Whether you’re just starting to exercise or looking to put the fire back into your workout, adding a fun new activity will reenergize your fitness routine. Take this short quiz and find a new fit.
Ready to get your heart pumping, climb some hills, and burn major calories, all within the comfort of your own gym? If so, indoor cycling might be great for you. Indoor cycling is a tried and true workout that delivers serious bang for your buck.
What is indoor cycling?
Indoor cycling offers a lot of flexibility. If you need the motivation of others around you to keep you going, most gyms offer indoor cycling classes. If you prefer to go solo, hop on a stationary bike and go at your own pace. There are two main types of bikes; upright and recumbent. Upright bikes are more similar to an outdoor bicycle. Recumbent bikes, however, offer a sometimes more comfortable workout, which can be great for beginners.
How do I get started?
Most gyms, and of course cycling studios, have bikes available for your use. The majority of classes don’t require anything except for athletic clothes and shoes; others will require you to rent clip in shoes. Just call ahead and find out what you need.
What are the health benefits of indoor cycling?
Depending on the intensity of your workout, there are many different health benefits you can expect from indoor cycling.
- Cardio: The clearest benefit of cycling is cardio. Riding the bike at any resistance and speed will get your blood flowing, but the ability to add resistance as you get stronger means it can continue to be a great workout, even as you get in better shape.
- Easy on the joints: Cycling is a low impact sport, unlike running which can be hard on your joints over time, cycling is considered to be low stress and is therefore even more ideal for those just starting their fitness journey.
- Strength: Despite its low impact nature, cycling is a great way to build your lower body, namely your leg muscles. Stationary bikes allow for adjusting resistance which allows for more muscle building rides.
What else do I need to know about cycling?
Cycling classes can be seriously strenuous. But you are in control of your bike and its resistance, which means you can tailor the class to your ability. Follow along with your instructor, do the same sprints and climbs as the rest of your class, but do them at whatever resistance suits you best. There’s no shame in taking it down a notch or two if you’re just getting started.
Whether you’re taking a class or cruising on a stationary bike on your own, it’s important to ask for help in setting up your bike. You’ll want to make sure your seat height, handlebar height and the distance between your seat and handlebars are ideal for you height to avoid injury.
Make sure to gradually work your way up to longer rides, especially since your body might not give you as many signals you need to stop as it would with a higher impact activity.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
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