Spinning Myths

Originally from the site ruac.sport.ru.ac.za/spinning/myths.html, but this is now non-existent. See also: www.leisure.birmingham.gov.uk/sites/brands/cycling.htm

Riding a stationary bike is so boring!
Spinning classes were created to take the boredom out of stationary cycling! The group environment coupled with fun, motivating music makes a 40-minute class fly by. Certified instructors are trained to coach you every step of the way so that your mind and body are engaged throughout the entire ride.

I've seen people in those classes - they look like they are being tortured! I can't keep up with that intensity!
Every bike is equipped with a resistance knob so that each participant can choose what resistance they want to use as well as how quickly they want to pedal. Instructors are there to inspire and motivate the participants, but each rider is in complete control of their own intensity. The Spinning program also utilizes heart rate training to gauge exercise intensity and prevent over-training.

My thighs will get huge!
Cycling is an endurance activity, not a muscle builder. In order to build big muscles, you must work with extremely heavy resistance and do few repetitions, but a typical Spinning class isn't like that: Spinning is a high repetition, low impact exercise, in which you are required to pedal thousands of revolutions, at light to moderate resistance. Within 6-8 weeks of participating in Spinning classes you will notice that your thighs are not bigger, but more defined and lean, as you lose the fat tissue surrounding the muscles. Additionally, pedaling with resistance will not give you a big butt—but it will be firmed!

I have to get in shape first, before I start to take Spinning classes!
The best way to get back in shape after a long absence from the gym is to participate in exercise that allows you to start slowly and progress carefully. The Spinning program is the perfect prescription for "couch potatoes"! Riding a bike is very gentle on your body because there is no impact on your joints and muscles. And since riders can control their own exercise intensity, taking it easy is easy!

Don't I need special 'gear' to begin participating in Spinning classes?
No special gear is required. As with any exercise class, wear breathable, comfortable clothes for easy cooling, and bring your water bottle to stay hydrated.

I've heard that the seat is very uncomfortable!
Some riders find that wearing padded cycling shorts or using a gel-filled seat cover is the perfect way to introduce your butt to the saddle. You can either sit in the saddle or stand on the pedals as a way of giving your body a "rest" from the seat. As you get more fit on the bike, you will find that your discomfort disappears