RPM class with Maria João Lopes was one of those sessions that reminded me how powerful a great indoor cycling class can be. It was energetic, uplifting, and full of strong coaching from start to finish.
If you want to know what an RPM class with Maria João Lopes really feels like from a student’s perspective, here is my honest experience.
Quick Verdict
- Intensity (1 to 10): 8
- Good for: people who enjoy indoor cycling, strong musical energy, motivating coaching, and a class that feels both challenging and uplifting
- My after class mood: sweaty, energised, emotionally lifted, and very glad I came
Class Snapshot
- Duration: around 45 minutes
- Format: indoor cycling with varied tracks, climbs, speed work, endurance efforts, and recovery moments
- Equipment: stationary bike, water bottle, and towel recommended
- Instructor style: warm, passionate, clear, musical, and highly engaging
- My focus today: enjoy the ride, respond well to the stronger tracks, and stay connected to the class energy
- Body notes: no injury issues, just effort, sweat, and that satisfying worked-hard feeling after class
The Lioness in Action: An Epic RPM Class with Maria João Lopes
Today, I went to Solinca Colombo to attend an RPM class with Maria João Lopes.
The first thing I noticed about Maria was how hardworking she is! Nevertheless, she ALWAYS has a BIG SMILE on her face when greeting us.
And don’t get me started on the inspiration – yes, I watch her stories and love watching her train. There’s an exercise I was challenged to do and film with her, but I’m still building up the courage to do it 
. I’ll get there, Maria! 
There are those who make you love something by explaining and showing it, and then there are those who do it through THEIR passion. Maria is exactly like that. I fell in love with RPM BECAUSE I saw how much Maria loved it in class.
As usual, she greeted us with her wonderful smile and kindness. I took a moment to observe and noticed so many students in class! Brilliant! 
I always love Maria’s music choices. ALWAYS! And I make a point of mentioning it!
The first two tracks were okay—one for the warm-up and the other to give us a taste of what was coming. Then things got serious! 
The best track today was the fourth. Normally, this one is quite challenging for me, but the song Maria chose 
! I LOVED IT! It pumped me up like crazy! 
On the fifth track, I decided to slow down just a little bit because the sixth one was coming. And what a magnificent track that was! SPEED! I did my best, but I wasn’t able to pedal at the music’s beat for 1:15 minutes. But WOW. I love speed!!!
Then came the seventh track—the moment when I ALWAYS see the LIONESS come alive. Maria transforms! This woman really loves RPM. She is so fierce! It’s wonderful to watch!
This class was amazing. Maria is SO kind. She gives clear instructions and creates a very warm atmosphere where we can SING and DANCE while training like crazy!
By the end of the class, Maria led us in singing Happy Birthday to one of Solinca Colombo’s stars, Ilda. We gladly did it, and it was lovely to see the happiness on the birthday girl’s face.
What a great way to start the week—with my workout on track and my heart full of joy!
Thank you very much, Maria! 
Instructor Notes
Instructor credit: Maria João Lopes. She is the instructor featured in this class experience.
What stands out most about Maria João Lopes is the way she teaches through energy, presence, and genuine love for RPM. She does not simply lead the class. She creates an atmosphere that pulls people in and makes the whole session feel alive.
She also brings warmth into the room. Her smile, her music choices, and the way she connects with people make the class feel welcoming even when the effort increases. That balance makes a real difference in a format like RPM.
How I Felt After Class
Right after: sweaty, uplifted, and physically worked, but in a very satisfying way. It felt like a class that gave me effort and joy at the same time.
Later that day: still energised and in a good mood. This was one of those sessions that stayed with me because the atmosphere had been so strong.
Next day: some fatigue, but nothing negative. Just that clear feeling that I had done a proper workout and started the week well.
Final Thoughts
This RPM class with Maria João Lopes was motivating, memorable, and full of heart. If you enjoy indoor cycling classes with strong music, clear guidance, and an instructor who brings real passion into the room, this is the kind of class that can stay with you long after it ends.
From a student’s perspective, this session felt powerful in the best way.
I also wrote another RPM story that was a full adrenaline rush: My Les Mills RPM Experience at Solinca Linda-a-Velha.
My Gym Essentials
Everything I actually use and love during my workouts. Tested, approved, and perfect for busy women who want efficient results.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without wasting time refilling.
- Training Shoes: Stable, comfortable, and perfect for cardio and step workouts.
- Small Gym Bag: Compact but spacious enough for everything I need for my sessions.
- Shockproof Phone Case: Keeps my phone safe during intense workouts, because I drop it more often than I admit
- Smart Fitness Watch: Tracks heart rate, calories burned, and workout intensity.
Looking for more honest fitness class reviews? Explore the rest of my class review posts for a real student perspective on different workouts.
