new to spinning

[VenusdeVelo]

Irulan is right on the mark -- all the things to scope out. Also check to see if they are certified instructors and not someone who teaches step aerobics, etc. etc. Not that teaching step is bad in any way, it's just that indoor cycling is cycling -- and the class should be taught with the same concepts in mind. I just find that if you have a cyclist teaching a spinning class, it becomes much more valuable.

Personal opinion -- I took spinning classes for almost 2 years with instructors trained in other methods, and sometimes none at all. I am certified in Johnny G (a cyclist) Mad Dogg. I don't think, as a cyclist, that I could bring myself to teach moves I feel are contraindicated. There are way too many contraindicated moves I've seen instructors do that can actually be harmful if done on a spinner. IMHO.

And also, your spinning class is your workout, not the instructor's. Make sure they not only ensure bike fit and watch their students, but that they are intent on ensuring you get the workout, not them.

So, use your best judgement and remember, stay within the rules of "if I do it on my bike...".

(Irulan, I agree the jumps cross the line, but, they are at least not contraindicated moves, ie, potentially harmful, as long as you stay away from the obnoxious "popcorn jumps". But, on the same token, I usually only do jumps for maybe part of 1 song in my sets....)