There's a knob below the handlebars that allows you to adjust the tension, making pedaling easier or harder, as you ride down flat roads, up mountain sides, and down hills. Spinning bikes are equipped with a weighted flywheel in the front that picks up speed as you pedal, and the seats and handlebars are adjustable, so you feel like you're riding on a real bike. Classes are usually 45 to 50 minutes long and are set to music.Īside from the group energy, one of the things that makes spin classes so much better than regular stationary cycling is the bikes themselves.

The instructor then takes the class on a 'ride' that includes sprints, hill climbs, and other fun exercises like intervals and circuits. (You can stretch your way to lean, lovely legs, too.) Classes consist of anywhere from a half dozen to 20 participants perched atop special stationary bikes. What should I know before I start?Īnswer: Spinning, or studio cycling, is an excellent workout to strengthen your heart and tone your legs. I have never done this type of cardio before. Question: I am interested in starting spin classes to slim my legs.