Sooo... the last one, message_topic.aspx?topic=473480, has died- and I've got some questions...

1) Shoes- where can I find the best deals? The prices at most stores I've found online and around here are very high (imo), and I just can't afford to spend 120+ on a pair of shoes for spinning. Any tips such as where you or your buddies got yours? Brand/style references would also be appreciated.

2) Shorts. Oh my good gracious- my bum is hurting from the past two weeks. I spin every other day, and sometimes back to back days. Do these slightly padded cycling shorts really make that much of a difference, or do I just need to shut up and get over it? I wouldn't mind investing in a pair or two, but I know nothing about what is good and what isn't.

8/12/2008 8:36:31 PM

1. Performance bike...either online or there are a couple locations in the triangle that have cheaper shoes that will be perfectly suitable for spinning. REI may have some as well that are within your price range ($50-90 should be a reasonable range)

Shimano is the "standard" but nike, adidas, and lake all have cheaper priced, basic models that will work just fine. You dont need anything fancy, its just a spinning class. Now, if you think you may venture outside of the gym setting, you may want to pick a slightly different shoe based on the type of riding you see yourself doing.

2. Any padded cycling short will be better than standard gym shorts/workout pants. There are countless models that will provide a wide range of features (read: higher priced). Basic Bike Nashbar or Performance shorts will again be more than sufficient...unless you really want some cushy, high dollar padded shorts.

A side note....I have training shorts that are $45 and $210 racing shorts. Guess which are more comfortable? (hint....not the cheap, basic foam pad ones). So you can definitely spend alot of money on good shorts. Basic ones should be just fine for a 45-60 min Spin class.

Try on a few different styles and see what works best for you. Oh and be considerate and wear some underwear when trying them on. Also, make sure you actually sit on a bike with the shorts when you are trying them on. All cycling shorts feel funny just standing around. The real differences are seen once on the saddle.

***As for pain when riding, dont allow it! If you are just sore because it is a new activity and your ass isnt used to the saddle yet, then thats one thing. You will get used to it as you participate more frequently. However, a good Spin instructor will have the tools and more importantly the knowledge to make adjustments to your positioning on the bike. This includes seat position (tilt, height, fore/aft), handlebar height (if your spinning class has bikes with adjustable bars), and pedal/cleat interface angle.

Arrive to class a few minutes early (call ahead just in case) and explain where the pain is coming from and ask for positioning suggestions and help. The instructor needs to make the necessary adjustments to allow for you to be as comfortable as possible.

8/13/2008 9:06:23 AM

I've never been to a spin class, what type of clip system is normally used?

8/13/2008 10:02:19 AM

spd

8/13/2008 10:11:18 AM