VIDA City Vista Instructor Profile: Joel Patton
Joel is a Washington DC native, and Cycling and Interval Training is just one of the ways he’s found community in the city. Though his primary career as an IT Specialist in the Federal government and Doctoral student can pull him away from the studio at times, you can expect a challenging, but fun ride each time you take class with him. Learn a little more about Joel below!
Why did you decide to become an indoor cycling and group exercise instructor?
Several years ago, I looked to fitness after experiencing some self-esteem issues due to stresses from my personal life and career. After participating in a variety of classes and disciplines, I found the indoor cycling and interval training classes made me stronger and brought out my passion and inner drive while having great music to zone out to! I love to teach both!
What’s one thing you want all your first-time class participants to know?
I want my participants to know that we are all in this together! You’re not alone. I’m here to cheer you on with every step or pedal stroke. That’s all it takes! I like them to know that I always provide modifications because it is a journey. Try not to have pre-conceived notions or compare themselves to the next participant. Just come on in and be ready for a great and challenging time.
When you’re not squeezing another sprint out of your students, where can they find you?
Either (1) at the day job; (2) sleeping; or (3) enjoying Happy Hour
How are your classes different from other instructors’?
I love to MOVE and I love to play music that compels me to do that in order to affect the mood of the environment. I love to play fun music and that ranges from Top 40, Dance/Club, Rap/Hip-Hop, Old School R&B, Booty Bass Music. I like to choose the type of music that energizes and motivates others to put in the work to the point that they may forget that they are even working out. I like to keep my students engaged by incorporating plenty of drills to keep them moving and pushing harder.
Tell us something we don’t know about you!
In my fun loving spirit, I have a playful alter ego and he goes by the name “Juicy J II” (inspired by the rapper Juicy J). I got that nickname from my friends and other students that noticed that when I really start to feel the music or if I am just in the mood, that part comes out of me and I’ll rap, dance, interact even more with the students. This is something that I love to do, so I just want to continue providing a positive and exciting experience for members
