5 Helpful Cycling Tips for First Timers

You have heard what a great workout cycling is. You've talked to friends who recommend indoor cycling as a fun, low impact means of exercising. You finally took the plunge and signed up for your first cycling class. Now what?

Bike riding, as a means of exercise, has been around for generations. What we know as modern indoor cycling is relatively new. It is a form of bike riding that follows certain techniques and philosophies that differentiate it from just riding a bike. Here at Mcycle Studios, we have developed our own unique approach to cycling that we think offers superior results.

Whether you take your class here or elsewhere, there are some things you should know ahead of time. We present them as five helpful cycling tips for first timers.

1. Ask About Shoes

Some gyms and cycle studios stock bikes with standard pedals featuring built-in stirrups. You can wear regular running shoes on these bikes. The soles of your shoes are hard enough to keep your feet in place while the stirrups come up over the top to keep things nice and snug.

Other studios – ours included – stock bikes with specialized pedals requiring cycling shoes. These are custom shoes with soles that attach directly to the pedals with clips. The advantage of this setup is stability. Cycling shoes just make for a safer and more comfortable ride.

We offer shoe rental in our studio. If you are taking your class elsewhere, be sure to ask about shoes before you arrive.

2. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Your cycling class is going to be intense enough to cause you to break sweat. So be sure to wear comfortable clothes that can deal with perspiration. A breathable top that offers good wicking properties will prove most comfortable. Absorbent leggings, yoga pants, or shorts will suffice for the bottom.

Do not choose clothing that is so tight that it makes riding uncomfortable. You also don't want clothing so loose that it interferes with your ride.

3. Bring Plenty of Water

You're going to need to replenish the water your body sheds through perspiration. What does that mean? It means you need to bring plenty of water with you. However many bottles it takes to stay hydrated is what you should bring. No worries. A typical indoor cycle has water bottle holders aplenty

It is best to bring bottles with a pop top. That way you aren't trying to open a difficult bottle and ride at the same time. Just pop the top, squirt some water in your mouth, and keep on going.

4. Follow Instructions

Cycling classes are designed to achieve certain goals. Assuming you have signed up for a beginner class, your instructor will not expect you to spin like a pro. Nonetheless, follow the instructions as best you can. The instructor knows how to give you a great workout and keep you safe at the same time. Also note that not following instructions could lead to injury.

5. Take Breaks If You Have To

Our classes are 45 minutes long. We ask riders to commit to the entire time for their own benefit. Having said that, there's no shame in having to take a break in the middle of a ride – especially if you are a beginner. Just stay on the bike and keep moving as slowly as you need to to catch your breath. Don't stop though. Keep moving until you're ready to get back up to speed.

We wish you well on your very first cycling class. If your class is with us at Mcycle, we look forward to meeting you.