Exclusive: Julie Dermer Says She Can't 'Imagine' Her Life Without SoulCycle: 'I Feel a Sense of Purpose'

Julie Dermer always knew she wanted to go into the fitness space "after a few years of riding at SoulCycle."

"The rides were so impactful on my life. I felt stronger and more confident than ever. I started to imagine what it would be like to lead my own class, create a space where I could motivate others just as I had been motivating others in my own unique way. It felt exciting to think about! I was turning 40 and felt like it was the first time in my life that I felt truly passionate about a potential career. I knew I had to go for it!" Dermer exclusively tells Morning Honey about her fitness journey.

Dermer began riding at SoulCycle when she was living on the Upper West Side, and their first studio opened on West 77th Street.

"A local shop owner I knew gave me a little card and told me I needed to try this new cycling studio. The rest is history," she says.

Now, Dermer is a longtime Master Instructor at SoulCycle, helping others along the way with their "own unique energy."

"For me, as an original rider-turned-instructor, the community already knew me and felt connected to my journey, so it all felt so organic. I think I was/am an example of how Soul can motivate and open you to possibilities and chasing dreams you never even thought possible. I knew from the start SoulCycle had that 'it' factor. It was more than a workout. It was fun, challenging, addicting and social. To think we have studios now in London is mind-blowing!" she shares.

"I love creating playlists for class. Putting my headphones on and exploring new tracks, remixes, dipping into classic hits… create a powerful vibe that motivates and challenges the riders feels almost meditative. I try to make each ride unique, like its own production, lots of little surprises and soulful moments. Challenges came early on when my kids were little and time slots were limited. I remember teaching a night survival class in Scarsdale each week at 6:30 p.m., not ideal, but I made sure my husband or sitter could help out and I’d drive up the Saw Mill Parkway, many times in the snow, because I was determined to give this job I loved my all," she says.

In order to motivate and inspire others, Dermer says you have to be "authentic, set an example, show that you believe in what you’re pushing."

"Also ENERGY! The second I put on my mic I feel the responsibility of lifting the riders up and helping them connect to their strongest self. Sometimes life experiences weigh on us in such an intense way, we lose sight of our strength, my job is to peel back all of that stuff and remind you of what you are capable of… A LOT more than you realize! I’m really happy and positive when I’m teaching and I think the riders appreciate and feel that from the second they walk into the room!" she explains.

"I hope my class challenges and supports, lifts and empowers, and gives the rider more than something physical. I try to really SEE everyone in class, it’s so important these days to feel seen... IN PERSON! I always give space for every level of riders, I have grandparents who ride with their grandkids! I make it very clear it is not about being 'perfect' on the bike, in fact that’s really what I don’t want. I’d love riders to be excited about their next ride because there’s something they want to try again, maybe a steeper hill, a faster jog ... .or just a different mindset, there’s always something enticing about coming back for more!" she continues, adding she's been the "same person off the bike and on" since she began her SoulCycle journey. "What you see is what you get. I occasionally bring some of my own personal struggles to the room, and I think the riders root for me the way I root for them. We’re all part of the same pack! We’re all affected by each other's energy, and I never take that for granted."

Dermer also has her own routine to keep her going. "I’ve been working out with a personal trainer and doing Pilates. Weight training is something I’ve never really done intensely, and being 54 now, it’s a necessity. I love being new at something, it keeps life interesting! When I’m training I’m thinking about the impact of all the moves, how feeling strong and fit gives me confidence. Also, I know feeling good affects not only me; my family, my riders, my community all benefit…that motivates me! That’s a message that should resonate with everyone! Taking care of you is more than just about YOU!" she says.

She adds, "I’m a big sleeper. I have never been a night owl and I try to get at least eight to nine hours a night. I’m also a big believer in not keeping stress bottled up. I think communicating with friends and family has a big impact on your life. Finding downtime is also so important. I work hard on that, I’m such a 'yes' girl, I’m really practicing saying 'no.'"

Ultimately, SoulCycle changed Dermer for the better, and she wouldn't have it any other way.

"I can’t imagine my life without SoulCycle! I never get sick of it. Every ride is unique, every ride I feel a sense of purpose, and I know the riders do, too! I’ve made some of my closest friends at Soul. We’ve gotten through tough times together, celebrated together and pushed each other further than I think we could on our own. Now, in my 14th year of teaching I’m still feeling the excitement of teaching new moves on the bike and different types of cueing. There’s just always more to discover!" the lifestyle influencer says.

"I hope people can recognize that we each have our own special gifts to share. Take time to listen to what speaks to you — when you’re following your heart, you’re living with intention. Sometimes the plans we think we wanted are different from what actually resonates for you. Maybe you’ve been a product of someone else’s ideas for you, it takes a little self-reflection and some courage, but really nurturing your dreams and desires is the best way to live with intention," she adds. "I’d love to continue motivating and inspiring others by sharing my story as a fitness instructor, mother, woman, wife, daughter, sister, friend, member of the world! I think when we see people we can relate to doing exciting things it pushes us to strive and dream bigger."