Spinning Class: Do you take one?? How do you like it??

[bethnjim]

I am debating taking a spinning class. I am currently on Weight Watchers and the class last for 40 minutes, which according to WW earns me a nice 8 points, which is AWESOME. So, I guess my question is...has anyone taken spinning classes or are you taking spinning classes?? What do I need to know?? The class says, "ALL LEVELS" so I am assuming I can pace myself. What should I bring besides a bottle of water and a towel?? What should I wear??

[MaineBelle]

I used to take the spinning class at our gym (until I switched gyms and now the classes cost extra :( ). And I loved loved it!! It was always a good workout and then music helps keep you motivated and it was even fun sometimes! I would just wear an exercise bra, shorts, a t-shirt and my regular running shoes, but some people would wear biking shorts and shoes. When I went for the first time, I let the instructor know it was my first time and he helped me set up my bike properly. My butt hurt and the first few classes, but then I got used to it.

[Janey]

I did take spinning class. I was a little nervous about it at first because I am not a biker, and my legs tend to get all noodly on the bike and I hate that. But my step aerobics instructor talked me into taking one, so I did, and ... I didn't hate it! ;) After a few classes, I even liked it! And I'll tell you what -- it made my legs-n-butt rock hard. After a couple of classes I totally noticed more definition in my quads!

It's as hard/easy as you want it to be, but with the other people in the class sweating buckets and pushing themselves really hard, you feel sort of dumb if you're taking up a bike just to slack off. That being said... nobody knows what your bike is set at, you just make it as challenging for you as you want.

Water & Towel are both musts. I went out and bought bike shorts (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47806373&parent_category_rn=4927695&vcat=REI_SEARCH) at REI (and hey look; they're on sale!) just for the class, and I'm glad I did. Those seats are hard. If you are normally not a biker, expect some soreness in the "area" the next day. It's normal, and next time you do the class you'll have less soreness, and the third time there won't be any.

Bethnjim -- go for it! What's the worst case scenario? You decide you don't like it, and you never go back. Well, that could happen... but if it does, then it does. Conversely, you just might find a new activity you really enjoy. :D

[bethnjim]

One of my fears is the fact that I am HORRIBLY overweight at this point and I really would like to get back into shape, but I need to lose about 80-100lbs. Just saying that number makes me shudder. ANYWAY...I am going to give it a whirl and see what happens. Hopefully I won't embarrass myself to badly!

[MLA]

I take spinning classes -- in fact I'm taking it 2-3 times a week right now, and I really love it. My classes last about an hour, and I won't lie -- they're hard. But, you really can pace yourself. A lot of people don't go as fast as the instructor (actually most), and when the instructor tells you to add weight to your wheel, don't feel obligated to put a lot on (or any on if you can't). I've been doing spinning for about a year and a half and there are still days when I just can't go as hard as the instructor's going. And that's okay because I still get a good workout.

I say give it a try and don't feel intimidated if it's really hard at first. It will get easier. Oh, and if the seats on the bikes aren't the best, your butt will hurt for a few days afterwards, but eventually you get used to the seats and your butt won't hurt from them.

Good luck!

[bethnjim]

Thanks MLA! I have been working out with my Firm videos at home to try and build up my leg muscles and my endurance. I have reached the breaking point with my weight and KNOW that working out is one of the only ways I really keep going and actually lose.

I guess my biggest fear was going to be walking into the spinning class, getting onto the bike (I guess I can ask the instructor for help) and then actually getting through the class. If I can go at my own pace and even slow petal for certain parts, I guess I will be fine.

[pewee9196]

I love spinning! I think it is intimidating to everyone at first! The instructor will definately help you set up your bike and if they are worth their salt will give you tips on cycling techniques. You can also ask if they have a gel seat or bring your own. The saddle soreness the first time is frustrating! The seat and or shorts will help a ton!

Good Luck! I think you have found a great cardio form! Let us know how it goes!

[mpc863]

i love spinning! i would get to the class 10 minutes early and let the instructor know it's your first class. He/She will help you set up your bike.

it's a great workout. it's hard, but you can go at your own pace. everyone here gave great advice!

[MLA]

Thanks MLA! I have been working out with my Firm videos at home to try and build up my leg muscles and my endurance. I have reached the breaking point with my weight and KNOW that working out is one of the only ways I really keep going and actually lose.

