Prep for your first spin class with these top tips

Intimidated by those scary rows of bikes? We’ve all been there. Walking into your first spinning class can be a little daunting. Here are a few top tips to help you prepare your body and mind.

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Arrive 15 minutes early

Running straight from work to your first spinning class? Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Allow time to say hello to your instructor and have them help you set up your bike. If you’ve never done this before you’ll definitely want to have the assistance of your instructor. If you want to know a little about it beforehand, here’s a brief overview of how to set up your bike:

• Sit on the saddle of the bike and position the ball of your foot on the pedal.
• Your legs should be extended straight on each pedal without your hips rocking from side to side on the saddle.
• Another way to measure this is to get off of the bike and set the saddle to the height of your hip bone.
• It’s worth getting your bike set up right, as you don’t want to be uncomfortable for the next hour.

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Start with some stretches

A few gentle stretches in the days leading up to your first class would not go amiss! You’ll be exerting yourself and using muscles that you may not have used in quite a while. So it’s definitely worth prepping your legs in advance. Also, many people find themselves performing an involuntary death grip on the handlebars during their first session. Combat sore fingers afterwards by using some hand grips or including hand stretches in your preparatory workout.

Dress the part

Wondering what one wears at their first spinning class? You don’t need to be kitted out like you’re off to the Tour de France. But having a few essentials will make sure you can make the most of the session. Wear comfortable clothing that’s not baggy or loose so nothing gets caught on the pedals. It’s a good idea to have a sports bra that won’t rub. If you’re doing it right then you’ll probably sweat a LOT. So sweatbands are also a good accessory to sport.  

Drink water in advance

Spinning exerts a lot of energy and you’ll find yourself sweating excessively. It’s important to drink plenty of water before your class. You shouldn’t feel the need to guzzle as much during, and feel it sloshing around in your stomach throughout your session.

Definitely take a towel!

If you think you can get away without taking a towel, you’re sadly mistaken. Spinning is notorious for zapping between 400 and 600 calories per session. Part of the reason is due to the amount of sweating involved. Don’t forget to bring a small towel along to wipe down after your class, which can sometimes last as long as an hour. Did we mention you’re going to sweat, A LOT?

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