10X Spin

In our last blog we introduced our new 10X Spin class. This month I want to talk to you about the benefits of the class and how it could enhance your training regime.

I often hear people talk about the love/hate relationship they have with spinning; they hate how hard it can be but love their Fitbit telling them how many calories they have burnt after just 45 minutes of exercise!

I want to start however by saying that the main benefit of spinning (in my opinion) is that you can completely go at your own pace. Whether you are new, recovering from an injury or just not the ‘go hard or go home’ type; you can take control, find your comfort zone and set your own pace. It’s your ride, your time, your workout.

The list of benefits from participating in a spin class are endless but here are my top 5:

1. Increases cardiovascular fitness

Cardiovascular fitness is the ability of the heart and lungs to supply oxygen-rich blood to our muscles allowing them to produce energy so we can move. The greater your cardiovascular fitness is the better you will move and stay active.

Improving Lung capacity (the amount of air you take in with each breath) is another huge benefit of spinning. As we exercise our lungs take in oxygen which in turn is delivered to our muscles that are being used to complete the exercise. 

During the spinning class (as you learn to exert yourself more) you will start to gain a better understanding of how to control your breathing. This can also have a positive impact on dealing with anxiety as it helps to lower the heart rate when it is at its highest.

2. Release your happy hormones

As you exercise your body releases feel-good hormones called endorphins into your bloodstream. These endorphins interact with receptors in your brain to trigger positive feelings in your body.

Jump on a spin bike and I am positive you will feel better for it. Riding as a group in the studio can make you feel part of a team, which alongside pumping music and an electric atmosphere will add to the feel-good factor. You may feel physically exhausted after but mentally you will be on a high!

3. Definition for your legs and abs

Spinning isn’t just about getting on a bike and pedalling; there is a certain amount of technique required to do it you know! Correct posture is vital; as you ride your upper body will get into a rhythm that helps your legs set the pace. The movement from a slightly bent position to a side to side one (common in quick climbs) work both the central and oblique abdominals.

One of the best advantages of spinning is the increase in muscle definition to your legs and core muscles as these are the main muscles you use when you ride. The more muscle mass you have the more calories you will be burning everyday even when at rest. That’s got to be a win in anyone’s book! 

It’s also worth mentioning that spinning is kinder on your joints. If you have joint issues spinning could be a better option than other forms of higher impact cardio.

4. Relieve stress

FACT- exercising reduces stress. As I mentioned above when you exercise you release endorphins (your feel-good hormone). It makes you feel good about yourself and boosts confidence; all of which help reduce stress within our daily lives. Spinning will also build mental strength; pushing yourselves through a class, smashing those climbs and zoning in on an endurance track all help towards building a better mental discipline.

5. Calorie burn

Spinning can be a low or high intensity workout. That being said spinning classes are a great way to burn calories, the average calories burnt in a class is between 400-600 depending on the intensity you work at.

Spin is an exhilarating class to participate in; it will have you feeling motivated and will get those endorphins flowing in no time at all. Lose your mind in the music, take your frustrations out on the sprints & climbs, embrace the team dynamic but most importantly enjoy your own ride.

Lou and I look forward to seeing you in our classes soon!

Helen