I guess my biggest fear was going to be walking into the spinning class, getting onto the bike (I guess I can ask the instructor for help) and then actually getting through the class. If I can go at my own pace and even slow petal for certain parts, I guess I will be fine.


The fact that you've started some excercise will help. It will be intimidating at first. It was for me, I know, but then it's intimidating any time you do something for the first time. I realize now, having been in the classes and watched new people come in, that the people who have been coming for a long time are not going to make any judgements about you and will likely be happy to help you with things like adjusting your bike and finding a comfortable position if the instructor's busy with another new student. I never see someone who's going slower or who leaves a few minutes early and think anything but, good for them for coming and giving this a go. Give it a try. It burns tons of calories and it'll definitely help you with your weight loss.

Good luck and let us know how your first class goes!

[tlew12778]

I spin once or twice a week. The thing that makes the most difference IMO is the instructor. There are some instructors that are seriously hard-core and I can't take their classes. It's not even about pacing yourself with these guys. They just have a different style. Like, one instructor at my gym does these 10 min standing up blocks which is just way too hard for me. Especially when you're trying to go at like 130 RPM. Fortunately my first spinning class was with an instructor that I now love and it's much more manageable.

The first time I spun I wore regular dance pants, a sports bra, a tank top, and my step shoes (they're fitness shoes). Since I loved it so much I actually went out and got a pair of bike shorts immediately. Then a couple weeks later I went and got the shoes. The shoes I have don't have clips on them although I bought them to add to them. I also keep a wet handcloth either around my neck or on my bike while I spin. Usually ppl keep dry towels with them but I like the cooling effect of the damp cloth. I've also worn a HRM on occasion but it's FH's and it's too big for me even on the smallest setting so I need my own. It's really interesting to see the immediate change in heart rate while spinning.

Also, I have to drink gatorade while spinning. I've tried with water and I can feel the difference.

FWIW, I actually find step harder than spinning bc step is non-stop (at least you can sit down on your bike) and you've got to pay much more attention to the position of your feet lest you fall off your step and injure yourself.

As for body changes, my thigh muscles are rock hard now. I actually went up pant size from a 38 to a 40 (European sizes) bc of it.

Let us know how you like it!

[Janey]

Soooo Bethnjim ... have you tried your hand (err - leg?) at Spin Class yet? ;)

[bethnjim]

Not yet. Classes start the third week of September...so I should be able to report how it went on Sept 13th. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I can do it!!

[amberfiddles]

i try to go to at least 2 classes a week at my gym. the padded cycling shorts are a MUST in my book :) at my gym the level 3 class requests that you wear a heart monitor, but i don't have one :/ if you really get into spinning (and the bikes at your gym are set up for it), you might want to buy some cycling shoes that you can clip into the pedals. also, don't feel intimidated. you can definately work at your own pace/speed and then build up to a higher level.

good luck w/ spin. :)

[Wrighty26]

I'm a little late to this thread-- but definitely take spinning! It's so addicting :)

I know you are worried about being overweight-- but honestly, that doesn't matter. There are people of all shapes and sizes in my classes and I think what matters to most is getting a kick-ass workout!

As someone said-- nobody determines how fast/slow, or how much resistance you have on your bike, except you...

I hope when you do go- you enjoy it! The first class is tough-- but if you have a good instructor and most importantly GOOD music, the time will just fly by :)

[bethnjim]

Today was my first day of spinning and all I can say is WOW...

I got to class extra early because I wanted to make sure I got a bike and I also wanted to set the bike up with the instructor. When I walked in another girl came in behind me and she told me that she takes spinning all the time so she helped me set-up my bike. I got on and started peddling to warm up. The instructor came in about 10 minutes before class started and asked any beginners to raise their hand. He came over, checked out my bike and gave me the thumbs up. He also said, "the first week or two of class, your butt is going to hurt". I told him that I had been warned of that and he kept walking. Class started right on time and to begin with, I was keeping pace. The music was great and the instructor was very motivational. About 20 minutes into the class I felt like my butt was on fire and my muscles hurt so bad, I thought I was going to lose it. The instructor started us standing and then he had us sit and then he wanted us to re-stand. Needless to say, my butt was not leaving that seat although it wanted to because it HURT so bad!! I kept up a pretty steady pace the entire 40 minute class, but I didn't do the up and down parts to much. I did stand a few times just to relieve the butt. I was sweating pretty bad, but with the music and the calories I knew I was burning, I kept pushing through. Besides the instructor everyone in class are females, which made me feel 100% more comfortable.

