Spin Classes

jmo2187

I've broken up with running and looking for other ways to stay healthy. Currently looove Night Club Cardio but that is only offered twice a week. So, I've been thinking about spinning, I've always wanted to take a class but I am very intimidated by them. Everyone always looks like they are about to die. So, how does the class work? Does the instructor tell you what to do when or do you just pedal as fast as you can? TIA.

IndyGirl02

I love spin class -- it's very individualized. Each bike has a resistance dial -- from zero resistance (pedaling takes no effort) to pedals-do-not-move. The instructor will tell you what to do -- maybe a long "flat road" (i.e. low resistance) with a quick pedal speed, other times a hill (many instructors tell you what "percentage exertion level" to put the resistance at -- like 60% or 80%) with slower pedal speed. There are also different body positions -- sitting and pedaling, standing straight up and "running," standing up but leaning forward with your butt hovering right over the seat.

The nice thing about the class is that you control the resistance and pace -- if you need a break, turn down the resistance and slow your pedal speed until you're ready to fire it up again.

Give it a try! When you get there, tell the instructor you're new, and they will help you properly set up your bike. Don't be intimidated -- every single person in spin class had a first time!

LesPaul

Try it!  Arrive early to get set up, bring water and a towel.  You butt will get sore, but it really isn't that bad.  You can get padded briefs or boyshorts at REI if you don't want to wear cycling shorts.  Don't worry about what everyone else is doing - it's your ride and you can hit it hard or back off as you want to.  No one will care if you sit and rest for a minute, or don't have super hard resistance on the bike.  The instructor will guide you through the ride, as PP said.  Warm-up, cool down, hills, flat, etc. 

Also, go more than once.  Give it a chance - I see a lot of 'one and done' spinners.  After a few classes your butt will be fine.  If you don't like the instructor or the music, try another.  There are very good instructors out there, and very bad ones.  Find one you like.

bellakitty4

I am a spinning newbie, and I haven't been able to work up to "full speed" in class yet. However, my instructor told me to just sit and pedal steadily if I can't stand/crouch yet. That actually builds more muscle mass, so I should soon be able to stand/crouch.

The way I see it, it's better to sit and pedal steadily than to not go at all or to wimp out after a few classes. In a few weeks (or months) I hope to be able to do it all. 

I choose a bike off to the side or in the back and no one cares if I sit during most of the class. 

dmblack

Ditto what the others have said about spinning.  I love spinning too.  Just remember that everyone else in class had a "first time" once and it truly takes time to work your way up.  Its a very individual ride for sure.  You control how hard or easy it is for you.  I can tell you that after taking classes for 2 years that there are still days that I feel like I'm going to die.  Other days its easy.  Give it a try you'll probably like it.

moonstone523

I'm another fan of spin class. I love the loud, bumping music and the change in rhythm/flow.  We will start out in the saddle, up resistance for some hills, do jumps, another song might be sprints, intervals, etc.  Every class is different, and each instructor has their own style. 

karma007

I have a love/hate relationship with spin classes, depending on the instructor. The best advice I have is to go at your own pace. They can be pretty intense, and better to be there in the first place and spinning a little slower, than to not be there at all. If you need to stay seated, go for it. The standing climbs can be tough. It will get easier!