Spinning Class, What Is It All About?
‘Spinning’ is a word that has become part of the vernacular in the recent past but it is a non-descriptive word that holds very little clue as to it’s meaning. If you are not a gym-goer, or you do not have friends who are part of one, you may have images of a dizzying dance or a strange game in your mind that keep you from asking for more details.
In reality, spinning classes take place in a big room full of stationary bicycles. An instructor leads the class through warm ups and then through a variety of high and low impact cycling phases. These classes are great for improving cardio fitness as well as for keeping up motivation through competition among classmates.
Joining a class is easy. There are many gyms and fitness clubs that offer regular classes and they do not require a gym membership. You can pay on a class by class basis, monthly, or opt for the gym membership that includes the scheduled activities. This is often times much cheaper than buying mountain bike, and frequently much more pleasant during bad weather.
One of the main benefits of spinning: It burns between 400-600 calories in a 40 minute session. Another benefit is that you have the choice of setting your own intensity level. Because if this possibility, every level of fitness can participate in the same class, making it easier for you to find an exercise buddy.
These classes, like any exercise class, will require comfortable and breathable clothing. Pearl izumi shorts are a good choice for the spinner as they are padded for extra comfort and are designed for maximum moisture removal. They can also come in handy for outdoor cycling.
To further supplement your fitness regimen, you may opt for some outdoor activities on nice days as well. Many cycle shops and gyms offer bicycles for rent by the hour or day. They can also provide you with maps of the area and good places to cycle in safe environments.
It is important to check with your doctor before starting any fitness regimen, especially when pregnant. Your doctor will be able to recommend an appropriate level of exertion that is safe for you and will also be able to give some good advice on what kind of program to get into at the beginning. Because cycling is hard on the knees and ankle joints, it is especially important to have a consultation to avoid the possibility of injury.
