I KNOW CLASS IS FOR THE MEMBERS........BUT.......

[Bike4ale]

......WHY LIE AND SAY WE'RE NOT IN IT FOR OURSELVES TOO?

Yes, I'm new to this forum...and I'm already trying to stir up some controversy. Hey, why not?

I've been an instructor for 5 years now, and teach regularly 3-4 times per week. Besides childhood, when everyone rode bikes, I've been riding seriously for 8 years.

A few years ago, a fellow instructor told me something that STILL bothers me, and I'm looking for other feedback. Sometimes in my busy schedule, the only exercise I do is teach. I know, I know....we're supposed to be pushing the cross training principle....and I agree with that. But it doesn't always happen. I'm trying to change that. Anyway.....I mentioned to this other instructor that basically, teaching spin is all I do to stay in shape. I said that by teaching, I am forced to exercise. When the alarm goes off for my 5:30 AM class, I have no choice but to get up and do it. She immediately said, "When I teach, I don't even count that as MY workout. That class is for the members. I think it's wrong to treat your classes as YOUR personal workout too."

At the time, this person was teaching 5+ classes a week at a handfull of gyms. I don't know how she ever found time to get "her" workout in!

Yes, I agree. The class is for the members. But I don't think any of us would be in this if WE didn't get something out of it too. I also think that members like the fact that the instructor is up there kicking his or her OWN butt in the process. Yes, we're the experts and the teachers, but if we sit too high on our pedastal it could discourage some riders. Is there anything wrong with being somewhat human?

Again, cross training is great, and I'm trying to work that into my schedule. Is anyone out there with me on this? Members DO come first, and I will gladly get off the bike during class to help someone out, etc. But am I a spinning sinner to admit that class is also about us?

Bring it at me......I'm ready. :wink:

[BFSpin]

Good morning, Ale!

For me it's a mental difference. When I teach I'm riding, the by-product being that I am getting a workout. However, my mind is not in MY ride, it is in the RIDER'S ride. I'm watching, reading faces and body language, coaching off the bike when necessary or appropriate, turning on fans, picking up water bottles, etc.

If I want a workout for ME, I take another instructor's class or ride outside (IF the weather ever warms up :P ). Then I can get my head in the ride, and really focus on my own efforts. Unfortunately, I don't get the chance to do that very often...but it is worth it to make time in my schedule once a week or so.

Remember, East Shore I buy, West Shore YOU buy!

Beth

I agree with BF.....the difference is mental.

I definitely get exercise when I teach, but when I ride or work out for myself, I'm not watching the class, making sure everyone is safe, coaching off the bike, giving form pointers, etc. I also teach yoga, and it's the same thing. Yes, I'm doing the poses and the breathing exercises, but my focus is on my students, not myself, and therefore I don't get the same relaxation that I get when I take my written-in-stone-nothing-keeps-me-from-getting-there Monday night class.

If I were to think about it, only two of the five or six workouts I get each week are just for me, and I have to fight to schedule those in. However, as BF mentioned, it's so worth it to me, that I end up giving up other things to do that.

Check back with me in a few months -- I'm going back to school starting with this Summer semester, and we'll see what kind of tune I'm singing then........ :wink:

Paula

[Bike4ale]

Thanks for the input. I expected to get much more of a beating about this. Then again, the thread is young.

I agree, there is no doubt that I get a more intense workout for myself when it's just me. I can really clear my mind, focus, and get in the zone without worrying about cueing, watching riders' forms, reading faces, is the music too loud, holding back a little so I can still talk, etc.

What I'm hearing from you so far is making sense, and probably what I need to hear to motivate me to do something for myself for a change. Thanks for the input!

[Rex]

I structure my classes (minute to minute, day to day, week to week) around a plan that I think is good for my regular riders. Its not the ideal training for my own needs, but it still gives me a good workout. I teach almost exclusively ON the bike, and I try to do most of the things I ask the group to do, so I pretty much get the same workout they do.

When I CAN get a ride on my own, inside, I definitely can get a little more out of it, but no question I get the bulk of my workouts in WHILE teaching, especially in the winter.

I think it is bad if you are forcing your class members to follow your own personal training needs: "Hmmm... I have a race saturday, so this thursday's AM class will be some sprint practice, and then a long 20minute cool down to make sure I'm feeling good for my prep ride on friday..." But if you get good workouts as a byproduct of your instruction, all the better.

