Spinning
safety
A qualified healthcare provider should be consulted before beginning any new exercise program.
Like other aerobic workouts, experts recommend beginning with a warm-up routine and ending with a cool-down segment that includes stretching exercises.
If dizziness occurs, slowly stop pedaling and inform the spinning instructor immediately.
Many participants complain of sore buttocks the first few times they take a spinning class. Bike shorts and gel seats can help to alleviate this discomfort.
theory/evidence
Spinning may enhance cardiovascular fitness and improve muscle tone. Spinning works various muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, hips and abdominal muscles.
Research has shown that an average 40-minute spinning workout will burn about 500 calories. The amount of calories burned will vary, depending on the intensity and duration of the workout.
technique
A typical spinning program lasts about 40 minutes and is often led by a spinning-certified instructor. During the workout, the instructor uses a variety of visual and auditory techniques such as music and coaching to motivate the class.
Participants are often led through a simulated bike ride, where they follow terrain encountered on an actual bike ride. It includes hill climbs, sprints, and interval training. The participants are able to make adjustments on their cycles, which correspond to the difficulty of the perceived ride.
Heart rate monitors are sometimes worn during the workout to help participants gauge how hard they are working.
