Spin Class
Exercise/Activity #IMWChallenge
Today we have a guest for April 2022 #IMWChallenge of increase in Exercise and Activity to improve your health and vitality.
I have known Dawn and her family for probably two decades now. When I see her all I hear about is how much she loves teaching spin classes and she keeps asking me to go to one of her classes. Spinning for those not aware are indoor cycling classes where you can really get a great workout. So I made a deal with Dawn. I would have her write a guest post for this months #IMWChallenge and she would stop asking me to go to one of her classes.
I wasn’t sure whether she would take me up on my offer.
Dawn ???
Have you ever peeked into a Spin class and wondered what the heck is going on in there? Well, you're in luck because I'm here to tell you and even show you one day if you live local to South Jersey. Cycling classes can begin with a love hate relationship, but then become very addicting when you find one you love. The benefits of spin classes are numerous, but you may not realize them until you come several times. In the beginning, your "seat area" WILL hurt, that is a given, and you may question why you even tried something that produces so much pain down under. But, after a while, you get used to it and begin to enjoy the ride.
Dawn Spin Class Instagram video link.
Now why would anyone want to do this seemingly torturous exercise? Well, for starters, it's low impact and anyone any age or any skill level can try! Many people of all backgrounds get in to cycling because they need to start somewhere, or they have too many injuries from other sports like running, but still want to get a good cardio workout. No matter where you fall, cycling is worth a shot, especially if you like music!
Spin classes are enjoyed in a semi dark room with music playing on stationary bikes. Each bike has adjustments to make the seat high or low depending on height, same for handlebars. Every bike has a tension that you control. The best part is no one knows what you are doing, so you can be working hard or hardly working and no one is judging. You are all going nowhere fast (or slow). You can sit down or stand up and ride, and the instructor will build a class around music pace, tempo and provide guidance on how to follow along. Think Simon Says without the option of being kicked out of the room.
Cycling is a fun way to burn calories, fat, increase bone density, get some sought after endorphins, build community, and generally have a good time. Some classes are like mini parties on a bike. Some are more about power, measuring goals with metrics (some bikes are equipped with consoles to provide feedback/numbers on your ride). Every instructor is different so you may need to try a few to see which one you enjoy the most, but as far as the workout, it can't be beat. If you would like to try one out at Life Time Fitness in Mt. Laurel, please reach out and you can come as my guest. Email me at dawnleusneryoungliving@gmail.com.
Thanks Dawn!
So far we have presented different exercise challenge options such as Yoga, Tennis and now Spin. There are more yet in store so stay tuned. But try and find what you like best to increase your activity/exercise for better health, unless of course you are in the small minority who already surpasses your exercise needs.
Meme/Pic of the Day
Although I’m a fan of actual bike riding outside in the fresh air and sunlight, this is another option to get people to start being more active. Lots of good info presented about the benefits, but I will suggest that “increasing bone density”, is actually incorrect. Cycling is very low impact which is great for stressing joints less than running for example, but that also means that it is not “load bearing” enough to induce bone strengthening. I would strongly suggest that some resistance training is added to supplement cycling/spin classes. I would also recommend mineral supplementation if you are one that sweats or if you spin with enough intensity to sweat. As usual the big 4(Mg, Ca, K, Na). If you are “carnivorous” and/or and have limited leafy Green intake, I would also recommend VitD & VitK2 supplementation.
It’s not a “need” but more of a “want”. 🤣