Glad you are enjoying class so far. I recently had a crash on my road bike, so haven't been doing much of anything lately, but normally I teach Spinning at my gym. I will also give up my instructor bike to someone before I would turn them away. It is possible to coach the entire class off-the-bike.

Prior to my teaching, I knew the gym had some different ways to get your bike too. Now, it's the first come first serve basis by showing up. The rule generally is though, you need to be back in the room on your bike to ride when class starts... or very shortly there after (like you place your water bottle and/or towel on the bike you selected to ride & leave the room).

We've had the problem where people try to hold for a friend that is "supposedly" showing up for class, and then not.

Or worst was before I became an instructor some other teaches (non spinners usually, teach aerobics etc.) had held their bikes, then showed back up to class after 15mins of start. The teacher told me to just take their bikes. They expected them back. Now, mind you, as an instructor, you get a basic membership free at my place. I was paying. I was so mad. I did not give it up!

Actually, what is suppose to happen is that an instructor if just participating in the class that is full, you are suppose to give up your spot to a paying memeber if they show.

This will be my first winter Spinning since I became an instuctor. Sure I will have that situation present itself. I would graciously give up my spot. I think it sets a leadership tone that you are supportive of general participants efforts.

Happy Spinning!