But, consistency is the determining factor when it comes to increasing and maintaining your fitness. Setting yourself up for success starts at the office. So, stock your desk with extra gear, travel-sized products and pre-packaged snacks to break the start-and-stop pattern that’s derailing your evening exercise routine.

Here, my checklist of essentials to keep you going, long after the work day is done.
THE GEAR:
1. Extra clothes (these are the items usually forgotten; if they’re already in your desk, there are no excuses!):

• Tank (I love the Cory Vines Racerback)
• Sports bra
• Socks
• Extra pair of sneakers

2. Headband & hairspray: Slip on a stretchy headband, flip your head over and spray, flip back up and tie your hair in a pony with a little extra lift; I wear lululemon and Sparkly Soul, depending on my mood (STRENGTH+Sole promise: how put together you feel is directly linked to your desire to kill it at the gym).

3. Facial wipes: Try Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover resealable pack–won’t dry out before your next workout.

4. Makeup:

• BB cream or concealer (no need to be completely barefaced; P.S. nearly all of my makeup is by Bobbi Brown, which feels very light)
• Lipgloss or balm, like this one from Burt’s Bees

5. Toothbrush/toothpaste
6. Deodorant

THE FUEL:
1. Greek yogurt mixed with nuts: I eat Chobani’s collection of fruit flavors and Fage Total 0% plain
2. Energy bars: Try Luna, Larabar and KIND
3. Fresh fruit: clementine oranges, small apples
4. Hummus (go for classic, steer clear of spicy) with mini carrots
5. Water: 16.9 oz. or bigger; even better, an eco-friendly refillable bottle by Klean Kanteen or Nalgene

Photos by Roopa Bhopale, shot at Hive at 55, New York City.

Opened last week inside David Barton Gym‘s Astor Place location, it gives off a rock ‘n roll club vibe by osmosis, with CYC clients sharing the bustling lobby and dimly-lit locker rooms done up in British rocker chic style.

Combined with the studio’s own music decibel level (very loud) and club crowd (equal ratio of girls wearing diamond studs and Sparkly Soul headbands and tanned, toned guys in muscle tees), you’ll be in full #partyonabike mode by the time class starts.

Fresh off his appearance on Kathie Lee and Hoda/The Today Show, head instructor and CYC creator Keoni Hudoba was himself, tanned and toned (he’s a native Hawaiian) and super psyched about CYC. Hudoba spent the majority of class on the bike, demonstrating upper body moves inspired by sports like swimming, basketball and volleyball (done with 2- or 3-pound free weights throughout the entire 45-minute class vs. via a dedicated segment).

He took a few breaks to cheer us on, separating the 50 riders into three groups for a little friendly competition infused by the studio’s blacklight, and to play a short set on the large steel drum next to his bike. The class is fast-paced, a little frenetic and likely enjoyed most by riders with above average hand-eye coordination.

My biceps and triceps were definitely sore the next day. I do a decent amount of strength training and I find that this usually doesn’t happen after other indoor cycling classes. Bonus points for CYC.

Looking for a little eye candy and some big, crazy fun?  CYC is your place.  Hurts so good.

WIN IT!
The first 15 readers to comment below will receive an exclusive access code from STRENGTH+Sole for a complimentary ride at CYC (David Barton Gym/NYC location only).  So, let me know what you think of this post, what you’re looking forward to experiencing at CYC and see you on a bike!
Winners will be notified via email by Friday, 1/17.