It's no wonder some of us are intimidated by spinning classes: the padded shorts and biking shoes that many people wear on their way into class make it seem intense and exclusive. While it's true the classes offer an intense workout, gyms don't offer spinning classes with the intention of creating an in-house cyclists-only club. Stop being intimidated and try something new by participating in this challenging cardio workout.
- Getting started: Because there are only a certain number of bikes available per class, peak-time classes often require you to pick up a pass beforehand so you're guaranteed a spot. Arrive early so you have time to adjust your bike, and if the instructor isn't there yet don't be afraid to ask someone around you for help if you need it.
To see more of my tips for spinning first-timers, read more.
- What to expect: The instructor will guide you through the workout, telling you when to increase resistance and when to pedal faster. You're guided through climbs, sprints, and muscle isolations, with intermittent lower-resistance pedaling during cruising periods. There's music blasting that keeps you moving for the entire class, and you'll sweat — a lot.
- What to wear: No need to go shopping for cycling gear. Wear your workout sneakers and a top that breathes easily. I recommend wearing 3/4 length pants, but if you don't have them, full-length will be fine.
- What to bring: A bottle of water and at least one towel.
Vsct Jeans
Erickson Beamon
Diesel
i admit that I'm totally scared to try spinning. I wish I just had a friend to go with or something. The people are so intimidating and it sounds so hard. It's one of my goals though to try it. Soon!
1@ Renees3: Give it a try, you can always leave the class if it isn't the right thing for you! Trust me I did it in one of my classes (sure it wasn't spinning but its the same in one way or another)
2Don't forget your gel seat! You can pick one up at Wal-Mart or other store - and it will really make a difference, and help you get to the next class - until your muscles strengthen and you get used to the seat.
3i was completely intimidated to take a spinning class. i got tired of using the elliptical every day, and i decided to bite the bullet and take a class on a weekend (when the classes are often less crowded than on weekdays). i got there early and the instructor helped set me up. long story short, i got an amazing workout and have been taking spinning classes regularly ever since. i thought i was in really good shape, but i had to re-think that the morning after my first spinning class! i have since taken two friends who were similarly intimidated and who now agree it was a great workout.
4there's always someone around who will help you set up your bike and you can always lower the intensity if you think the instructor wants you to go somewhere you don't think you can go
This came right on time! I just went to the YMCA today and signed up for my first ever spinning class tomorrow. I'm so scared, but I've always wanted to do it. I hope I don't embarrass myself!
5Excellent timing! Yesterday I went to my first spinning class. I was the only one who did it for the first time, but the instructor talked me through all the routines and was very helpful. Afterwards I felt like I could throw up and die, but about an hour later I felt so great that I tried it. It's not something I'm going to do every day, but probably once a week, beside the regular gym visits.
So don't get intimidated, just go for it, ask for instructions and help when needed, and you'll feel great when you tried it!
6love spinning. definitely dont forget the water though. it is crucial.
7Don't be afraid to try spinning! I wish I had tried it sooner! Luckily I did have a friend to go with my first time because I spent months (years probably) being too scared to try it, and now I love it! I go 2-3x a week at my gym.
All the instructors I've had have been more than helpful when setting up the bike in the right positions (ie seat, handlebar height, etc)
Go for it!
8I wish my gym offered a spinning class. I'd really like to try it. I do sometimes work out on the stationary bike, but I don't think I get nearly the intensity that I'd probably get while spinning.
9Spin classes kick my butt!
10I just got a gym membership today! They offer spin classes and I have a question for those of you with experience:
If I haven't worked out on a regular basis for about a year, is it ok to jump right in to spin classes, or should i try to build up my stamina first?
11Just a warning to beginning spinners -- your bottom will more than likely hurt after the first couple of classes. For some people gel seats help this problem, but either way your tush will hurt some the next day. Also, keep your abs engaged when doing hovering/attacking movements on the bike. It'll prevent you from injuring your back. Just something to keep in mind! Spinning is an awesome workout. Good luck!
12amybdk - I think you'll be okay, as the class is very much suited towards your level -- the bikes aren't pre-set at a certain level - they allow you to self-adjust the resistance as much or as little as you're comfortable with. My first spin class was one of the first workouts I did after getting clearance to exercise after a skiing accident, and though I was dripping with sweat and exhausted, it was well worth it!
13I just started spinning last November. I don't know about all spin bikes, but ours have bottle holders just like the ones on a normal bike, so it is helpful to bring a bottle that fits into those.
Also, I always sweat a LOT, so I like to sit near the fan.
Best decision I ever made to go to class! Now I go twice a week!
14Spinning offers the best exercise high and its highly addictive! I started going two months ago and now I must spin 3-4 times a week or I'll go crazy. The best feeling is afterwards when you finished grueling workout and you're completely drenched in sweat. You feel strong, powerful, and proud because you know it was an intense workout!
15Thanks, DeviousMuse! The class last night was unfortunately full. I'll try again tomorrow! Wish me luck!
16I love spinning! I highly recommend it!
17I had my first spinning class yesterday and I am thrilled I worked up the guts to go try it - alone. I was so intimidated but you really get hooked on the music and the hour almost flew by. Sure, there were tough hills and climbs, but it only makes you feel so much better in the end when you know you worked your butt off that hard.
18Post New Comment
Please share your opinion with our community, but make sure it is on topic and follows our Community Rules. We moderate comments and prohibit personal attacks, threats, spam, lewd images, or the promotion of your personal website.