Thinking about trying a spin class but not sure where to start? Look no further, your Fairy-Spin-Godmother is here to help!
Now, before you jump straight in, do your research. Take a look at the spin classes available in your club. Each class will offer something different, so try to choose one that you think will appeal to you.
Here at Village Gym, we offer our own exclusive Spin class called V Spin, which is great for blasting fat, enhancing your cardio fitness, and in my opinion, perfect for all fitness levels, including beginners!
The great thing about these classes in particular is that the instructor has full control over the music selection, enabling a more spontaneous repertoire, where each trainer can literally put their own “spin” on Spin (pardon the pun). For me, music choice is so important. Having great music can increase your endurance during a workout by up to 15 percent!
This ultimately offers you a wider variety of choice when it comes to class selection, as each instructor's taste is completely different.
We also offer Les Mills Sprint, which is a HIIT (high intensity interval training) workout on the spin bike involving on/off effort with short recoveries. This is a popular class that combines bursts of intense cycle sprints with periods of rest for maximum calorie burn.
Whilst V Spin classes range from 30 to 45 minutes (sometimes even an hour), Les Mills Sprints stay at 30 minutes, guaranteeing a short, sharp workout for those on a tight time schedule.
WHY SPIN?
Doing any spin workout can improve your balance, coordination and posture. It strengthens your lower body, targeting your quads, hamstrings, glutes and caves, making these muscles much stronger. Before long, you will also start to see an increase in the definition in your legs and core. Not bad results for just pedaling a stationary bike, hey?
SPIN TIPS
I’d recommend starting out by taking part in a class that lasts for 30 minutes. This is more than enough time to get involved, see what it’s all about and get in a great workout too!
Once you’ve done your research and booked your first class, try to arrive 5-10 minutes before the class starts. You have access to a knowledgeable instructor who can help set up your bike properly, so use it.
Introduce yourself, explain that you are new to spin and don’t forget to mention any injuries or health issues you may have. Doing this can ensure that they not only guide you through unfamiliar exercises, but can push you to work hard, as safely as possible.
AVOID SPIN-TIMIDATION
Many people are worried about how they look when trying something new, especially when it comes to exercise. But trust me, no one is looking or even cares what you’re up to (apart from the instructor) and to be honest, as long as you’re not sitting backwards on the bike or upside down, you’re good!
Seriously though, if you are someone who is put off by the thought of other people watching you workout, remember, a spin class is carried out in the dark with LED and strobe lights only, which may help you feel more comfortable taking that first leap onto a bike. If you do however suffer from epilepsy, I would definitely mention it before the class starts so that your trainer can accommodate.
Don’t be put off by the thought of not being able to do everything straight away either, everyone was “new” once and like anything in life, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.
There will always be a certain exercise or movement that will take a few tries to perfect and there are always regression options on offer too. If you need to use these or have extra rests during the class, take them!
PUT SPIN ON YOUR SCHEDULE
I would aim to do 1-2 spin classes per week initially to allow your body to adapt to the intensity of the workouts. Who knows, within a couple of weeks, you might even enjoy it and add more of these sessions into your workout routine!
So, in answer to our original question… Yes, Spin!, Always Spin!
