph. Since that day, I’ve learned not to let that voice take over, whether I’m on the bike or facing challenges in life.”
“I’ve collected so many songs over the years, but one that stands out recently is ‘LAM’ by Laake. It’s like a movie in song form. The flow and structure make me feel like the main character of my own story, with my thoughts and emotions evolving with the beat.”
“Absolutely. Meditation through movement is something I’ve been practicing for ten years, especially through cycling. I have a little ritual to help me reach a meditative state on the bike: setting an intention before class, connecting deeply with the music, focusing on my breath, and using a mantra when things get tough.”
“Community means everything. In my experience, it’s often a reflection of the coach—built around shared passion, energy, and music. Over the years, I’ve met so many inspiring riders who have become close friends. Cycling brings together the most amazing, motivated souls, and I’m grateful to have encountered them.
“Don’t skip the basics. Building a strong foundation is the key to freedom and elegance in your movement. And don’t be afraid to fail—that’s where growth happens.
Also, don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your own journey and take up space. Speak your truth, and embrace the resistance—that’s where the magic is.”
“I usually start with a peanut butter and banana toast and a coffee. Then, I warm up with some mobility work while listening to my pre-ride playlist. On the way to the studio, I write down a few intentions or thoughts I want to focus on. Once I’m clipped in, I start warming up my legs, preparing my nerves for the speed, and getting into the zone.”
“Mérida, Mexico—where else?”
