Many years ago I got injured running and I was looking for a good alternative that would provide similar cardio results. I am not graceful or coordinated so aerobic and step classes scared me. Mainly for the injuries I could have caused other people by tripping over them or missing a step. Spinning seemed like a great option.

Spinning is the closest thing I have found to running in terms of the quality of the workout I get. You sweat your ass off, give most of your major muscles a good workout in a short amount of time, and raise your heart rate. As you know, I am a busy mom, so I am all about the best bang for your buck in the shortest amount of time when it comes to working out!

I have incorporated spinning into my workout regime ever since. I don’t like to run every day so I mix it up with a spin class here and there.

The best thing is, it doesn’t require any kind of gear than what you already own. Workout shorts and a shirt and a pair of shoes! Anyone can do it, regardless of coordination, and unlike on a real bike, speed really doesn’t matter because no one’s going to be leaving you in their dust! Another great thing is that you are constantly cycling to fun, upbeat music! The instructor usually is talking you through an imaginary outdoor ride to keep it interesting.

Most gyms have spinning classes and in my experience, most gyms don’t charge extra for them, and if they do, it’s not an exorbitant amount! I’ve also noticed that most of the guys in the class have great legs, so if you’re following Suzy’s advice to meet a guy through fitness, well then this might be a great place to do it, because you’ll at least find a man with some juicy yum yums! (Not those yum yums, you nasty girl!)

Another great thing about spinning, is that it’s a great option for pregnant women who find the bouncing of running and aerobics uncomfortable. For more on this, see my Exercise During Pregnancy article.

One thing I wish I had known when I first started, was to go early to have the instructor help me set my bike up the correct way. Suzy and her tech-phobia is still fearful of going to a class because she says the bikes are complicated. But don’t let this stop you. Once you know how to do it, just remember your settings and you’ll be able to do it on your own from then out. But bring a towel and be ready to sweat! Your towel will be drenched, and so will you, by the end of your session!