Tammeca Rochester of Harlem Cycle on building Harlem’s 1st and only indoor cycling boutique fitness studio

Describe Harlem Cycle in a few words?

Harlem’s 1st and only indoor cycling boutique fitness studio.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I was tired of always having to settle when it came to health and wellness.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Worked as an engineer and Brand Manager for Colgate Palmolive for 12 years.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

No.

Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

We didn’t really have a well planned strategy. I knew word of mouth was going to be my strongest asset so I asked clients to help us spread the word.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

To date we’ve taught over 12000 classes, created an online platform and have been recognized by major publications for chaining the health and wellness landscape within our community.

When hiring for your team, what is your go-to interview question? Please share any hiring tips you can share from your experience?

My go-to interview question is “When you took class with us what things stood out to you”? My hiring tip is to alway go with your gut instinct. If there is something that seems off it probably is much bigger than you think.

How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

We’ve been closed for over a year with many of our clients scared to return to indoor fitness. Over 50% of boutique fitness studios have shuttered their doors permanently.

What’s next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

We are in the growth phase right now with new studios on the horizon and new online programs in development. Look for us to come to a city near you.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

Stay flexible and listen to your gut. It has been devastatingly hard to remain close for over a year. But even as restrictions are being lifted we are choosing to remain closed until we see that it is safe to do so. My gut tells me it’s not time to return to normal and I will not put people’s health and wellness at risk.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

Everyone does not wish you well.

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

No such thing. Some days I am a great mom, other days my son doesn’t have matching socks on. Life is about finding joy when you can and embracing imperfection.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I started my career as a Mechanical Engineer.