Introducing Amanda Carson!
For years, our newest instructor, Amanda Carson, was intimidated by fitness classes. It wasn’t until she was in her twenties that she began to realize the power of her own strength, and began to channel her inner athlete; there was something about spinning classes, specifically, that drew her in and kept her coming back. When she moved to Maine in 2017 to pursue her masters degree in school counseling, she quickly connected with the movement and the community that she found at Rêve. A few years later, her love of riding combined with a passion for music has led her to the podium. Starting this week, you’ll find her popping up all over the schedule, providing her signature high-energy playlists and infectious attitude. We caught up with Amanda to chat about what led her to Rêve, what we might expect from her classes, and where we can find her outside of the studio.
I ride at Rêve because…
I am both challenged and uplifted every time I come in to the studio. Whether I am sweating it out on a bike, or in a HIIT or Tone & Trim class, I can find a balance of simultaneously honoring my body and pushing myself to gain new skills and reach higher goals. The instructors are a huge part of creating a positive environment, and truly set the tone for acceptance and encouragement for all of us. I also love listening to great music and dancing around on the bike while getting an intense fitness experience, which is both fun and productive!
Teaching’s a big job! About what are you most excited? What makes your class unique?
I am most excited to connect with other riders, and to inspire confidence and body positivity in the way all of the Rêve instructors have done for me. I am also excited to create dynamic playlists to include some of my forever favorites and the new music of today. I have a passion for many genres of music, so I like to think my classes will have a unique mix of beats, themes, and choreography. Overall, there is a thrill I feel on the bike that takes over any sort of insecurities that fill my mind. I look forward to channeling that energy in class to encourage all my riders to harness that joy and self-love—both in the studio and beyond!
My favorite moment in class is when…
I get so excited when a song I love begins to play - the moment I feel that beat and my legs follow, and my whole body can’t help but dance on the bike. Whether the song is quick or heavy, in the saddle, up in second, out in three…when I love a song, I don’t think about being tired or sweaty, I just want to move.
The most challenging part about becoming an instructor has been…
I would say the most challenging part has been overcoming “Imposter Syndrome.” I didn’t grow up doing anything athletic, and did not really find fitness in my life until my late twenties. Thinking of myself as an athlete, recognizing my abilities, and being proud of my accomplishments can be difficult for me. However, I think a lot of us struggle with the “Imposter Syndrome” challenge, and I hope that allowing myself to be vulnerable as an instructor will help other riders, new and seasoned, to feel safe and connected.
Some songs you’ll definitely find on my first few playlists will be… My current favorite artists are Alessia Cara, Lauv, Charlie Puth, Dua Lipa, and MUNA. I will always be down to play Beyoncé, Ariana, Britney, Lizzo, and of course, Jess Glynne and Maggie Rogers. Some great songs of the moment for me are “OKAY OKAY” (Alessia Cara), “Mother” (Charlie Puth), and “Hands Off,” (MUNA). I grew up in the 80s and 90s, so those decades of music hold a special place in my heart. I have a big love for indie artists and singer/songwriters, so if I can find anything that inspires movement, I’ll add that in as well.
When I’m not at the studio, you can find me…
I am currently a graduate student at USM, working toward my M.S. in School Counseling. I love to explore Portland and the East Coast, as I am still relatively new here, and I especially love the copious variety of delicious foods, coffees, and cocktails Portland has to offer. Since moving to Maine, I have been able to spend more time with my parents, rather than only during the holidays, which has been so delightful. You can also find me getting in some yoga at The Breathing Room in South Portland, where I love to juxtapose the slow movement and expansion of the practice from the wild and fast pace of indoor cycling.
Anything else you'd like the Rêve community to know about you?
I moved around the country quite a bit throughout my childhood and adulthood, so it feels good to settle my feet a little more firmly in Maine for the time being. If you have any favorite restaurants, hikes, or cities/towns you think I should explore, please share all of your knowledge! I also spent pretty much every moment until a few years ago immersed in the world of theatre, music, and dance, so if you’re ever feeling a hunger for a musical theatre inspired ride, let me know
Catch Amanda on the bike this Saturday at 11:30 am and keep your eye out for many more rides in the coming weeks!