Welcome to Spinning!
Whether you’re into trying out new fitness classes, have friends who are, or have walked down most high streets in the last few years… you’ll probably have heard of spinning, or spin classes.
Have you found yourself questioning what’s so special about these indoor cycling classes? Have you tried a class yet?
When it comes to spinning, many people know of its existence as a common fitness class, though fewer understand the benefits to be had from the exercise. As well as how accessible the sport is!
Let’s take a deeper look at spinning, its benefits, its pros and cons, and whether it’s right for you!
What is Spinning?
Spinning is essentially a form of indoor cycling. The ever more popular spin cycle studios and classes you’ll see popping up all over the place use a specialized stationary bike fitted with a heavier flywheel mechanism. Basically, this allows for more speed and movement during the exercise than on an ordinary stationary bike.
However, keep in mind that an ordinary stationary bike is more likely to resemble an outdoor cycle. Of course, the attractiveness of spinning does not come from its steadfast resemblance to an outdoor cycle ride…
As spin bikes give the rider more mobility and control over the resistance of their workouts, these classes are reputed for their tough, intense and sweaty programmes. For anyone who has witnessed these classes in progress, they will know this reputation is well-earned!
While the specifics of a spin class are up to individual instructors, a typical spin class will be an intense cardiovascular and muscular workout, burning up to 800 calories an hour.
What to Expect from Your First Spin Class
Alright, so you got a bit curious and thought, why not check this spinning business out for yourself?
Great! It’s a good thing Beckwith Health Club has regular spinning classes in our studios! You can check the schedule to book any upcoming classes here.
Let’s have a look at some things to expect and think about in time for your first spin class…
First of all, make sure to arrive to your class about 10 minutes ahead of time. As you’ll be spending a good amount of time on your bike, you want to make sure its dimensions are right for you. Getting to class early to measure your seat height and other adjustments will help you to feel more comfortable and, above all, avoid injuring yourself.
This is especially true for first-timers! If you’re unsure of how to adjust your bike, please don’t hesitate to ask an instructor. At Beckwith Health Club, all of our instructors are specially trained and more than happy to help you out at any time.
(As a general rule, ensure your bike seat is at hip height when you stand next to the bike.)
Hydrate!
Another thing to be mindful of ahead of your first class is that spinning makes you sweat… a lot! Spinning studios are always well air-conditioned to help spinners control their body temperature during the exercise.
Be aware of the toll of the exercise on your body and bring a bottle of water with you.
The intensity of the class will vary throughout the workout. The exact format of the class is up to your instructor, but you can rely on there being moments of recovery in the class where you’ll be able to take a sip of water.
Spinning: A Fun Challenge
If we were asked by one of our members what to expect from their first spin class, we would say “a fun challenge”.
Spinning is challenging, but with the pumping music, focused exercise, and intensity of the workout, you’ll feel the adrenaline flowing and want to push yourself even further with each class!
Spinning is a great workout for beginners to get into as it really allows for a gradual improvement. With the resistance levels of the bike entirely under your control, you can feel free to adjust the difficulty of your workout throughout the class.
Now, get lost in the music, the lighting, and the bike… get set, ready, go!
What Are the Benefits of Spinning?
As spinning involves a multitude of movements, motions and positions, it works out a lot of different muscle groups. While balance and pedalling work on your core, moves such as the “tap back” and regular standing up to sitting down movements allow your glutes, quadriceps, back, and your upper body a great workout as well.
Spinning is also a great cardiovascular workout. The short, sharp bursts of speed during sprints, interspersed with periods of active recovery, work out your heart and keep your blood pumping throughout the spin session.
The more you get involved with spinning, the more your body will adjust and improve aerobically. You’ll not only gain in muscle strength and endurance, you’ll also gain in flexibility. (And depending on the music, perhaps in rhythm too…).
Any Last Tips?
The most important thing to remember when taking on your first spinning class is to feel free to ask the instructor any questions you may have.
Whether these are about positioning the seat and handlebars, how to stand up in the pedals and cycle at the same time, how controlling the resistance level works, or anything at all, don’t hesitate!
Another thing to remember is to breathe. Like any cardiovascular-heavy workout, spinning can really take it out of you! Make sure you’re breathing well throughout your workout to keep your blood oxygenated and get the most out of your exercise. Avoid death-gripping the handlebars, and only do what you feel able to.
We Look Forward to Welcoming You to Beckwith Health Club!
The instructors at Beckwith Health Club are always more than happy to assist members in any way they can. What’s more, we want to encourage your healthy habits and keep you coming back for the next spin session!
We look forward to welcoming you to your first spin session with us! To check out our class timetable, follow this link. Or, give us a call to find out more about the classes we offer on 01423 522 177.
And of course, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on our special offers, monthly challenges, and schedule changes!