Spin class question

[pixy0stix]

I'm looking to shake up my routine a little bit and have been eying spinning classes. Do I need spin shoes to get the most out of the workout?

[Deleted]

You will get more out of the workout on cycling shoes, but athletic shoes with a stiffer sole (cross trainers vs running shoes) will work just fine. You will get one hell of a workout no matter what.

[kams]

They are really great to have, but I wouldn't buy cycling shoes until you have gone and know you'll go again semi-regularly. Just tighten the cages around your regular shoes.

edited for clarity, and to not get reamed by proper gear name purists.

[gpw]

You need cycling shoes.

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[pixy0stix]

Jul 18, 2013 15:44:16 GMT -5 gpw said:

You need cycling shoes.

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What's the difference?

[Deleted]

Whatever you do, don't buy cycling shoes without trying the class a few times. I tried spin and wanted to jump out the window. Haaaated it. Very glad I didn't spend gobs of money on shoes I would've worn twice.

[emilyj]

Shoes are an investment, so like AH said, I'd try the class a few times and make sure it's something you're willing to commit to.

Having made the transition to cycling shoes, I would do spin with them. But that's also my norm now, so there's that.

[blndsnbrdr]

Jul 18, 2013 15:44:16 GMT -5 gpw said:

You need cycling shoes.

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You do not NEED cycling shoes. I took spin classes for over a year without cycling shoes as did a vast majority of the people in my classes. 

Cycling shoes are beneficial (I have them now but haven't been to spin in years) but not required. Definitely try out the class with just regular shoes (running, xtrainers or whatever you have) for a while before you commit to throwing money at cycling shoes!

[Wines Not Whines]

I've been going to spinning classes for a while, and I don't have cycling shoes. You don't need them. I'm sure they give you a better workout, but they're not necessary.

[sadlebred]

There are no such thing as spinning shoes. The PPs were right. They are called cycling shoes. Lots of cycling shoe info. in the link below.

[zoidberg]

Make sure you really like it first. I took spin for a year before getting a pair of cycling shoes. I do really like them, though. Glad I finally got a pair.

[centralperk]

Cycling shoes are better, but definitely try spinning for a while before you invest in them. Sneakers work just fine (pick the stiffest soles you have though). I did spinning for a long time (over a year) before I invested in cycling shoes. The new shoes made a difference and I love having them, but you don't need them. Ditto whoever said you'll get a hell of a workout either way!

P.S.- bring a towel and lots of water. And wear tight bottoms. Have fun!

[Brit]

Lol kams re: gear name purists.

H&F should seriously start marketing spin shoes.

FTR, I agree with blndsnbrdr that they are nice to have, but not necessary. I think proper shorts are far more important than cycling shoes.

[hannahb]

Agree with the rest and say take a couple classes before investing in shoes. If you do get shoes note that most spin bikes take mountain bike cleats vs road

[mollyrunner]

I'm excited for you to try a class.  Its one of my favorite forms of fitness.  I took spin classes for 3 years before buying cycling shoes.  Its definitely possible to cycle without.  If you end up liking the class shoes are a good investment.  You certainly don't need to replace them as often as running shoes.  

[Deleted]

Also, if you decide you want to try a pair but don't want to spend a lot of $$, consider looking for a pair on ebay. There are several people who get super excited about cycling, buy all the stuff, and end up selling off barely used equipment.

[mcc]

I went to spinning classes for 4 years without cycling shoes and managed to have a great ass and not die. You don't need them. Are the classes I've taken and taught since I got cycling shoes better, sure, but it didn't mean that I it wasn't a kickass workout without them. First figure out if you like it, then worry about the gear.

[penelope]

I totally agree with PP. Try the class and see if you like it. I think my shorts being the right fit (tight enough and long enough) was more important to me than the shoes I was wearing for quite some time. I didn't buy cycling shoes until a couple of years into it.

Ditto the water bottle and towel, and remember that the discomfort down below is only for the first couple of times.

[robin]

I would go to a real brick and mortar store with a good rep to get properly fitted if you decide to get shoes. Ebay is great after you know what works for you, though

[ckinla]

It's definitely easier in the shoes, but try it first in sneakers to make sure you like it!

[secretlyevil]

I was a regular spinner for a year. Cross trainers were fine. It's like anything I guess, everyone has a unique perspective.