Fitness
5 Ways to Get the Most From Your Spin® Class
Share
I’m a group exercise junkie. I love the positive atmosphere, the comradery, the competitions, and of course—the sweat! Especially when it comes to indoor cycling.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes (when I am not teaching at CYCLEBAR) I need a little extra push to get myself to SpinX® class. Knowing that my favorite instructor will ask where I was or that I left my bike buddy hanging helps to keep me motivated and committed.
Feel like you’re just spinning your wheels when it comes to cycling class? Whether you’re all about black lights and hard beats or it’s your first time clipping in, here are a few tips from my experience as a rider and instructor on how to take your indoor cycling class to the next level.
Start Smart
If you’re uncomfortable or something hurts that shouldn’t, nine times out of ten your bike is set up the wrong way. Come to class a bit early and ask your instructor for help—that’s what we’re here for! This will guarantee a comfortable, injury-free and more enjoyable ride.
Stay Hydrated
Never come to class without your water and towel. Everyone loves to hydrate during class, but remember to stick to healthy H2O habits. You should be hydrating hours or even a whole day before class. You lose a lot of sweat during cycling. Being hydrated ensures a cramp-free workout.
Stop Comparing
Fitness is a personal experience, especially when you’re in that dark cycling room. Take advantage of the darkness. Instead of trying to beat workout Barbie in the front row, focus on pushing yourself to do better than your last class. Remember why you came into that room. Competing with people who are at different fitness levels will only leave you disappointed—which is not what those Spin® endorphins should do for you!
Listen To Your Instructor
As instructors, we spend a lot of time on our music and riding to the beat. Gear recommendations are essential to keeping to that beat, that’s why where we guide you on where to be. Going too fast out of the saddle and not syncing to the song can be bad for your body. You actually use more energy and burn more calories when you use the right resistance and push through those gears. So listen up—and listen to us—for a safer, more efficient ride.
Socialize
You are in a room of like-minded people. Find a Spin® buddy that will keep you honest and hold you accountable for that next class. Get to know your instructor. From your favorite workout jam to your birthday, we enjoy a little one-on-one chat! We’re here to give you the best class and a great workout, so come talk to us and help us do so.
If you’ve never been to an indoor cycling class, look on the MINDBODY app for a studio in your area and go try one! Don’t be intimidated; cycling is one of those things that everyone can do. You can always go slower, or use less resistance—I promise you get better quickly and you’ll be wanting that front row seat in no time.
For all things spin and fitness, follow Kateri at @thehealthybusylady!
