Spinning classes? What to expect?

chevy88grl
chevy88grl Posts: 3,937 Member
edited September 29 in Fitness and Exercise
So, I'm currently shopping around for a new gym. Don't get me wrong, I do love the one I'm going to -- but, they don't seem to offer any classes (spinning, kick boxing, etc). I am also trying to find a gym that has a pool since I have issues with the arthritis in my spine in the winter months and I've been told that swimming and water aerobics are awesome for the pain.

Toured two different gyms today and I like both. One offers more and is more expensive while the other has a much larger cardio/weight area.

I'm planning to get free trials at both before I choose one.

Both had spinning classes. I've heard A LOT about them and how they're intense and an excellent cardio burn. I'm burned out on the treadmill and hate the elliptical. So, spinning class sounds AWESOME.

Has anyone done them? What should I expect? Any details would be awesome!

Replies

  • c_ramey
    c_ramey Posts: 83 Member
    Bump!! I just joined a gym that offers spinning classes. I would like some information also!
  • JustBreathe418
    JustBreathe418 Posts: 355 Member
    Yes, you are right when you say are intense! One of the nice things about a spin class is that you get your own bike and you adjust the tension on your own bike so the workout is as easy or as hard as you want (try to push yourself though!). The instructor will instruct you on when to sit, stand, adjust tension, etc. At your first class, be sure to let the instructor know that it's your first time spinning and they will help you set your bike correctly. It's a fun class with loud music! Just be prepared for puddles of sweat on the floor and a sore butt the next day :)
  • joonzgurl
    joonzgurl Posts: 1,611 Member
    They are a great burn, but so hard at first! And prepare yourself for a sore bum!
  • solpwr
    solpwr Posts: 1,039 Member
    I used to lead a morning spinning class, and will likely do so again in the fall, once cycling season is over where I live.

    They are great cardio, they are pretty amp'd up. But you can stay easy on the resistance and go at your level if need be. What people often like about them is the music and the atmosphere, because it really gets motivating, really good for that.

    Beware that you can get saddle sore, very similar to riding a bike. I tell people the best way to deal with that is to push through it. The second and third sessions your sits bones will hurt; not fun. Stick it out, your body compensates, and after a few weeks of classes you will be addicted, and you butt will be toughened.
  • tjcnc
    tjcnc Posts: 21 Member
    Spinning classes are good. May want to check if you have lower back problems have the instructor adjust your seat and handle bars accordingly. Go at your pace. Watch some of the instructors they don't really make adjustments on tension so they seem to be flying...Also if you are an outdoor rider do movements similar to what you would outside. If you stand be sure to have enough tension so as to not hurt your knees. Have fun
  • sleepytexan
    sleepytexan Posts: 3,138 Member
    Spin is a fantastic way to lose weight and improve your cardiovascular capacity. You can burn appx 600-800 calories in an hour spin class. Spin is easy on the joints. Spin is fun and addicting!

    When you go to your first class, arrive about 10 min. early and ask the instructor to help you get familiar with the bike.
    BRING WATER!!
    Take it at your own pace. It will be hard at first, and your bum will be sore.
    Don't give up--reduce your pace and/or your tension when you need to. It is not a competition.
    Go 3 times in 2 weeks and you will be amazed at your endurance. Also your bum will no longer be sore.

    Don't buy bike shorts for spin. That's just expensive laundry.

    Have fun!

    blessings.
  • mariumosman
    mariumosman Posts: 37
    I started Spinning classes 3 weeks ago. I looked on internet etc at what to expect and got so worked up about it, that when I went it wasn't half as bad! My Spinning classes last 45 minutes and you are dripping wet when finished. I love it so much (although I feel like I'm dying at the time, lol!) that I'm adding another class a week,so I'll be doing two a week.
    Like people say, get your bike set up correctly for you to avoid injury and follow instruction but go at you own pace if you need to!!
  • poseyj88
    poseyj88 Posts: 140 Member
    I took a spin class for 5 weeks (twice per week) and LOVED it! Definitely go "easy" the first class because, trust me, you will feel the burn. It was great for me as a runner because it was awesome cardio and took the strain off my knees.
  • poseyj88
    poseyj88 Posts: 140 Member
    I took a spin class for 5 weeks (twice per week) and LOVED it! Definitely go "easy" the first class because, trust me, you will feel the burn. It was great for me as a runner because it was awesome cardio and took the strain off my knees.
  • wedjul05
    wedjul05 Posts: 472
    Spin class and I have this love/hate relationship. I hate it but I love it. It's soooooo hard, if you are even one teenie bit tired, it's a killer. I sweat like I have never sweated before which I LOVE!!!!!

    Bring a towel, water and you!

    You can as the other MFP'ers said, take it at your own pace as I do. I try to push myself every time I go, some weeks are easier than others.

    It's a great different workout. I do the gym 2 other times a week and walk 1/2 nghts a week too. It's good to get a mix of stuff in.

    Good luck with it!
  • chevy88grl
    chevy88grl Posts: 3,937 Member
    Okay.... so I did some research and everything I read said don't do spinning if you have ANY lower back issues.

    I have steel rods in 3/4 of my spine AND a bulging disc in my lower spine. I have to be VERY careful with my spine (though I DO run on the treadmill and have been doing so for the last year or so).

    Spinning out with the back issues I have?
  • Ally_Clare
    Ally_Clare Posts: 355 Member
    "Spinning classes? What to expect?"

    Sore legs and a very sore butt

    ps. don't let this put you off :) i guarantee the day after you will feel amazing. I miss going to spin classes, my new gym doesn't offer them
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