Once you've dragged yourself to work and back, it can be difficult to find the time or motivation to go to the gym. London-based gym 1Rebel has come up with a solution in the form of a fleet of buses converted into mobile spinning studios. Passengers will be able to exercise during their commute.
The buses have been designed by WMOR architects, over the course of several months. The firm tells Gizmag that 1Rebel already had a pretty clear idea of what it wanted, though.
Gyms installed in buses are not exactly new, of course, but typically they are just used to provide access to work-out equipment at certain locations and are stationary when the equipment is in use. In addition, the "Ride2Rebel" buses forgo a varied set of machines in favour of just spin bikes, keeping things simple.
Four popular commuter routes across the city have been chosen, with pick-up and drop-off points in Angel, Clapham, Stratford and Kensington, which are in north, south, east and west London, respectively. In the mornings, the routes will finish at the 1Rebel gym in the St Mary Axe are of London's financial district, the City. There, passengers will be able to have a shower and change, before continuing on their way to work.
Each bus will be fitted with ten spin bikes and classes will be held during the journeys that combine high intensity interval training (HIIT) with upper body weights. Proposed live ride classes would also have musicians performing. WMOR says that it is looking at the possibility of using bikes that can generate electricity and power some element of the buses.
1Rebel is talking about its idea as the "gym of the future," although it would really just be a means for busy city types to utilize their commutes for exercise without having to cycle on London's busy streets. WMOR says it is still determining the safety requirements for the bus and is looking at potential ways to secure passengers while they are the bikes.
Discussions with a number of companies about leasing buses are said to be ongoing. 1Rebel is gauging public interest by way of online sign-ups and says the number of buses it leases will be decided accordingly.
1Rebel plans to launch Ride2Rebel later this year. Classes will last for 45 minutes and will cost from £12 - £15 (about US$18 - $22).
