MANILA, Philippines — Paolo Benjamin’s fitness journey is deeply intertwined with his music and other aspects of his life.
“My fitness journey and music are something that I would say magkakambal (twinning) because for me, I was able to be a better performer because I invested time and energy in my fitness,” the Ben&Ben vocalist told The STAR in an exclusive interview during the grand opening of Spin 101. Paolo is the brand ambassador of the boutique studio for indoor cycling classes, along with two-time SEA Games gold medalist Nikko Huelgas.
“I think when it comes to music, of how it inspired my fitness journey, it’s also the same. For me, it’s all about purpose and my purpose is to be a better version of myself in terms of my health and in terms of my performance. So, I can give my best to the people who support us and offer the best in my craft,” he continued.
“Thankfully, it became a part of my lifestyle. Basically, it’s part of my system. Dagdag mo pa dun na parang in a weird way, my spirituality also increased because I invested in my fitness journey. That’s why my roots are deep, hugot. That’s my inspiration.”
On how he’s been able to balance his fitness routine with his busy gig schedule, he said that one has to always make time for the things that are important to you.
“I think it’s a cliché. But basically, if one thing is important to you, you make time for it. Instead of finding time, you make time for it. And I realized over time, if I prioritize my fitness and health, everything makes sense. Mas nagiging smooth yung pag-fall into place ng mga bagay.”
Paolo further emphasized the importance of the 3Fs in his life — faith, family and fitness.
The Spin 101 recently opened its branch at the University Hotel, UP Diliman. It offers spinners an immersive, seamless, and fun ride through its studio.
According to the media release, Spin 101 is not just a typical indoor cycling class. Spin 101 uses Technogym’s Group Cycle Connect, the first in the country and within Southeast Asian Region, which enables hyper-personalization of the cyclists’ journey and, coupled with brilliant visuals, allows them to connect with the entire class and ride as one.
“Spin 101 is all about offering quality service that upholds sustainability and nurtures grit and inner strength. We want to make this kind of experience accessible not only to those who frequent Makati, BGC or Ortigas CBD where most spin studios are but to a bigger community. It’s a unique vibe that we hope will help SpinStars see life more positively and create a better impact on the community that hosts us,” said Spin101 founder and chief executive officer Dinah Remolacio.
Class rates start at P400. For further information, check Spin101’s socials at @Spin101 on Facebook and @spin101studio on IG or call 0998-5941158 to book your class.
Meanwhile, here’s the rest of the interview with Paolo where he shared more about his fitness journey and music.
What’s the similarity between churning out songs and cycling?
“Basically, it’s a bit similar. It’s the same way like in a class, there’s tough and easy parts. Pag nagbaba-bike ka, mahirap yung pag-ahon tapos yung pa-lusong or downhill parang masarap kasi sobrang mabilis.
“It’s also like that in (making) music. There are times that its full of challenges and you get a feeling na sobrang uphill lahat ng bagay. And you learn to go through with it until matapos siya. And then, the same way din yung pagbaba which is yung pasulong. You just have to enjoy it and be present in the moment.
“Una kasi ‘pag hindi, sesemplang ka. Second, bad times aren’t forever, good times aren’t forever, so parang medyo malalim yun but it’s one of the things that I learned from cycling.”
When did you learn to ride a bike?
“I’ve been riding a bike since 2020. It’s not that recent. Nabudol ako actually ng girlfriend ko. She’s also here. But I got inspired ever since and I like it. Because at the end of the day, I was able to combine cycling with exercise and music. So, it’s like dalawang passion that I love the most.”
Any memorable cycling moments that you can share?
“For me, every class is memorable. In the sense that you push yourself to the limits. But at the same time, you enjoy it. It’s a very unique experience. It’s different from running. It’s different from going to the gym.
“Because sumasabay ka sa beat habang pumapadyak. It’s difficult but at the same time, ayaw mo ring tumigil kasi kumbaga sarap nung tugtog habang pumapadyak ka. That’s why every class is memorable.
“Aside from that, the instructors also share inspirational stuff and life lessons. It happens during class. They share that habang pumapadyak kayong lahat. So, it’s difficult, nag-su-suffer ka sa padyak but it’s also very fulfilling.”
What’s in your playlist while you’re cycling?
“Iba-iba, eh. But recently I’ve been listening to EDM songs from 2012, (like) Swedish House (Mafia). Because those are the songs from college. Also, K-pop and P-pop songs like the ones from SB19 and BINI, NewJeans and Stray Kids.”
What’s your fitness routine?
“It varies but I just try to stay active. One of them is indoor cycling which is a major (exercise) for me. I also run. I lift weights in the gym. Although it’s not to gain weight, it’s just so my bones don’t get weak.
“And then, recently, I’ve been learning how to dance. So, it’s also counted as a fitness activity. For now, it’s just dancing. Running, indoor cycling, and lifting weights. And then, performing on stage kasi nakakapagod din siya.”