The topic of spinning classes came up at our local health club a few days ago. During the course of a few minutes of very intersting conversation, one thing became clear. People either love indoor cycling, or they hate it! There seems to be very little middle ground.
There's no question this type of aerobic activity is extremely beneficial and a highly effective cardio workout. Whether you're just starting spinning classes or are an experienced participant, there are a few essentials you'll need to consider in order to get the most from your workout.
Starting any new fitness activity can be an intimidating experience. In fact, experienced cycling enthusiasts even face and adjustment period with a new instructor. The key factor is adapting the workout to fit within your physical and mental parameters.
Here's three tips for indoor cycling participants:
1. Be sure to wear lower body clothing that offers protection against chafing and other discomforts. Running shorts and sweats don't offer this protection, so wear cycling shorts if at all possible. As for water, have at least 8 ounces available to drink during class, preferably more.
2. Remember to adapt the workout to your capabilities. When I first started spinning, I wanted to keep up with other more experienced participants. Don't fall into this trap! Adjust the speed and tension of your bike in accordance with your limits.
3. Make sure your seat is adjusted properly. This is the most common mistake in spinning classes. Your seat should be at a height where your knee angle is almost but not quite straight during the downstroke. If your seat is too high, you'll risk injury. If your seat is too low, you'll have to peddle harder than necessary. Ask your instructor for guidance if necessary.
Finally, always ask yourself about your fitness level. How fit are you? Remember, the intensity level of some classes are beyond those just getting back into shape. A good instructor will offer tips on how to modify the workout. Bear in mind there will be all levels of fitness in a cycling class, and the instructor needs to instuct for the entire spectrum.
If you're at all uncomfortable with fitting in, don't worry. Just work by yourself on a stationary bike for a few weeks. You can increase or decrease intensity levels to keep things interesting. When you're ready, the spinning class will be there for you, and within a few sessions you'll be spinning with the best of them! - 15343
There's no question this type of aerobic activity is extremely beneficial and a highly effective cardio workout. Whether you're just starting spinning classes or are an experienced participant, there are a few essentials you'll need to consider in order to get the most from your workout.
Starting any new fitness activity can be an intimidating experience. In fact, experienced cycling enthusiasts even face and adjustment period with a new instructor. The key factor is adapting the workout to fit within your physical and mental parameters.
Here's three tips for indoor cycling participants:
1. Be sure to wear lower body clothing that offers protection against chafing and other discomforts. Running shorts and sweats don't offer this protection, so wear cycling shorts if at all possible. As for water, have at least 8 ounces available to drink during class, preferably more.
2. Remember to adapt the workout to your capabilities. When I first started spinning, I wanted to keep up with other more experienced participants. Don't fall into this trap! Adjust the speed and tension of your bike in accordance with your limits.
3. Make sure your seat is adjusted properly. This is the most common mistake in spinning classes. Your seat should be at a height where your knee angle is almost but not quite straight during the downstroke. If your seat is too high, you'll risk injury. If your seat is too low, you'll have to peddle harder than necessary. Ask your instructor for guidance if necessary.
Finally, always ask yourself about your fitness level. How fit are you? Remember, the intensity level of some classes are beyond those just getting back into shape. A good instructor will offer tips on how to modify the workout. Bear in mind there will be all levels of fitness in a cycling class, and the instructor needs to instuct for the entire spectrum.
If you're at all uncomfortable with fitting in, don't worry. Just work by yourself on a stationary bike for a few weeks. You can increase or decrease intensity levels to keep things interesting. When you're ready, the spinning class will be there for you, and within a few sessions you'll be spinning with the best of them! - 15343
About the Author:
Jim Hofman is an author who lost 25 pounds in six months just from adding spinning classes to his workout regimen. For more tips, strategies, and recommendations, be sure to visit Jim's recommended resource site devoted to biking and indoor cycling .
