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Spinning!

“Push the tempo, push the tempo, push the tempo” - pounded the rhythmic dance beat 35 minutes into the class. My heart was pounding, my legs ached, continue or quit . . .

How do you describe the exhilarating feeling of strength from a workout that pushes you beyond the limits of what you’ve convinced yourself you cannot do?

“We’re climbing a hill, add resistance, out of the saddle, Attack, Attack, Attack!” belted the trainer! This little woman is a powerhouse! Whoa - how is this possible, to maintain such a high cadence and still retain the ability to talk? I am impressed!

“Stay in the moment, everything is about right now - focus. As a team we can do this, stay on pace.” The muscles in my legs burned. This was far beyond routine cycling, an explosion of speed and power. Try it - go ahead, challenge yourself, I dare you, Spinning Class.

“Back in the saddle, slow down, feel the road, recover.” Once this session starts you’re committed to an hour of what most would consider pure torture - I’m sure of it, however if you can go the distance an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment permeates your spirit. This was our third 7:30 a.m. spinning session - trepidation, thats an understatement, its more like terror. I’ve done this before, I can do it again today, just pedal, don’t think!

“Focus on the beat of the music, the music will drive your pace, are you ready? Add resistance, one full turn, out of the saddle, Attack, Attack, Attack!” How is this possible? This woman is relentless. "Power up this third big hill, push it. Together we're getting stronger."

"You'll love this next part, let's recover then we sprint - ready, go! As fast as you can,  this pace for 90 seconds, keep it going, thats it, stay the distance - relax, recover.” My legs are burning, recover?

Get the idea? Spinning class pushes your limits of endurance developing strength, speed, determination, and personal power. You think you’re in shape, join us some time for a humbling experience.

Can’t wait till the next session!

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