Spin class does not have to be intimidating...

You can do spin!

 You may think that spin is only for the most hardcore exercisers. But, anybody can do spin! People of all fitness levels can take the same class and all get a great workout!

Some may ask, what is spinning?  Well, you will not need a magazine for this like you might on other cardio machines. Spinning classes are a group workout that are done in a health club studio, usually with various lighting, such as the lights dimmed and neon lights on, and pumped up music fills the air to create an energized atmosphere. The bikes are not regular stationary bikes, they are spin bikes with gears which you can adjust with an easy to reach knob to make the pedaling harder or easier. The instructor on the lead bike with a headset calls out commands to guide you through workout phases, which are a warm-up to more challenging phases to a period of peak effort followed by a cool down. These include sprints, climbs, steady cadences (how fast you are pedaling) etc. The instructor will call out phrases like "add gear!" and "come out of the saddle!" (you stand while pedaling) because there is a "big hill coming!" or  you are riding "through the mud!" or "lose gear!" and "sprint!" (pedaling as fast as you can) because you are "riding down hill!" or in a "tail wind!" etc. These phrases get you out of the room and onto the road using visualization. You control the resistance by adding or losing gear on your bike to make the pedaling as easy or hard as you choose. It is your ride!

Just some of the great reasons to give it a spin...Burn more calories! I'm not going to give you a number, but trust me you burn a LOT of calories! Spinning will make you push yourself. Left on your own, you are more likely go easier on yourself. Spinning classes will motivate you to work harder and get a better workout, which means better results and higher calorie burn than on your own. It does not take long for this to show up as weight loss. Shapely Legs! Spinning will make a difference in the shapely appearance of your legs. Low Impact! Spinning is a low-impact cardio exercise, which means it's easier on your joints, including your knees and ankles, than many other forms of cardio. Get the natural endorphin kick! You will feel better throughout the day following a workout and you have more energy. An ab workout too!  In addition to the major leg muscles worked during a spinning routine, the abdominal muscles get a workout, as well. Over time you will feel your entire body begin to tone up, including your abs. Feel connected and have fun! The spin class makes the whole workout experience more fun and helps you feel connected with the people around you, like you're all in it together.  

I hope you go for it! Try a spin class! It's cool! I was hooked after my first time! Make sure you bring water and a towel and be a little early to reserve and adjust your bike. 
Have a great ride! ~Amy

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