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11 Replies Last post: Jan 22, 2008 1:34 PM by cgilbert46135  
Click to view cgilbert46135's profile Amateur 27 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
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Jan 19, 2008 7:11 AM

anyone ever done any spinning?


In my quest to lose about 70 lbs I have stumbled accross one of those early morning info-mercials about spinning... looks very intense...anyone out there ever done any of it and is it a good way to lose weight and has anyone ever bought that system off of tv?


thanks


Chris

Click to view harrnjos's profile Pro 136 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
1. Jan 19, 2008 7:53 AM in response to: cgilbert46135
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?

I've taken spin classes at my gym. They are great classes, for people of all fitness levels. The spin bikes have adjustable resistance, so the class can be as hard or easy as you want. Beginners and people who work out alot can be in the same class. No one can tell how high or low the resistance on each bike is set, so those who are just starting out don't need to be worried about looking out of place. Also, spinning works different leg muscles than running, so it's a great addition to a fitness routine.


That being said, actual spin bikes are very expensive. They are very adjustable (much more than a standard exercise bike) to fit anyone. I'd be concerned that a spin bike from the T.V. wouldn't be made very well. They might not have everything needed to actually do spinning. If you are interested in getting a spin bike, try taking a few classes at your local gym. That way you won't make a large investment, and perhaps find you don't enjoy spinning.


Click to view harrnjos's profile Pro 136 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
3. Jan 19, 2008 8:25 AM in response to: cgilbert46135
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?
If you can't take a spinning class, do you enjoy riding a bike outside? Spinning is much more like riding a bike outside, with hills, than a standard exercise bike. The scenery isn't as great, but you get a similar workout from spinning as you do riding a bike outside.

Spinning is a great cardiovascular workout. It can be easy enough for a beginner while challenging a very physically fit person. It's great exercise for people of any size, since it isn't weight bearing. Also, it can burn 400-500 calories per hour.


That being said, walking and running are also excellent forms of exercise. Unlike spinning, they don're require lots of special equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Both have exellent health benefits and can be done by almost anyone. There are many types of exercise. Decide which types you enjoy and do them, as one is much more likely to keep it up long term. Good luck.

Click to view joescoolagain's profile Legend 1,072 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
6. Jan 22, 2008 6:08 AM in response to: cgilbert46135
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?

Yes! I just recently started going again. And I agree with everything that the other poster said!

You did mention that gym being far away? How about visiting it at least once or twice to see how you like it?

Click to view imartin26's profile Amateur 11 posts since
Nov 20, 2006
7. Jan 22, 2008 7:04 AM in response to: joescoolagain
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?
Yeah I have been spinning off and on for about 4 years and have been doing it steadily now for about 6 months. I love the classes and try to attend at least 5 a week. I think spinning in a group environment is much better and for me at least helps me stay motivated.
Click to view csickels's profile Pro 96 posts since
Oct 23, 2007
8. Jan 22, 2008 8:06 AM in response to: cgilbert46135
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?

i agree with the other posters, just do spinning classes at a gym. never, ever order exercise equipment off the TV. if the machines on TV were so great, they would be available in stores.

Click to view cab4me's profile Amateur 20 posts since
Jan 16, 2008
9. Jan 22, 2008 10:42 AM in response to: cgilbert46135
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?
I think spinning is a great form of cardiovascular exercise. I'm new to running but you really sweat a lot in a spin class. I'm in agreement with the others that a gym is best. Also if you find that you like spinning invest in bike shoes . It is worth the money. They really help when you lift up off the saddle.
Click to view shacky68's profile Rookie 7 posts since
Jul 9, 2007
10. Jan 22, 2008 12:10 PM in response to: cab4me
Re: anyone ever done any spinning?

I do spin classes at my local gym once in awhile. It's an awesome cardio workout but I can't imagine it having the same "intensity" at home unless you have an accompanying CD or DVD.

When I was fairly new to spinning, I mistakenly stereotyped a "heavyset" instructor and thought it'd be an easy class (Yes, I admit I can be an *** sometimes). She then proceeded to kick my butt and I had to leave the class about 15 minutes early since I thought I was going to throw up from sheer exhaustion. I'll never make that kind of assumption again.

One of my goals for this year is to match the instructors intensity for the full hour and leave the class feeling like I could have done more.