Introducing TANGO LIVEHOUSE

Despite what its name suggests, TANGO LIVEHOUSE has nothing to do with tango-dancing…or live music. They are the latest addition to Shanghai’s indoor-cycling studios, boasting the largest classroom in the city, a sleek-looking members lounge, as well as their very own line of high-tech stationary bikes. TANGO has its sights set on becoming the premier cycling destination for members to “party and burn calories at the same time” – in person and at home (more on that later).  

Touch-screen displays, heart-rate monitors and more

TANGO's classes are more "techy" than your usual spin class. Your bike will have its own screen showing stats like your heart rate and calories burned – if you like tracking workout data and performance stats, you’ll love this smart bike feature.

At the start of the class, you log into your assigned seat using a WeChat mini-program and connect to the classroom by punching in a code on the big screen. You also strap on a heart rate monitor and link that to the bike. If you’re snazzy with IT devices, this part should be easy; if you’re not, there are plenty of floor staff to assist you.

Your Not So Typical Spinning Class

Classes are conducted in English and Chinese, led by both local and expat coaches. Each session is around 45 minutes: starting with a quick warm up to get the blood flowing, 4–5 tracks to dance along to, and a mini "competition" towards the end. Shoutout to our instructors Asaad and Damon for bringing peak hypeman energy to the room! The flashing lights, blasting foghorns, mist machines, subtle gyrations…these guys really know how to pump people up.

TANGO Smartbikes Track Real-Time Performance

The objective of TANGO’s spin class is to score the highest “points” based on your step count and rhythm. The smartbike keeps track of your performance in real time and shows on-screen reminders to help you stay on beat with the music. Resistance on all the bikes are also synced from the coach’s panel, so everyone’s on the same boat.

Guitar Hero…But on a Bike!

The entire experience felt a bit like Guitar Hero... but on a bike. You score higher points when you step to the rhythm of the music, but if you slack off, you get no points. The catch is that everyone’s score ranking is displayed on all the screens, and NO ONE wants to end up at the bottom of the class. In the words of Ricky Bobby, "if you ain’t first, you're last!"

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, amirite? At the end of class, we all cheered for the top “scorers” and high-fived sweaty hands on the way out.

TANGO’s Next-Generation Smartbikes

TANGO's smartbikes are designed to elevate your indoor cycling experience. Unlike traditional floor models, these bikes have a built-in computer that allows you to monitor your heart rate and calorie burn stats, track overall performance, and connect to live (and pre-recorded) classes. The bike itself is made with car-grade components and is meant to be top-notch in terms of smoothness and durability. You’ll definitely tell from riding it that this is more expensive-feeling than regular spinning bikes out there.

In addition to their in-person classes, they’re also selling these bikes as a standalone product. Their Lite bike is listed for 10,000 RMB and their Deluxe bike is 20,000 RMB -both on display in their lounge.

A Sleek Member's Lounge...

They have a big comfy lounge area for members to hang out in before and after class. All classes are streamed onto the big-screen TVs if you’d like to tune in. The overall decor does feel a bit more upscale and modern than other spinning studios – closer to Pure than Wills on the gym spectrum.

A Members Lounge and Bar

There's a fully stocked bar and comfy sofas right outside the studio if you’re in the mood for a cheeky drink after class. Obviously, they sell water, snacks, and workout beverages as well, but yes, there is alcohol, and yes, that is an actual bartender.

Standard Gym Amenities: Locker Room and Showers

Changing rooms and showers are clean and functional, with personal lockers that sync up with your Wechat mini-program. Another great amenity if you need to look somewhat presentable before heading back to the office or out for a meal with friends.

The Verdict?

As a regular fitness class-goer, I'd have to say that TANGO was surprisingly enjoyable. In just 45 minutes, I was able to burn more than 500 calories according to my heart rate monitor – not too shabby for a regular Tuesday night. At no point in time did I wish for it to just be over already because I may black out from exhaustion – each set got my heart pumping in a very manageable way and that lasted well throughout the class.

There was no crazy choreography and I was able to follow through on speed and movement from the instructor. I especially liked seeing the on-screen reminders and seeing how well I kept up with the rest of class. All in all, TANGO is suited for those of us who just want to move and sweat it out to loud music, as well as beginners who want to get into spinning but feel intimidated by the more advanced classes out there.

Prices, Locations and Deals

TANGO LIVEHOUSE currently has one location in Shanghai, listed here.

While the regular price for each class is 298rmb, as part of their grand opening, they are offering the following deals to our SmartShanghai readers:

• A single class for 58rmb

• A single class plus a sandwich/drink for 95rmb

• Two classes for 99rmb

• 14 classes for 2632rmb

• Unlimited monthly pass for 1888rmb

Click here to book those deals , or scan below to purchase with WeChat:

If you'd like to learn more about booking a class or buying their bikes, for English and Chinese service, reach out through the inquery form on their SmartShanghai listing, and feel free to follow them on WeChat here: