Cycling vs. Spinning Classes

Spinning is done on a stationary bike and is an exercise designed to mimic of that cycling. A spinning class takes place indoors, providing the benefits of riding a bike when the weather is cold. Both types of exercise offer similar fitness benefits. Incorporating both forms of exercise into your routine allows you to maintain your health and weight throughout the year.

  1. Structure

    • Cycling is an exercise that allows you to choose your pace, the length of your session, and the number of people you ride with. Many people find that the less structured feel of riding a bike works with their schedule and allows them to fit in some physical fitness without being scrutinized by an instructor or classmates. Spinning offers social exercisers the opportunity to work out with a group of people who have similar health goals, and offers instruction from a teacher when needed.

    Fitness Benefits

    • Cycling and spinning are very similar in terms of the muscles used and the cardiovascular benefits. Both types of exercise build endurance and increase the strength in your quadriceps, glutes, calves, thighs and hamstrings. Your specific benefits depend on your level or exertion and how often you engage in cycling or spinning. You may find that you work harder at one or the other, making it the better choice.

    Calories Burned

    • If you are trying to lose weight, burning calories by cycling or taking a spinning class can help you drop unwanted pounds. Weight gain occurs when you take in more calories than you burn, so riding a bike, either traditional or stationary, also allows you to maintain your current weight by balancing your intake versus your output. Spinning and cycling burn a similar amount of calories, which increase with your speed. The stationary bikes used for spinning create an environment where you can increase your speed without having to slow down for street signs, cars or pedestrians. For this reason, you may burn more calories in a class than if you took a ride through your neighborhood. A person weighing 120 pounds burns 220 calories riding a bike at 10 miles per hour for 60 minutes, but could burn over 500 during a one-hour spinning class, according to USA Today.

    Considerations

    • If you plan to ride your bike regularly, a more expensive and higher quality bike is a good idea. The gear needed to ride your bike increases the cost. Taking a spinning class is a good alternative if your budget won't allow for the expenditure associated with riding a bike outdoors. Many recreation centers offer classes for a minimal fee, and purchasing a year's membership at a gym reduces your monthly cost. When riding outdoors, proper safety gear protects you from an injury. Always wear a helmet and elbow pads. When using community exercise equipment, wipe it down before use to reduce the risk of infections or illnesses that occur with germs and viruses that may be present on the handles.