The Art of Group Cycling
Group Cycling is a really popular activity at most gyms and health clubs and you may even have your own indoor bike at home, but are you getting the most out of your workout?
Here we examine some common spinning mistakes.
The Position of your Bike
Saddle Height
The position of the bike is absolutely crucial, if it’s wrong you won’t get the full rotation space to work the muscle groups in your legs properly. To get the saddle height right, stand next to the bike with your leg lifted to 90 degrees. The saddle should be parallel with the top of your thigh.
When you start pedalling you will know it is right if you have a slight bend in your knee when your foot is in the lowest part of the pedal stroke. If your knee is heavily bent your saddle is too high which will mean you are over working your quads and not working all the muscle groups in your legs.
Handlebars
The handlebars should be parallel with your saddle. You will initially think that this is too low but when you start the spinning workout any higher and they will get in the way.
Only Using Your Legs
Spinning is great for your legs but don’t forget your core. When you come up out of sitting position engage your core which will put less weight on your arms. This will ensure that you work through the whole leg and don’t get injured.
Attitude
If you are new to spinning and you are doing it in a class at the gym it can be a bit intimidating at first. Try to zone out from everyone and focus on what you are doing and what you want to achieve. The golden rule is whatever happens don’t stop pedalling!
Clothing
No we aren’t talking fashion, but wearing clothes that are suitable for spinning. Shorts for example can cause real chaffing. If you have the choice always opt for clip in shoes than using your trainers. Clip in shoes will give you better momentum as the ride goes on.
Next Generation of Bikes
With the increase in popularity, more and more companies are catching on and designing new and improved bikes for the home market as well as the gym. See two of the best bikes we sell.
Technogym Group Cycle Connect
In striking yellow or grey, the Technogym Group Cycle tracks your workout including power output, calories and distance to enable you to truly monitor your performance. With magnetic resistance and adjustability for all areas, even whilst you are mid workout, it's a superb piece of kit that will motivate you to get on the bike. Esepcially when you see it's connectivity to MyWellness via Smartphones and Bluetooth.
+ Click here to see our Indoor Cycles
The LifeCycle GX
With a clear design difference in that the flywheel is at the rear, the LifeCycle GX comes with a 5 year frame warranty and really is of superb quality. Designed with biomechanics at the forefront, the seating position is very comfortable, with all adjustability being simple and easy to complete.With integrated LCD display, SPD pedals and great handlebar position, this is a great bike to get up a sweat on.
