First of all, never say “no” before you try it!
From reading my blog you could have gotten the impression, the only sport I do is running. Well to be honest running is what I love and am very passionate about, but I do many other different sports. In past few years I have seen a pattern in swapping some of my running sessions for other sports as the weather got colder and I hate running indoors on a treadmill. Also it is not the same workout as running outside, it is easier, but I am not saying you should stop doing so if you prefer running indoors. It actually is much kinder to your joints, just make sure you have some good incline and speed!
Anyway, both times when I was training for the marathon, part of my training was doing core body exercises ( total abs class) and also attending a spinning class once a week. If you have never been spinning, it really is not just sitting on a bike and spinning the wheels. It looks much easier than it is. In fact if you do it properly and according to your spinning instructor, you will be checking the time on the clock every few minutes. It is definitely one of the most intensive workouts I have ever done!
I love pushing the boundaries, and will never forget the first time I attended a spinning class a few years back. After 10 minutes I felt so sick, I almost threw up. Luckily I did not, but I had to slow down and take it easy, and that is exactly what I suggest to the beginners. As with everything it will take time before you do exactly what your instructor says. Don’t give up after the first lesson. Spinning is a great way how to strengthen muscles not only on your lovely bottom and thighs, but also your calve muscles and you might be able to get your six pack back too!
I tend to go spinning in colder months as to be honest spinning in summer is a killer. I have tried it a few times, but even with air condition in the studio, you sweat like mad. Also doing different sports brings some variety and change to you, and you feel like you are doing something different, not just the same thing. I still go running, but I am slowly getting more into spinning, and swimming will be the next thing. I will be telling you a bit more about this soon, some very exciting news indeed!
My top spinning tips:
If you decide to try a spinning lesson, try a few different instructors. From my experience it was the 3rd person I really clicked with, and have been attending her classes for 4 years now.
Some people suggest wearing the specially designed leggings with padding in your crotch. I hate wearing these, but again that it a personal preference.
One thing I still need to invest in are the proper spinning shoes with clips as often I feel my feet are not that secure in my trainers. Maybe I should ask Father Xmas! These are not cheap, so I would wait to make sure spinning is your cup of tea before buying.
Some people also wear gloves, but I do not find these necessary and do not wear them.
Spinning is a fabulous way how to keep fit, and if you are training for some longer runs, this could be a great addition to your running training, along with swimming.
So have I persuaded you into spinning or are you a spinning pro already?
Morgan Prince says
December 1, 2015 at 8:33 pmThanks to your upbeat attitude and encouragement I actually spoke to someone in a local gym about classes this week! I haven’t visited the gym yet, but I’m seriously considering it, even if it’s just for the Yoga. I need to do something and I don’t have the motivation to do it at home. I’m kind of hoping that if I have to pay for it I’ll be more likely to attend!
Only time will tell.
I love this post Mirka, it’s so positive and you’ve warmed me to the idea of spinning. I still think I wouldn’t like it, but I’m more willing to give it a try. Thanks!
#FitnessTuesday
Michelle Reeves (bod for tea) says
January 4, 2015 at 11:48 amLove, love, love spinning! I used to attend classes before the littles came along but then we bought a spinning bike on ebay from a gym that was closing down and now we both spin at home! Crank up the music and there’s nothing like it for a cardio workout x
Nicola says
December 12, 2014 at 12:38 amI love the idea of spinning but do you think it might bulk up thighs & calves?
fitness4mamas says
December 12, 2014 at 5:37 pmHi Nicola, I think you get the same with cycling if you do loads of it otherwise would not be worried.
Honest Mum says
December 7, 2014 at 7:45 pmMust sign up for a class, love high intensity work outs! Thanks for linking up to #brilliantblogposts x
fitness4mamas says
December 9, 2014 at 8:43 pmPlease do, and let me know how it went!
Coombe Mill says
December 4, 2014 at 9:46 pmI often find myself on the exercise bike when I’m in the gym but I’ve never gone for full out spinning (mainly as my gym is part of the farm and there aren’t any instructors) it does intrigue me though and would love to give it a go. Popping in from Brilliant Blog Posts.
fitness4mamas says
December 9, 2014 at 8:44 pmWell, you do need an instructor, otherwise you don’t know what exercises to do. Shame, maybe one day at a different leisure centre? Thanks for popping by Fiona!
Hannah Mums' Days says
December 4, 2014 at 12:37 pmp.s. thanks for linking up to #AllAboutyou xxx
fitness4mamas says
December 4, 2014 at 9:40 pmMy pleasure x
Hannah Mums' Days says
December 4, 2014 at 12:37 pmI love the idea of spinning and have done it a few times but 1) I always end up feeling like I’m gunna throw up/pass out and 2) it really hurts my doodah! so I guess I’d have to follow your second tip!!
The other thing is that it is soooooo popular at my gym you can never get a place so I’d have to pay to do it somewhere else…we might be moving gyms soon so, like you say, never say never, I think you might have talked me back into it!
Hxxx
fitness4mamas says
December 4, 2014 at 9:41 pmI’m glad you are willing to give it another go. Get the special leggings! It’s the same at our leisure centre, I always book it online the first thing on Wednesday morning, otherwise no spaces left!
Honest Mum says
December 4, 2014 at 10:46 amLove this post and now want to try it again, it’s been years, thanks chick x
fitness4mamas says
December 4, 2014 at 9:39 pmGo for it Vicki, it’s a hard core exercise for energetic people like you!