CYCLEBAR was my first cycling workout class experience, ever. To give you a heads up before your first class, It has a learning curve. It reminded me of rowing where you have to pay a lot of attention to form and figuring it out before you get the hang of it. Though I don't think you'll really injure yourself here like you can with your back in rowing.
I do Pilates at least once a week, walk daily, lift and do yoga, but need to find a little extra cardio I actually enjoy, so as a class pass junkie I signed up for this. It's close to my house but less walkable unless you have a lot of time. I'm always surprised there aren't any fitness studios besides Barry's at the waterfront .
The highlight of this studio was the staff. From the front desk really being welcoming, having your locker already ready, and quickly able to instruct you on how to use the machine, it was really helpful. The class instructor was also very helpful after class when I explained what was not working well and he had a solutions focused mindset as well as letting me know that it took him 3 to 5 classes to kind of figure out what he liked. I was putting my weight in the front of my foot the entire time-- it seemed intuitive to me because the front of your foot is what's locked into the step -- but I knew something was wrong because my feet were numb the entire time I felt like I was walking in heels on a bike. Then when I sat down, my butt was sore, but I'm sure you would adjust to that eventually. He had a good explanation of where to put your weight in where you should feel the muscle that I will use next time. It was definitely a good workout, I actually sweat which I never do in most classes.
Major tips:
- if you're large chested in the strength class you'll need a strong sports bra like you would for soccer. You're welcome
- Don't start with a strength class. As much as I love the weight piece you get a better feel of the bike, taking the centered class.
- if it's your first class come 10 mins early or so + time to park. I came w 5 and cut it close trying to learn the bike and get locked in--literally.
- Highly rec if you're in between shoe sizes go up a size.
- Push from the back of your legs with your weight on your heels not the ball of your foot.
Areas of improvement:
- additional mic speakers or better distribution between the mic and music It was hard to hear the instructions sometimes
- I wish you'd be able to opt in to receiving your "metrics" I feel like anybody showing up for a workout class has a win--most people don't go. There's so much competition in the corporate world and everywhere outside of work, just knowing your own stats, less so compared to others would maybe be more beneficial.
I will definitely be back to try one of the centered classes that seems to be less competitive and more on the bike vs standing while I warm up my skills. Thanks all! read more