Hey guys! So after avoiding the whole "gym" experience for... let's just say a very long time, (a lifetime perhaps?) I decided to finally take advantage of the free classes offered at my gym. I had heard about what a great workout spinning was, as well as how wonderfully it tones your legs, and how quickly people shed weight from doing it so I decided to plunge myself headfirst into it.

Ouch... Both my pride and my legs are hurting after that class because not only did I feel out of my fitness league, but it was all I could do to keep pedaling at my own pace throughout the entire class. I didn't even attempt the intervals and that "stand up, sit down" stuff...I guess my question would be, is this normal? Can I keep trying to make it through the class at my own pace and gradually work my way up to class level or is it expected that I be able to keep up for the most part? Thanks!!

Let's put it this way, I have been consistently working out at the gym for over 2 years now. My first spin class ever was in December and what you described is exactly what I went through! I think spin class in general is meant to be hard so you get a really great workout in.

As you progress you will eventually be able to up your level and include the intervals and jumps. Just keep working at your own pace until you feel the need to push yourself more. That's what I did and now I can easily do the jumps and speed intervals.

When I went to my first spin class the instructor said to do what is comfortable for you...you choose your pedal speed, resistance etc. I can't keep up with sit jumps either so I do what I can. When they're doing four counts up and four counts down I do 8 counts because I can't sit and stand that fast. I also don't pedal anywhere near as fast as anyone else. But I must say the first time I went I lasted maybe 5 minutes (only cuz I was trying to keep with everyone else) and now I'm up to 41 min out of a 60 min class. I go perhaps once a week or less so I'm sure I would be doing 60 min by now if I went regularly. Just relax and enjoy the ride...I wouldn't worry what others are doing...it will come with time and consistency.

Ann Marie

Dear Melting Rose,

Just wondering if the instructor knew this was your first class...usually they will ask if there is anyone new and help you adjust your bike and tell you to go at your own pace at first. I like to introduce myself as a newbie to the instructor so they don't yell at me when I do something wrong or go at my own pace . My butt was very sore the first few times but you do get used to it. The main question is (despite the soreness and the feeling that you couldn't do everything) did you enjoy it? It will definitely take some time to get used to it but the main thing is to have fun. I noticed at my gym people either love spinning or hate it...so give it a few more chances but if you don't like it, maybe there is another type of class you enjoy. Good luck to you.

Thank you for all the replies! I did out myself as a newbie upfront and my instructor helped me adjust the seat and everything, but it still felt like I should have been doing more in the class, even though my pitiful pace was actually very difficult for me, haha. It makes me feel a lot better that I'm not the only one who has to work up to that level. It's also nice to know that it does get better!

I'm planning on going 3 times a week I think. Today I really hated it, but that was more because I felt out of place and like I wasn't working as hard as everyone else, even though I was doing all that I could. I know that I'll actually really like it once I get the hang of it and can keep up with the class. I think being in a class is more motivating for me to work harder than I would on my own.

Good luck meltingrose! I've been going to the gym 4-6 days a week for a couple years now and the most exciting part is the more you go, the easier it becomes. It takes about 21 days to make a habit, so go as much as you can in those first couple of weeks and then you'll be hooked and will miss it when you're not there.

Also have you tried pilates?

Yeah, that's great to hear. I have always had a hard time pushing myself to go workout as well as to push myself really hard during whatever workout I manage to do. I guess I'm just a very lazy/out of shape person by nature haha. My motto in life is basically "I run when something is chasing me"...

I have tried pilates, but only from a video at home. Also very difficult, those moves fatigue my muscles very quickly!

Here's another question: How long did it take those of you who started a spinning class to feel on par with the rest of the class? I'm trying to figure out a realistic time line of how far to push myself.

spin is definitly a challenge - I still have issues getting out of saddle. Get some bike shorts - it really helps with the sore booty.

i came here to post this, too. the squishy bike shorts are a godsend if you're going to be spinning regularly! your lady bits will thank you.

Hey guys, just thought I'd give an update! I made it through my second class this morning and I have to say that it was much better than the first. I think I knew what to expect going in, so I was more prepared for it. I managed to push myself harder and felt like a got a good workout! (The people around me are also very encouraging, good to know that everyone starts at ground zero.)

The advice about the shorts is a pretty good idea. After two classes my backside is hurting like none other. Maybe those gel seat covers are a good idea....