As some of you know. I have been teaching SPIN (indoor cycling) for about 2.5 years. In that time I’ve taught a variety of class formats, at different places, and taught people from ages 18-65. Because of this, and the fact that I took SPIN classes for 2 years before I started teaching, I have learned a lot of do’s and don’ts from the classes. So, without further ado, here are 5 ways to make your class more enjoyable:
1.) Work at your own level – it doesn’t matter if this is your 1st class or your 100th, if you’re exhausted, lower your resistance; if the class isn’t too challenging, add some on. The beautiful thing about SPIN is that you are in control of how hard (or easy) you make the class, and can do so without disrupting everyone.
I generally have at least 1 new person in every class I teach, so I always remind them to just sit and pedal if they become too overwhelmed. That being said – sometimes I can tell a climb is too easy for some people, so I offer the option of adding more resistance.
2.) BRING A WATER BOTTLE. It’s hot, you’re sweaty, do yourself a favor and bring some ice cold water along.
3.) Bring a small towel. Some gyms provide towels and some do not, so I will bring my own towel if I’m going to a new gym. Having sweat dripping off my face drives me crazy, so I need to be able to wipe it off throughout class.
4.) Put your phone away. You’re hurting both yourself and your classmates by having your phone out. Give yourself 45 minutes just to release your stress. (And if you use your phone in my class, I will politely call you out over the mic and ask you to put it away)
5.) Don’t engage in conversation during class. I know it can be hard if you’re working out with friends, but as I mentioned before – take the class time just for you & work off anything you need.
There you have it, my 5 tips for SPINNING. Tell me, are any of you big fans? (or do you totally hate it? haha)
Happy Weekend everyone! Make sure to tell your mom how wonderful she is 🙂
-M
more about me
Seriously hate when people talk during my class. #GETOUT #BYEEEEE
I’ve never taken spin (though of all the gym classes available, it’s the one i think i’d like the most!), but i think a lot of these are generally good life advice! come prepared, commit to the task at hand, be considerate of those around you, don’t compare yourself to others etc.
you didn’t ask, but this post gave me a couple of ideas for posts i’d love to see from you! first, i just don’t know anything about spin or what it does for you, so i’d be interested in knowing that (is this something you’ve already posted?)! the other is that i for some reason have a hard time picturing you leading a class — i think because i’ve never heard you speak! i assume most bloggers are introverts/soft spoken, but it must take some chutzpah to lead a whole group of exercisers. i’d love to know what you’ve learned from/gotten out of leading classes!
I’ve always wanted to to give spinning a second try but haven’t made the jump yet. I took a class in college and my instructor wasn’t as peppy as I’d hoped and I never went. My sister loves it though, and she’s not one who likes to exercise too much!
Annessa
http://www.seekingsunshine.com
I have never taken a spin class, but I am dying to try it! I know people love it! These are great tips.
Nikki
thefashionablewife.com