I use 'em when I'm short on time. I take advantage of the mirrors to check my form and make adjustments.

My sister (in Denver) says she goes to two-hour spin classes once in a while, so I know they exist...

I've got a question regarding spin classes. A friend of mine has asked if I can fill in as a sub now and then. I've been to spin classes, and I understand the primary components - high intensity workout, music, motivating class leader... etc.

40 minutes appears to be the standard length of time. Let's say 5 min warmup, 5 min cool-down. 30 minutes of focused workout.

My question - what makes a given class decent/great/exceptional during that 30 min? What types of music really help get things going, and how does the instructor interact with the class?

[QUOTE=trainDaBrain;66387]My question - what makes a given class decent/great/exceptional during that 30 min? What types of music really help get things going, and how does the instructor interact with the class?[/QUOTE]

Man, that's a good question.

When you teach a spin class you're faced with so many different personalities, I think it's impossible to make everyone happy. For spin class music, nothing gets me going as much as techno/trance type stuff.

As far as interaction, some people seem to like the "in your face" type instructors, and others prefer instructors that are in their own little zone, but I guess I like ones that are kind of in the middle - they're hands-on without being obnoxious.

I also like it when they use visualization - like you're in a real bike race.

I try to take spin at least once a week during the winter. Our classes are 60 minutes and the instructors are as different as can be. I like the ones who keep you motivated, talking, getting you involved - 60 minutes can otherwise be a looooong boring ride indoors. As for the music, there's always a good mix, and you usually know what's coming by the beat - if it slows down, it's time to go uphill :eek: - the faster music usually means sprint. There are a couple of instructors that try to mix things up, things like facing each other instead of the front or seeing which "row" can sprint/climb longer - anything to keep your mind occupied. Then there's the "know-it-all, overweight, never stays on his bike instructor" - I ALWAYS avoid his class!

Thanks. I haven't had an instructor get off their bike and walk around. That seems odd to me - plus I would worry about slipping with my cleats.

My challenge is now finding some decent music and timing it with the planned workout. Something along the lines of:

Polka for the intervals...
Big band for tempo sections...
Movie soundtacks for out-of-the-seat...
Ska for warm-up and cool-down...

I'm totally kidding about the music. I think polka should be used for cool down only. Leave people with that peppy accordion feeling... ;)

I am a spinning instructor for a couple of years now.

Started when I was a student, then I kept doing it after work...

I have different people, different times, and different exercices.
The shorter the session (40 minutes), the harder I'll go and put up some fast-pacing and tough music. (Techno, this kind of stuff).

The sunday morning, there's the [B]2-hour session[/B]. I love this one. I really bring the athletes to depletion with 6-8 minutes hills, followed by sprints, then push-ups, then hills... they really like it.
Every 30 minutes I get off my bike and check if everyone is okay. Then I get back in the saddle and keep going.

And finally... that's where I met my girlfriend! (I was her instructor). You should really consider trying it ;)

[QUOTE=trainDaBrain;66416]Thanks. I haven't had an instructor get off their bike and walk around. That seems odd to me - plus I would worry about slipping with my cleats.

Most instructors will get off their bikes occassionally to check on someone, but this guy spends most of his time off the bike and is always telling you what you're doing wrong.

Good luck with the polka :D