Ralph Mlady has used the Spinning® program to train indoors when the weather in Northeast Ohio doesn't cooperate.  He joined the Master Instructor team in 2007 due to an overwhelming need to give something back to the Spinning® program that gave him so much, the satisfaction of helping others reach their fitness goals.

Why did you start taking Spinning® classes?

I started taking Spinning® classes to be able to train during the winter for my outdoor riding season.

What inspired you to become a Certified Spinning® Instructor and then a Master Instructor?

I felt the need to give back something to the program that gave me so much.

What are your top three favorite songs to play during your Spinning® classes and why?

One Perfect Sunrise by Orbital is one of my favorites.  I can connect to that song on so many levels; it just feels like it was written to be used in the Spinning program. To Glory by Two Steps from Hell is a song that can make you feel like you are a warrior returning from a battle.  It just makes you want to ride better than you ever have ridden before.  I would have to say that my third favorite is Last Train to Lhasa by Banco de Gaia.  A wonderfully arranged piece of music that keeps your feet moving.

What makes Spinning® such a great workout?

Anyone can take a Spinning® class and since they are in control of their own intensity, they can meet their own personal fitness goals.

It offers a place where you can close your eyes and get lost in the moment.

Spinning® is not only good for the body; it is also great for the mind.

Share a memory from your experience as a teacher/coach/presenter that embodies the value of being a Certified Spinning® Instructor or Spinning® Master Instructor?

I received a letter from one participant after I taught my “Hear it, See it, Ride it” session at WSSC conference in 2011.  In this note, the author wrote, “Your warmth, kindness, approachability and lack of ego are very rare to see in a group exercise instructor.  The amount of thought and effort that you put into reaching each participant is apparent as well.  I am simply blown away by the lengths that you have gone to address individual needs in your classes. You inspire me and countless others to coach this way as well.”

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Certified Spinning® Instructor?

Be the best coach you can be, never stop learning and always be flexible.

What’s one of your favorite motivational quotes?

I often say, “You have two choices, to take control of your ride or let it control you. The decision is completely up to you.”

Do you have a hero in the Spinning® community, someone who deserves recognition for their leadership?

I have to say that I owe my success in the Spinning® program to several Master Instructors. Danielle Foster was the instructor for my first Spinning® class and has always been there to help me.  I have had great relationships with Jennifer Sage and Jennifer Klau.  Both have been a valuable resource.  I find that the rest of the Master Instructor team is always there to lend a helping hand.

Along with his title Master Instructor, Ralph has professional group exercise certifications from ACE (American Council on Exercise) and AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America)