To everyone here who recommended spinning classes for the winter........

[tulip]

I don't want to hijack your thread but how do you train for hills on a spin bike? There are a couple at the little gym I go to but don't know what to do. I want to get stronger going up hills while standing and sitting. Do you just crank up the resistance or what? Do you do it for the whole ride or just for a short period of time?

Does your gym offer spin classes? I find it hard to be motivated on a plain exercise bike outside of a class. With a good instructor, you can get a tremendous workout.