Spinning Classes?

I loved spin class, though the instructor was also my friend and she never let me off the jook for a second. On days when it was just her and I for the class ... Ho-lee-crap! She was brutal, but it was always an awesome workout.

And yes, towel, water, maybe an extra towel and more water.

I love spin classes! Like everyone has said make sure you have a towel and plenty of water. Brilliant cardio workout that has a degree of resistance training too, that's my favourite aspect. Definitely feel like you've worked your *kitten* off if you push yourself, and the music tends to be upbeat so that keeps you going. I'd definitely recommend it

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I like spin. I prefer the classes that simulate real spinning and not the dancy ones (which I really liked to start with).

They have this at my gym. Ive always felt a bit apprehensive about going but I might give it a bash

I did my first spin class last night. It is a beginning spin class, and the first class of the session so she took it pretty easy on us. I hope it gets harder, but I liked it!

If you like cardio, and you want low impact, spin is a good way to go

GreenNetha1 wrote: »

I took my first spin class last night. It would have been better, but my butt hurt the whole time and still hurts today. Per the instructor, that will go away, but I am almost too scared to go again just because of the butt pain.

You get used to it!

I love spinning, especially if the instructor has thought carefully about the music play list and plans the class to match the songs.

Love spinning, may feel like I might die during it but my favourite cardio. I used to get a sore backside when first started so bought one of those gel seats you can fit over the saddle which made it more bearable, don't need it any more though. Definitely take a towel and plenty of water!

Okay... Here is my take on spin. I have been teaching spin for 10 years now... When I started I struggled to complete a class. I just couldn't get the hang of the standing stuff at all...

Things I've learned and tips for new comers.

1. Go 15 minutes early to your first class to get properly fit. If the instructor doesn't introduce themselves and offer to fit you, find another class.

2. Start out easy, 45 minutes is much longer on a spin bike. If after the first class you realize you could have done more. Bump it up the next class.

3. If you ever feel out of control on the bike, chances are you need more tension. This is especially noticeable when you stand.

4. The first few classes are about getting used to the equipment more than your fitness. Figure out your bike, play with the tension. Don't be afraid to back it off and spin easy if you need a break.

4. Your pelvic area will hurt for a bit. Some suggest a gel seat, but I advise against it. For spin classes I say either wear regular fitted mid-thigh or lower (prevent rubbing) bottoms or padded cycling shorts. After a few weeks of classes the muscles around the pelvic area adjust and you'll be fine. If you use the gel seat you never seem to build that "toughness"

5. Don't try to keep up with the "old guys" they will kick your *kitten*. They are regulars many of whom ride outside regularly.

6. Don't worry about the regulars making fun of you. Most everybody in the room started out just the same. They may joke around with you, but that is their way of bringing you into the fold. Everyone has a great story about "when I first tried this..." It's a hard class to get used to.

7. You get as much out of spinning as you are willing to put in. You give a half assed effort, you get half-assed results. A good instructor is key here!

8. The instructor is there to guide you. It is your ride. That doesn't mean they expect you to be able to do everything every time. I have participants that range from Cat2 road racers to those who have had multiple bypass surgeries. I can't expect both to have the same abilities, but because they control their own tension they all work to the level they need. There are days that I need an easy spin. So I back off my tension a bit to meet my goals. Likewise, my regulars will say "I've got a race tomorrow, just spinning tonight." I need to know where they are so I know how hard to push.

9. Let your instructor know if you have specific issues. Our job is to motivate you and to keep you healthy... Contrary to popular belief we don't what to actually hurt you...

10. Lastly... If you don't like it, try a different instructor. We are alllll different. Some bore me, some annoy me, some I love. People who like my class hate Candy's class. People who love Candy's class hate my class.

I absolutely love spinning! It's helped me lose over 20 lbs! Not only is it a great workout, but it's so much fun and it keeps me going back to the gym! It's also very easy to go at your own pace and follow the instructor's directions only if it feels good to your body.

At first I was nervous about going to any sort of group fitness class because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to keep up with the group, but I just found a bike toward the back and did the best I could. Within a few months of consistent practice, I had no problem keeping up with the group.

Also, if you don't like your first class, try it again with a different instructor. An awesome instructor makes all the difference! And don't be afraid to ask the instructor to help position the bike correctly for you or even a fellow spinner (that looks friendly and experienced). Being correctly fit for the bike is super important and keeps you from getting injured.

Good luck and most importantly, have fun!