If You Choose to Cycle at Home, Be Safe About It

We would love for you to come to our indoor cycling studio and take organized classes with our professional instructors. But we get that organized classes are not for everyone. Some people prefer to ride at home, which is fine. If you choose to cycle at home, we just encourage you to be safe about it.

Indoor cycling is a very safe sport when approached with the right mindset. But as with any physical activity, there are risks. Just take the necessary steps to be safe and you should have no problems. To get you started, we have outlined some of the basics below.

Set Up Your Bike Properly

An indoor bike needs to be set up properly in order to be safe. Also know that setting up involves a couple of different things. It starts with the bike itself, and how it's adjusted according to your height, weight, etc. The idea is to position the seat and handlebars in such a way as to allow you to ride in a safe manner.

The owner's manual that came with your bike should include directions for how to set it up. And if not, the internet offers a full library of information. There are printed guides as well as videos showing typical set ups.

Above and beyond the bike itself, set up involves location in relation to other furniture you might have in the room. Be sure to give yourself plenty of space to freely move around the bike on both sides. You should have enough overhead clearance to be able to safely stand for those uphill climbs. Make sure the space is well lit, too.

Start Out Slowly

Both organized spinning classes and cycling at home are great options for people just getting started with an exercise program. We encourage you to start out slowly. Yes, you have heard the same advice from other experts, but that's only because it is so important. Jumping in too quickly could lead to a serious injury.

If you take an organized class, choose one designed for beginners. Instructors take it easy on new students to help them slowly build up to more advanced skills. If you prefer to cycle at home, consult with your doctor or a professional trainer for advice about getting started.

Watch Those Kids and Pets

We do not tend to associate indoor cycling injuries with pets and children. However, accidents do happen. Whenever you're on your bike, be cognizant of where the kids and pets are. They shouldn't be anywhere near your bike while you're riding. Otherwise, they could be injured by your pedals, the wheel, or even your moving legs.

Some experts recommend setting up a dedicated exercise space in which children and pets are never allowed. We don't necessarily think you need to go to such extremes, but you do need to make an effort to keep kids and pets away while you're working out.

Listen to Your Body

Finally, listen to your body and what it's telling you about your exercise. It is normal to be tired and a little bit sore after a good workout. But if you are constantly experiencing excessive fatigue and lingering pain, there may be something else going on. Don't keep pushing yourself. Instead, get yourself checked out. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Again, we would love for you to join us for some organized spinning classes. Our Salt Lake City studio has plenty of openings with some of the best instructors in the area. Come see for yourself why so many people love Mcycle studios.