How to Cycle on a Spinning Bike

Spinning was first seen in California in the 1980s, increased in popularity in the 90s and, as of 2010, is one of the most in-demand cardio classes in health clubs. Cycling on a spinning bike is different from cycling on a stationary exercise bike in that a spinning bike is built to more genuinely replicate what the cyclist would experience outdoors climbing hills and sprinting. According to DaveDraper.com, "Spin bikes have a weighted flywheel in the front, mimicking the feel of an outdoor bike that's actually propelled by the pedals. When you tighten the resistance and come out of the saddle, you absolutely feel like you're cycling up a steep hill."

Things You'll Need

  • Spinning bike
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take a beginning class in spinning to best learn the basic technique of how to cycle on a spinning bike. Do not be intimidated by the instructor, but let him know that you have never before done this. A good instructor will show you the basics.

    • 2

      Move your seat so that your knees are only slightly bent when your feet are closest to the floor--at the bottom--of the pedal revolution. If your knees hurt, raise the seat slightly. If your back or crotch bothers you, lower the seat. The seat can be moved up and down as well as forward and back.

    • 3

      Ensure your handlebars are slightly higher than your seat until you have learned how to balance on the bike. When you feel your spinning skills are improving and you are comfortable, you should lower the handlebars so that they are the same height as the seat. Your arms should be at a comfortable distance from the seat and your elbows slightly bent.

    • 4

      Consider using padded biking shorts, as the thin spinning seat can be uncomfortable, especially for men.

    • 5

      Ensure proper foot position if you use regular shoes as opposed to the clip-on type made for spinning bikes. The ball of your foot should be on top of and in the middle of the pedal.

    • 6

      Pedal at a moderate pace until you have mastered the different moves occurring in a typical spinning class, then increase speed. Always have some resistance while spinning.