We’re on a road to nowhere
Come on inside
Takin that ride to nowhere
Well take that ride

My apologies to the Talking Heads for appropriating the lyrics to their excellent song. It just popped into my head. Actually, indoor group cycling classes may be the road to nowhere for the cycle you ride, but they can definitely be the road to a great destination for you on your fitness journey.

These classes are a very good alternative to some other types of exercise classes, because they benefit individuals with all levels of fitness and coordination. There’s no impact on the joints, and no need to learn tricky dance moves.

The classes are frequently referred to as ’spinning’ classes, but Spinning is a registered trademark of the original organized group cycling classes. Referring to all group cycling as ’spinning’ is similar to calling all soda ‘coke’ or all tissues ‘kleenex’. To confuse the issue some more, experienced cyclists also refer to using a high rpm in an lower gear as ’spinning’. Whew!

The classes are led by an instructor and utilize up-tempo music for additional inspiration. The instructor will indicate the speed and resistance you should be using.

The cycle must be set up properly in order to get the full benefit of the class. Some tips:

• Position the seat so there is a slight bend in the knee when you have the heel of your foot on the pedal. Placing the heel on the pedal is only for checking this adjustment. Don’t pedal the bike with your heels.

• Keep the handlebars even with or slightly below the seat. If you feel any back discomfort, make whatever adjustments are necessary.

• When in the riding position, the elbows should be bent slightly and when you have both pedals at the same height, the knees should be directly over each pedal. Adjust the seat back or forth to achieve this position.

Read the rest of this getting fit with group cycling article

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