What to expect at your first class…

A couple articles found on the web…

From Greatist, Know Before You Go…
http://greatist.com/fitness/know-before-you-go-spin-class-042612/

Another…
Indoor Cycle / Spinning Class
(Portions taken from http://www.fitnessgear101.com)

Indoor cycles or studio cycles (or Spinners) help to strengthen your cardiovascular abilities, tone your glutes, calves, thighs and in addition, are an excellent way to get those legs slim and trim.

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t care for traditional exercise, made up of jumpy, coordinated movements (like aerobics) then an indoor cycle might be for you. Indoor cycles are equipped with a weighted flywheel in the front that picks up speed as you pedal. Resistance from the flywheel, mixed with the adjustable seat and handlebars makes it feel like you’re riding a real bike. In addition, there’s a knob below the handlebars that allows you to adjust the tension, making pedaling easier or harder.

In cycling classes the instructor takes you through a simulated course of uphill and downhill biking with motivational music playing from warm-up to cool down (about 45-50 minutes per class session).

To prepare for a cycling session:

Pace Yourself – cycling can be highly intensive. Don’t strain your muscles too much on the first ride. Start slow and accelerate as you improve. You should consider consulting your doctor before taking on a new exercise / fitness routine.

Pad Where it Counts – Padded bike shorts or a padded cushion that slips over your bike seat is strongly recommended until your rear end get use to the bare bike seat. Bike seats can be a little hard at first and the last thing you want is a sore behind getting in the way of exercise.

Hydrate – Using a bike will give you the aerobic burst you need to get your heart racing and boost your endurance. However you will sweat buckets! Therefore, have a full bottle of water and a towel handy during your cycling session.

Monitor – consider using a heart rate monitor to measure the impact of the workout on your heart. Many options are available at a variety of price points.