KDHamptons

KDHamptons: How long have you been living in the Hamptons? Why do you love it so much?
Ruth Zukerman: I have been going out to the Hamptons for 22 years. I love it for its beauty and the feeling of escape during all seasons. I find winter in the Hamptons just as beautiful as the summer.

KDH: Please share the concept behind starting Flywheel with our readers?
RZ: I have been in the fitness industry for over 30 years and always felt something was missing in the indoor cycling world. While I was originally able to bring the concept out of gyms into free-standing boutique locations, I still wanted more. I wanted to really find a way to “take it to the next level.” My partners and I accomplished this by adding performance tracking technology to the ride. At Flywheel, each bike is equipped with a digital screen allowing you to completely control and monitor the workout resistance and speed. It also allows our riders to track their performance – distance rode, calories burned – by checking their online account. I have had the pleasure of seeing this change the lives and bodies of our Flywheelers.

KDH: Why do you think Flywheel has become such an obsession for Hamptonites?
RZ: Health and fitness plays a big role in many Hamptonites’ lives. I wanted to create a place where people could come to have an intensive and efficient workout. I think it has “become an obsession” for people because it allows them to achieve their fitness goals and still leave time in their day to enjoy their families and all the Hamptons has to offer. I believe people need to work hard and play hard.

KDH: Which body part does Flywheel target best, and how many classes would it take to see a change?
RZ: The real answer is that it’s nearly impossible to identify a specific body part as all people are formed differently. Flywheel offers an intense cardio workout with high calorie burn. This results in overall changes to the body, in burning fat and losing inches while toning arms, legs and abs.

KDH: Describe your perfect Hamptons day for KDHamptons readers?
RZ: I love to wake up in the morning and walk over to the Flywheel Sag Harbor studio and teach an awesome high energy class. Afterwards, I catch up with my business partner over an iced coffee at Bagel Buoy. Then I take a nice stroll home through the town of Sag Harbor and pick up The New York Times. When I get home, I take a quick outdoor shower and then check my email before hopping over to Espresso to pick up a quick lunch that I have before beach time. The afternoon is spent with friends at the beach and a couple of dips in the ocean… Evenings always change, which I love about the Hamptons. I can find myself anywhere from a casual clambake on the beach, dinner out with friends, or maybe even on a date!

KDH: Do you do other types of exercise and workouts as well?
RZ: I love to go to FlyBarre in addition to Flywheel. It is an excellent complement to indoor cycling and offers up a completely different type of workout for the body that tones and tightens.

KDH: How would you describe your Hamptons home and decorating style?
RZ: My home is very clean and simple in terms of design. It is mostly white and beige tones echoing the beachy outdoor vibe. The home itself is very old, while the interior is restored and renovated. This is my favorite combination.

KDH: Do you have a Hamptons “uniform”? Which designer do you find yourself wearing the most out East?
RZ: If I had to use a few words to describe my style, I would say – casual, chic, cool and comfortable. I can usually be spotted in a cropped khaki pant and simple tank, or fitted button down, with sandals. On hot days, I break out a summer shift or a sun dress. My favorite summer designers are Jil Sander and James Perse. I especially love my new Celine sunglasses, just in time for summer!

KDH: What is your little secret spot in the Hamptons?
RZ: The outdoor garden area at Tutto Il Giorno on a sunny Saturday for lunch. Most everyone is either out beaching or exercising so it’s not typically crowded, and sipping a crisp white wine with a burrata salad really makes you feel like you’re in Tuscany.

KDH: What is your favorite Hamptons restaurant, got a favorite dish you get every time? Favorite family restaurant?
RZ: Nick & Toni’s. It’s fabulous food and I couldn’t be in better hands with Bonnie Munshin at the helm. I usually order the whole fish which is delicious, but it also affords me the ability to have a few zucchini chips and a bite of tartufo [left]. My favorite family restaurant is the Palm in East Hampton. Nothing a good rib-eye can’t cure! It has been a staple in our family for years and never disappoints.

KDH: If you manage to carve out some “me-time” during the day out East, what do you like to do?
RZ: I love to take a walk along the historic houses in Sag Harbor village and soak in the beauty of the architecture. I get to really feel the history of this whaling town.

KDH: If you could train any celebrity in your class who would you choose and why?
RZ: Christian Bale? Need I say more????