Spin Class

Oh you'll have fun! I hope you instructor is good. I'd only buy those spin shoes if you decide you're really into it.


Please, get the butt pad shorts though. And report back.

My key spin class items are a towel and WATER!!! Spin is pretty awesome but tough, I think you'll enjoy it.

I go quite regularly so will be investing in some cleats for the bike but I would recommend doing a couple of classes before this purchase to see if you'd want them. You shouldn't need to cycling shorts as you don't get the vibrations from the bike as you would traversing in the great outdoors.

Spin classes can be great.

Cycling specific pants make a huge difference. Borderline worth it if you only do these 20 classes - maybe if you can get a pair on clearance. But if you have a bike and ride some, or if you go to a couple of spin classes and you enjoy it and think you'll do more, then yes, definitely, get bike pants. This is the season when summer weather cycling gear goes on sale (or soon will be). Check the clearance rack in your local bike store. You might gasp at some of the prices but good bike shorts are worth it.

Shoes with cleats are also a plus if you wind up going to spin class on a regular basis, but you don't absolutely need them. Most spin class bikes have cages/straps you can use with regular gym shoes. Again if you have your own bike or wind up doing a lot of spin classes, the cycling shoes are nice. Be aware there are compatibility issues with both shoes and cleats, so don't jump into this until you know what is going on (most spin class bikes use SPD cleats, and they're not a bad choice for your own bike).

In my opinion you don't need the fancy shoes or padded shorts. Your, err, "undercarriage" will be sore the first one or two classes, but after that it will be fine. If your legs rub when you pedal you may want to invest in some good spandex but if they don't regular workout clothes should be fine. I LOVE spin- its by far the most sweaty, calorie burning workout I do and it can be a lot of fun with good music blasting. As others have said make sure to bring plenty water and hydrate a lot after! My first spin class when I was super out of shape I had to take a break halfway through because I was a little dizzy, so just know your body, be safe, and have fun!

Should I shell out the money and buy the funny click/clack shoes?

Cleats are entirely optional. It won't change your experience that much so up to you.

The butt pad shorts?

Cycling shorts are recommended but again optional given the length of the class. See how you go. Chamois cream can also be your best friend.

In general saddles are meant to be hard and partially support (although not totally support) your weight on your sit bones. That said you will be out of the saddle quite a lot...

Wear a helmet? (just kidding about the helmet)

Looool. Do it!

1 - get their early and have the instructor fit your bike; bring a notepad to write down your numbers

2 - padded shorts are a big plus. we're going into fall so you should be able to find some on clearance. Wal-Mart sells some cheapos...I wouldn't really use them cycling, but they might be ok for spin

3 - You can hold off on shoes until you know you're going to be into it or not...I personally don't know how I ever managed without them, but I ride a lot and spin occasionally.

4 - remember that it's your ride...if you need to slow down then do so...if you need to pull out of a climb, pull out of the climb. remember that this is your first time...you don't need to show off.

5 - have fun

My instructor recommended a maxi pad, if you don't want to invest in the shorts! The soreness goes away after the first few classes.

Feeling like this studio is sketchy, you have to RSVP for class, which i did, but they didn't take my name down. Odd.

Anyway, going tonight to buy my padded butt pants! Going to hold off on the shoes for now, but thank you everyone for pointed out the towels! I honestly would not have thought about that!

They probably just want a head count so they can cut off RSVPs when they reach the max amount of bikes they have. I have been spinning for about a year without the padded shorts and I just bought myself some and wore them to my first class and WOWWWWW. Big difference! I strangely found them on the clearance rack at TJMaxx for $25, really good brand. Have fun!!