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SoulCycle is a fitness organization that provides dynamic indoor cycling and spinning workout sessions that are popular in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It attracts tens of thousands of participants weekly who gather at various times for SoulCycle classes. As implied by its name, SoulCycle incorporates spiritual elements and has garnered a devoted following akin to a religious community. Should Christians engage in SoulCycle activities or steer clear?
Describing itself as “more than just a workout. It’s a sanctuary,” SoulCycle offers a sacred environment that pledges to offer participants more than just physical exercise. Many individuals seeking purpose, camaraderie, and routine outside of traditional religion have embraced SoulCycle as a pastime and a means to realize their full potential. While SoulCycle’s workouts include aspects reminiscent of a spiritual encounter, such as rooms lit by candles, the emphasis is on self-discovery. Each participant is at the center of their own workout, determining the personal value of SoulCycle.
SoulCycle’s slogan is “Move your body. Take your journey. Find your soul.” Even in its marketing, SoulCycle places the spotlight on individual empowerment. While exercise is a commendable way to care for the body entrusted to us by God, SoulCycle offers a deeper promise. The organization asserts that their workouts can aid in discovering one’s soul, although the soul is not something to be merely “discovered” like a talent or one’s voice.
The Bible identifies individuals as “souls” (Psalm 16:9-10;Ezekiel 18:4;Acts 2:41;Revelation 18:13). What we truly require is not to “find” but to be saved. Those “souls” who reject God’s Son face eternal damnation, paying for their sins in hell indefinitely «For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.»,
(Romans 6:23), but those who acknowledge their own sinfulness and accept God’s gracious gift of salvation find forgiveness and peace from the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls «For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.», (1 Peter 2:25). The SoulCycle promise to help you find your soul can only leave your soul longing for more.
With its intentionally religious overtones and marketing, SoulCycle promises something it cannot deliver. A high-energy, communal experience that focuses on the self is still as empty as any religious experience that does not save one’s soul. While believers should care for their bodies, they should also be discerning. There are many things in this world that can lead a soul astray. We must walk with the Shepherd who truly refreshes our souls «He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. », (Psalm 23:2).
