Tabs

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Spinning Is So HARD! I Could NEVER Do That!

No, you probably can't…if you think that way.  Many years ago, when I thought about trying out a Spinning class, I thought the same thing.  It took me about 3 months of being bored on the elliptical to finally drag myself into my first class and obviously, I LOVED it!

I understand how you feel!  But, I do not accept you underestimating yourself.  I do not accept your defeat before you have even tried.  I do not accept that you are allowing fear to determine your health and wellness "fate".

One of the many reasons that the Saratoga Cycling Studio is a huge success is how inclusive we are, no matter your shape, size, age, background, fitness level, etc.  Many clients are brand new to Spinning and fitness, and some have tried indoor cycling at another facility and hated it due to many factors (bad instruction, yucky bikes, unfriendly service, etc.).  You may fall into one of these categories, and that is very common.

I can't talk you into anything…I can't make you WANT it.  At the end of the day, you found this blog, you read through some of the posts because you are interested in what we do at SCS.

Take a deep breath, grab a friend, and we will see you on the bike.


Monday, October 20, 2014

Why The Scale Isn't Moving

As a person that has ridden the "weight loss rollercoaster", I can tell you that it is a long journey with many bumps along the way.  An important fact to remember is that this is an ongoing way of life, not something you can just focus on for a few days, weeks, or months.  You can achieve your goals, but you may not get there as quickly as you would like.  Here are some reasons that even with your hard work, the scale may not be moving.

You are stuck in the same old routine.  While you may be putting in the time at the gym, you may be stuck in the same workout or intensity, which will not change your body or move the scale.  As you become more fit, you must challenge your muscles with greater work to achieve results.  
Solution (s):  Make a trade during your strength routine by adding more weight for less reps.  Keep notes of where you started and your progress.  This will keep you accountable and get you some results.

You can't find the time to workout like you used to.  Did fitness drop to #9635251 on the priority list for one reason or another?  
Solution (s):  Go for quality, not quantity with your workouts.  We offer two, high intensity classes that are only 30 minutes a piece!  Knowing you do not have to "save" any energy for a long workout, give it your all!  Tabata Bootcamp and TRX Express will leave you dripping with sweat and seeing results  QUICK!

All cardio, all the time.  While raising your heart rate and working aerobically has a ton of positive effects on our body, you cannot discount how important strength training is.  That doesn't mean you need to give up your beloved Spinning classes, but balance is the key.  
Solution (s); Hand weights, resistance bands, TRX, bootcamp, those are all great ways to build lean muscle which burns more calories for you all day long!

DIET!  Oh no...do we really have to talk about it?  What you consume is a HUGE part of moving the numbers on your scale.  You may be working out like crazy, but if your diet needs work, the scale is not budging.  
Solution (s):  We have all heard that phrase, "abs are made in the kitchen", right?  Well, it does have some truth to it.  You may be gaining muscle, but you won't see it with a layer of fat on top.  Try keeping track of what you consume, either with a free app on your smart phone, or a pen an paper.  You may be able to spot a pattern that does not serve you.  We all have unique nutritional needs, so I won't get into specifics.  Seeking out the advice of a registered dietitian helped me to lose and keep off my last 10 pounds!

Good luck!