Cycling Class

I have been trying to get into a regular workout routine, but some weeks do not go as well as others. Admittedly, there are some weeks I do not go to the gym at all. But, there are also some weeks that I go more frequently.

It always seemed like a hard task to find a workout that I really enjoyed. I tried a weight training class and realized it wasn’t for me by the second class. I tried simply using a treadmill or stair master, but it didn’t give me a sense of accomplishment. But, there was one thing that I enjoyed participating in and felt accomplished afterwards: cycling class.

When I went into it, I only really had movies and t.v. shows to use as reference—which didn’t seem too hard. I was excited yet nervous. By the end of my first class, I was pleasantly surprised.

At the facility that I use, there are many cycling bikes placed around the room. They are all facing the instructor’s bike, which is placed on a platform. The room is dark, aside from some string lights in the instructor’s area.

What truly signifies the start of the class is music. The instructor will have a set playlist of songs for their routine. There are different elements to the routine, such as: sprints, “riding through the mud,” “climbing the mountain” and “climbing the mountain through the mud.”

My personal favorite has to be “climbing the mountain,” which is essential standing while you pedal to the beat of the music. When doing this, I tend to focus more on the music and beat more than anything else. It makes the time go by a little faster.

My least favorite would probably be “riding through the mud,” as this just references to the resistance on the bike. The more resistance you add, the harder it is to keep the pedals spinning. But, if you have a good groove going, you will find it to be a little less of a challenge.

Depending on your instructor there may be a little extra things added to each routine. One instructor I have recently taken a class with liked to add little push-up elements to the routine while riding.

By the end of class, I am typically covering in sweat from the 45-minute class. However, I do feel a sense of accomplishment when I leave. I feel as if I am truly doing something that is beneficial for me. Although I am no expert at this workout, I highly recommend you give it a try!