I am very irritated by the "if you are working out while you teach, then you can't possibly be doing your job correctly" argument. As soon as somebody in my class complains about the way I do it, or pays me $50 per class or something, I'll think about making that sacrifice, but right now its $10 per class, and my students love what I'm doing. Seems to work. I don't have time for more workouts. I need to workout. Therefore I workout while I teach.

We really are hugely underpaid. I can make $30 per hour teaching a SINGLE student a trombone lesson.... But make me responsible for the safety, health, and happiness of 25 adults, and its $10-15 per hour. That is just terrible. I love teaching trombone, and teaching cycling classes... just because you love it doesn't mean you shouldn't be paid well for it.

[All]

Thread Guys and Gals:

I agree that the "focus" is supposed to be on your ridership and a by product of the ride is a "workout" for you. Instructors who never get off the bike (or almost never) are shortchanging everybody in the room. And I mean EVERYBODY. Part of the growing and learning experience of teaching a class is GETTING YOUR BUTT OFF THE BIKE. Is somebody afraid to walk around the room and work issues 1 on 1,... in fear of not getting a good workout for themselves? IF this is the case then (obviously) the focus is on "self" instead of the ridership. You can easily demonstrate correct cadence, climbs, resistance, on the bike on a regular basis during the ride,. THEN GET OFF THE BIKE and expand your teaching ability on the floor. Others stay glued to the bike for another reason. They simply feel more comfortable staying on the bike instead of ENGAGING with the ridership on a more personal basis during the ride. Again, if this is the case,.. then you are shortchanging yourself AND the riderhip.

I TOTALLY agree we are grossly underpaid,.. but if you want the BIG BUCKS you can go and slice deli meat at the local 7 Eleven. I also hear that Burger King is hiring too. GREAT UNIFORMS and a Paper HAT !!!

SPARKY

[Satori]

It is all a matter of how seriously you take your training, you really can't have realistic goals, and divide your attention between yourself and say 50 students. Another distinction must be made...Are you doing a workout or a training session? Do you know the difference in the two? I am paid to Instruct and motivate by my facility, sponsors on the other hand compensate for training..
Satori

[SPARKY]

Satori:

Well stated. A sweaty workout to music is one thing. But training (for specific goals, objectives, events, etc.) is another. Again it depends on your audience. I am amazed at how different the culture is from one gym to another. Some folks just want a sweaty work-out to tunes with no real goal out there to train for. Others have more of a focus on where they want t to be in the coming months. As instructors we need to cater accordingly,.. but at the same time should try to step outside the box and see if we can also steer the train for our riders to have a happier and healthier tomorrow. Otherwise,.. why even bother teaching?? If an instructor just uses his/her own classes for self promoting workout/training sessioins,.. that person should not be up in front of the class.

SPARKY

[Bike4ale]

Instructors who never get off the bike (or almost never) are shortchanging everybody in the room. And I mean EVERYBODY. - SPARKY

America was founded on controversy. You just gotta love it!

Sparky, I would agree that if part of your teaching style is getting off the bike to teach, then you should continue to do it. For myself, I am pretty much on the bike the entire class. If I need to correct someone's form, I either make general comments to everyone during class, or I see the rider individually before or after class. Like Rex, my members love what I'm doing. It works for me. I don't stay on the bike in fear of not getting a workout, but rather to guage how hard I'm working the class. I already know I'm going to catch some grief for this next statement, but I DON'T FOLLOW A STRICT PROFILE FOR EVERY CLASS. There, I said it. Everything I do is off the cuff........improv. Sure, I have some regular routines, intervals & drills that I do, but I have no idea that I'm going to do them until about 15-30 seconds before. Having musical talent, I am very in tune with my music. Tempo, time changes, volume are all part of the riding terrain. I get so many compliments from riders that my class is unique....there's variety....they never know what I'm going to throw at them, and when. For the past 2 days, I used a new CD that I just made. I apologized before class to one member who just heard it the day before. After class, she told me that it was an entirely different workout from the day before...with the same music! When I teach off the bike due to injury or under-the-weatherness, I lose all connection with riding the musical terrain.

One more example before I step down off my soap box. I have a regular who just started spinning 2 months ago. She is completely addicted to my class, and she's not even a member. She belongs to another gym, and pays per class to come take mine. She even recently went as far as getting certified to teach. In the two months since she's been riding, she's taken about a half dozen other classes and continues to tell me that I've spoiled her with my teaching style. She hasn't been able to find another instructor that she likes.

