Spinning has been a staple in the fitness realm since the 90s.
As such, this indoor domesticated version of
rocky mountain cycling has cultivated a large and dedicated following. So the question is: what’s so great about stationary cycling? Well, like any activity that gets you moving – from a basketball game to a
Canadian Rocky bicycle tour – spinning is very healthy for you.
In fact, there is a myriad of benefits you can experience by making this workout a part of your overall health plan and lifestyle.
Keep reading to learn 6 reasons why spinning is good for your health.
1. Gives Your Joints a Break
As a low-impact workout, spinning offers alleviation for your joints.
Unlike running, jumping jacks, high knees, or burpees, spinning is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise. This means it will spare you from the typical knee, hip, and joint pain/injuries associated with high-impact cardiovascular exercises. As a result, you can exercise for longer and more intensely with spinning than you can with its high-impact counterparts.
If you have problems with mobility or joint pain, joining a spin class may be the perfect way to get your exercise in without risking further injury!
2. Reduces Stress
Yoga isn’t the end-all, be-all workout for your mind, body, and emotional well-being.
Spinning begets a rush of adrenaline and releases endorphins, which assist with stress reduction. Endorphins uplift your emotions, improve sleep quality, and alleviate emotional pressure points (stress), among other things. This makes cycling an effective exercise routine for relieving strain and improving your overall fitness.
It takes your mind off of the frustrations of everyday life and places it in the present moment – which is where it should be.
3. It’s Enjoyable
Whether the spin class is in a gym or a fitness studio, the result is always the same post-ride: a group of sweaty and exhausted cyclists feeling amazing and accomplished.
With spinning being such an intense workout, you will burn calories much faster than if you were just passively lifting weights in the gym. You’re also in control of how hard you decide to push yourself, which means you don’t have to worry about going beyond what you’re comfortable with.
And this, coupled with the fast-paced music and a motivational instructor makes the whole experience both fun and engaging.
4. Develops Strength
If you stay consistent, spinning can cultivate muscle strength without you having to worry about bulking up.
Similar to all cardiovascular workouts, indoor cycling doesn’t just target your quads. But rather, it enlists the participation of your entire body. And once the proper form on the bike is applied, you’ll see that you can work your legs, arms, and core – all at the same time.
Every class is designed a bit differently, and this is to build strength, increase endurance, and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
5. Develops Mental Toughness
Spin class is challenging to say the least.
You’re pushing your limits mentally in order to keep pace with both your peers and your instructor. Even though it’s important to listen to your body, pushing beyond the pain and discomfort is a great way to develop mental toughness. It’s this kind of grit that not only develops you mentally but also improves your well-being and sense of self-confidence.
So get on that bike to remain mentally sharp and physically fit!
6. Core Strength
Retaining an upright position by balancing on a bike develops your core.
Why? Because your core has to work in order to maintain balance. Think of your core as the base that provides the foundation needed for your cycling experience. It stabilizes each movement and safeguards you from lower back strain and other kinds of tension and tightness that may occur.
For this reason, attaining proper form is crucial.
And the way to do that is through the engagement of your core. This aspect of spinning is a fundamental that can be mastered through time and practice. And as you begin to get a grasp on it, you’ll be ready for more difficult choreography.
The strength of your core will increase with each passing spin class, so be patient and stay consistent.
Conclusion
Spin classes are perfect for those looking to stay healthy while having fun. There’s a reason spinning has skyrocketed in popularity since its inception in the 1990s. It keeps you fit, allows you to meet and connect with like-minded people, and offers a great environment to top it all off.
At
Rocky Mountain Cycle Tours, we have been offering cycling and hiking tours for 45 years. And our expert team of guides offers an expanse of knowledge and experience to make your trip unforgettable. If you’re interested in learning more,
contact us today for additional information.
