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Everything You Should Know Before Taking a Spin Cycle Class

In recent years, cycling has become an incredibly popular workout with people who want to lose weight, tone up, and stay active. If you’re thinking about joining your first spin cycle class, here are a few things you should know before hopping on the bike.

Ready to join your first spin cycle class? Here’s what to expect

Led by energetic fitness instructors and set to exciting, upbeat music, spin classes are one of the most exciting fitness classes available today. Not to mention, cycling is an extremely effective workout that gets your heart pumping, tones your muscles, and pushes you closer to your fitness goals. 

Below, we’ll explain more about spin cycling classes, including what they are, what to expect from your first session, and where to sign up.

What is spin class?

Spin cycle class – also called spin or cycling – is a fast-paced, high-energy indoor cycling workout where participants ride a stationary bike at different speeds and resistance levels, as guided by their instructor. 

Cycling is a challenging (but rewarding) total body workout that’s designed to burn hundreds of calories by combining effective exercises and hit music in a motivating team-like atmosphere. While spin is an excellent workout on its own, some spin classes also incorporate other exercises, like weightlifting, to help attendees maximize their time on the bike.

Preparing for class

Cycling classes can get busy, so it’s best to reserve your spot a few days ahead of time if possible. Many gyms – including Columbia Association (CA) – will let you do this online. Also, most spin cycle classes include all of your equipment, so you’ll just need to bring a water bottle and a towel.

Before you leave home, make sure that you’re well-hydrated and that you’ve eaten a small, nutritious meal – like yogurt, oatmeal, or eggs on wheat toast – about two hours before you get to the gym.

When it’s time for your first class, it’s best to arrive early (10 or 15 minutes is fine) and let the instructor know that you’re new to spin. They’ll walk you through important details like how to clip your shoes into the pedals, set the correct saddle height, adjust the dials, and answer any questions you have about the class.

In-class experience

Spin sessions can be intense, and as class begins, there will be new sights, sounds, and sensations. Try to enjoy them and have fun during the experience – it could kick off a whole new love of exercise for you!

Follow your instructor’s lead as much as you can, but don’t expect to push through every hill climb or sprint during your first class. Stay at a pace that’s comfortable for you, and don’t forget to breathe and hydrate through it all.

After a cycling session

Cycling is a serious workout, so make sure to set aside time to rest and recover after the class. Your instructor will guide you through a cool down at the end of the session, but you should also follow your normal recovery process, which could include having a small meal and gently massaging your legs.

What indoor cycle class is near me?

Companies like SoulCycle and Peloton are known for their high-end spin classes and equipment, but you can also get an awesome cycling workout at fitness clubs and gyms like CA. 

CA runs several different types of spin cycle fitness classes each week, including: 

• MyCycle: This is a high-energy, drill-based spin session that helps riders work on their strength, power, and endurance.

• • MyCycleStrength: Similar to the MyCycle class, MyCycleStrength also incorporates light hand weights, so you can work on both your upper and lower body while on the bike.

• MyMusic: Set to some of today’s most popular songs, MyMusic is a fun-filled ride that’s ideal for increasing your heart rate and getting fit.

• MyRide: Explore the world from your bike in this class, which uses high-definition video and music to take you on a calorie-burning journey. 

• Aqua Spin: Jump into this water-based cycle class, which is designed to help you get an effective cardio workout without putting too much pressure on your joints. 
• Aqua Spin & Strength: Like Aqua Spin, this class is also set in the pool. It focuses on both cardio and strength training, so you’ll get a total body workout while enjoying the soothing comfort of water.

With three gyms in Columbia, CA is proud to offer an inclusive, community-oriented environment where everyone is welcome. Our friendly fitness instructors are trained to work with people of all experience levels and fitness backgrounds, so we encourage you to join us for a spin class – even if you’ve never tried it before.