I cant believe how fast I am seeing results from taking spin classes at the gym.  I  can see real definition in my legs, they are getting stronger, and my butt is getting tight.  Woo hoo!  No more junk in the trunk :  )  I am totally drenched by the time I leave the class , and my legs feel like jello, but its so worth it.  I cant believe how much fun working out could be.  There is more to life than TV and bon bons

this is great to hear! i've always been curious about spin class, and have even ventured in a few times but always find myself totally wiped out by the end of the class (almost to an embarassing point!) how long did it take you to adjust to the activity and to see results?

congrats!

heather

 I've been taking spin for about 3 weeks.  I have been doing a lot of cross training, a boot camp, boxing, kick boxing, swimming, latin dance, and weights.  I am amazed at how my endurance has increased, and how my legs have gotten so much stronger.  I have bad knees, so streghtening my quadraceps has helped take the pressure off of my knees.  I think everyone in the spin class feels like they are going to pass out, the good thing is that you can keep it at a level that is just a little above comfortable, and make it your own personal workout.  I do find myself looking around and make it a little competive for myself.  An enthusiastic instructor helps a lot too.

Hi judiwright! 

Thanks so much for encouraging everyone to try spinning as well as adding a variety into their exercise routine!  By incorporating activities such as boot camp, kick boxing, etc., you will definitely see awesome results!  These type of activities that include bursts of higher intensity, strengthening/toning exercises, etc. will truly will promote maximum fat loss!  

I am also really glad that you mentioned that exercise is actually helping improve your physical ailments, as opposed to promoting them.  By strengthening the muscles around your knees, working your core (abs and lower back), etc. you greatly decrease the possibilities of knee, hip and back injuries! 

Continue to challenge yourself and work hard!  Great job!

Your friend in fitness, 

Kelli

I totally agree!  Spin classes are so effective!  I've been doing a lot of them myself lately, and I love that feeling of fulfillment when walking out of class!!

 Hi people!

I'm gonna go to my first spin class tomorrow and I'm really excited about it. After reading this thread, I am ready to try it :)  Even recruited my hubby (who is probably going to smoke me).

Just wanted to share :)

Hi skyzeternalblue, 

Glad to hear that you're going to give it a try!  And going with your husband??? Even better!!  

Please let me know how you liked it and how you're doing! 

Your friend in fitness, 

Kelli

 I've considered trying a spinning class, mostly because it's offered at a time that I can get to the gym.  I've seen instructions to bring a "gel seat."  Can I buy one at any sporting goods store and approximately what do they cost?  Are there any tips about what I'd be looking for when I buy a gel seat?  Thanks. - Jane

 I heart spin classes as well.  I feel like the weight of the world (and my bum) has released from my shoulders when I leave.  You just need to go at your own pace and continue to challenge yourself with each class so you can work yourself to a good level!

Good luck!!!!!!!

tgraydon:

 I heart spin classes as well.  I feel like the weight of the world (and my bum) has released from my shoulders when I leave.  You just need to go at your own pace and continue to challenge yourself with each class so you can work yourself to a good level!

Good luck!!!!!!!

I'm still trying to get into it and get over that feeling of not being able to keep up with everyone. I so need to keep at it. I would love to kiss my butt goodbye, haha!

 I think that each time you go, you get a little stronger, and you are able to keep up a little better.  I've been in some classes where the instructor goes around and checks the tension on everyones bike, and turns it up if she thinks its not high enough, and some where you can bluff your way through if you wanted to  (i've done that, had the tension low, and just acted like I was working really hard :  )  I know, I was just cheating myself.  But you are the best judge on how you are feeling.  Tonight when I felt like my legs just couldnt take standing, I sat back down and turned the tension down just a little.  After a little rest, I got back up and turned up the tension.  I never stop peddling though.  I'm really into it now.  Everyone is noticing how toned I am getting, it makes it all worth it.

Good luck and have fun with it

Judi

 I got a gel seat about 6 years ago at Target.  I didnt notice that much of a difference with the gel seat.  But it kept slipping, and I stopped using it.  It may have been that I just didnt get a very good one though. 

We are up in a standing position so much, that I dont really need one anymore.

I am however going to get biking shoes that lock onto the peddle.  My toes go numb in my regular running shoes in the stirrup.  They have suggested the shoes in the classes I've been going to. 

 I got the shoes, and do notice a difference with my feet actually attached to the peddle.  You can push down, and pull up with your knees, so you are really using those muscles.  Another thing is isolation exercises, just peddling with one leg, unclipping the other so you can really see which leg is stronger, and strengthen both. You also can see how you peddle, making a smooth circle or kind of a triangle.

Another bonus, a guy at the gym told me that he could she how much I've toned up.  YAY   

Judi 

Can you do the same thing at home on a regular stationary bike as you do in spin class?  I have a stationary bike and was wondering if I could 'stand up' and pedal and get the same effects?  Anyone know?  Thanks!

Katie