5 Benefits of Cycling
We all know those struggles with the gym: It can be hard to find motivation to go, we get bored, it’s hard to push yourself when working out alone…the list goes on. These struggles can be addressed through group exercise classes such as spinning classes. This post is going to talk about the benefits of cycling.
You may have heard a lot about the cycling craze as cycle studios are open across the world.
Today I want to talk about the benefits of cycling classes.
I have used SoulCycle the most so I will be referencing benefits more specific to their classes, but I know there are a lot of other great cycle studios out there as well. So if there isn’t a SoulCycle where you live I’m sure you can find other options as well!
I know starting a new workout class can be intimidating – you don’t know what to wear, where to go, you don’t know the choreography (or that there would even be choreography in a cycling class????).
So before I get to all the benefits of cycling, let’s talk about what to expect.
You purchase classes ahead of time and actually reserve a specific bike. Pick a spot where you’re going to feel comfortable.
For your first time I may not recommend the first row because those are often the veterans who cycle religiously, and I find that intimidating right off the bat.
Be sure to get to the studio about 15 minutes ahead of time to get set up and not stress about being late.
They also have lockers for you to stow all of your stuff while you’re in class so you’ll want to get that prepared ahead of time.
When you get to the studio, you’ll check in at the front desk and someone will ask you to sign a waiver because it’s your first time.
You’ll also be asked if you need water or shoes – both are a few dollars extra.
The shoes are special in that they lock into the pedals on the bike – so since you probably don’t own a pair when going the first time, be sure to rent them. I find that they run true to size.
During your first visit, someone will help you get set up at your bike. The handle bars and seat adjust to fit your specific body the best so you can be comfortable during your 45 minute ride.
You will also have a pair of hand weights attached to the bike and you can exchange them for a different weight amount at the front.
They have 1-5 lbs, and although 5 does not sound like a lot – take it easy the first time around. Trust me – you’ll be REALLY feeling it by the end of the weight portion.
Once you’re set up, you will probably have a few minutes to warm up and stretch before class starts.
And then you’re ready to go for your first cycling class and starting reaping the benefits of cycling!
There will be a teacher riding at the front facing the class for you to follow along. During each song, you ride to the beat of the music.
Remember to ease into it, 45 minutes really adds up so you don’t want to spend all of your energy on the first few songs.
One last note – the choreography I mentioned before? During some of the songs, the teacher will lead you through crunches, push-ups, hand claps, etc. on the handle bars to add even more to your workout.
Don’t worry, everyone is a little off the first few times but you’ll get the hang of it. You can also choose to skip the choreography and just keep riding like normal during these times.
Okay, now that you’ve learned about what to expect, let’s talk about all of the benefits of cycling.
1. Keeps you accountable
You reserve your spot in class online or in an app ahead of time, and you can only cancel up to 24 hours before.
That means when you sign up for a class, you have to stick to it. If you get to the time and start feeling a little lazy or want to push off your workout, it’ll cost you the price of class.
This means that I always stick to my commitment of working out when I book a class.
2. The cardio is amazing
Cycling classes are no joke! They are fast-paced and really get the heart pumping. If you follow along with the teacher and add resistance when guided, it can be a really high-calorie burning workout.
3. It’s not just cardio – you get strength training, too.
As I mentioned, you will be using hand weights to strengthen your arms, doing crunches, and doing pushups throughout class.
So in addition to the cardio, you’re also getting a full body strength workout in as well.
4. It has some of the same motivational elements of yoga
That’s right – it’s not just cardio, it’s not just strength training, it’s inspirational, too.
A big theme throughout the class is “Finding your soul” and self-confidence. There is a song – the second to last song typically – that acts as a form of shavasana like in yoga.
The teacher turns the lights down, puts on a tune, and you just ride. Not thinking about choreography or training, you’re just riding for the fun and joy of it.
At the end of class, there is also a stretching portion where you will be guided through deep breaths. For these reasons, I find these classes so good for my mental health in addition to my physical health.
5. The community
Working out alone can be great, but there is also something so amazing about working out in a group, feeling the energy of everyone around you.
It can push you harder to watch others working hard, and it feels good to be part of a group all working towards a similar goal. It also means it can be a great place to meet people and make friends.
There’s definitely a lot of reasons and benefits to join the cycling craze, but these five are the biggest reasons that keep me going.
I know the price can add up, so I don’t overdue it. But throwing these classes into your routine here and there can really help add variety to your workouts and will leave you feeling really inspired to become that fitness queen of your dreams!
Comment below if you love cycling too or if you’re going to try it for the first time 🙂
