NYSC Gives Grand Central a Spin

Seeing 1,800 people in New York's Grand Central Station at any given time is no big deal. Seeing them all sweating it out on stationary bicycles, however, is quite unusual. But that's what happened between January 18 and 19 during a 24-hour spin-a-thon called "Saints and Spinners." The event was co-sponsored by New York Sports Club (NYSC) and Snapple.

Participants pedaled their stationary bikes to raise money – $250,000 – for Health Corps, an organization dedicated to fighting teen obesity. It also promoted the fact that the health club chain offers a variety of exercise options, including 1,000 spin classes a week.

"What made ‘Saints and Spinners' successful is showcasing the fun and energy of our fitness program in an iconic and high-trafficked area like Grand Central when resolutions are on everyone's mind," says Merrill Richmond, vice president of marketing for NYSC. "It was a sure-fire formula for success."

Each participant received a logoed T-shirt commemorating the event, which helped set not one, but two, Guinness Book of World Record marks. Cadence Cycling team set the record for most miles traveled on a single stationary bike in 24 hours – 829.84 miles. And, the new world distance record of 40.6 miles was set by Holden Comeau, one of its members.

The event was such a success that "Saints and Spinners" will repeat next year in Grand Central Station's Vanderbilt Hall. "There are still some logistical things to be worked out," says a NYSC rep. "If enthusiasm and interest were the only deciders, it would be a done deal."