As 6YCLE in Allentown continues to grow, owner Emma Lacey says the brand's mission remains steadfast: to transform minds and bodies through rhythmic cycling. Lacey shares how a near-fatal accident inspired her to open her own cycling studio, where she believes passion, resilience and community converge, creating a collective pursuit of growth and transformation.
How did your journey with 6YCLE start?
My journey began when I encountered 6YCLE through friends in Pittsburgh. Initially, it was about supporting the Pittsburgh owners, Jess and Taylor, but it quickly transformed into a love affair with the intense workouts. Despite a 40-minute commute each day, the magnetic pull of those energizing sessions kept me coming back.
What can you share about the event that brought you back to the Lehigh Valley?
Everything changed on November 14, 2019, with a near-fatal car accident. Amidst the challenges of a brain injury, separated carotid artery and a herniated disc, I found myself back home in Allentown for recovery. Surprisingly, the absence of a nearby cycling studio during this period sparked an idea—a vision for something more.
Tell us how that ultimately led to becoming a franchise owner!
July 2020 marked a significant turning point. Leaving behind a full-time job in the oil and gas industry, I embarked on a daring adventure—to bring 6YCLE to the Lehigh Valley. The vision materialized, and on October 16, 2021, the doors swung open for the very first time. What transpired since then has been truly remarkable.
What were some of your biggest takeaways from being wheelchair-bound after your accident?
It emphasized the importance of daily gratitude. While I have always strived to be mindful of my blessings, the profound impact of my accident brought to light aspects that may appear commonplace to others. The value of walking, not to mention what we get the privilege to do at 6YCLE, grew immensely. The significance of self-talk: its content became more evident than ever before.
What positive messages do you strive to share through 6YCLE?
At 6YCLE, I, and all of my incredible instructors, aim to convey the message that our strength is deeply intertwined with our self-talk. The narratives we create within ourselves shape our capabilities and limitations. Many personal struggles trace back to insecurity and self-doubt. My passion lies in guiding individuals to speak, act and demonstrate to themselves, not others, their incredible potential. In the face of life's challenges, fostering empowerment and self-love becomes a crucial foundation for everyone.
What role does music play in the experience?
Music is everything. Music has been found to have various positive effects on both the brain and heart. It can stimulate emotions, improve mood, reduce stress and enhance cognitive functions. Additionally, it is associated with increased dopamine release, promoting feelings of pleasure and reward. The rhythmic elements of music may also synchronize with physiological functions, influencing heart rate and blood pressure. Pairing it with rhythmic cycling amplifies these benefits, as the synchronization of music and movements enhances motivation, coordination and engagement. Aligning cycling with a well-chosen soundtrack can elevate mood, increase endurance and create a more enjoyable workout experience. Creating a sense of flow, where the mind and body work harmoniously, promotes a positive impact on mental and physical well-being.
Describe your morning routine. Is there anything you simply can't start your day without?
I love to start the day with a healthy, full breakfast, so I prep a pretty consistent open-face Dave's Killer Bread bagel, two eggs, two egg whites, some Cooper cheese (because it's the bomb), spinach and sriracha! Almost every day.
How about your nighttime routine?
I love to cook dinner and take time to sit and enjoy it—sometimes in silence is super nice. Because my schedule takes me through 7–9 p.m., I often eat dinner late. I love the mood that a good candle (or four) sets, so I always light some candles, make dinner and discuss the next day's plans with my boyfriend, Jared, accompanied by my adorable dog, Shiva.
What are a few healthy habits you try to practice throughout the day?
I have to be mindful of it, but I really try to down my water! If I don't consciously focus on it, I barely drink it.
What's your favorite meal to make at home?
I love steak. Anything with steak. I am continuously trying to master my skills in cooking the perfect steak. Sometimes I nail it, sometimes I don't. But you can make so many options—I love a fat filet, strip steak tacos, steak tips, you name it!
What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal? What do you order?
Anywhere that can make me a big, delicious salad. BJ's Brewhouse is fantastic. I also love Mister Lee's Noodles! I love the appetizer Mike's Tonkatsu and I order Mister Lee's Noodles bowl. Yum!
What's something that you love to indulge in?
I love a good sweet treat. Learning how to add one into your diet in a controlled manner is tough. I like Luigi's Italian Ice! I add whipped cream (to everything) and sprinkles! It's my own version of a Rita's Gelati.
How do you relieve stress?
Outside of 6YCLE, I am an artist. I love to draw, paint and craft. It has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I love colors and making visions come to life.
What goals do you have for your personal wellness in 2024?
I want to see everything flourish—my health, my relationships (both with others and myself) and 6YCLE. To get there I would like to dial in my discipline in many categories where I have found weakness in 2023. I want to create more structure, work on goal-setting, create and follow a more structured morning routine, writing out my plans to get where I want to be and track the flow of my emotional state through it all. The goal is always to grow.
Persist without exceptions. No excuses, no limits.
How do you stay motivated?
I love to chat with other visionaries and inspired people, constantly talking about ideas and how to be better. I love to surround myself with others who are inspired and talented in areas I may not be. I love to make lists that I can chip away at to view what I am accomplishing. And because, why not? Why not stay motivated? Why not keep pushing yourself?
Who is someone you look up to?
My little sister, Victoria, is nothing short of extraordinary. We are one year apart, so naturally we grew up practically like twins (except I was a giant and she was half the size of me). She never stops thinking and caring about others. Despite the chaos of her own life and through her own feelings, she always makes people feel valued, loved and thought of. She is truly a magical person.
Do you have a personal mantra that you'd like to share?
I have a lion tattoo on my left forearm for this reason. “Persist without exceptions. No excuses, no limits. Do you know why? Because you're a lion.”
Published as “Living Well With” in the April 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
