“Spin” has arguably become a blanket term for indoor cycling so the answer to this is not as straightforward as one may think. Much to many of our surprise, the term “spin” has been trademarked and owned by Mad Dogg Athletics since the 1990’s. You may be thinking, “seriously?!” and Peloton agrees. They’ve been leading the fight to remove the trademark arguing that “spin” is now a generic term referring to indoor cycling.
I learned this when I got a legally threatening phone call from one of their lawyers after I first opened and innocently put “spin” on our schedule. With fear and intimidation setting in, I quickly changed “spin” to cycle. At first glance, there are obvious similarities; pedaling on a stationary bike, but that’s where they end. Over the years, we have developed our own proprietary style of indoor cycling which is now titled Tribe Ride. A huge difference is that our classes are rhythmic and incorporate body movement creating connection between riders and fostering a unique union amongst our fleet. This difference is significant, however the most profound difference for our riders is the experience. This experience is a thrilling ride, a revival, from start to finish put together in a unique way to get you across the finish line in a truly empowering and life changing way. In both classes you may by physically pedaling a bike that goes nowhere, but in Tribe Ride it will take YOU everywhere.
To sum it up, you won’t see “spin” on our schedule even if that trademark is removed. You’ll see what’s ours, what we’ve created, Tribe Ride and we’d love for you to come experience the difference for yourself.