Becoming a Spinner

Lisa Tidball
Rye Y Director of Communications

Spinning classes have always intimidated me. Why do they keep the lights off? Why does everyone look so serious? I figured you had to already be an accomplished cyclist to take a class. Plus, I didn’t know how to set up a spin bike or if there were unwritten rules I should know.

Finally, I decided to try the Y’s new Wednesday class at 12:15pm. The small class was welcoming and Rosemary, the instructor, showed me how to set up my bike.

I told myself that I would commit to just one class. At first, I felt unnatural and contorted on the bike. Afterwards, my body ached all over and I figured I would need a heavy duty cushion to tolerate the seat again. Yet I didn’t find the class as difficult as I expected. I discovered that I could pedal at my own pace, create my own “hills.” I could choose how much to turn up or down the dial. Surprisingly, constantly standing up and sitting back down on the seat didn’t bother my arthritic knees.

So I tried another class and then another. Now I am a regular in the Wednesday class and find that my hills are getting a bit steeper and my pace faster. My body feels great during and after the class (without a seat cushion).

As a distracted, uncoordinated exerciser, I love that I can lose myself in my thoughts and not worry about tripping. Sometimes I even close my eyes. All I have to do is move my legs around and around – no simultaneous arm movements or double kicks – just variations of the same movement over and over. And it is an amazing workout!

If you’ve ever thought about spinning but were afraid to take the plunge, put on your sneakers and comfortable clothes and join me. You may just find a new passion!

Rye Y Spinning Schedule