Is my style for every instructor? .....NO. Is my style for every member? .......NO. I guess that's the beauty of clubs offering various instructors to our members. I honestly don't like taking class when the instructor is off the bike. I want him/her doing the same work I'm doing. But that's just me. I realize others appreciate it.

Again, I guess my point is.....VARIETY and CHOICE is an awesome thing. We got off on sort of a different tangent here, but....I liked it and went with it.

[hammertime]

As much as I agree that we are at the front of the class to teach and not engage in our personal training schedules, I think there is a compromise that occurs from time to time.

Surely there are times when your class is rocking, everyone seems to be in their groove and there is little reason for you to get off the bike. It is in classes of this nature that I see it fit for the instructor to gain some of the physical benefits from riding the bike. Of course, your attention is still on the safety of the students and the profile at hand, but hey, we live in a multi-tasking world. It's okay if you sweat a little bit when you teach. Hardcore sessions, however, should be completed on your own time. If you are panting and out of breath because you have engaged in an anaerobic interval leaves little energy for you to fully instruct your students.

When push comes to shove, we need to remember that one of the perks of teaching in a facility and getting paid peanuts is that we have free access to the facility at any time we choose. Going to the facility when we are not teaching may not be very appealing or we can make the excuse that we do not have the time to get there at any other time, but that is your decision. Make the time to spend time with yourself doing things for yourself so that you can focus on being the best instructor you possibly can be when you are in front of your students.

[SpinManiac]

I teach pretty much exclusively on the bike, as do 99% of the other instructors I work with (I teach for a large chain of clubs- most of the instructors have classes at more than one of the local facilities).

I am a fairly new instructor (teaching just over one year) and the main reason that I don't teach off the bike are because those instructors that I try to emulate don't do it and because frankly, I have no idea what I would do or say off the bike. There isn't so much cueing that I can't do it while I'm on the bike. Plus I too try to ride at pretty much the same intensity that I'm cuing so that I have an idea of how challenging the class is.

When I first starting spinning/indoor cycling about 6 years ago, my instructor was a much more "by the book" JGSI than the ones I currently work with and even she was hardly ever off the bike. (She was amazing and I still miss her!)

At my club(s) the members seem to be motivated by an instructor who is working hard with them. The most popular instructor that I can think of whose classes are always packed is practically glued to her bike. I don't know- it's working for me and for my fellow instructors so I'll probably keep doing it. Though I would love some tips from those of you who are comfortable off the bike- what you do and say and how it really helps the members have a better ride than if you were riding too.

SpinManiac

PS I too look at my classes as workout time for me. I do take other people's classes because I really enjoy them and because that is pure time just for me. However, while my classes are for the members, they're for me too- not to self servingly promote myself, but just to work out.

[SPARKY]

Hammer and Bike2Ale:

Most excellent points. Both of you have articulated "defendable" positions. I understand. Every gym has its own culture,.. etc.
I am still a believer that you cannot "see" everyone all the time so an occasional walk thru (especially those wack-Os in the back row) to make sure cadence and breathing is within established parameters.

I understand that what the two of you do "works" for you. I am merely offering my opinion that we can do better if we don't stay on the bike 100% of the ride. Even though you may be off the bike you can still give guidance to the entire group,.. or engage on some 1 on 1 during the ride.
As instrcutors, we, like all humans, migrate to what is "comfortable" and what works. Sometimes (not all times) we could be even better instructors by stepping outside the comfort zone of our "mental self imposed" boxes. Some of the biggest failures I have witnessed in teachers is that once they get into their "groove" they dont' change, and hence, don't grow,. don't stretch,... to become a better instructor. If you are coasting on what works today,.. it may not work tomorrow. Herein lies a great challenge,.. constantly strive for better classes and just because you have full classes today does not mean you have "arrived" as an instructor.

Since both of you seem to do quite well with "variety" why not teach a class every blue moon TOTALLY off the bike. I have. It's not easy,.. and it forces you to s-t-r-e-t-c-h both pesonally and professionally.

SPARKY

[MsSpin]

I'm weighing in on this subject as I don't use the class as a workout for me, but I teach almost exclusively on the bike. I stay on the bike for a couple of reasons. 1) I won't ask my students to do something I'm not willing to do. 2) the participants don't seem to want 1-on-1 attention and often react as if i've singled them out for something wrong. 3) i'm not really sure what to say. Several participants have said they want the instructor on the bike so they can see what she/he is doing and emulate that.

