What do you want from a Spin class?

[Duck on Wheels]

Okay, I've only been to four classes with three instructors, but now I do really get what folks are talking about on this thread, and I do know what I like in a class/instructor.
1) varied classes. My now favourite instructor tells us right up front what our goals are for the day and the kind of ride we'll be doing. It varies from day to day, week to week.
2) instruction! She doesn't just say "up" "down" "plus" and so on, but watches all of us -- newbies and experienced alike -- and gives tips on feet, seat, elbows, back, encouragement when we're doing fine, and explains why when she has the time ... and kids around so we're all in a good mood! And she reminds us newbies and old folks to follow our own pace.
3) varied music. Maybe some of you are single genre music lovers, but I'm an omnivore. I can deal with one cut of techno if we get something with more complex rhythms later on. I don't mind country. I love r&b. This instructor puts in the odd moment of classic, Irish jigs, and stuff with "joke" effects like a sigh just when we're "over a hill".

So no wonder her classes are packed with ... all kinds! racers in full pro gear, old folks, fat folks, skinny folks, folks with new years resolutions, folks with long term goals, moms and their grown daughters. And no wonder the whole crowd is supportive and fun to be with.

[VenusdeVelo]

I am not sure there is much to add with all that's been said but this really helps to re-read opinions as a Spinning instructor to see what works for people and what doesn't. I am happy to say I also agree with everyone's pet peeves -- music too loud, instructor who rambles, berates, etc., popcorn jumps, hovering (that's the worst)...it seems like common sense in so many cases for me, can't understand how a trained instructor can continue this wekk in/week out.

One thing that made me think though was Irulan's comments about being a mtn biker and the visualization. I have been a roadie for a long time, relapsed on the mtbiking and just got back into it again, feeling the challenge of some great technical single-track lately. And I think you made me think Irulan about trying to incorporate some single track visualization into some routines...I find I can incorporate mtbiking into climbs, but the single-track would be interesting to work in. I need to think about it on my next single-track ride....and then just trying it maybe on a song or 2 and see how it's received. I've had some classes where I know there are mtn bikers in there so they'd be a good testing ground. I am thinking possibly some quick and rapid gear changes (ah! sand! or deeper mud)...hmmmm, need to think about it. Pass on any ideas, would love to hear them

Tree in the road? I agree (wtf????!!! )

[CR400]

Wow, I think everyone summed up what I think a spin class should be. I do however like to do super spins and high cadance work every now and then. I feel so slow riding next to some people because they seem to be flying. But when I take my resistance back down to moderate they are toast. Never really thought that some of those people are using only no or up to three turns. Until the instructor told people to go down to the tensions I use to keep my heart rate up and suddenly most could barely pedal.