Going from Spin Newbie to Spin Junkie

by ARIELLE SILVERMAN    ★    APR. 27, 2017

The truth about your first spin class and how to totally come out as a champ.

Spinning, have you heard of her?  I’m sure you have, and yeah, she’s a real b****.

Imagine getting onto a spin bike for the first time, and all of a sudden everyone and everything around you seems to be going a hundred miles per hour. That's your basic spin class.   

But let’s back up. Congratulations!  You found the will to make it to your first class.  You made time in your day, you got yourself there and you got on the bike. Giving yourself credit for showing up is important because actually getting to the spin studio can be the hardest part.  

Here is the low down, the spinning 101, the bible to all things spinning: you will sweat. Parts of your legs will burn so badly, they will feel as if they are ripping apart. Your heart will beat so fast you feel as though it will somehow jump out of your body.

But put all of those horrific feelings aside because after you complete the class, you will feel invincible. And the feeling is addicting. So don’t be surprised if you find yourself signing up for a second class.

Now, it’s the morning before your first spin class. How do you prepare? Start

off by eating a light breakfast. A piece of whole wheat toast topped with nut butter and a few  banana pieces will fuel your body and keep you flying through your first ride because it provides an adequate amount of complex carbohydrates and protein. But make sure you don’t eat too soon before your class. To avoid getting cramps, eat about 45 minutes to an hour before your class to give your body enough time to digest. And do not forget about water! Make it a point to drink at least an eight ounce glass of water 20-30 minutes before class.

To make your first spin class a success, first, wear comfortable clothes. You should never be uncomfortable when you feel like you’re basically sweating out the equivalence of your body weight. Also, invest in a pair of spin shoes or wear good quality sneakers. Major bonus: some spin studios will even provide you with specific shoes.

Once you are finally fueled and ready to go, fill up at least one, or maybe two water bottles! You will need it. Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early so you can find your bike and have someone help you set it up. Bike set-up is very important because if done incorrectly, it can affect your ride and potentially cause an injury.

For classes that incorporate arm weights for a full body workout, never feel like you have to reach for the heaviest set. Those are reserved for the hard core cyclists, so definitely check out the different weight options. In fact, you will probably start off with no weights or three lb weights, and work your way up after your first class.

Lastly, don’t forget to breathe! It is easy to get carried away while spinning. The music is pumping, everyone is hustling, and the last thing you need is to be the obvious newbee passing out.  

Now that you officially know the ins and outs of a successful spin class, go kill your first session!