A NEW LEASE—on Life!

By Judit Rajhathy, B.A., RNCP, D.Ac.

Bike and Burn - Safely

 

spinningI must admit I am a spin addict. And of all the different activities I have taught and tried over the years, it is what I keep coming back to. You do not need to be coordinated, musical, competitive or especially talented. I have been spinning for several years, both in Mexico and in Canada—and the absolute best, most fun, most effective class is right here at Lakeside, close to Chapala. It is such high energy with the most amazing music, involving all the riders even in song! I swear this class is worthy of a You Tube production.

 

What is Spinning?

“We’re going up an incline now - nearing the top - ahhhh! Lean into it - turn up your resistance! Okay! We made it right to the top! Let yourself go - release your tension - down we go - the other side of the mountain!” These are the words you often hear in a spin class as you pedal on a stationary bike specialized to perform these functions - all to funky music.

 

Why Spin?

Burn baby burn! A good spin class lasting an average of 45 minutes burns as much as 500 calories! I have seen pounds melt away in a very short period of time.

Great cardiovascular workout! Varying the intensity gives you even better results. It has been proven that interval training is more beneficial than one long spurt. One song is slow and another fast. And you move your legs, your body in time to the music.

Low impact! Unless you have serious knee issues requiring a knee replacement, spinning can be less impact than a treadmill, stair stepper and even an elliptical, depending on your particular issues. And because you are in a class with hot music, and other motivated teammates you are working!

Progress at your own speed! Each bike has a dial that controls resistance so that you can monitor your own tension. If you are a beginner you ride at less tension than if you are a seasoned rider.

Time flies when you are having fun! Group energy, group sweating and spraying, great music and a fabulous instructor who is riding with you - what else do you need?

Toning your butt, legs, and yes, even abs! Only three spin classes a week, using some good resistance, standing, leaning forward and back, crouching and sitting will work the entire body.

Mental strength and self-discipline! There are good spin days and not so good spin days - depending on many things - mainly what you were doing the night before or how     much rest you have had. It helps you push through your own resistance. It is excellent in increasing endorphins - your ‘feel good’ hormones!

Detoxification and hydration! If you are working hard in a spin class you are sweating profusely which is great for your body. I can easily go through a 1.5 liter bottle of water during one class. Using an electrolyte drink can be useful as well.

Come and try a spin class. Join my addiction!

Judit Rajhathy is the author of the Canadian best-selling book, Free to Fly: a journey toward wellness and can be reached at: 765-4551 or at www.juditrajhathy.com

 

 

 

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