To Spin or Not to Spin?

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

11 May 2007 05:50 AM

Do you spin? I'm not necessarily into spinning. I like bike riding, but I'm not that into spinning. Spinning makes me think of twirling and riding a bike shouldn't be like twirling - at least not if I am to perform it safely. Spinning is very popular in gyms all over the country and it encourages thousands of people to make use of the gym cycles in an intense workout regimen.

Fitness Classes

Spinning is all about riding a stationary bike in a controlled atmosphere with an instructor driving you on to music that's designed to get your heart racing and your blood rushing. Spinning is popular with outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a way to push him or herself during the cold and dreary weather that is not conducive to being outdoors.

So why would someone choose spinning to begin with?

I may have mentioned a few times that I have a stationary bike and I tend to trade it out with my treadmill from time to time, but to be honest the home stationary bike doesn't give you any company and there's no motivation from an instructor or other class members. Those motivational factors can actually inspire you to push harder, reach further and workout more.

If you've ever seen a spinning class then you've probably seen the group laughing, cheering, hooting and hollering. It really does look like a jolly good time and it's really appealing even to people who don't particularly enjoy the concept of working out.

The Workout

Don't be fooled by the idea that spinning is all fun and no substance. It's a fantastic workout designed to tone all the major muscles in your legs and your butt. Resistance can be increased and decreased at will and your instructor will guide you through when to ratchet the resistance up or down depending on whether you are riding up or down hills.

Check with your physician and the instructor if you have any worries about how strenuous the workout will be. Have you ever taken a spinning class?

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Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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