6 Things You Need to Know Before Your First Indoor Cycling Class

Signing up for your first indoor cycling class can be mega intimidating. But the growing trend has a cult following for a reason: Adrenaline-infused rides filled with feel-good camaraderie and bumpin’ playlists make great low-impact cardio workouts—and provide a major endorphin boost!Before you get in the saddle (that’s cycling lingo for seat), here’s everything you need to know about tackling your first indoor cycling class.1. Register online before your desired class date.SPYN opens online booking two weeks in advance, which means you need to be on top of your reservations game. Classes can fill up pretty quickly, especially if they are at prime pre- or postwork times for the 9-to-5 crowd. Registration is also the point where you’ll choose which bike you want. “I always recommend that new riders sit where they feel most comfortable!” says Heather M. (Instructor) “Make sure you have a clear view of the instructor so that you can be sure to easily check in with their form and instruction.” Another pro tip? Don’t be afraid to look in the mirror! This will allow you to check your form during class.

2. We have shoes you can borrow.Our bikes require cycling-specific shoes that clip into the pedals for riders to wear during class. The purpose? Clipping in creates a more efficient pedal stroke, and ultimately a smoother experience. Instead of worrying about your feet spinning out of a plastic cage, you can focus on keeping the right RPM (rotations per minute). Cycle shoes aren’t super expensive, but we want to make sure that this is affordable for everyone, so we provide them for FREE! If you want a more personalized look though, you should check out the selection at our local bike shops like Steven’s Bicycles, Rubber Soul Bicycles, or The Bike Shop @ Woodward.

3. You’ll want to wear clothes that are good at wicking sweat (especially on the bottom).You’re going to work hard, which means you’re going to sweat…a lot. “I usually suggest sweat-wicking leggings or crops” Gina L (Instructor) says. “Up top, I lean toward a sports bra with a loose-fitting tank to keep things breezy but supported.”

4. Make sure to arrive at the studio 10 to 15 minutes before class.We have lockers for you to store your stuff, as well as rooms for changing and getting cleaned up before or after class. Getting to the studio early gives you time to get organized, fill your water bottle (you’re going to need it!), and set up your bike before the show gets on the road.5. The right bike setup is critical for a great ride—and to avoid injury.“Spin classes are known for being a killer cardio workout that’s easy on your joints—that is, if your bike is set up correctly,” says Sommer S (instructor). “Every body is different, and a lot of bikes are, too.” So what are we looking for? Make sure your seat is at about waist height and allows for a slight bend in your knee when extending through the pedal stroke. Handlebars should be either level with the seat or slightly higher to prevent any low-back tension, and the distance from your seat to the handlebars should a forearm’s length. “Don’t feel like you need to be bent over, racing the Tour de France.” Jessica M (instructor) added that “your knees and elbows should never be locked out. You want to have a soft bend at all times.” Still not sure you’ve got the right positioning? You can ALWAYS ask an instructor or studio staff to give you a hand. Don’t be shy, that’s what they’re there for!

6. Do not freak out if you don’t have rhythm. We repeat: Do NOT freak out.A cycling class is supposed to be fun. Part of that fun is riding to the beat of an instructor’s jam-packed playlist. Just because you may not have the skills to join Jennifer Lopez on tour as a backup dancer doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy every music-fueled minute of class. “Although it may feel like a challenge the first few rides to find the beat, your body will adjust as you gain strength in new muscles that will help coordinate your body to move to the rhythm,” says Mackenzie H(instructor)Still not getting the hang of it? “Pick a favorite song and simply practice walking on the beat of the music,” suggests Mackenzie. “Once you master the ability to put one foot in front of the other, it’s the same thing on a bike!”

Charity Rides for Strides Against Breast Cancer

October 19th9:00 am & 10:00 am$25 donation to ride, all proceeds will go to Strides Against Breast Cancer.We will have food, prizes and vendors!

Lisa AKA SOUNDRIDE from GRIT Cycle in Costa Mesa is hosting a “master class” at SPYN on October 19th at 5:30pm. Lisa is passionate about rhythm based classes and you have the exclusive opportunity to SPYN with her! A $25 donation is required to ride and all proceeds will be donated to Strides Against Breast Cancer Reserve your spot now in the SPYN App!

Upcoming Theme Rides

Tonight @ 6:30 – The Evolution of Michael JacksonMonday Oct. 14 @ 5:00 am – Race Day RideMonday Oct. 14 @ 6:30 pm – Hip Hop & EDM RideMonday Oct. 14 @ 7:30 pm – Back to the 90s RideWednesday Oct. 16 @ 5:00 am – Gwen Stefani vs FergieWednesday Oct. 16 @ 6:30 pm – The Evolution of Eminem