I've talked with a number of instructors who have been teaching cycling for years and not one of them teaches off the bike. I guess the membership is used to it and they think it's odd when an instructor is off the bike.

I've not received any negative feedback from the participants or the management about my teaching style. I'm going to continue what I'm doing until someone, with authority, tells me to stop.

[SPARKY]

Dear Spin Maniac:

I "substitued" at a different club for 3 months. Let me tell you about "the most popular" teacher there." The gal who taught there (the one who was "most popular" was a total disaster as an instructor. I don't care if she was MDA, Cycle Reebok, Kaiser, or ANY other indoor cycling program. She was TERRIBLE. She basically taught a very high cadence (i.e. low to no resistance) sweaty workout to music that had the rider jerking themselves all over the bike (popcorn jumps, super high cadence standing runs, etc. ). Seated climbs were almost the same cadence as quick flats, etc. It was truly the worst ride I ever experienced. Yet she was "popular" primarily because the ridership at this club were too dumb to know what was going on. This is how they were introduced to this gyms' culture for indoor cycling. RMPs were well above 110, all the yelling and screaming,.... it was a high impact aerobics class conducted on a stationary bike. She broke most of the rules of indoor cycling regardless of the certification. What a joke.
Oh, by the way,..... she never left her bike. She wanted to make darn sure she got "her" workout no matter what.
So much for "popular."

SPARKY
P.S. I don't believe the ridership really cares if the instructor is getting the same workout as they are. I have never heard that one before. If folks want MORE time to workout,..... I recommend teaching less.

[hammertime]

Since both of you seem to do quite well with "variety" why not teach a class every blue moon TOTALLY off the bike. I have. It's not easy,.. and it forces you to s-t-r-e-t-c-h both pesonally and professionally.
SPARKY

Sparky,
You are preaching to the choir. I have taught Spinning for over 7 years and for the past three years I have taught one class entirely off the bike. The class happens to be on my recovery day so I do not even change into my bike gear. It's a sold out ride with 40 riders and a waiting list of at least 10.

I am not in disagreement with teaching off the bike. However, if you don't know why you are off the bike then you are better off staying on it. I also think there is a happy medium that can be reached. In a recovery class when everyone is in the zone, is there really a need for you to get off the bike? Same for Endurance. At some point in time is it not wise to give our students a little bit of "breathing" room so they can become independent in their training? I seem to have heard that in a continuing education class somewhere.

[Bike4ale]

I admit, if I had 40 riders in class, I would probably feel the need to get off the bike every now and then. For me, a full class is about 15 and we're close enough that I can keep an eye on things. It's interesting how situations can change with the club and surroundings.

[madcyclist]

But I don't think any of us would be in this if WE didn't get something out of it too. I also think that members like the fact that the instructor is up there kicking his or her OWN butt in the process.

See this is what I talking about. Why do you think the members want to see you “kick your own butt”? Why is it about “kicking butt”? This is the mentality that gives indoor cycling a bad name and it starts with the instructor. This mentality also tells me that instructors have a long way to go in understanding what training (or working out) is all about. Why are you playing to the ignorance of your class? You should be educating them. And it doesn’t mean that you have to be riding to do this. To me an instructor who has to be riding 85%-100% of the class shows that this person is insecure and needs to prove to the class how “superior in fitness” s/he is to the class. Also if you shouldn’t have to ride the majority of the class to show that you can do you own profile either. If you have to then you shouldn’t be doing the profile to start.

Yes, we're the experts and the teachers, but if we sit too high on our pedastal it could discourage some riders. Is there anything wrong with being somewhat human?

Pedestal? If you see a coach, a mentor, or an instructor as one who sits on a pedestal then you really don’t know what being a coach, mentor, or instructor is all about. You are there for them. I see some instructors walk into class with their chests poke out like "they are lions of the kingdom". I guess these folks call it commanding respect.

I find that an instructor who engages his/her participants, motivates them to do their best (and that doesn’t mean intimidating them), and relates to them is the best instructor that anyone can ask for. This is not about sitting on a pedestal or ego. Those instructors that get their rocks off on this are dangerous and should be banned from instructing.

Again, cross training is great, and I'm trying to work that into my schedule. Is anyone out there with me on this? Members DO come first, and I will gladly get off the bike during class to help someone out, etc. But am I a spinning sinner to admit that class is also about us?

