Simply Cycle Brings New Energy to Charles City

Something new is rolling into Charles City—and it’s more than just your average workout class. Simply Cycle, an indoor-cycling studio, is opening its first physical location at Market 5 along the Virginia Capital Trail. Founded by husband-and-wife team Eli and Tiffany Dancy, Simply Cycle isn’t just a business—it’s a community-focused mission to improve health and bring people together.

“This is our first actual location,” Eli shared. “It’s a new endeavor for us, and we’re really excited to bring something different to the county.” Tiffany, a certified physical trainer and tennis coach, has long been passionate about health and fitness. Eli, originally from Brooklyn, saw an opportunity to fill a need in his new home of Charles City.

“One of the first things I noticed when I moved here six years ago was the lack of a true community space,” he said. “There wasn’t really a Main Street or central place for people to gather. That’s what we hope Simply Cycle at Market 5 can be.”

The location of Simply Cycle couldn’t be better. Market 5 sits along 52 miles of the Capital Trail—part of the East Coast Greenway, a massive 3,000-mile route stretching from Maine to Florida. With tourists and locals alike pedaling through, Eli saw the chance to create something that welcomes both.

But Simply Cycle isn’t your average spin studio. “Indoor cycling studios can be intimidating—classes are usually aggressive, loud, and packed,” Eli explained. “We’re going in a different direction. Our space is small—only 252 square feet—and we limit classes to 10 people. It creates a more personal, welcoming environment.”

It’s all part of what Eli calls the “non-judgmental fitness” model, similar to the philosophy that made Planet Fitness a household name. “We want people of all backgrounds and fitness levels to feel like they belong here,” he said.

Classes will range from traditional rhythm rides to specialty options like Senior Cycle, designed for older adults. There will also be open studio hours, where guests can hop on a bike and ride at their own pace. “We’re really focused on flexibility and making fitness feel accessible,” Eli added.

And Simply Cycle isn’t stopping at fitness. Inside the studio, they’re building a small health-focused mini mart with energy bars, smart waters, and healthy snacks. Looking ahead, the Dancys plan to expand into a second unit next door to grow their offerings—both in terms of class space and nutritious grab-and-go options.

“We want this to be more than just a gym,” Eli said. “We want it to be a hub for health and wellness right here on the trail.”

Simply Cycle’s grand opening is set for July 16, with classes starting August 1. You can learn more—or sign up soon for your first class—at SimplyCycleVA.com.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new fitness routine or a trail-goer passing through, Simply Cycle invites you to clip in, feel the beat, and ride toward better health—together.