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The scoop on spinning
What is it? Spinning is an aerobic exercise that you do on a specially designed stationary bicycle called a spinning bike. This bike is unique because the resistance on the front wheel can be adjusted. While you pedal, the instructor talks you through a visualisation of an outdoor cycling workout while motivational music plays in the background. You might hear, 'You're going up a steep hill now, so don’t give up’ during a tough part of the workout, and then, ‘You made it. Enjoy the downhill ride’ during the less strenuous part of the class. The pace varies throughout the workout — sometimes you’re pedalling as fast as you can, other times you change the resistance and pedal slowly from a standing position. This helps you to focus inwardly and work on your mind as well as your body.
Why we love it: Spinning burns serious calories (about 450 in 45 minutes) and offers an excellent aerobic workout that makes your heart pump fast. It also tones your quadriceps (the ones on the front of your thighs) and outer thigh muscles like you wouldn’t believe. Because you stay in one place with the same basic movement throughout, spinning doesn't involve a lot of co-ordination. And although you should try and follow the instructions of the spinning teacher, you are in complete control of your pace. You can end your spinning session simply by adjusting your pace or the tension knob on the bike.
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