Wednesday is my next class and I am REALLY looking forward to it. I talked to the instructor after class about the fact that I couldn't do a whole lot and he said I did just fine, which was comforting!!

Thanks again everyone~~I was so worried that I would be out of my league because of my weight, but to be honest, there were some SKINNY girls in there that didn't keep up as well as I did!!

[Janey]

Right on, sister! :D I'm soooo glad you conquered spin! Hooray for you! Don't you just feel like because you've done that spin class, that you could do just anything?? Congrats!

Be sure to drink lots of extra water today, to help prevent soreness tomorrow morning.

[bethnjim]

I do feel like I could do anything today and I noticed that my hunger level is a lot lower than it is normally at this time of day. I am just so happy that I did the class and stuck to it for the 40 minutes. Believe me...I was tempted to walk out at 20 minutes, so I just turned down the resistance and pedaled my heart out!! I am looking forward to spinning on Wednesday and then Friday. I hope by doing the class three days a week and staying on my points for Weight Watchers that I will see a difference in my body!

[Wrighty26]

Yay! I'm so glad you enjoyed it :)

I often feel like you did halfway through-- but I have never given up and I ALWAYS feel great after class! I think we have another spinning addict on our hands :D

[MLA]

Rock on with your bad self, bethnjim! Keep at it, and you'll love it!

[tlew12778]

GET THE PANTS!

I'm soooo glad you liked it. Definitely invest in the pants. I tried one class once without the pants bc I only have one pair and they were in the wash and man... my butt was hurting for a week afterwards! And I ride around on my regular bike in regular clothes all the time. I figured my butt would be conditioned or something by now :rolleyes:. Man was I wrong.

[bethnjim]

I took my second class today and man my butt was SORE. I didn't do quite as well today, but I have a bunch of personal stuff going on and I only got about 2 hours sleep last night, so I am contributing it to that.

One girl in class had this seat cover that went over the standard ones on the bike and it had these gel packs in it and she said it is SUPER comfortable. Has anyone used one of these??

[tlew12778]

I used to use a seat cover but then I realised it was redundant with the pants. It really depends on the seat on the bikes your gym has though. We used to have these fat seats that were padded so there was no need really. Now we have new Schwinn bikes that have really narrow patent leather seats that bug me to no end (the patent leather catches your skin) so I am thinking of bringing me gel cover with me again. You can get them for like $10 at a sporting goods store.

[MLA]

I took my second class today and man my butt was SORE. I didn't do quite as well today, but I have a bunch of personal stuff going on and I only got about 2 hours sleep last night, so I am contributing it to that.

One girl in class had this seat cover that went over the standard ones on the bike and it had these gel packs in it and she said it is SUPER comfortable. Has anyone used one of these??

No worries. Your 2nd class is bound to be harder because your legs may still be fatigued from the first one -- and getting 2 hrs sleep certainly isn't going to make you high-energy . . .

As far as those gel covers, I've used one once or twice, but I find that they feel bulky, and I don't really like them. I've gotten used to the hard seats, though. Now I do spinning 3-4 times a week, and my butt doesn't hurt at all.

[bethnjim]

I will be taking spinning classes 3 times a week for 40 minutes each class and then two days a week I am taking a class called circuit express, which basically combines weight lifting and cardio for 30 minutes. Do you think I am working out enough?? I feel like I am, but I really want to lose weight, so I have been sticking to my WW points and I want to make sure I am working out. Is what I am doing...exercise wise...normal??

[Heather719]

First off, bethnjim- congrats on starting the classes!! :D

I've gotten used to the hard seats, though. Now I do spinning 3-4 times a week, and my butt doesn't hurt at all.

I wanted to second this. I have been riding for over 4 years now consistantly 2 to 3 times a week. I would say after 2 solid weeks of riding, your butt should stop hurting. I use the regular padded seat that is on the bike and don't wear special pants and I don't feel it any more.

I am one of the least cordinated people you ever want to meet, so regular arobic classes didn't work for me. Spinning is an amazing alternative. I love each and every class and can feel a huge difference in my body and energy level if I skip classes!

