The Style Hunter goes Cycling...

Monday is here! and that means that a new workout is coming our way. For the past weeks it has been all about toning the upper and lower body with specific exercises, weights and yoga training; but this week I want to do something different...I want to go indoor cycling!

A few years ago, when I was single and living with my parents, I was a total spinning junkie. I would go to the gym 4 to 5 times a week and spin for 1 hour and do cardio or yoga for another hour...I had buns of steel and thighs firm as rocks... I was even offered a job as cycling instructor...oooooh meeeemorieeees

But you know...as time goes by one inevitably grows up and gets more responsibilities...I changed jobs, my buns of steel got me married and out my parents home and little by little I stopped going to the gym and started driving by fast food places more often...not a good combination at all.

So, one day the hubs and I were reminiscing of the days when we

started dating (play romantic music) flirty texts, long walks by the beach, talking on the phone forever...aaah so romantic..."I remember your legs used to be so tight and fit...." (Stop romantic music, I "accidently" threw the iPod at him and broke it)

Enough said...I'm going back to cycling!

Indoor cycling is an amazing workout: it helps you increase your leg strength (AKA tightens butt and thighs), improves your cardiovascular system, enhances body alignment and posture and in one hour you can burn up to 1,200 calories!! Plus it really is super fun.

Let’s start with the basics:

The Workout - Indoor cycling classes are led by trained instructors (who are usually yummy, so you have an extra incentive) and last about an hour. Workouts are conducted on specially designed stationary bikes that have a weighted flywheel, a front wheel and adjustable seats and handlebars. These bikes also come equipped with a gear knob, which allows you to modify the

intensity of your workout.

Another key component of the classes (and my fave) is the music. Many gyms have special rooms which feature disco lights and loud music so you can really get into it (I love cycling full speed to Rascal Flatts "Life is a Highway")....but don’t let the party-like environment fool you; indoor cycling classes are intense!

The Bike - it is very important that you learn how to set your bike correctly to avoid hurting your back or knees. Start by checking the height of your seat: Your leg should have a very slight bend, about 10 degrees, at the bottom of your peddle stroke.

Second, raise the handle bars to a comfortable level. Your hands should rest comfortably upon them without having to hunch over. Finally, make sure your shoes are snug inside the peddle straps. The fit should be snug, but not too tight.

The Gear - once you get into it, and I know you will, there are a few gadgets and accessories like heart monitors and gel seat covers that will help you improve your workout. For me

the most important ones are a good sports water bottle to keep you hydrated, a towel to wipe the sweat (I know it sounds gross but you really sweat a lot) and most importantly the cycling shoes...trust me, the difference is unbelievable.

The most important thing is for you to feel happy and comfortable. Keep in mind that everyone has different levels of resistance and expertises in the matter so don’t force yourself. It is very easy to get caught up in the excitement of the class and ride beyond your fitness level but pushing too hard may cause painful injuries.

I have to go now and spin the flub away but until next time... stay fabulous!

XOXO

The Style Hunter