Reasons to Ride: Ivana

Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?

My name is Ivana and I’m a proud dog mom! I live in a tiny town right outside Amsterdam and spend most of my time working - which I love! I’m editor in chief of a magazine for teen girls and this job has been my dream since I was little. I also love ballet, shopping, Netflixing and pizza.

What is it you love about Vélo?

I love that Vélo challenges you to become the best version of yourself, both physically and mentally. The instructors encourage you to push past whatever you think your limit is and to ride out all the stress you’re carrying with you. And not to get too feelsy or anything but Vélo has had such a positive impact on my life! I have hEDS, a connective tissue disorder that impacts my muscles and joints and has made my lungs very weak. I never thought I’d be able to do an intense workout like Vélo, but with guidance from Harry and the other amazing instructors I was able to build so much strength. I’m now the strongest and healthiest I’ve ever been and I’m so grateful for that.

What is your ideal Vélo class and why?

The hardcore ones! Which is such a big contrast to what kind of music I listen to in daily life! (I’m a Swiftie for life) My favorite classes are all of Harry’s, Jordy’s Dark Room and Milou’s Afterparty. These classes just really get you in some sort of trance haha.

What is your perfect time to go to class and why?

I like late morning classes to start my day off feeling energized or evening classes to ride out stress. Nothing too early for me though, I don’t like early wake up calls ;-)

What is Vélo to you?

Therapy! I got hooked on how good and strong I feel after a class. Whether I’m having a stressful day, going through a difficult time or just want to have fun, I go to Vélo and always feel so much better afterwards!