I never liked using a stationary bike, so I never thought I’d enjoy spinning, but it didn’t take much to get me hooked. I had a blast at the first class I went to–of course having friends with me didn’t hurt–and then getting home and finding out that I had won a package of rides at the same studio made it that much easier to fall in love with spinning.
Now that I am hooked, I would like to share my top five reasons to love spinning class.
- Spinning Makes You Push Past Your Limits. Spinning makes me sweat more in air conditioning than I ever thought could be possible! Most spinning classes are made up of a series of different types of intervals (speed, resistance, standing, sitting) of different lengths (from 20 seconds to three minutes) that entice me to test–and push past–my limits. After six weeks I already am noticing a difference when I ride my bike, and my husband says that he’s having to ride harder to keep up with me. 🙂
- Spinning Has An Awesome Soundtrack. Spinning class would not be much fun without the awesome playlists that the instructors put together. I have really come to appreciate how much music can encourage me to pick up the pace or stick out a long segment. Plus, the combination of the intense music and dark room make it easier to dig deep and give it my all.
- Spinning Requires Commitment. Most spinning classes require signing up–and paying–in advance. As often as I end up staying at work much later than I intended, so far I have not had to miss an afternoon spin class. Having that commitment on my calendar ensures that I escape the office to get my sweat on.
- Spinning Doesn’t Require An Investment In Equipment. Even if your studio requires cycling shoes that clip into the pedals (confusingly called “clipless”), you can rent those, so you don’t have to make a big investment in new gear to get started spinning. While some people wear padded bike shorts, I find that I am fine in regular compression shorts.
- Spinning Is Safer Than Cycling. While I love spinning in its own right, I also see it as a way to improve my cycling without getting on my road bike. When I’m spinning I can go as fast as I can without worrying about encountering oncoming traffic or having to pass runners, rollerbladers, or dog walkers on a narrow bike path. And, when I stop without unclipping, the spin bike never falls over and bashes my knees!
Have you tried spinning class?
Do you find that music helps you push harder?Â
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Yes, yes, and yes! I love spinning. I only wish my gym had more classes that were convenient for me.
As crazy as it sounds, the 6 am classes work best for me — they do fill up though!
YAY for Spinning®. It’s one of the reasons I left my “regular” job a few years ago to create a career in the fitness & wellness industry. LOVE it! 😀
I absolutely LOVE spinning…for the reasons you mentioned above and for many more. As a former dancer, I love the rhythmic feel of pedaling along with a group and sometimes incorporating choreography. I experience a major mental refresh during every class. I’m addicted!
Evann
EvannClingan.com
Interesting! I think another reason I like spinning is that it doesn’t require any coordination or fancy foot work – a dancer I am not!
I’ve been wanting to try a spin class – I didn’t know that I had to get special shoes – good to know! (I’m pretty sure our gym doesn’t offer shoe rentals.)
Hhmmm. If they don’t rent them then you probably could wear regular shoes, but I think you’d rather have thinner soled shoes than really thick running shoes.
I’ve done a bunch of spinning classes at my gym and I’ve always worn regular running shoes as the bikes at my gym have straps to hold your feet on the pedals.
I have one reason to hate it: It hurts my BUTT!! LOL!!!!!!!!
Maybe you need the padded shorts!
In my opinion spinning is an excellent alternative to doing your cardio on a stationary bike all by yourself. Which is what I do in winter, when snow and ice make the streets around here too slippery, and often dread it. Even with music in my ears it is often so very dull.
I really don’t think I would push myself as hard on my own – or come up with such varied routines and playlists!
I don’t mind spin, but actual cycling scares me. In fact, I sold my tri-bike this winter. I think I will stick to running!
On my road bike, I had a rough time getting used to clipless pedals, but now I am not quite as scared!
I’ve never tried spinning, but maybe I should try it. I can relate, though, to your desire for great music. I have a “workout” play list on my iPhone, and I find that I really cannot exercise without really good music with a strong, driving beat. I get bored otherwise!
Good music really can make a workout fun and not quite as hard.
I have been tempted to spin for some time. Think I might just give it a go nest time I am at the gym
i really want to try it! after my half I am determined to go with a friend
You definitely should try it. See if a local spin studio has any special offers or trial classes – it just took one to hook me!
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It is also HARD. I find myself short of breath during the workout and I have to back off. Yet I know I am going to keep going back to Flywheel (even though it is not in the most convenient location for me). I feel accomplished at the end of the workout, and I REALLY earned my shower!
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When I used to teach spinning, the music did really make a difference. Some soundtracks we did were so motivating and some were just a snoozefest.
i enjoy spinning as well! i forgot i have a couple of classes at a studio near my house that i really need to use! thanks for the reminder!
Hey Coco,
What a great post about spinning bikes. Keep up the awesome work!
Emily
Really nice post for spinning.
Especially I like your”Spinning Requires Commitment” point.
That’s a wonderful thought about it.
Thanks again for your great post.
Hey
Great Post! I loved spinning.I love the rhythmic feel of pedaling along with a group and sometimes incorporating choreography.