Five Rules to Observe in an Indoor Cycling Class

Ever since cycling was recognized as one of the best ways to achieve a healthy body and good figure, indoor cycling classes started to become popular. It’s a workout allows health buffs to lose a lot of calories- sans the safety risks of cycling outdoors.

Most people don’t just hop on an exercise bike to lose weight. Aside from the obvious benefits of an indoor cycling class, many people do this because it is relaxing and fun. Statistics show that those who cycle regularly are expected to live longer than those who do not. People who regularly attend indoor cycling classes are less likely experience heart problems as well.

Indoor cycling classes are just like regular aerobic programs. Hence, there are a few important rules to observe:

1.     Don’t forget your appointment. Punctuality is highly valued in indoor cycling studios. Arriving on time to an indoor cycling class is necessary if you don’t want to lose your spot! Cycles are required to report 5-10 minutes before the class starts because most gyms have a pre-registration list. If a member arrives later than the grace period, chances are, he or she will not be allowed to attend class. This is not because the people managing the studio are strict; it’s because they also have to accommodate walk-in attendees who came on time.

2.     Drink lots of water. When the exercise routine gets tougher, the body sweats and loses a lot of water. A 40-minute cycle can cause profuse sweating, and even dehydration. Never come to an indoor cycling class without a bottle of water and a towel. Because cycling is an extensive cardio workout, a few sips of water between intervals is necessary to help you get through the whole cycling session.  If you don’t hydrate properly, you will feel weak in the knees and a bit dizzy after the session.

3.     Don’t forget to prepare your bike. A gym is a public place where everybody can use whatever equipment they fancy. Since a lot of people have probably used the bike before you, there’s a chance that it doesn’t have the right tension for you, or the handlebars may be loose. Before the class starts, check the bike and see to it that the handlebars and seat are firmly secured to avoid any injuries.

4.     Maintain proper posture for cycling. Pain and injuries in the lower back, knees and wrists are caused by improper posture. These injuries can be prevented by observing the proper cycling techniques. Avoid gripping the bicycle handles tightly and don’t put too much weight on your hands and wrists. Don’t forget to relax your shoulders, too. These simple cycling habits can spell the difference between a tendonitis and an injury-free workout.

5.     Don’t forget your limitations. Sometimes, cycles can be very determined to get their leg muscles tightened and belly fats removed. However, pushing oneself too much may be risky and dangerous.

Cycling can get the body’s muscles activated, thus making them stronger and more efficient. Although the leg muscles are mainly the ones that are actually doing the pedaling, the abdominal and back muscles are also stabilized just the same. Attending indoor cycling sessions continuously can help you lose weight and strengthen your muscles at the same time.

Photo credits to triathlete-Europe.competitor.com