I was a spinner first before I starting road riding and mtb-ing. I'm also certified to teach spin, but just not doing so yet.

I personally hate that "teaching off the bike". This is part of the training as an instructor. But, I will not be doing it unless requested or I need to intervene for a true safety issue. It's not my style, and goes against the thing I love the most about spinning.

One of GFs at the gym that I love dearly as a friend is the one instructor I want to choke while taking her class. Actually I avoid her class if possible. She goes OTT teaching off the bike, has adjusted my tension knob while riding with my eyes closed unexpectdly (and aided to an injury I was nursing--huge 'no no'), checks the monitors and announces it to the entire class, too much nutrition info (she's a die hard vegan--imposes her values on others), etc.

Personal training is just that: "personal" one on one instruction you pay for privately in a private conversation situation. I think people are adults and capable of taking or leaving advice to their own training goals. *as long as it does not impeed on others around you*

I'm not in kindergarten class. If I'm having a bad asthma day, I modify. It is no one's business in the class of my medical history. That is the top thing I love about spin class... it's your ride.

I think if something concerns you, tell the teacher after class. If that doesn't work, tell the management. Teachers are under the gym's insurance and shouldn't be a liability if things are not safe. If you don't want to look at the people in class: close your eyes. Great time to focus on your pedal stroke, breathing technique etc. Can't close those eyes on the road. Take advantage of the mind body connection opportunity. Something Jonny G. strongly believed in (roadie who founded Spinning).

You can wear decible lowering ear plugs too. This might drown out some of the heavy breathers for you, but still hear the mic cues.

Sorry about the long rant... ick, I just hate that "in your face" ott stuff. So, as far as the teacher saying something... it depends, IMO. Good Luck!