Spinning

[chloe19912]

I am booked on my first spin class later this week. Any tips on how to get the best out of the session / what I should wear?

I started going weekly a couple of months ago, so am a relative newbie, but can offer this advice:

Wear whatever exercise clothes you feel comfortable in, but be aware that you’ll sweat a lot and get pretty hot.

Take a towel and big bottle of water.

Take the instructor’s advice about adjusting the bike, and ask for help before the class if you’re not sure how to do it.

It’s really intense! Or at least, I find it very intense (maybe others don’t!). Don’t try to keep up with the power levels of everyone around you. My ‘baseload’ level is around 80 and my ‘threshold’ level is around 150, but some people more than double those (while some people go much lower). Aim to exert yourself, but don’t wear yourself out so much that you can’t complete the class. The instructor should give clear instructions throughout about what changes to make at each stage.

I find it really boring, so I try to zone out. I only really go beside my teenage son wants to do it and it’s nice to spend time with him. I much prefer running outside or a Body Pump class, truth be told!

Hope you enjoy it. Let us know how you get on with it!

Padded cycling shorts, it takes a while for your bum to adapt !!

take it at your own pace. It’s very intense and it isn’t a competition, it is enough just to get there to begin with. Once you get into it it is incredibly addictive!

And definitely ask the instructor to help you set up the bike correctly for your height and reach

Be very aware your backside will get very sore/feel bruised. If you can wear padded shorts do, def no thongs.

The first class - I wouldn't really push it. Focus on keeping the beat but don't worry too much about adding loads of resistance while you learn the ropes. Next time, start adding more resistance until you find what is challenging enough for you and give it everything you can on the last couple of songs.

Your bum will really hurt but IT WILL get better. Just try to relax into it and don't panic.

I really enjoy spinning. Just get into the music and let it carry you.

If the instructor tells you to 'lead with you right leg', they mean for you to push down with your right leg first. You'll probably be told to or aiming to ride in sync with your fellow spinners beat wise but don't worry if you can't go at the same speed as the rest of the class.

Don't go on the front row!

(I always wear a thong)

Wear whatever you're comfortable in and be aware you're going to get sweaty. The only thing I wouldn't wear is baggy tracky bottoms because you'll bake and they might get in the way of the pedals. I bought a cheap pair of padded cycling shorts cos the bike seats are like sitting on a razor! Take a water bottle and a sweat towel. Some classes are a lot better than others so shop around if you like the idea but not the instructor.