Best of luck!
-Heather

[MLA]

I will be taking spinning classes 3 times a week for 40 minutes each class and then two days a week I am taking a class called circuit express, which basically combines weight lifting and cardio for 30 minutes. Do you think I am working out enough?? I feel like I am, but I really want to lose weight, so I have been sticking to my WW points and I want to make sure I am working out. Is what I am doing...exercise wise...normal??


That sounds perfect to me. Do I remember correctly that you're coming from a somewhat sedentary lifestyle? If so, this routine will really kick your metabolism into gear. Even if it's just more than you were doing before, it's good. And keep in mind that spinning burns tons of calories -- more than pretty much any other cardiovascular exercise, if I'm not mistaken.

And to answer your question as to whether it's normal . . . no, I don't think it is because I think most people don't excercise nearly enough, and you are exercising enough (thus making you not normal ;))!

[tlew12778]

I will be taking spinning classes 3 times a week for 40 minutes each class and then two days a week I am taking a class called circuit express, which basically combines weight lifting and cardio for 30 minutes. Do you think I am working out enough?? I feel like I am, but I really want to lose weight, so I have been sticking to my WW points and I want to make sure I am working out. Is what I am doing...exercise wise...normal??
Actually I would add more weights and some stretching or yoga. The stretching or yoga will lengthen out your muscles. More weight training (and subsequent muscle mass) will help you burn calories faster. While cardio burns off tons of calories, muscle mass will help improve your metabolism so that you burn on a more consistent basis. What upper body stuff are you doing?

[bethnjim]

Do I remember correctly that you're coming from a somewhat sedentary lifestyle?

Yes, that is absolutely correct. I did a modest amount of walking, but NEVER any real exercise like I am doing now. While I think walking is great, I would just pace myself and normally walk with my mom so it was a slower walk.

Actually I would add more weights and some stretching or yoga. The stretching or yoga will lengthen out your muscles. More weight training (and subsequent muscle mass) will help you burn calories faster. While cardio burns off tons of calories, muscle mass will help improve your metabolism so that you burn on a more consistent basis. What upper body stuff are you doing?

I really really really want to do a pilates or yoga class, but they aren't being offered at a great time so I can't fit them in anywhere. I have at home pilates tapes, so I might try that on Tuesday and Thursday nights. As for upper body, I am doing the following:
~~arm curls
~~tricep extensions (I think that is what the machine is called...but I do it behind my head with a weight and lift it straight up the back of my head to the top)
~~butterfly presses
~~and finally an exercise machine that is like bar lifting...hopefully that makes sense. If I laid down on my back and had a bar and pushed it up brought it back down...it mimics that motion.
~~I forgot to add rowing, because that is an upper body workout!

I hope that is enough upper body because my upper body is so freaking sore, I don't think I could do anymore!! :) I had class today and it kicked my butt, but everyone said to expect that because my muscles are tired. I am trying to keep myself hydrated...

Please let me know if anyone has any other recommendations or you just want to chat about spinning!!

[tlew12778]

Wow. That's all in your 30 min circuit class? Or you do that on your own? I thought your 30 min class would be more like 15 min cardio and 15 min weights. That how mine is only is 45 min with 15 min of abs thrown in.

[bethnjim]

Wow. That's all in your 30 min circuit class? Or you do that on your own? I thought your 30 min class would be more like 15 min cardio and 15 min weights. That how mine is only is 45 min with 15 min of abs thrown in.

Yep, that is in my 30min circuit class. I do 20-25 reps of each one right now with a weight of 10-15. For butterflies today, I was only able to do 20 because I was having serious muscle burn...so I just slowed it up a bit and really concentrated.

[tlew12778]

20-25 reps seems like not that much to me. When I first started going to the gym, I had a trainer and he made me do 3 sets of 15 for each exercise. So the total was 45. I also started at 22lbs and I'm tiny (5'0" and 100lbs"). But it was absolute hell in the beginning. So if you feel the strain then I would say that is sufficient, only maybe add more reps outside your class. Where do they fit in the cardio? Or are you like walking around while doing free weights or something? I'm confused :confused:.

[bethnjim]

There are 15 stations and we move from station to station when told by the instructor. For instance, I always start on leg presses and do 25, then move to the rowing machine and do 30-35 rows, then move to arm curls and do 25, then move to the bike and ride for a minute, then move to the next...so forth and so on...

