In July 2016, Active Wellness dedicated its newest indoor cycling studio to Jim Karanas, a world-class coach and cyclist, and dear friend to the Active Wellness community. Kadence Cycling Studio, located within the Synergy Health Club in Petaluma, California, is special due to its state-of-the-art, heart-training technology and Coach by Color Matrix bikes, and boasts a training philosophy inspired by Karanas.
Here, Bill McBride, the co-founder, president and CEO of Active Wellness, and Jill Kinney, the co-founder and chairman of Active Wellness, answer questions on the studio and honored Karanas’ memory.
CS: What would you like our readers to know about Jim Karanas?
JK: Jim was a visionary and a great leader in our industry. He understood the importance of connecting personally and caring for the members you serve. He met everyone where they were and helped them improve. He never led a class without personally introducing himself to every participant. He stood for a holistic approach to health long before it was commonplace. He made an impact on so many, from his members and teammates at Club One (a previous name of Active Wellness) to trainings around the world. He was an inspiration and continues to inspire us today at Active.
CS: What is special about the Kadence indoor cycling studio?
BM: The Kadence indoor cycling studio at the Synergy Health Club location in Petaluma integrates technology into a truly engaging boutique experience. Classes are based on heart-rate training using MYZONE, as well as the Matrix Coach by Color system.
CS: You said the training philosophy was inspired by Karanas — what are the hallmarks of that philosophy?
BM: The Kadence Cycling Studio was inspired by Jim’s teachings: to connect the mind, body and spirit and achieve something greater than just physical exercise.
CS: What else do you think is important for our readers to know about the studio and Karanas?
BM: Having heroes and “pied pipers” within organizations is critical. Celebrating those that have lived exemplary lives rising above what most do is inspiring to all around. Jim was an individual that put helping others at the forefront of all he did. He was a coach in the fitness space long before health coaching. His holistic approach was effective and motivating to all he touched. He supported so many others that went on to be heroes and “pied pipers” for fitness and healthy purposeful living.
