Health Tips : What's Spinning?

By Winston Salem in : Fitness Tips // Jul 28 2010

Spinning (it is a registered trademark name when referred to as the exercise) is generically known as indoor, stationary cycling.

Originated by Johnny G. (for Jonathan Goldberg, the Spinning guru) in 1987, these high intensity classes have sprung up all over the U.S.. Although gym are calling these classes by various other names, most offer similar workouts.

An instructor leads the usually 45 to 60 minute class, usually to some sort of motivating music. Participants ride on specially designed stationary bicycles and are able to control their own resistance, or level of difficulty.

Some instructors take the class on an imaginary ride, describing changing scenery, such as mountains or flat roads. Other leaders encourage the class through various cycling techniques.

Often the music inspires participants to work towards a high fitness level.

These classes can be very difficult. A good instructor should be able to help beginners adapt the exercises to suit their ability.

Since these bicycles are much different than outdoor ones, it takes a few classes to get the feel of them.

A number of valuable suggestions when trying an indoor cycling class include

• Arrive early for your first class. If it is your first time, tell the instructor and have him or her help you set up the bicycle. You need to properly adjust the seat and handlebar heights, in addition to the distance between the seat and handlebars.

• Ask the instructor to review proper form. Avoid leaning on the handlebars – it puts too much pressure on your shoulders and wrists.

• Bring a full bottle of cold water with you, along with a towel – you’ll sweat a lot!

• Go at your own pace – do not try to “compete” with others. Even when the instructor acts like a drill sergeant, take it easy until you are comfortable with the techniques involved. You will undoubtedly be sore after the first few classes.

• Wear bike shorts or some sort of long shorts or knee-length leggings.

• Have fun and enjoy, but do not overdo it – overuse training injuries can occur with this activity, as with any other form of exercise.