MEET: XCYCLE and XENXEN:

Gym owner’s mantra: Put passion and values into business

Jen Barnet, owner of XCycle Las Vegas, says it’s important to her that people of all fitness levels feel welcome at her studio.

XCYCLE / XENXEN

• Address: 750 S. Rampart Blvd., Suites 5 and 6, Las Vegas

• Phone: 702-489-6099

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: xcyclelv.com and xenxenlv.com

• Hours of operation: 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 6 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday; 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday; 8-11 a.m. Sunday

• Owned/operated by: Jen Barnet, owner of XCycle and co-owner of XenXen

• In business since: 2016/2017

Tell us your background.

I started cycling at age 18 as a hobby following years of formal dance training. Initially, I went to several cycle classes per week, but I quickly transitioned to a daily practice, sometimes with daily doubles. Cycling became a lifestyle change and a real passion; I loved the sense of accomplishment and pride that I felt following each class, and I wanted to be able to instill that into others’ lives. After moving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, I was convinced by my fiancé (now husband) to open my own studio.

I was introduced by a mutual friend to local yogi Dray Gardner, and we instantly connected. Dray was running Silent Savasana and asked me to participate in a session. I was completely moved by the experience, and wanted to incorporate yoga into my business. Dray and I knew we could create an even bigger power if we came together – which is why we opened XenXen, our yoga sanctuary.

Describe your businesses.

XCycle Las Vegas is my baby. My ultimate vision has always been to create an environment where people don’t feel judged or uncomfortable, which is a frequent complaint with larger studios and gyms. I wanted XCycle to be a family — and that’s what it has become.

Classes are like a big party, with a club feel. They are 45 minutes of high-intensity cardio. The music is loud and the lights flash to the rhythm and beats of the music. You can’t hear how hard you’re huffing and puffing in class, but you can definitely feel the sweat dripping. The instructors ride with the class and focus on motivating participants.

At XenXen, we offer a variety of fitness and yoga classes. Sessions are 60-90 minutes, depending on what type of practice people are looking for. Our classes focused on mental wellness and strength.

Who are your customers?

We welcome people of all ages. Because our locations are near Summerlin, a lot of our riders and yogis are from that area. However, our Henderson family has been calling to us, so you might see an expansion in the future.

What is your business philosophy?

You need to be passionate about your work to find success. For example, I’m passionate about community service, and I knew this needed to be incorporated into my business. Once a month, we host a “Ride for a Reason” that benefits a local charity. Running a business is more than just opening and closing the doors each day, and XCycle and XenXen wouldn’t be the studios they are without the heart that is put into each decision.

What is the hardest part about doing business in Las Vegas?

There are endless gyms and fitness boutiques throughout the valley, which can make it hard to prove that we’re different than other facilities.

What’s the best business advice you’ve received?

Take your time with your business and get it right. Don’t just think about the brand — be the brand.

With the excitement of opening a new business, you think of all kinds of ideas that you want your business to become. It’s better to take your time and think about the details, so your business is consistent with your ideals.

Business

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