As someone who absolutely loves indoor cycling, I often find that people are terrified to try it because they don’t know what to expect. Indoor cycling is not only a great workout, but it’s a fun confidence builder that also allows you to be part of a community. So, if you’re looking for a new workout routine but aren’t sure what to expect from indoor cycling, here’s six things to be prepared for:
1. Arrive Early
Spin is all about bike set up. With the right bike height and handlebar distance, you’ll feel much more comfortable and stable for the 45 minute class. If it’s your first or even tenth, show up at least 15 minutes before class starts to be sure you have your bike set up the way you want it. If you don’t know how to set up your bike, don’t worry! The staff is always happy to assist you.
2. Be prepared to yell
The room is dark and quite honestly, people get hype. Don’t be afraid to hoot and holler when the instructor asks for it and even when he/she doesn’t! Spin is all about community and you’d be surprised how great it feels to let out a yell and have someone else in the class yell back.
3. You probably won’t know what’s going on for the first few songs
Aside from just trying to keep your legs moving, spin requires a lot of coordination and practice. Don’t freak out if the instructor is telling you to tap it back or drop your elbows and you have no idea what that means. I promise by the end of the class, you’ll be totally confident in your ability to dance on a stationary bike.
4. There will most likely be an arms song
About half way through the ride, your instructor will tell you to slow your feet and pick up your weights. This allows your legs to have a break and works the upper body.
5. You can always go at your own pace
There’s no shame in taking a minute to sit down on the bike and collect yourself, especially if it’s one of your first times riding. Forty-five minutes of straight cardio is no small feat, so don’t feel insecure about taking a break every now and then in class!
6. No one there is judging you
When people picture spin class, they often imagine a room filled with model-shaped young women who are judgmental of anyone who doesn’t look like them. In my experience, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Wherever you choose to ride, lean into the community that surrounds you. Riders come in all shapes and sizes and are always willing to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or small.
That being said, discovering indoor cycling is one of the best things to have happened to me since I started college. It’s a space to be free, get a good workout in, and have a blast dancing on a stationary bike. Sign up for an on-campus class or try a local studio and with these six things in mind, I can assure you, you won’t regret it!