“We are a team here, and as a team we work together.” Coach Julian Johns shares how he gets his students fired up for his rockin’ fitness classes.
Interview by Amira Polack, Founder & CEO at Struct Club
Since our first listen to a short snippet from one of Coach Julian’s playlists, our team at Struct Club has been lovestruck! Julian Johns is a warm-hearted master of a wide variety of fitness formats, hailing from Washington, D.C. where he teaches cycle and small group classes at multiple studios. Holding seven certs across five different fitness formats, it would appear that there’s nothing Coach Julian can’t teach.
We’re excited to feature Julian as part of our instructor interview series, and feature his masterpiece cycle classes that blend choreography with performance on the Struct Shop.
Julian, tell us about you - your journey to becoming a fitness coach across many formats.
Born, raised, and residing in Washington, D.C. I began my cycle career by accident when one of my cycle instructors was unable to teach her class at the last minute. I walked into class with my music on shuffle, hopped on the bike, and did my thing. Within a few weeks, I got my first certification with Schwinn, and had my first scheduled class!
My cycle certifications are with Spinning®, Spark, and Schwinn MPower. I enjoy mixing things up, so I decided to move into small group classes and obtain certificates with BollyX ®, Apex, Bootcamp, and Penalty Box®. My team associates are always amazed at how I challenge my class, but at the same time, find a balance between coaching my riders as a team and as unique individuals.
In terms of music, the genres in my classes vary from around the world to broaden people’s musical horizons. I do have some of my favorite artists - Britney Spears, 2NE1, Maroon 5, and Usher - but my go-to group is Sugababes.
One fact of life for a fitness coach: people turn to us to find energy, build their strength, and get empowered. In times of anxiety or uncertainty, what do you tell your students to help them push through?
When I have people come into my class and tell me “I can’t do this,” I just remind them: we are a team here, and as a team we work together. I encourage them to keep coming back. Everyone is invited to all my classes.
As a coach, what are your top sources for inspiration?
My top sources of inspiration are always the feedback from my riders and team.
We’ve been inspired to learn that you have been involved in charity events. Any favorites to share?
My favorites are the PRIDE rides because we get community involved. We had a surprise host The Bombshell Monroe (our local favorite) to host and perform for us during an event!
When it comes to themed classes, what’s your top pick?
Sister Act – Costume and singing. I have several members at other locations ask for it!
With all your experience as an instructor, what pro tips would you share with new instructors looking to get established as a coach?
The first thing I always tell new instructors:
Find your niche. Sometimes it can take a few classes, but be yourself.
Make time to sub other classes, it will help get your name out there and help get rid of butterflies.
Any quotes from class that you’ve become famous for with your clients?
“You are not giving up on me. I’m about to come out of this saddle…”
“If my hat falls off, don’t be scared - it’s a bird nest!”
“We earn those pancakes!” – My guilty food.
Lightning round! Give us your top pick for each of these:
Motivation Mantra: We are not individuals in this class - we are a team!
Signature Move (in class): I name my moves after my riders!
Spirit Animal: Phoenix
Walk-on Song: Rita Ora – Ritual
If there’s anything about using Struct Club that has aided you and you feel inclined to share, we would love to know!
I have several people ask me for my rides, and I share my playlists. The app gives me a great way to provide the rides to them, especially when they are traveling.
You can catch Coach Julian’s amazing rides too, now live on the Struct Shop! Follow him on social media:
Instagram @kitfitnessdc
Twitter @kitfitnessdc
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kitptdc/