bikeman

I was just wondering if there are any other folks out there that participate in a winter training program in group cycling?

I've been doing a group cycling class (Cycle Reebok, a lot like Schwinn Spinning) for the past four winters. I find it more motivating than just trying to stay in shape on the wind trainer in front of the TV. Riding in a group of other fitness folks is a lot more fun and there is an instructor that takes you through a 45 minute routine with music to keep you focused. I did my first class of this winter last night and man it doesn't take long to lose your conditioning. I'm a little creaky this morning. I do have to take a 20 minute drive to the local YMCA but it is worth the drive. Besides I have a bunch of my regular cycling buddies to talk to and it makes for a nice continuation of the cycling year that way.

The funny thing is that many of the people in the class are not cyclists at all. Very few of the instructors are either which I found to be kind of weird. When they find out you are a cyclist they think that is cool and often ask for advice and opinions on cycling related issues like positioning etc. Another plus for you guys is the classes seem to have a high percentage of women of all ages. Nice social group.

If you haven't tried it you might want to check it out. It will kick your a** and you will walk away soaking wet, so bring a towel and water bottle. Remember there isn't a 15 mph breeze to help keep you dry.

So long for now.

velo

I do ride with a group on trainers inside, but not the spinning type classes like you're taking. I have a coach, and he is the person doing the motivating in the class. We do have music on, but the efforts are what we're suppossed to be concentrating on. Everyone in the group is a competitive cyclist, so the workouts are very technical to target our disipline (for instance, sprinters and endurance riders usually have separate workouts).

Next door to our room, there are spinning classes. In those classes, there are also a few recreational cyclists that do them. I think it's really neat that those few help the "non" cyclists to get into the sport more, or just offer suggestions. Keep up the good work, you!

velo

MtnBikerChk

I just started spinning. I've got my heart rate monitor and I know what my goals are - so I kind of run it at my own pace. But the motivation is definitely higher in a group - besides - when someone older than you kicks your a$$, that's motivation enough to GIT GOING!