Options tries out indoor cycling. Our verdict? It’s wheelie good.
SINGAPORE (Mar 13): Spin cycling is fast becoming the “must go” fitness class in Singapore. But it is more than just cycling on a stationary bike — what you actually get here is an intense full-body cardio and weights workout in one session. And depending on the intensity of the session led by the instructor (and how much you push yourself to follow the class), you can burn off an average of 600 calories in just one 45 minute session — all without putting too much impact on your joints.
That said, indoor cycling classes are challenging but you are also likely to see results, especially if you commit to regular classes. And as with most sports, however, the right posture is important to make sure that you do not end up injuring yourself. For starters, the bike has to be set up properly, according to your height. If you are not sure, all studios have instructors who will help you with that. Posture while cycling is also important: You have to keep reminding yourself to make sure while cycling, your knees never go past the resistance knob (which you use to either increase or decrease the resistance on your bike), push your glutes to the back and keep your chest up.
Most spin classes will come with a ‘preflight announcement’ — a spin instructor will brief you on how to set up the bikes, basic moves as well as the best posture to adopt while in class. At a typical spin class, you can expect loud, rhythmic music, flashing lights and an instructor barking orders, pushing you to your limit. It’s a good workout: Spin — also known as rhythmic cycling — is also almost like dancing on a bike.
Some basic moves include crunches and push ups on the bike. If this sounds intense, it is. Spin classes are all about you pushing yourself as far as you can go. But don’t worry about overdoing it — the instructors are there to guide you (and even cheer you on) throughout the workout.
Options had the chance to try a class at new spin cycle studio Revolution, which opened in February. The new studio is big and is filled with 59 brand new bikes (typically, other places has an average of 45 bikes per class).
As with most spin studios, Revolution also provides you with the necessities to get your ride on — such as cleats, towels (to use during the workout and for a shower after) and weights. During the trial class, Revolution invited three instructors up on stage (actually in front of the studio, where the instructor’s bike is), one after another. The first one was Queenie, who warmed up the class and gave newcomers a taste of what’s to come. With the class already breaking into a sweat, other instructors Samantha and Stephanie came on to quicken the pace with a series of intense arm exercises. Let me just say, it was intense 45 minute workout and highly recommended for people looking to lose weight while improving strength and endurance.
But to gain the full benefits of this kind of workout, it is recommended that you commit to three to six classes per week for at least 150 minutes.
Spin offs
Here are some other spin joints you can check out
CruCycle
68 Duxton Road
CruCycle is all about togetherness and teamwork — so expect everyone to be moving together in sync to the beat. The classes here at CruCycle run for 50 minutes, including a five minute warm down session. CruCyle’s “The Pack Ride” class is their signature class that is made for everyone, beginners and regulars alike. Sometimes, the Pack Leaders (or spin instructors) may even create a special themed class based on 1990s music or even Christmas to keep things fun and interesting. First timers can enjoy a special trial price of $50 for two classes.
Absolute Cycle
OUE Downtown Gallery, #02-01
A typical class at Absolute will set you back about 45 minutes. But for regulars, you can sign yourself up for a Big Beats class, a 60 minute class that will challenge your speed, strength and resistance. Absolute is also highly recommended for first-timers as some of the classes are inclusive of a 15-minute foundation class. Here, beginners will learn how to set up their bikes, the basic spin moves, as well as any other questions they might have before the class starts. There are three Absolute outlets in Singapore located at OUE Downtown, Peranakan Place and Millenia Walk. There are also another 16 studios in Thailand, as the brand originated there.
