Why is spin class sooooo intimidating???

Why is spin class sooooooo intimidating!? Speaking for myself, I wasn’t so sure I could keep up with such a high intensity class. I began my spin journey with Jimmie, the owner of Xfatazz Cycling and Fitness Studio. He is very passionate about health and fitness. He’s lost about 112 pounds himself and attributes spin class to him losing 80 of those 112 pounds. The beauty of this cycling studio was they offered true “beginners classes”. Luckily for me, I had the pleasure of taking my first class with my son who is a promising athlete and is not new to high intensity sports and exercise. He and my coach, Jimmie, gave me tips along the way that helped me feel more comfortable in class.

Jimmie, Owner of Xfatazz Cycling and Fitness Studio

When I took my first class, I couldn’t get through an entire song without getting winded, but I refused to give up. The owner and the music were so great, I couldn’t stop going. Today, I stand before you, a true spin addict! Indoor cycling has truly changed my life. I’m now 25 pounds down from where I started and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon.

We have all been the first timer in a spin class at some point. However, for those who are still slightly intimidated and/or nervous, I decided to write this post for you! Please feel free to use this as your personal guide to your first spin class.

What to do:

Drink water - Drink it all day long. This is super important because you’re going to sweat a lot. It’s important to hydrate not just during class but ALL DAY.

Bring a towel - I’ve never sweated as much in my life until I started spinning. You will burn 500-700 calories at least, per class.

Stretch, Stretch, Stretch - My spin coach always says the main two things you should do after a spin class is hydrate and STRETCH.

Shoes - If you are not using cycling shoes, wear some good, firm bottomed sneakers. This is important because you don’t want your feet to start hurting during a class. If using cycling shoes, you may have to go up a size for a proper fit.

Did I mention stretching? Oh, ok, just checking!

Pace yourself - This is not a race nor is it a competition. As my spin coach says, if your check engine light comes on, take a break. It’s truly ok. Do NOT compete with the class. It's ok if you're not on their level....YET! Keep going and work your way up!

Find a spin class that doesn't judge you and allows you to go at your own pace.

Activate your core - Spinning is not just about arm movement and pedaling. It’s important to activate your core to make it a full workout. When I first started, I leaned on the handlebars a lot, using my shoulders because my core was weak. Strengthening your core is what will give your shoulders a break and pull you up off the handlebars. Hold that stomach in!

Dress comfortably - this may seem like common sense... but you don't want anything restricting your movements because you’re moving up, down, side to side. You’re reaching, stretching, and squatting—ALL on the bike. It’s imperative you wear comfortable underclothes and comfortable athletic gear to get the most of your workout. I prefer high-waisted pants and dri-fit tops.

Have a good form- Keep your back straight and your feet flat as possible when pedaling. Keep your hips back. Relax your shoulders. Activate your core. Keep your knees slightly bent and never lock your elbows. This may sound like a lot to remember, or a lot of coordination. Trust, it will come more natural to you when you're actually spinning and the more you actually take a class.

Pre-Workout and Supplements - I’m not into pre-workout but I do take B-12 vitamins on days I know I’m going to spin. There are many good pre-workout powders to choose from but if you prefer to go the natural route— try eating some fruit 30 minutes before class for an energy boost. Collagen and BCAA have helped me along the way as well. Collagen is good for the skin and BCAA helps with muscle rebuilding.

Adjust your bike properly - the seat height should be adjusted to your hip bone when standing. The handlebars should be a forearms length away.

Breathe - spinning for the first time will be one hell of an experience. Remember to breathe your way through it and...again...go at YOUR own pace. You got this!

Benefits of Spinning:

Strengthens and tones legs - spinning will work the bottom half of your body the most. Your legs and quads will look amazing with consistency and proper diet. Your back and core will get stronger as well.

Weight loss / High Calorie Burn - as I stated, you will burn 500-700 calories per class. If you commit to spinning while eating a healthier diet, you’ll definitely see significant weight loss.

Easy on the joints - you have a lower risk of hurting yourself from spinning as opposed to exercises like running either outside or even on a treadmill.

Improved Cardiovascular System - the intense workout helps to strengthen your heart and lungs. You may be winded at first, but the more you go, your endurance will build. Wait until you realize you cycled through an entire song without stopping! Talk about a rush!

It’s fun and up tempo - at Xfatazz Cycling Studio every class is like a party. We literally have a ball each session. The music is also therapy to the soul. The bonus is you are in a group environment with like minded people who have great energy. When that one song hits and the entire class is in sync...the energy will feel so electric! Or...when YOUR song hits and puts you in a zone. It will be at this point, you'll be hooked like me!

Endorphin Heaven - the happy hormones that are released during a spin class is amazing and addictive. It’s impossible to leave in a bad mood.

All in all, my experience has been amazing and the weight loss has been the cherry on top. I challenge you to step outside of your box and try a spin class— you won’t regret it!