How do I enjoy this?

[Owlie]

My bike is 200 miles away, and it's gross enough here in Ohio that I couldn't ride even if it was here (it was 17 degrees today!). My university's cycling club holds spin sessions between November and April to fill in the gaps. I met them there to drop off a check for a jersey order this evening. They seem like a nice group of people. I was nervous about being the only woman there, and it looks like I won't be. (My university has a very, very skewed gender ratio.) I get to hang out with some different people. And hey, I can get myself into some kind of shape for when I can get back on the bike.

Here's the issue. I hate doing cardio activities at gyms. I'm seeing this as a lot like running on a treadmill--you're not going anywhere, and you're staring at a wall/mirror/other sweaty people. This doesn't really appeal to me. Anyone have any suggestions on getting over it?

I have one other question: What does one wear to these? I saw a mix of cycling clothes and regular workout clothes. I'm a little reluctant to show up in bike clothes on the grounds that those who do appear to be the racers...and male. I'd like to be comfortable, obviously, but I'm not sure I'm confident enough in my "game" to show up in a jersey and spandex.

Of course, parts of my brain are saying I'm silly to be worrying about such things...

[ehirsch83]

workout shirt(tshirt,tank top-whatever you wear to the gym)and bibs/shorts. (for the comfort of the padding on a seat).

Usually indoor spin classes are highly motivating b/c of the music and the other people surrounding you.

If you were solo on a trainer I would tell you to use good music, have a plan, and think of it as not only physical training but also mental training.

[tulip]

You won't know unless you try it, so just try it. Wear cycling shorts and wicking t-shirt; a jersey isn't necessary. Cycling shoes with SPD cleats. I really enjoy spin classes, and it took me a long time to try it out. Too bad; I missed out on some good years of spinning.

I found that it really improved my outdoor riding when the weather improved. I was stronger than I had ever been at the beginning of the season.

[OakLeaf]

Group ex classes are a whole lot different (and more fun) than going it alone on a machine. You've got company, some friendly mock-competition, a live person telling you what to do with the intensity. Try it!

As for what to wear, it's been an awfully long time, but honestly, I always preferred cotton T-shirts when riding rollers/trainer. You won't need the pockets of a jersey... and you'll sweat a LOT. Even if the facility has a good fan, there won't be nearly the air movement there is on the road. Your upper body won't be moving around enough to chafe, and you're not going to get cold (the two main reasons for avoiding cotton). So my choice was something that would just grab the sweat and hold it, and as much as possible keep it from dripping everywhere on the floor, my shorts, and the bike. Now, if you plan to do any strength work or whatever before or after the cardio, then you'll want a more gym-appropriate top.

Definitely you'll want cycling shorts and whatever lube, if any, you use on the road. The bikes may or may not have double-sided SPD pedals, so if that's what you use, find out whether you can wear your own shoes. If not, wear the stiffest, thinnest soled shoes you have.

If the facility doesn't provide sweat towels, bring three. One on the floor on each side of the bike, to catch the sweat puddles on the floor; and one to lay across your handlebars or top tube to wipe as you need it.

It's possible your gym may allow you to bring your own saddle (attached to your seatpost). If I were you, I'd try it first on their saddle, but if it's very uncomfortable, ask about bringing your own. If you do bring your own saddle, be aware that the seat angle on the spin bike may not be the same as on your road bike, and that could mean you'll need to change the tilt of your saddle.

[arielmoon]

I recently discovered spin classes and I am really enjoying them. I got mtn bike shoes and had the SPD cleats put on (my road shoes have speedplays) and it makes it more like being on the road. I wear my cycling shorts, sleeveless sport tops and my gloves. I bring a towel and my sport drinks.

The classes I take are geared to road cyclists :) . Good music really helps with rhythm and inspiration and the instructors really help with the motivation.