Turtles can Spin?
Went to a spin class today, first ever. I’ve never been on a spin bike before and don’t do very much cycling in general, so I was a little nervous about getting through a 45 minute spin class. I arrived at the gym a little early, so that I could drag my bike in, get it all set up, and try it out for a couple of minutes before the class began . Getting the bike in was a little trickier than I expected, kind of heavy and awkward but I managed it. I had no idea how high the seat should be or where the handle bars should be so I asked the instructor, she was very nice, and did not make me feel like an idiot for asking. Eventually I got on the bike, got my feet in the straps and I was ready to go.
The instructor dimmed the lights and off we went (well we really did not go anywhere, we just started pedaling). The lower resistance speed stuff was fun. When it was time to turn the knob and up the resistance, I was a little confused about how much I was supposed to turn each time, so I just turned a little each time and made sure I kept it challenging. I enjoyed the standing up intervals the best, they were tough, got my heart rate up, and the best about them was that I got to take my bum off the seat. What a relief! I am hoping that after a few classes my bottom won’t hurt so much.
Really pushed myself hard, sweat a lot, burned almost 500 calories, and had a great time. Yay! It is so great to find a new activity that is challenging and enjoyable. I will definitely adding spin classes into my regular workout schedule.
Filed under: spin
Wow, Spin KILLS Me, way to get out there and spin turtle spin!
Woot Woot – way to spin
yay for spinning!
Your butt will get used to it, I promise!
As for resistance, that is the best part of spinning. You control the ride. Challenge yourself and enjoy the sweat-fest!
Good job, girl! Were you wearing bike shorts? Bike shorts make a huge difference. I also use one of the gel seat pads, when I’m wearing tri shorts (because the chamois is thinner). That makes it MUCH more comfortable. Also be aware that seat height and position will make a difference. Might take a look at the saddles on the spin bikes. Some will probably have noses that point up, some down. Try out different angles and see which feels the best.
Spinning is great cross-training! Keep it up!
Jamie,
Thanks for the tips. Don’t have a pair of bike shorts, I will definitely get a pair before I do another class.
I am terrified of a spinning class but I have always wanted to try one. I love to ride but, casually. I am glad to hear a newbie perspective. My gym just added a spinning class and I am slowly working up the motivation to give it a try. Glad you found a new workout. Enjoy =)
@crystalware
hey there
great job on the debut spin class. a gel seat will help but you’ll find you get used to it. i love spin and i love cycling – great xtraining for a runner. and if you run with spin – at first its easier to run first and then spin.
the seat height should be adjusted so at the top of the pedal stroke your knee is at a 90 degree angle and your foot should be flat at the very bottom of the stroke – not pointing down. the distance between the edge of your seat and the beginning of the handlebars should be the length of your forearm and hand with fingertips extend.elbow at the end of the seat and the fingertips touching the handlebars. for form its important to keep your core stable, not move side to side (calm body) and to ensure that your knees are straight not pointing out or in – if you can see yourself in a mirror that will help. If you really get into it, you can get a pair of spin shoes (if the bikes have clips) and that will ensure that you get the most out of your pedal stroke (the shoes last for a few years). sounds like a lot but you’ll adapt in a class or two.
as for stretching afterward, you will want to do a quad stretch, a back of the leg stretch to get your hamstrings, a glute stretch where you cross over your one leg onto your other knee – can use the bike for balance. you can gently arch your back back and then also lean forward and very gently stretch your lower back. if you are spinning in the am, be careful with your back stretches – very vulnerable. you may also want to stretch your chest with clasping your hands back behind your back. sometimes your neck can get sore if you don’t keep your shoulder blades down and back.
look forward to hearing more about a spinning turtle.
rg
Cool! Did you wear special shoes? I’ve always wanted to try spinning, but would I look dumb walking in there with gym shoes on?
Amy,
I just wore my running shoes. Only the instructor and one other person had the special shoes, so I wouldn’t let that hold back. Go for it!
runnrgrl,
Thanks for taking the time to write down all those great tips and advice! And thanks for your encouraging words