“Spinning. RPM. Group Cycle. You’ve heard of these, right? All of them have some important things in common: lots of bikes in a studio, an inspiring instructor, many sweaty bodies, loud uplifting music…and some excellent benefits to the participants! “

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) specifically lists the following as benefits of indoor cycling:                                          

• Low impact – as it is a bike based activity it is considered very low impact and good for those suffering from issues with ankles, knees or hips.

• Cardiovascular endurance – the government recommendations for physical activity can be achieved through 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise (x5 days) or 20-60 minutes of vigorous exercise (x3 days). An indoor cycling class can keep your heart rate well within a vigorous range for approximately 45-60 minutes. As well as this, an indoor cycling program can help lower the risk of coronary artery disease.

• Muscular endurance – this refers to a muscle’s ability to continually exert force over an extended period of time. Pedalling against resistance works your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves building strong, powerful legs.

• Stress levels and mood – if you’ve heard people talk about a “runner’s high” they are referring to the release of endorphins and adrenaline which can lift your mood and lower your stress. This can also happen during group cycle classes which is a massive bonus

Although you are working on your own within the session, you are cycling as part of a team which can be extremely motivating and supportive as you pedal through together. Don’t worry if you’re new to it, you can work within your own fitness level and week by week you’ll see yourself getting fitter, stronger and faster. Your instructor is right there with you, encouraging everyone to push their limits and get the best workout they can.

Alongside these benefits it can be excellent training for keen road cyclists – given we live in Scotland and the weather conditions are not always favourable for getting outside on your bike! An indoor session is the perfect substitute – dry, sociable, no worrying about traffic or routes! It will also improve your conditioning and endurance for when you are tackling the great outdoors.

Together with our fantastic instructor led classes we also have virtual classes available at DISC where you can ride with a route on the screen, following the virtual scenery with a voiceover and music coaching you throughout. An excellent option if you can’t make a class or just enjoy seeing some beautiful parts of the world without leaving Dundee!

We have plenty of various indoor cycling classes on the timetable (both instructor led and virtual) so come along, try them all and find your favourite.