
Just keep spinning, just keep spinning…..
The amount of sweat, the speed, the amount of hours people will go for spinning makes my legs weak thinking about it, because I know from watching the videos, people have to be tired by the end of the workout – I would be. I don’t know a whole lot of people who take part in spin classes, but I do know some, and they enjoy it because of the amount of calories they burn and the amount of sweat that pours out of them after the class. My take on spin class was riding a bike and enjoying some good music, but I was wrong, so much more goes into spinning depending on the class and fitness level of the individual, they even have youtube videos people can follow for spinning, which seem very helpful. How many of you have taken a spin class? good, bad, in between, what is your take? I haven’t yet participated in a spin class, and I don’t necessarily have it on my bucket list but I also don’t mind trying something new, so it may be something I look into down the road if my workouts start to get boring. This post isn’t one that will judge spin classes or people who take part in it, it will be a post with information about spinning for those who may be interested or don’t know anything about it. Feel free to share your spin stories with me in the comment section.
Benefits:
- Helps to burn calories- I have had people say they burn through 800 or more calories sometimes doing spin classes (although standard is maybe 400-600)
- Improved cardiovascular health- which is to be expected since it is a cardio exercise
- Low impact workout
- Most spin classes allow for you to progress at your own pace
- Uses large muscle groups in your legs- tones
- I have had people tell me it is a great abdominal workout overtime – nothing shows immediately but because they have to use proper technique and form when riding, you will feel it in your abdominal area too.
- Builds mental strength
- You have people around you during the class, so you aren’t alone.
- Builds stamina
- You get to listen to music the whole time while pedaling, music is good right? lol
- Some classes offer a hand-weight while spinning (this shouldn’t replace your resistance training)
Some Cons…
- The instructor guides you, but it is up to the individual to be motivated enough to push themselves through the workout
- can be semi-expensive depending on the packages / classes.
- The seat can be uncomfortable for some spinners, so they might have pelvic injuries/aches
- the music may not be your taste, if you are picky
- some people may not like being surrounded about others
So overall, spinning may be your cup of tea or it may not, but it something to do if you want to implement something new in your workout regimen, either way, I think the most important part is it keeps your moving! Give it a try or pass it by, your choice!
Your Fitness blogger,
Shay-lon xxxx

This year I started spin to keep up conditioning between triathlon seasons. I like it! It’s more motivating than just spinning by myself. The seat thing isn’t an issue if you normally cycle but I also use padded cycling or tri shorts. I wouldn’t say it’s a good core workout but one instructor adds in core stuff.
The other nice thing about spin is not having to shave my legs as often.
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Wow! so spin has been a good experience for you, that is awesome! how long does your class spin for?
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45 – 60 minutes.
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That isn’t bad, okay!
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It’s actually fairly short compared to road rides or races.
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I am pleased about this post, as I was wondering if I could do ‘spinning’ on my stationery bike at home. I think it could be doable 🙂 . I think for toning the legs it should be awesome. I am always looking for new ways to exercise from home, I know the vibe would not quite be there, but so long as I have good loud music I would be fine. 🙂
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Yes! loud music is a must! lol. I have learned that from someone who does spin classes 2-3 days a week, she said her class always plays loud music!
I thought about doing spin too, because my legs could use some toning as well, not to mention I am interested in seeing how long I could go spinning at a constant rate of speed.
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You don’t spin at a constant rate. In a class you change “gears” and your cadence will rise and fall.
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It’s just called spinning because that’s what your legs do. You spin on any bike. There are apps and videos you can use to spin at home.
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I’ve got a couple of friends who have done spin classes off-season, just before spring… They start the season MONSTER strong. It takes a bit for me to catch up once the snow melts. If used right, the classes really work.
On the other hand, I’m told the bouncing and in some cases “dancing” in the saddle is go be ignored and skipped by any self-respecting cyclist.
Also, if you’re self-conscious, pick a bike at the back. Oh, also of you’re going to skip the “dancing” part. Sit at the back.
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Jim! I figured this would be a good idea for cyclist, I have heard good things about spin classes, very good things from people and even some bloggers.
how often do they attend spin classes per week? I didn’t know they had bouncing and dancing going on, that is a real treat, XD lol. sounds like a party. Although it does seem a bit over the top, but hell what do I know.
I am happy you shared some advice!
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Definitely over the top. 2-3 times a week just before the new season.
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Our triathlon club hosts spin sessions for exactly the reason you mention – bike ready once the snow melts.
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Just because it’s coincidental… I returned to spin class today after three weeks off due to being sick and an injured leg and I have a few added thoughts. First, don’t let the instructor/class determine your training goals. I worked hard today didn’t match the gear levels and speed levels today because it would have been detrimental to my recovery. I modified and so should you. Of course, that means having goals and a plan so you’re not led around on a whim.
Second, and I think this can’t be stressed enough, if you sweat so much you make a big puddle on the floor, clean it up for God’s sake!! Yes, I’m talking to you guy in front of me!
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Hey! I am glad you started back up again! woot woot! Will you be writing about your spin classes since starting back up? I am also happy you mentioned the first part, “don’t allow your instructor/class to determine your training goals” – that alone is very important n especially since I have never taken a spin class, it was wise advice. Thank you.
Hahahaaahahaha! lol. leave that guy alone, he probably is too sore to clean it up.. LOL
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I don’t know if I’ll write about taking spin classes, I’m not a fitness blogger like some people…
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I know.. omg have you seen that fitness blogger shay.. ugh.. always thinking she is some kind of professional or something. lol.
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She’s not as bad as the people who randomly make silly comments on her posts. They’re the worst.
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Hahaha! oh goodness, I agree. Sometimes I feel bad for her
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But seriously though, you are a professional and you are appreciated. Engaging, interesting, and real are valuable characteristics.
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I only engage because people engage me! lol otherwise I cricket in silence.
Thank you.
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Okay, one more thing about spin classes and then I’ll leave this alone. This happened today so it’s topical and relevant.
If a person is going to cycle or take a spin class, bike fit is important. Both the people on either side of me today had their seat to low and one was too far forward. That not only makes spin class gross, it’s hard on the knees.
General guidelines:
Adjust seat height so when your leg, with a flat foot, is extended to a 5 o’clock position, the knee is only slightly bent. For seat position forward and backward, place your feet at the 3 and 9 position, keep your feet flat, and look over the top of your knee. If you were able to draw a straight line from your knee to your foot, your knee would align with the arch of the foot just behind your toes.
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I am happy you did mention this, because this doesn’t just pertain to spin classes but also with riding any stationary bike! I have seen where people don’t adjust the bikes correctly in the gym to their height – ect. that I can only imagine how much stress it must be putting on the knees, not to mention making your workout that much harder. I know I have been lazy and not always adjusted the bike accordingly (rare) but it is very important if you want reduce chances of injury! I am happy you shared this tidbit of information, probably one of the most important things to know. Do you usually help people in your spin class that fail to adjust seat and feet positioning correctly?
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