I love indoor cycling and even so more when it’s a class with Nina Rutsch-Stoller at SoulCycle. She is inspirational, fun, caring, empowering, and really knows how to lead an entertaining class. Check out this interview and get to know this motivating and gorgeous SoulCycle instructor: NINA RUTSCH-STOLLER.
Nina, tell us a little bit about yourself…
What inspired you to become an instructor at SoulCycle?
While living in Los Angeles, I was auditioning and needed to find something to rid my anxiety! Even though indoor cycling is high energy, I view it as moving meditation.
I tried SoulCycle while coming back to NYC for vacation and was immediately obsessed! I heard they were going to open in West Hollywood and I jumped at the chance to audition, which ultimately led me back home to NYC to train and teach.
You just recently got married! Congratulations! Did you do anything specific to prepare for your big wedding day?
Thanks! I did not want to turn into a bridezilla! So I simply “upped” my weights in class, got outdoors, walked everywhere (no cabs during the fall), and got regular facials.
Do you have any tips for SoulCycle Brides just like yourself?
As a bride you can get very busy in wedding planning and other parties surrounding your event. It is truly the most special time, but it’s also important to remember a little time for yourself. SoulCycle is the best 45 minute hideaway for a bride to de stress from the wedding jitters. It is also a super fun way to bond with your groom or wedding party leading up to your event. Plan a “bride ride” and ask the instructor to play your favorite song!
Do you ever take other work out classes when you are not teaching?
Yoga! It’s a lifesaver and the perfect balance to what I do on the bike.
I always have so much fun riding with you in class, can you share a funny story with our readers?
I once yelled out “keep your head up” to a guy in a hooded sweatshirt just as class was starting. The lights went down and he removed his hood – it was Bradley Cooper. I then realized why he was keeping private! lol…
What are some snacks you can recommend for the riders to eat pre and post their rides?
Something with protein and a bit of carb is great before class. I love raw almonds and keep them in my bag at all times. Justin’s individual almond butter packs are great for those on the go.
As for after class, I suggest loading up on protein: eggs any style are my go to. I eat a lot of greens and acai bowls as well.
You are so busy teaching classes throughout the city, what does a typical day look like for you?
I start my day by teaching a class at the West 27th St location. I head home after my first class and make a protein smoothie: banana, vegan protein, green powder, frozen blueberries, almond butter, chia seeds and almond milk.
Then play-listing starts. I check out several music blogs that I love and try to fall in love with at least one song! I then prepare the playlist for my next class, which some days takes place in Greenwich, CT. So I go off to grand central with a bottle of smart water and a coffee for the train.
How do you manage to stay healthy on the go?
By staying prepared! I always keep emergen-C packs, raw almonds or Quest bars in my bag.
I love to keep my fridge full with healthy ingredients and prepare for the week ahead! I often make a large batch of veggie-turkey chili on Sundays, that way I have a pre-made meal for the busy weeknights. Also, overnight oats are a must for breakfast and great for a mid day snack before class.
What do you like to do in your downtime?
Mani/Pedi is my “me” time.
My husband and I love to cook, and he has become quite an expert at pizza making. Netflix, red wine and pizza is our comfort zone lol.
My dog shares time at our apartment and my mother’s house in the burbs. When he is in the city, I love taking him out to the Washington Square park- it’s a puppy party!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Living happy and healthy with my family and creating a lifestyle blog … inspired by YOU!