Wheels On Wednesdays

At Wheels On Wednesdays bike rides, cyclists pedal in place for 45 to 60 minutes straight, traveling at least 10 miles or so without moving an inch and are within walking distance of an ice-cold craft beer as soon as the session concludes.

For those select few riders, the promise of a delicious brew is more than enough reason to pack up their wheels and indoor bike trainer and travel to The Cellar Peanut Pub every other Wednesday. Others prefer the burst of intense exercise, enjoying the burn and the sweat and the feeling of accomplishment (and relief) when it’s all over.

From what Mojo Cycling of Newton owner Joe Urias experienced during the first spin class — located in the open room near the back of the pub — every rider enjoyed the sense of camaraderie, often taking time after the event to mingle with one another.

“It’s the socialization that goes with it,” he said. “Plus, we get the benefit of a workout. It’s just a win-win all the way around for everybody.”

Sponsored by both Mojo Cycling of Newton and The Cellar Peanut Pub, Urias said Wheels On Wednesdays is the “brain child” of lead instructor Rose Willey, who had approached the local pub owners about utilizing the space for classes. Judging by the bicycles hanging upside down above the bar, it was probably not a difficult decision.

With a B.Y.O.T. premise (bring your own trainer), the cycling event attracted about 11 people to the Newton-based pub to participate in the spin class. Urias said the next indoor ride could attract up to 25 riders.

Continuing 6 p.m. Wednesday, Urias said he hopes Wheels On Wednesdays becomes a regularly scheduled collaboration between the pub and Mojo Cycling. So far, it looks like Urias is getting his wish. Four more spin classes have been scheduled following the New Year: Jan. 9, Jan. 23, Feb. 13 and Feb. 27.

Urias said riding an indoor bike trainer at home isn’t nearly as much fun as riding side-by-side with a community of bikers, which is what makes the event so appealing.

“Rose led the class and she’s a certified instructor and is fantastic,” she said. “Then, afterward, we did a little socialization. It was good for the Peanut Pub. It was good for Mojo Cycling and (participants) got some health and wealth out of it.”

The spin class, Urias added, is as strenuous and riders want to make it. Following the instructor’s every wish will likely cause riders to work up a sweat.

“There’s no time for talking,” he said with a laugh. “…We had a lot of people saw us and wondering what we were doing. We even had people come down from Marshalltown. I think we’re going to have a fairly large class this Wednesday. It could take off!”

Guests are asked to bring along their bikes and trainers to Peanut Pub spin class. Urias said he is likely to bring a couple extra trainers for those who not have their own and call the shop to notify him before the event takes place.

Urias said Wheels On Wednesdays allows riders to maintain their cycling schedules on their own bikes well into the winter months while also enjoying the perks of a social ride once the class finishes. Plus, he said both casual and hardcore riders can benefit from the regularly scheduled spin class.

“We’ve got all levels of riders there,” Urias said. “You can go at your own pace. You’re getting what you put into it.”

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com