Photo by Juan Pablo Olmo.
Stuck in a rut? Running mindless mile after mile on the treadmill and want to mix things up? Why not try a Spin Class? Spinning is a great way to burn tons of calories, challenge yourself and break up the monotony of the daily “dreadmill” run. I don’t know about you but day after day of doing the same exact thing begins to wear on me so I was very happy to take a stab at spinning last week at Bay View Fitness.
At every gym I’ve belonged to I have always been intimidated by the group of spin bikes in the corner. I’ve overheard the spinning fanatics talk about what a grueling workout it is and frankly I’ve just been scared to try it. Luckily, Anne was up for joining me so once I knew I wouldn’t be the only newbie there I figured I might as well check it out. And guess what? Turns out that in addition to being an intense workout it was also a lot of FUN. Whoulda thought? Yes, it was difficult. Yes I did sweat a lot. However, the hour really seemed to fly by fast in comparison to the same amount of time spent running on the treadmill. The instructor was very helpful as well, showing us how to set up our bikes properly and giving us pointers on the correct form while riding. The workout had a lot of variations- sitting on the bike, standing up on the pedals and even doing modified push ups on the handle bars so it was never boring. Sure, the music was a little cheesy but the rhythm really did help get me going and made me want to push harder through some of the more difficult sections. Plus, It was nice to work out different muscles than the ones that get most of the focus while running. Instead of using primarily the hamstrings and calves, spinning mainly works the quadriceps in the front of the legs.
If you’re going to try spinning please remember to:
1. Bring water
2. Bring a towel.
I’ve always heard people say this and I found out they were not joking around. Within ten minutes I was reaching for both water and towel so heed the warning! My other recommendation would be to not overdo the resistance at first. The great thing about the bikes are that you can make the workout as hard or as easy as you want. I was afraid of starting too strong and not being able to finish so I began with lighter resistance and slowly cranked it throughout the class. (I was also relieved to have a break at the midpoint where we released the tension completely for a couple of minutes before starting again.)
Moral of the story? Don’t knock it ’till you try it. Don’t be afraid to try new things! Ask questions. The instructors are there to help and want more people to join in so don’t shy away thinking that a particular class isn’t meant for you.
Great info here! I really second the notion that the towel is a must. I only brought a small towel and I was wishing I had a larger one. Most people put them over the handlebars, I think that would have been nice. I also found that I tried not to overdo it, and just get a feel for the bike before I crank up the resistance.
Glad to hear you guys had fun trying spin. I am definitely a believer/addict. I tried it a couple years ago at the urging of my then personal trainer. One thing I have to say is that if you go to a gym with several spin times/instructors, try out the different classes. Unlike aerobics or bodyworks classes where you are constantly switching up activity, spin involves a lot of focus and really being in that “zone,” so music plays a key role in a successful spin workout for me. I am not a fan of cheesy nor straight up bad music, so finding an instructor who created a strong playlist was a must. Luckily, I found a class at The WAC downtown that fits my tastes perfectly. We always get great tunes AND a variety of workouts.
I’ve also made the mistake in the past of quitting spin to bike outside when the weather gets nicer, but this year am resolving to do both. I have been spinning twice a week since rejoining the gym November 1, and combined with my Weight Watchers and other workouts, have lost over 15 lbs. And I must say, my hamstrings are feeling mighty fine!
p.s. Thank you for your blog and tweeting. You two are definitely an inspiration for me, as I try not only to lose weight, but become fit for life.
I heart spin! I got hooked at the Downtown YMCA spinning classes, and now take spin at the Princeton Club in New Berlin. I’m signed up for the Scenic Shore 150 in July, so any chance I can get on a bike indoors this winter is much needed!
Psst … care to do the Scenic Shore 150 with me?
http://wi.ss150.llsevent.org/index.cfm?PageID=61299&EventID=7051
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