Spinning Classes?

Spin is awesome! The classes definitely vary depending on the instructor. There's one instructor that plays hard rock (it's just not my thing) and turns the mic up so high and SCREAMS into it that you just hear distorted mic sounds and not actual words, haha. I leave angry and with a headache...so I definitely avoid his classes. I love all the other instructors though. They typically have some kind of a plan for class, like maybe alternating hills with speedwork and they match it up to their playlist. It's my favorite crosstraining activity to do when I'm not running because it's a huge calorie scorcher and it's low impact. Really strengthens your legs and butt and you'll even feel it in your core. I think it's totally worth it and you should try it! If you don't like your first class, try a different instructor. Have fun! Bring a sweat towel and water!!

Spin is the best! Great music and u feel amazing afterwards. U can go at ur own pace but in my opinion u may as well go for it! My boyfriend had his first spin class yesterday and loved it! Happy spinning!!

I'm another advocate for spin classes! I do agree with alpine1994 that it depends on the instructor. My regular instructor was on holidays a few weeks ago and I found the fill in instructor unmotivating and difficult to follow. My calorie burn suffered as a result (it was about half what I would normally do!) So try a few different classes to find an instructor that works for you!

PS I usually burn between 600 and 700 calories in a 45 minute class.

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.