Spinning Away – Have you tried it?

For anyone who has tried spinning before, you know what is entailed – 45 to 60 minutes of sweat dripping, hill climbing, sprints and jumps that leave you so exhausted afterward you gimp out of the room to find the nearest chair to collapse into. I ventured forth at 5:45 this morning and tried a class for the first time in probably three years. The result? I’m totally addicted. I can’t move my legs right now, but burning up to 450 calories in 45 minutes is one heck of a workout.

Don’t get caught up in the stress of not being as in shape as you’d like when it comes to spinning though. The instructors are there to push you, but it’s your call on the resistance and speed you decide on. Still doubtful? Here are some tips that will ensure you know what to expect and prepare for:

• First, ask around and find out the best classes in your area or gym – Other people can give you honest feedback on which instructors are worth tyring. The instructors make the class, so find out who’s the hardest, friendliest, or pushiest to fit what you’re looking for.
• Second arrive early – Most spinning classes require sign up and you need at least 5-10 minutes before the start of class to adjust your bike. Arrive 15 minutes early and get a good seat (in the back if you are a beginner and don’t want to be font and center, or in the front if you like the interaction with the instructor)
• Bring a towel and bottel of water and be sure to wear shorts or tight fitting pants (to prevent them from getting caught up in equipment)
• Be sure to adjust your bike so that your legs extend when pedaling but aren’t completely straight or your too high (you’ll notice that your hips will move up and down if you’re too high up)
• Start at a lower resistance and don’t worry about matching the instructor, just focus on challenging yourself and pushing yourself a bit out of your comfort zone.
• Be prepared for some loud music as it’s often turned up for most or all of the class and can range from pop and punk, to heavy metal and rap.
• Have fun!