Los Gatos Weekly-Times

Photograph by George Sakkestad

Cycling enthusiasts try a new workout method called Spinning® while at The Fitness Edge in Los Gatos.

Cyclists spin their way to fitness

By Suzy Ramirez

"Come on, you can do it! Only 10 more jumps," the instructor encourages.

No, not with a jump rope, but with a Johnny G. Spinner, the latest all-around fitness gadget and now available in Los Gatos at The Fitness Edge.

The Spinner, made by Schwinn, takes beginning to professional cyclists on a simulated bicycle ride up and down hills while working the upper and lower body as well the abdomen and cardiovascular system.

Fitness Edge manager and personal trainer Barbara Blackburn stresses that Spinning--a registered trademark--is "not just another bike ride."

"Spinning is for the mind, body and spirit, with the rush and feeling of outdoor cycling," Blackburn says. "I have been in the fitness industry for 10 years, and this is one of the best additions I have ever found."

During the 48-minute classes, certified trainers have cyclists run, jump and do seated and standing hill climbs to music ranging from rock to dance-mix to African drumming. In each class, cyclists can burn anywhere from 500 to 700 calories.

"Whatever fits the mood of the ride, the goal is to keep moving the entire time and at one's own pace," Blackburn explains.

According to Cheri Anderson, fitness professional and assistant manager at The Fitness Edge, incorporating visualization into the program is an important aspect of the Spinner. Instructors will often have cyclists envision the hill they are conquering and place the hill in an exotic locale like Hawaii.

"Whether it be running up a hill or going after something job-related, accomplishing goals on [the Spinner] helps a person achieve things in the real world," Anderson says.

Spinning is promoted as a low-impact, intense workout. This might sound contradictory, but the low impact comes from the minimal strain on the body. Unlike exercising with steps or aerobics, Spinning limits bouncing and stress to the body. This type of workout is designed for endurance and stamina-building, as well as fat-burning, without the risk of injury.

There are 10 bikes available for the classes, with one bike for the instructor. Blackburn recommends calling in advance to reserve a seat because the popularity has grown since the Spinners came to The Fitness Edge in July.

In the future, Blackburn and Anderson both hope to add a variety of theme rides, including midnight rides with "groovy music" and triathlons.

This Spinner program is the first of its kind in Los Gatos and is unique among Spinning facilities in the South Bay because there is no membership fee, just the class cost of $18. Spinning cards can be purchased for 16 classes ($12 per class) or 8 classes ($14 per class). Shower facilities are available for use after Spinning for cyclists on their lunch break.

For more information about Spinning, including schedules, personal or circuit training and nutritional guidance programs, call The Fitness Edge at 354-4436.

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