Fitness & Community

Local Profile with Ashley Robinson

IG: @ashleyrob21

Owner, Spoke Cycle and Fitness

Resident of: Village of Fairport

Favorite motivational quote: “Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” – Nora Ephron

Family: Married, two daughters, Lucy (2), Lilian (5), and one son Luca (7)

Do you have any pets? Three cats that are affectionate yet independent, and command respect. The best traits I admire in people too!

How do you start your day?: Most mornings, you'll find me at Spoke either teaching or taking a class. I like to start my day with fitness because it wakes up both my body and mind. This creates a natural high, as the surge of dopamine immediately makes me feel better and ready to tackle my day.

How do you unwind and relax after a ride? After my morning rides at Spoke, my favorite way to unwind is to cozy up in a chair, sip on some coffee, and take a moment to check in with myself. I like to journal and reflect on my goals for the day.

What are your 3 favorite places to grab a post-workout snack or meal? I'm a big fan of Village Bakery, which is conveniently located next to two of our studios and Refresh Smoothie Bar (also women-owned).  Both perfect places to grab a protein shake after a workout to fuel the body.

How would you describe your ideal summer Saturday? Rochester truly comes alive in the summer. On Saturdays, you’ll most likely find me at the Farmer’s Market in the morning, followed by swimming and boating with our kids in Sodus Point,  soaking up all the vitamin D possible.

Outside of Spoke, what other activities do you enjoy? I'm a huge fan of the outdoors! I love hiking, water sports, swimming, and going to the beach. You will also find me supporting local businesses by dining out with family or shopping local retail stores with friends!

Which outdoor space in Rochester holds a special place in your heart? The Canal holds a special place in my heart. It's where I trained for my first (and only) marathon. I love running there in the early morning as the world begins to wake up. Another hidden gem is Durand Beach. My husband and I enjoy bringing chairs, letting the kids play, and enjoy a happy hour refresher to wind down the day.

If you had to pick one word to describe the community in Rochester, what would it be and why? Community. Whether living in the city or the suburbs, Rochester always has a strong sense of community.

Are there any upcoming local events/festivals/concerts you are looking forward to? Rochester is a festival city and it’s alway great to enjoy everything from CanalFest in Fairport to the Clothines Festival filled with tons of local artisans!

If you had to listen to one song on repeat for a workout, what would it be? "Mi Gente" by J Balvin is a song packed with memories of starting and growing Spoke. Every time it plays, I get so pumped, and my intensity level skyrockets during a workout.

If you had a superpower to enhance your workout, what would it be? Endless energy and instant recovery!

If you could ride your bike anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? I've always dreamed of biking Highway 1 along the California Coast, from the Malibu beaches to the Big Sur redwoods. It would be challenging but breathtaking, truly a cleanse for the body and soul.

If you could invite any local person to take one of your classes, who would it be and why? It would be an honor to have Rochester’s Mayor Malek take a class at Spoke!

How did you get into cycling and what inspired you to open up Spoke in Rochester? I've always been active and enjoyed fitness. I tried various programs, but cycling was the one that truly captured my attention and stuck with me. I loved the energy, the supportive atmosphere, and the music driving the class. I always left feeling better physically and emotionally than when I walked in.

I've always believed that fitness should be fun and inspiring! When you enjoy how your moving, healthy eating habits or even weight loss will naturally follow. Fitness won't feel like a chore, making it easier to stay committed without burning out.

My love for cycling and belief in fitness inspired me to open Spoke. I wanted to create a community that welcomes everyone and encourages them to love how they move their bodies.

Can you share a memorable experience where you saw the impact of promoting health and fitness to the community? It wasn't just one moment, but a series of comments from our members saying, "I didn't know fitness could be this fun." They had never experienced a fitness class where people hooted, hollered, cheered, and used the room's energy to motivate each other. We began to see members commit to their health, with some transforming their bodies and others experiencing improved mental well-being. It was amazing to watch and be a part of.

What piece of advice would you give to someone who is new to beat-based riding?

Beat-based cycling is truly challenging! It requires coordination, which tests not only your physicality but also your mental acuity. It's a workout that engages both your body and brain power. Embrace the challenge, flow with it, and with time, you'll find yourself riding the journey!

Describe the community you are building among your class participants. If you're seeking a community that's fun, inspiring, and doesn't take fitness too seriously, then you've come to the right place!

What initiatives or programs have you been involved in to support health and wellness in Rochester? One program we absolutely love  is Girls On The Run, with whom we've partnered with the past few years! We wholeheartedly believe in their mission of empowerment, which focuses on building confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills through fitness with young girls.

Are there any collaborations with local organizations you are excited about? We love collaborating with other local businesses! This summer, we're teaming up with Lock32 Brewery to provide early morning weekend classes under the pavilion next to  the Canal. It's the best way to kick off your summer day with a blend of sweat and sunshine!

Tips for staying motivated: One tip I really love is the idea of rewarding yourself. Let's say you stick to your goal of moving your body three times a week, give yourself a reward. Whatever that reward may be, allow yourself to enjoy it. You earned it!