7 Hot Tips You Need To Know Before Your First Spin Class

7 things you need to know before your first spin class It is the craze that shows no signs of slowing down. If you have flicked through a fitness magazine, have watched a chick flick or stalk your favourite celebrity Instagram pages, then chances are you have witnessed that all empowering ‘spin class image. However if you think your first spin class is going to be a walk in the park and a chance to socialize on the weekend, think again. Going in unprepared will leave a sour taste in your mouth. Here is what you need to know.  

1. Arrive early: Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before your class to set up your bike and to familiarise yourself with the settings. The success of your class will depend on it. Don’t be shy and ask your instructor if your bike is at the right height. Your seat height is extremely important, as you need to be at a height that allows full knee extension. At the same time, you don’t want to be so high that you need to lift off your seat to reach the pedals. 

 2. Wear appropriate clothing. There is no nice way of saying this, but you will sweat… a lot. Expect a wet seat and sweaty back so ensure you wear dark gym wear and tights that allow a full range of movement, which takes us to our next point. 

3. Bring a towel. You need to come with a towel in hand and if you forget yours, you may as well cancel your class and come back the next day. That is unless you are happy to build a small puddle of sweat under your bike.

4. Hydrate: Then then hydrate some more. Ensure you have adequate water intake in the days leading up to your class and follow with an electrolyte replenishing drink when you finish. 

5.  Know your terms: As with any sport and exercise craze, there are certain terms you should familiarise yourself with before you attend your first class. Cadence is at the top of the list. Cadence refers to the pedaling speed in resolution per minute (RPM), which means if you are given an RPM of a 100, one pedal will make a complete revolution 100 times in a minute. 

6. Focus and be present: While you will be battling with yourself and focusing on pushing your endurance levels, do remember to listen to the instructor and keep up with the RPM changes. 

7. Practice good hygiene. Don’t walk out of your class without wiping down your bike with an antibacterial spray or wipe. Your gym will provide them for you and we would hate for you to be the one with the mad manners if you don’t.