Running to Me: A Spin on Running
We’re all Many of us ar
e huge running fanatics but even the best road runners need some time off the beaten path. It’s time to think about getting on the spin bike bandwagon. For those that might be looking to try something different taking a spinning class at your gym is an awesome motivator.
Spinning is a terrific all over body workout that will blast a load of calories in just 45 – 60 minutes. You’ll seriously sweat buckets, which can feel o’ so good. Double bonus is it’s a low-impact exercise, which means your joints will thank you. Spinning is a great alternative if you’re recovering from an injury.
You choose your workout. The resistance on the bike is determined by you, so crank it up to maximize your efforts.
Having a class with a good instructor is going to be key to keeping you going to classes. An instructor should kick your a** – in the best way – encourage you to push yourself and check your form. And I think they should have the best music, that keeps me moving for sure.
Working out as a group in spin class will push you to work out a bit harder, as a high exercise vibe in the room is contagious.
Might I suggest not to forget a good workout towel and water bottle! Now get those wheels moving and give spin class a whirl.
Anyone a fan of cycling or spin? How often do you try to alternate your workouts?
- Nichole
(Nichole’s motto is to take life, fitness and well-being in stride. Nichole is an overall sports enthusiast with a serious love for running, cycling, triathlons, hiking, skiing, and well, almost anything outdoors. Nichole believes working out and staying fit should be a lifestyle and not “work.” You can check her out on her blog LivefortheRun, or follow along on Twitter @livefortherun.)
I was skeptical about spin class for a long time because as a cyclist I would much rather be outside on my bike. But this winter I decided to give the class a try so that I could maintain some kind of base throughout winter. I was so surprised at how much of a hard workout spin class was!
Not only that, it helped keep my cycling fitness all winter and the transition back outside this spring was easy. I also feel like a stronger runner because of my cycling.
Oh that’s awesome to hear – I think everyone “gets it” after their first time around. My strength and endurance has definitely increased bc of spin as well.
I love, love, love my Spin Class. It not only cross trains, breaks up my running training, but it has help me find my ‘fast’ muscles. Since I started taking Spin, my fast races (10k and below) have set PR’s.
Great article, and you hit the nail on the head, or the seat on the bike!
Fast muscles – couldn’t agree more! Awesome news on your PRs, I agree I’ve seen big improvements with my races.
When I spinning and running I find that I am in the best shape. It is definitely something that I have been slacking on over the past year and would love to get back into a spin class.
Once you start going again it’s easier to get addicted. You never forget how to ride:)
So glad you posted on this topic! I’m a spin instructor so am a HUGE fan, obviously. It also kept me in shape when I was injured this winter and couldn’t run…it’s such a fun way to get in a kick ass cardio workout (you’re right you’re instructor SHOULD push you to the max!). What I also love about spin is that people of all different levels can take the same class since everyone controls their own resistance. no crazy dance moves to keep up with or serious coordination required!
Amen! I agree with you on so many points! Having people of all shapes, sizes, and levels in one room is pretty cool to see. No crazy dance moves – yeeeess!
I’m embarrassed to admit it, but in my 16 years of running and five years of cycling I’ve never taken a spin class! However, I can attest to cycling being great cross-training and nice and easy on the joints.