All too often people don't take spinning classes because they are intimidated by veteran spinners and believe the class is only for those individuals who are in top physical shape. Nothing can be further from the truth. The truth is that spinning classes are great for people who are just beginning an exercise program as well as athletes in top physical shape. The attractive feature about these classes is that you can go at your own pace in accordance with your own fitness level.
A Few Spinning Basics
This article will not address the typical basics of how to set up a spinning bike, what to wear in a spinning class and what to look for in a spinning instructor. There are plenty of articles on the Internet with such information. Instead, this article will help you, the brand new spinner, understand how to get through the first few weeks as a class participant.
Surviving the First Spinning Class
As mentioned earlier, in a spinning class you are in control. You control the bike's resistance and you control your pedal cadence. If it's your first class, do not attempt to keep up with the instructor. Doing so may render your first spinning class your last. Go at your own pace.
Make sure to drink water as frequently as needed. Don't wait for permission from the instructor to "slow down and take a drink." If you feel you need to drink water, do so. Remaining hydrated is important while exercising.
At the end of your first spinning class there is a 100% guarantee that your rear end will be sore. There is no getting around it. A sore rear end has ended many a spinner's career. Don't allow this to happen to you.
A Much-Needed Bike Break
Although your muscles and your cardio-vascular stamina are able to handle the rigors of a spinning class, your rear end may not. Unfortunately, there is no other way to prepare your rear end for a spinning class except to spin. Therefore, the best thing you can do if you intend to have a long spinning career is to take several days off between your first and your second class. This break is to allow your rear end a modicum of recovery.
Before taking your second spinning class, consider artificial cushioning in the form of gelled bike seats or padded biking shorts. This is not absolutely necessary but it does help to ease the transition from day one into day two (your rear end will thank you).
A Second Spinning Class Break
After taking your second spinning class, it is recommended that you take several days off between your second and third class for the exact same reason you took a break between the first and second. The rear end takes a while to become accustomed to the rigors of a spinning class (about 3 to 4 weeks, depending on your pain tolerance).
Over time, you'll become accustomed to the bike seat and the breaks between spinning classes will shorten. When you are finally able to take classes every other day, you have reached the point where artificial cushion enhancements are a choice, but not a necessity. Try taking a class without the seat or shorts; you'll be surprised at how your body has adjusted.
No Magic Pill for Spinning
Just like all exercise programs, there is no magic pill that will take you from day one (soreness) to the finish line (fit without soreness). If you program your mind to stick with it for the long run, you'll be happy with the long-term results from spinning.
Felicia A. Williams - Felicia A. Williams is a full time freelance writer with over 20 years of business writing experience.
