After a long day of classes, sometimes all you need is an opportunity to work out all your frustration from the day. Luckily, the Student Recreation Center offers spin classes six days a week, up to three times a day.

Spin is defined as a group fitness class that involves pedaling on a stationary bike. The bikes in the Student Recreation Center have adjustable seating and handlebars, making the class more accessible for everyone. 

As noted by class members, the best part of spin is the playlist. It gets attendees fired up for the class and allows everyone to ride to the beat of the music. From early 2000s pop hits to blasting EDM, there is a playlist for everyone. 

Most days, the most rewarding part of spin is what’s called the “blackout” song. Normally, the second to last song is a slower paced, motivational song that allows for attendees to really pay attention to themselves and their mind. Instructors make note at this point in the class that riders can do anything during this time, as long as they keep their legs moving. 

There are six spin instructors that lead classes on designated days in the SRC. Makenna Gosart teaches in the mornings at 6:00am on Mondays and Wednesdays, Khristian Dolby teaches Mondays and Wednesdays at 4:00pm, Addison Camp teaches Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30am, Riley Cofer teaches Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:00pm, Lexi Hosmer teaches Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00pm and Glenda Richey teaches Fridays and Sundays at 3:00pm. 

The only difference between morning and afternoon classes is the time and instructor. It is truly up to the individual to decide whether they think they will perform best in the morning or afternoon. Both come with benefits: morning classes allow you to start off your day strong, but afternoon classes let you to spin out any hardships faced throughout the day. 

In terms of classes, each instructor brings her own edge. While Gosart, Dolby and Cofer enjoy experimenting with surges and choreography, Richey focuses on speed and endurance for the most advanced cyclists. Camp, however, prefers a heavy hill with leg isolations. 

“I love trying new moves and seeing what I can come up with to make the song go by faster and be more fun!” said Gosart.

Dolby, senior spin instructor, makes note of the free mind that comes with every class. 

“I love the idea of getting on a bike and not having to worry about anything,” said Dolby. “You come with so many things going on in your life but for 45 minutes you get to spend time with people who lift you up. You are never alone – you’ve got a team all around you.”

Likewise, Hosmer emphasizes the importance of being surrounded by positivity. 

“Stay open minded,” said Hosmer. “Trying new things can be challenging, but staying positive and doing the best you can will provide you with a sense of accomplishment that will encourage you to keep pushing towards progress!”

Notably, Cofer plans themed spin classes every Thursday at 4:00pm. Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Reputation and Cardi B have been a few hits so far. She always welcomes new members, and her attendees always leave with a smile on their face. 

“There are a multitude of things that I love about spin,” said Cofer. “Not only is it physically healthy, it is also mentally healthy. With the lights low and the music the only person you are competing against is yourself. You can get out all of your frustrations on the bad days or celebrate on the good ones. Personal growth mentally and physically has made me fall in love with spin.”

Now a junior in her second semester of nursing school, Cofer’s spin journey began her freshman year. 

“Freshman year coming into college I knew I needed to get in a healthy routine, both physically and mentally,” Cofer said. “After a lot of heartbreak and family loss, I knew I needed an outlet. I was too intimidated to go to the gym alone and so I decided to give spin class a try. I loved the music and the atmosphere of encouragement that the instructors provided and it completely changed my life. I grew confidence in myself and had this outlet where I chose myself everyday. Going to spin was for no one but myself. I could get out my anger and sadness and celebrate my joy and success. A year and a half later I started teaching my own class hoping that I could create a comfortable atmosphere for people to take care of their mind and body. My mental and physical health has never been better, all thanks to spin! It truly is more than a workout.”

Sydney Bryant attended her very first spin class on Thursday, Sept. 28 for Riley’s class.

“It was so fun and I felt so welcomed and encouraged by the other girls there!” said Bryant. “I definitely will be going back!”

For those interested in attending a class, all you have to do is show up! Shoes and sweat rags are provided. Spin shoes are special because they have their own clips on the bottom that allow you to clip into your bike, which makes the class more enjoyable because you do not have to worry about your foot flying off the pedals. 

At the end of the day, it’s the atmosphere that keeps students coming back week after week. Being surrounded by women who have a common goal is undoubtedly empowering in itself. Every class, it is you against yourself. It is you and the bike that you are on, and those around you are there to cheer you on throughout the class. 

With patience and commitment, not only will your body begin to change, but so will your confidence. The master spin instructors give their expert advice for anyone wanting to get started in spin. Each woman encourages you to not give up. While spin is eminent for being challenging, the ladies are adamant with how quickly your body adapts. 

From the spin masters, they specify the importance of patience. Showing up is the hardest part, whether it is waking up at 5:30am or showing up at 6:00pm after an entire day of classes. 

“My advice would be, if you are new to spin, don’t let the first time intimidate you,” said Camp. “I took my first spin class in March, and hated it because of how bad I did. It was not until after some practice and when I could finally hit the beat correctly that I fell in love. Even now, I’m still continuing to grow and get better through practice.”

Whether you are a fitness guru or just somebody working to begin their fitness journey, spin is always a resource in the 3rd floor aerobic studio of the SRC, waiting to welcome anyone and everyone.