spin

Spin

There comes a time in everyone’s life when your metabolism, inevitably, slows down. I know in my own experience, I’ve learned that fad diets and cutting back the booze in-take simply doesn’t cut it, like it used.  After this somewhat rude awakening, I pledged myself to try to lead a healthier lifestyle, where eating habits and exercise routines could live harmoniously with the other facets of my life. While I managed to handle my diet reasonably well- consuming flax, fish oil and copious amounts of ancient grains- I was constantly searching for the perfect workout regiment that would fit into odd hours (as I work in a restaurant) but could be something that I also enjoy.

After attending hot yoga religiously  my bank statement quickly informed me that yoga was no longer feasible (75 classes cost $775 at Rama Lotus!). Then summertime rolled around and I hit the pavement, hard. . . actually, a little too hard. Before I knew it, running was costing me. Not finding myself in any financial deficit, but rather, my knees were really starting to hurt (how old am I?). Yet another thing to cross off the list.

I finally took the plunge and bought a membership at my local gym- costing 50 dollars a month, but offering a variety of different exercise opportunities, including group fitness classes. I started by attending Zumba, a dance class involving various dance styles and aerobic elements, and then tried a few other classes like cardio kickboxing and TRX suspension training. One day, when I experienced a particularly energized day, I emerged from my Zumba class and ambitiously thought, “Why not try a spinning class too?”

The spinning class started 15 minutes after my Zumba class ended, and I was NOT prepared for what I was about to undertake.

What is spinning?

It’s a group fitness class, led by an instructor and is usually accompanied by motivational music. The cycling pace changes from slow to fast, from seated to standing keeping the workout interesting and effective.

Benefits?

In a 30 minute spinning class you can expect to burn 500 calories while improving endurance and strength in lower body.

Although I prefer to train in group settings, (probably something to do with my competitive nature), sometimes I spin alone and use music to maintain motivation. Below a list of songs, some embarrassing but nonetheless, help me through my workout.

Bounce  by MSTRKRFT

Maneater by Nelly Furtado

I Fink U Freeky by Die Antwoord

Lose Yourself by Eminem

Sweet Nothing by Calvin Harris ft. Florence Welch

Born This Way by Lady Gaga

Summer burst by Avicii

Gifted by N.A.S.A ft. Kanye West, Santigold and Lykke Li

Crush on You by Nero

Chelsea Dagger by The Fratellis

Body Work by Morgan Page ft. Tegan and Sara

Another Night by Real McCoy

Super Massive Black Hole by Muse

Dancing in my Head by Avicii

Satisfaction by Benny Benassi & The Biz

Spring  (Air France Remix) by Saint Etienne

 

What are you favourite workout routines? Leave a comment and let us know!

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