Spin Class Workout

I don’t workout. I can’t say that I’ve entirely “let go,” but for the past three years I’ve gone up a pant size or two..maybe three. Lol. It’s a weird feeling after consistently being the same size for years, but cross out weekly dancing, running up and down the stairs 3-4 times a week at work to having a desk job, squeeze in a breakup, add a dash of stress, mix in bad eating habits and bring on the extra pounds. Since I noticed my jeans were getting smaller, I’ve taken up swimming and attended a free dance class here and there. I even tried yoga, Wii fit and pole, but still don’t have a consistent workout regimen. It has become tougher to follow as I’ve gotten older, but I think it is better to make the necessary changes now rather than later…

A few weeks ago, I was invited to the Bed-Stuy YMCA to participate in my first ever spin class. I’ve always wanted to try spinning. A year or two ago, I purchased a Groupon; I even planned on going as a Park n Rec center member, but it never happened. Apparently spin is a big thing. You have to sign up to reserve your spot and there are some that wait on the side in case of a no-show. I secretly wished my name wasn’t called because I thought I just wasn’t ready. I automatically went to the back of the class when the doors opened. If I messed up or wasn’t up for a certain set, at least nobody would see right? WRONG! This instructor walked around the class the whole night; I couldn’t even fake it if I wanted to. KNOWING I was a newbie, he even cranked up my resistance for one set! My initial reaction was ‘This man is crazy!’, but it got better as the class went on.

As a self-proclaimed “Spin Survivor,” I wish I had these tips before me first class:

1. Bring water. You will sweat…a lot
I had this feeling I would die after seeing a woman waiting for class to start with her gallon of water. I had no clue I would sweat so much. This isn’t a class to look cute. My class was in the dark, with the door open and fans blowing. Weird. I don’t know how people like that, but I got off my seat with a mini puddle below me.

2. The seats are uncomfortable
I don’t know if it’s because I’m short or what (well I’m 5′ 4″..pretty average), but I could not get comfortable at all. Is this done purposely? I adjusted it, my boyfriend adjusted it, the instructor came and adjusted it. I just gave up. Omg between my crack and ummm yeah I don’t know how people are lining up for that kind of soreness.

Of course my legs hurt the next day, but the overall class was good. The instructor DID cut me some slack on a set or two. I guess he saw that I was trying my best to keep up with everyone. I attended a pretty mixed class so the music catered to everyone. I LOVED that he played a mix of pop, house, hip-hop, reggae and soca. I’d do it again.