How To Get A Great Low Impact Cardio Workout
Joining or rejoining a health club after being somewhat sedentary for a few years can be a somewhat intimidating experience. After noticing 20 or so extra pounds adding up, I thought it best to join the ranks of fitness oriented people at the local health club. One particular aspect that worried me was I knew my days of high impact bone jarring workouts were in the past.
A very important consideration for my workout routine was, very frankly, not to hate it! After years of bone jarring jogging and climbing Stairmasters, I knew I could go back to those routines, but I wouldn't stay with them long term. Yet, it was important to burn fat, develop and maintain cardiovascular fitness, and hopefully enjoy myself at the same time.
Not long after I joined, I began to observe the various aerobic class options. A group environment might help me stay motivated, I thought to myself. One of the more intriguing options seemed to be an indoor cycling class. As my fellow members left the indoor cycling class, they seemed somewhat exhausted but happy. That seemed like a perfect combination to me!
The next day, I participated in my very first indoor cycling class. The instructor referred to the class as spin class and announced it to be one hour in duration. Truth be told, that hour flew by. I found the spin class to be challenging, enjoyable, and a very efficient cardio workout. Best of all, months later spin classes are an important part of my fitness routine. I've stuck with them, as they are low impact and actually an enjoyable way to spend an hour.
Despite me just discovering spin classes, they aren't new at all. In our class, we had students ranging in age from teenager to a few people in their 60's. These classes are flexible enough to be appropriate for all fitness levels. Our instructor told us we typically burn several hundred calories per class, depending on our own exertion level.
The structure of a spin class is much like any other aerobic class. There is ample time to warm up, reach peak workout levels, and cool down. The main goal is to reach a level of exertion called the fat burning zone, which is dependent on age and heart rate levels. During our class, the levels are closely monitored, which is helpful to know how hard we are (or aren't) working.
Upon entering class, you'll adjust your spin bike to your height and comfort level. A spin bike is basically a type of stationary bicycle formatted specifically for these classes. The class is set to music, with slower songs at the beginning and end for warm up and cool down. Music during the bulk of the class is typically high tempo and energetic, designed to encourage higher effort and full benefit of the class.
During my first few spin classes, I found it particularly helpful to be able to work at my own pace and not feel out of place compared to more experienced participants. In fact, spin instructors are specifically trained to emphasize this point. The instructor wants to motivate participants to challenge themselves and improve, but not to the point of overexertion.
The best news is that spin classes are a form of aerobic exercise that's easy to stick with. The combination of low imact, highly effective cardio work makes these classes ideal for anyone desiring a higher level of fitness. In additon to losing weight, I am now sleeping better and feel more energetic. If this sounds ideal for you as well, seek out a spin class at your local health club. They are an excellent, efficient way to lose a few pounds and improve your fitness level.