By Kate Bartlett
Compass Cycle + Flow was founded in Rochester 7 years ago by sisters Ashley Biryla and Nicole Branagan. As long time skiers at HoliMont since childhood, they saw the opportunity to open a satellite location in Ellicottville. They are amidst their second season here at HoliMont and continue to welcome new cyclists (and novice riders) to their weekend spin classes. Class participants do not need to be members of HoliMont to enjoy the ride.
The sisters have always led a healthy lifestyle, and believe in the power of finding balance and motivation through fitness. They saw a need for a boutique fitness studio in Rochester and seized the opportunity in 2016. Compass Cycle took off, and they expanded their 30 bike studio to include power Vinyasa yoga 2 years later, adding the “Flow” to their name. All classes are led by certified instructors with the core belief in the power of mind body connection. “Our goal at Compass is to help you become centered through fitness,” says Nicole. “We believe in a fit mindset. We want people to feel a part of something bigger than themselves. We want you to feel empowered; to know where you are today and know that is enough.”
Compass welcomes all levels of fitness and the sisters have worked hard to ensure every instructor embodies a non-judgmental culture. “Everyone is welcome here: men and women of all ages, levels and abilities. We offer a fun, welcoming atmosphere to get a good sweat in. Compass is a supportive community. We work together to build each other up to find the best versions of ourselves both in and out of the studio.”
Compass Cycle is also available for private/pop-up events for both yoga and spin. “We have a fleet of 18 bikes we take on the road. We’ve hosted a 60th birthday party outside and several bachelorette parties and “Bride Rides.” It’s such a great way to celebrate together.” Compass can take the fleet just about anywhere and the sisters love new ideas for events. Various class lengths (30-60 mins) and styles are available. For more information email Nicole directly at nicole@compasscyclestudio.com.
All classes in Rochester and Ellicottville, spin and yoga, are led in a dark candle-lit studio with no lights, no windows, and no screens. Riders unplug from the outside world and sweat to the beat of an upbeat playlist . “We offer rhythmic riding and our classes are musically driven, riding to the beat of the music led by energetic, motivating instructors.”
Yoga and Spin classes are offered at HoliMont on Saturdays (and some Sundays) at 830 (cycle), 930 (yoga) and 1045 (cycle) for 45 minutes of pure core fitness. Guests can either buy a single, drop-in class, or a package deal of 5 passes, which can be used for up to 2 guests. “We encourage everyone to come give us a try, drop in for a class, and experience the power of movement.” Guests do not need to be members of HoliMont to attend classes. Visit https://www.compasscyclestudio.com/about to reserve or purchase online and follow on social media @compasscyclestudio and Compass Cycle Studio on FB.