Never been to indoor cycling classes but thinking of trying? Or maybe you’ve been, but felt like you had no idea what was going on. No worries–in this guide we’ll share with you everything you need to know before attending spin classes in Orange County.
First, What Is an Indoor Cycling Class?
Indoor cycling classes are exercise classes at a gym that utilizes stationary bikes. It tries to mimic riding outdoors but allows you to do it in the comfort of an air-conditioned room, the support and camaraderie of fellow riders, great music and functional instruction. All things to keep you motivated and improving in each class.
Cycling classes are high-energy and high-intensity, but can easily be modified for any fitness level. Expect lots of loud music, plenty of encouragement and yes, a bunch of sweat.
These classes are led by an instructor who will spend most of the time on a bike at the front of the class but may walk around and help students out as well.
Tips For First-Time Cycling Classes
If you are like me, it won’t get done if I have to exercise alone. I need the accountability of others, killer playlists and super instruction of a professional to push me. Whatever your reason for cycling indoors, indoor cycling classes in Long Beach can be a great way to get in a killer workout and get those endorphins flowing.
If you’ve never been to a cycling class before, here are 7 tips to make sure you get the most out of it:
Arrive Early
Depending on the studio you go to, spin classes can be REALLY popular. Arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure that you get a bike. Getting to class with plenty of time to spare also gives you time to set up your bike (see our next tip), introduce yourself to the instructor, and get a feel for things.
The great thing about Five Starr Pilates & Fitness’ booking system is you reserve your bike online up to a year in advance! So no lines, no waiting, no early sign-ups—just show up with your reservation you make using our app!
Bring a Water Bottle
Did I mention that you’re going to get sweaty? You’re also going to get thirsty— we have the best pellet ice and filtered water available for you in the rear of the studio on the counter near the laundry chute! So be sure to bring your own water bottle and FILL UP before class. There is a nifty little resting place on your bike for your water bottle too!
Use the little bag on your handlebars for your personal items, keys, phone, etc. We provide a clean towel on your bike when you arrive…just toss it in the laundry basket on your way out the door.
Adjust Your Bike
Indoor cycling bikes are highly adjustable and are meant to be tweaked for each individual rider. Our bikes adjust the seat depth, seat height, handlebar depth and handlebar height. We use the Keiser M3 bike that has a splendid computer that can link with your fitness device via Bluetooth, and get this—this bike gives you a gear readout…1-23 levels. So you are always in control of your exertion.
No perceived exertion of a turn or hold turn on a guess. Here you will know exactly where you are and be able to challenge yourself weekly. You also will feel so proud of the progress you make and have numbers to prove it!
This setup is usually pretty self-explanatory, but for your first class, it is always a good idea to ask for help from the instructor. (This is why we recommend showing up early).
Pay Attention to Resistance
Indoor cycling bikes have adjustable resistance to make pedaling easier or harder. During the course of a single first-time indoor cycling class, you will adjust this resistance MANY times.
The resistance is usually controlled via a knob or a lever. Again, this is usually pretty obvious, but just in case, ask your instructor before class starts.
For your first class, don’t worry too much about the resistance. Relax and play around with it and get a feel for things. If at any point, you feel like it is too hard to pedal, back off on the resistance, regardless of the instructions the instructor is giving to the class.
Dress Comfortably
You don’t need any special clothes for a spin class. Just wear whatever you would normally wear to the gym.
Some women do choose to wear lightly padded shorts to a spin class in Orange County, but you don’t need to invest in those for your first class. If you already have cycling shorts, it is your choice on whether to wear them or regular gym shorts. (You’ll see people in both).
Oh, and make sure you wear a good sports bra. Unlike riding a bike outside, in an indoor cycling class, you’re going to spend a lot of time jumping up and down out of the saddle.
If You Have Cycling Shoes, Bring Them
If you have cycling shoes, bring them. Most indoor cycling bikes have pedals with SPD clips on one side and platforms on the other. Our bikes use SPD clips but also have a basket for regular gym shoes.
If you don’t have cycling shoes, don’t worry–you don’t need to run out and buy some. Wear regular gym shoes. If at some point you get really into spin classes in Orange County, you can go buy a pair of cycling shoes.
Bring an Open Mind
Be open to learning new things. Toss aside any preconceived ideas you have about first-time indoor cycling classes. I thought someone was going to yell at me and it was going to be dreadfully hot!
It wasn’t that way at all. The encouragement of others was palpable! The love others had for the exercise was contagious and the superior instruction given beat any video workout I could ever try! Get on the bike and smile! Be grateful for your progress, now let’s roll!
Enroll in Spin Classes in Orange County
Five Starr Pilates & Fitness is the perfect way to get active and involved in cycling classes in a comfortable, exciting and uplifting environment!
View our new client special to get started.