[bethnjim]

Oh...forgot to mention that today was my third spinning class and it is getting easier and easier. I was able to make it all the way through the class doing pretty much what everyone else was doing, but on a lower setting!!

[BethIrish]

Just wanted to bump this thread up! bethnjim, how's it going?

I have to say, I've been leary of taking the spinning classes at my gym, but after reading this, I just might reconsider! I'm in the same boat as you, Beth...overweight, not a really active lifestyle (although, I've been doing the yoga/pilates/weight lifting for about 4 months...) I need to kick up my cardio!

[tlew12778]

BethIrish - FWIW, I think that spinning is easier than step. At least with spinning if you are exhausted you just sit down you know? With step you've got to keep on going and going like the energizer bunny or the instructory will pick you out and try to get you to keep up. That's really hard if you're all out of breath and your heart's racing at 140 BPM.

[meggers]

bump

DH and I just joined the Y. I was thinking of trying out their group cycling class today. I am overweight and out of shape so I feel like I would look a little out of place in the class.

Please tell me about your spinning class.

[tlew12778]

There are all sorts of body types in my spinning class. Even old folks who you think would have a heart attack spinning. Also, depending on your gym, you might have specific spinning classes for specific targets (like weight loss, overall toning, etc).

You said you are out of shape. This is fine but take it slow with your first few classes. DH tried spinning for the first time after not having been to the gym for months and he actually felt sick midway through and left. Do not forget the warm up or warm down. They will affect how you feel afterwards. Also, watch your breathing when you spin. If you don't breath properly you'll feel sick.

[jesvet]

It's a great class for all fitness levels. It's intense for sure, but you are totally in control. Take it easy the first few times.

Tell the instructor you are new the first time and ask them to help you adjust the bike properly. I didn't the first time I did spin and my back was killing me after, I said I hated spin and didn't go again for 3 years. I also didn't take it easy and thought I was going to die. When I tried it again I did both those things correctly and enjoyed it a lot.

Also know that for some reason your butt will hurt after your first time but that also only happens a couple times. It's very weird, my instructor says it happens to everyone. :D

[meggers]

Thanks for posting about your experiences. I went to the spin class and I'm glad I did. I couldn't keep up but I did my best without overworking myself. The first class I went to there was someone else who couldn't do everything either so that made me feel better. I think I'm going to try and get a spinning class in two times a week. It seems like a great way to burn some calories.

[jesvet]

meggers- if you could keep up your first time in the instructor wasn't doing their job. :D You just finished he very hardest spin class you'll ever take. Twice a week is great, I bet you'll find it addictive- against all odds I did!

[tlew12778]

Twice a week is good but I wouldn't go more than that. Mainly bc you should also tone your upper body as well. But I have also seen some people with enormous leg muscles in my spinning class bc that's all they do. It's ok on a guy but on a girl it's a little daunting IMHO.

Has anyone here ever noticed a difference with different bike brands? I went to a spinning class in a different branch of my gym and their bikes were totally different. I ended up with sore shoulders for some reason even though the settings felt the same as my usual bike. So I figured it was either the bike settings or my position (bc this branch didn't have mirrors in the spin room... wtf?)

Oh yeah, that is the other thing, look at yourself in the mirror to make sure your butt isn't swinging back and forth too much and that you are going up and down properly. Your knee position (too wide, too narrow) will control how much you bop around on your bike. A good instructor should correct any bad positions but sometimes you end up with a crap instructor.

[meggers]

Twice a week is good but I wouldn't go more than that. Mainly bc you should also tone your upper body as well. But I have also seen some people with enormous leg muscles in my spinning class bc that's all they do. It's ok on a guy but on a girl it's a little daunting IMHO.


That is my big worry. I enjoy the class cause I think it gives me a great workout but I don't want huge legs.

[Wrighty26]

That is my big worry. I enjoy the class cause I think it gives me a great workout but I don't want huge legs.

I think it really depends on your body type. I take spinning 3-4 times a week and my legs are muscular for sure, but not huge. They are just WAY more toned than they ever were before I started spinning. I do try to cross-train 1-2 times a week (and I also lift 1-2 times a week), but sometimes just taking spinning is easier because like you said, it's such a good workout!

It's great that you tried it though - I highly recommend to anyone, regardless of size/shape/fitness level because you really set the pace for yourself. For some reason I always find it so much more motivating than anything else I've done :)