Spinning classes: 5 reasons why you need to learn to love them

My bum gets sore... I feel claustrophobic...it’s too hard...my legs will get big! These are some comments often heard after a first attempt at a spin or RPM class. But I urge you to persevere. It takes at least three attempts to get into the swing of a cycling class.

What is a cycling/spin/RPM class?
Is a cardiovascular class done on stationary bikes to music. As stated on the Les Mills fitness site, It will increase your fitness levels, burn fat, and tone and shape your legs, hips and butt. You will gain leg strength and muscular endurance without building bulk.

Why you should learn to love them:
1. It’s an awesome fat burner and fitness booster. You will burn more calories in this class than any other Les Mills program and I dare say any other class on your timetable. The interval training style takes your heart rate up, then gives you a (short) rest, so you can do it all again. This is scientifically proven to be one of the most efficient ways to increase your fitness. Increased fitness equals more energy, faster metabolism, stronger joints and did I mention hot legs and ass!
2. It’s low impact so safer on your joints. If you are a little on the heavy side, running might make you feel like your joints get the hardest workout, not your muscles. Cycling with your feet secured on the pedal is called a closed kinetic chain activity. This keeps you hips knees and ankles in alignment, reducing/preventing injury and allowing your muscles to be loaded in the right places. Although I believe running to be the best form of weight loss, I rate cycling classes as a close second and much gentler on your joints.
3. You can’t help but work harder. Look around the room. Look at your instructor. These people are working hard. Yes you can rest, slow your pedal speed, reduce your resistance, but you’ll get going again. Pumped up music, encouraging words from you instructor, and the comfort of knowing that everyone else is sharing your pain, makes you feel like trying that little bit harder. You will feel so proud of your accomplishment and feel confident to try even harder next time.
4. No coordination required. Boys, finally a class where you don’t need a dance certificate to participate! You’re locked in, the bike won't fall over, and all you need to do is twist the resistance dial and sometimes stand up in the saddle. In fact if you know of someone who has fallen off, they deserve a medal (I’d love to hear about it!).
5. Every level of fitness can participate in the same class. Don’t be daunted if Lance Armstrong straps in next to you. The resistance knob can be adjusted to your level and if you can’t keep up with the instructors pedal revolutions, it’s no big deal, just slow down. Other classes may need you to be fitter, stronger, coordinated, or flexible. Cycle classes grow with your fitness. The fitter you get, the faster you pedal and the higher you dial up your resistance.

I challenge you to go and book in for 3 cycle classes. I personally prefer RPM as I know what to expect, it has been scientifically designed, and instructors are trained to a certain standard. Give it a go and I’d love you to give me 5 more reasons why you love – or hate – cycle classes.

***Click here to read about a high intensity, interval training treadmill workout I have recommended!

***Click here to read a personal account of someone who has fallen in love with spinning classes.