HEALTH & FITNESS only are you getting your cardio done in 45 minutes, you’re also blasting the upper body with our weighted sectors and constantly working the whole body, the whole time, while enjoying the atmosphere of dancing at the club.” You can burn up to 800 calories in those 45 minutes of sweat, improving cardiovascular health, and, in Marc’s opinion, your emotional health too. “I spin because I want to get out of my head and release any pain, anger, love, joy, or sadness I’m feeling into the music and into the ride. The dance music, on top of the high-intensity workout, builds your endorphins and awakens your mind, body, and soul.” It’s also low-impact, adds Heather, so it’s easier on your joints than workouts like running. One of the other big benefits is that absolutely anyone can spin, regardless of your fitness level, because you’re in control of your own workout every spin of that wheel. “You’re never too old or out of shape,” says Heather. “You can start at your own pace and at a level that’s appropriate for you. But I guarantee, if you keep spinning on a consistent (about three times a week) basis you will quickly see significant improvement in your fitness level.” Even injury needn’t be a hurdle. “I get really bad shin splints when I run,” says Marc, “but not when I spin. I also get knee pain on the treadmill. However, I don’t have any pain when I spin and I believe spinning has helped me strengthen my knees. We’ll always ask beforehand if anyone has any injuries, and throughout the ride remind them to sit and add resistance if they can’t be out of the saddle, or not to use weights, or slow down and add resistance if they can’t keep a double time beat.” Of course, this freedom of control means, when you’re having a bad day, you’re feeling hungry, or tired, or plain lazy, you can give yourself an easy ride.
“You’re never too old or out of shape. But I guarantee, if you keep spinning on a consistent basis you will quickly see significant improvement in your fitness level.”
Above: Spin classes are not just good for the body, they’re good for your emotional wellbeing too.
“Walk into the room ready to do your best,” advises Heather. “That’s the first step to getting the most out of your workout. Then don’t judge when you have an off, or less productive, workout. There will always be another day to ride and push yourself to that next level.” That motivation from your instructor is key, both agree. “Your instructor cares about your experience and checks in
with you, making sure you are riding safely,” says Marc. “He or she should always be reaffirming rather than commanding.” “A great spin instructor is someone who genuinely cares about his/her students and desires to see them achieve their personal fitness goals,” echoes Heather. “A great spin instructor engages with his/her students, motivates them, encourages them, challenges them, understands and communicates proper technique on the bike, and is willing to stick around a few minutes after class to answer questions.” The music should flow seamlessly and make you feel like you’re on the dance floor of your favorite club, not three different ones, adds Marc. “I believe all great spin instructors are selfless, compassionate people and born performers. You have to want to hang out with your riders for 45 minutes and be able to be vulnerable with them. The class may be a performance, but it has to be a genuine one: no acting allowed.” Marc is a born performer. He’s currently studying musical theatre at NYU Tisch’s New Studio on Broadway, so he brings that sense of exuberance to every class. “The show must always go on,” he says. “Things go wrong, sound equipment fails, and you have to keep things going. “You cannot let your outside life affect your class either. Once that door opens, the show has begun and the outside world must turn off. It makes me think of one of my favorite quotes from Kander and Ebb’s musical Cabaret when the Emmcee says: ‘Leave your troubles outside, So, life is disappointing? Forget it! We have no troubles here! Here life is beautiful …” And it’s true. When those lights go down, and the music comes on, everything else goes away.” www.revolutions55.com www.cycfitness.com
Marc's tips to make the most of your spin 1. Follow your instructor. They know what is best/safest for you. Also, talk to your instructor and don’t be afraid to ask questions. They are there to help you 2. Make sure to stretch, before and after you ride. 3. Hydrate. Drink before riding so your body isn’t dehydrated and you aren’t super thirsty when riding too. 4. Ride because it’s fun, not because it’s necessary. Work out because you love your body, not because you hate it. 5. Always want to better yourself. Challenge brings change.
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