Rival Studios ATX is bringing a fresh perspective to indoor cycling in East Austin, combining rhythm-based workouts, immersive lighting and sound, and a community-focused atmosphere designed to make riders feel at home. The boutique fitness studio, located at 2400 E 6th St #125, held its soft opening in late August, followed by an official grand opening last month.
Founded by husband-and-wife team Charles and Fabiola Divins, the couple wanted to build a brand around their shared vision for a welcoming, energetic space where fitness and community intersect. Fabiola brings more than a decade of experience as an instructor to the venture, having developed a following in the Austin fitness community.
“She wanted more, and we decided that Austin is our home and it was time to plant some deeper roots and take a shot,” Charles explained.
Charles, a television journalist by trade and a fitness enthusiast, oversees the business alongside his wife, who serves as the studio’s primary fitness personality and community builder. Together, they designed the studio and developed its brand from scratch.
The couple’s vision involved offering an alternative to the darker, moodier aesthetic they felt had become more common in the boutique fitness industry. Music and lighting are also central to the studio’s approach. Charles said they invested heavily in the sound system to create an immersive atmosphere.
Creating a sense of belonging is central to that experience, with the team emphasizing an inclusive environment where riders can challenge themselves while feeling supported by the people around them.
“What’s really important for Fabiola is that everybody feels at home immediately. We wanted to build a place where she wants to teach, where instructors feel comfortable, and our clients feel at home,” he said. “Our clients always say, ‘I found my new home.’ I’m so glad that we have a place where it’s inclusive, inspiring, and everything that the modality needs.”
The studio’s early reception has been encouraging, with the business receiving all five-star reviews since opening. Approximately 2,500 square feet, the studio features one cycling room with 35 bikes, men’s and women’s locker rooms, four showers, and complimentary garage parking.
Rival Studios offers two primary class formats. Cycle 45 is the standard 45-minute rhythm-based cycling class, featuring approximately eight or nine songs and incorporating strength work with weights for portions of the session. Cycle in Full 60 extends the experience to an hour, offering riders a longer, more challenging workout with a greater cardiovascular demand. There are 10 instructors and 10 additional team members, including front-desk staff and shift managers.
“The number one amenity we have is a great staff,” Charles explained. “When you walk in, everybody is welcoming and really excited to be there. They all like to ride themselves. Everybody on staff who we’ve hired rides in our classes as well. They love spin.”
Beyond the rides, the studio offers cold eucalyptus towels after class, stocked locker rooms with products riders can use throughout the day, and a retail section featuring merch from the Rival brand.
Looking ahead, the owners plan to focus on strengthening the studio’s culture and developing partnerships with businesses and organizations throughout East Austin. Rival Studios ATX has already partnered with HCV Digital, its neighbor on the street, and hopes to establish additional collaborations with businesses that align with its brand.
“Right now it’s just about making our community strong,” Charles said.