You CANNOT (I repeat CANNOT) train/workout effectively while instructing a class - I don't care how serious you are about training. If you think that you are getting a workout while instructing a class, you shouldn’t be an instructor.

When I train/workout I have to have my mind free. I cannot workout when I have to watch people or be preoccupied with safety concerns as I do when I’m instructing. It’s “either or” in my book, but, you CANNOT do both. If you think you can, then you TOTALLY missed the boat.

Just for the record, as I am "maturing" as a coach, instructor, and mentor, I am learning that I should and have to be off the bike 80%-90% of the time. The only time I am on the bike is to demonstrate concepts and techniques. The 80-90% of the time I'm off the bike, I am walking the floor, motivating, engaging, and relating to my riders.

May be this way my classes are full. I'm getting paid to dedicate the time I am instructing to the class. I'm not going to "steal" from them by sneeking in my "workout".
--

[Satori]

Mad..You humble me with your words...Your perspective is awesome I still look forward to riding with you someday when I pass through your area....Have you all noticed how constructive and positive this environment has become since MDA is out of the picture?
Welcome to a new world....
Satori

[BarbJ]

Well said Mad. I agree. It's too bad we can't get more instructors to do the same. I get off the bike at least several times each class (I teach 4 a week and 4-6 pilates and sculpting classes a week). If I did every single rep that my students did (without going around and correcting form) I would be cheating them and probabley have some over use syndrome somewhere on my body (I'm not 25 anymore :wink: ). I have taught an entire class off the bike and the riders still had a great workout/training session. Even tho we are not paid the big bucks, I like to remember why I am doing this, not just for the love of spinning/exercise but to get others to love it as much as I do:) I try to get at least one workout in a week, just for myself, whether it means going on the elliptical for 45 minutes or staying after a class and riding an additional half hour or so. If it doesn't happen, oh well, I'll try to limit my intake of m&m's or that dessert on Saturday night.

[Bike4ale]

You CANNOT (I repeat CANNOT) train/workout effectively while instructing a class - I don't care how serious you are about training. If you think that you are getting a workout while instructing a class, you shouldn’t be an instructor. - Madcyclist

Dear Madcyclist (or is that Simon Cowell of American Idol?),

I appreciate your point of view, and for displaying your enthusiasm for cycling. I am very happy for you in your perfect cycling world. I have gotten the much needed kick in the pants to get to the gym for my own workouts. But I guess I owe you, the members at two clubs, and the members that request me to sub at a third club a huge apology for teaching class.....having some fun.......meeting new people.....inspiring people to buy bikes and ride outdoors.......giving them a great workout like nobody else is.....and at the same time, getting some exercise in for myself.

Honestly, I think you and I are teaching in two different worlds. If you think I "missed the boat" and "shouldn't be an instructor", I can accept that. It's just a small part of my life that I enjoy doing on the side. I am guilty.

[Fast Trainer]

You CANNOT (I repeat CANNOT) train/workout effectively while instructing a class

Maybe you can't because of your pea sized brain. Tony, you're being your typical asshole self.

[Satori]

Well, almost positive and constructive....
Satori

[AC]

I have never read any post ever on this topic that convinces me that there is one answer to teaching on or off the bike.

I go this way...If I see something I can correct or help, either in a new rider or improving someone's form, I'm off to do it. If not I'm on the bike.

I have always broken it down this way. You lead a class on the bike, you coach the individual off the bike. Both leading and coaching are needed and you make up your mind what you need to do at that moment in time.

There are also issues regarding personal space, claustrophobia, and people not wanting attention called to themselves that I am very sensitive to. All need a balanced perspective from the instructor which does not come from a manual, a CEC, a forum or from anything other than your own common sense.

[Bike4ale]

Good answer, AC!

[BFSpin]

Nicely put, AC. You got the "Balance" part right!

Beth

[texasred]

I think AC said it best. It is totally a balancing act. I teach at four different clubs and each one of them is set up COMPLETELY different than the other. The smallest club only has 12 bikes, there isn't even a microphone in that room, it is that small. Another one has 30 bikes CRAMMED in it with absolutely NO SPACE to walk through the room and the bikes, when and if I get off the bike in there I always hope I don't have to make my way to the back of the room. And then the other two have plenty of space & bikes. Last summer I was forced to get off the bike (and all other workouts) for 2 weeks by doctor's orders. It was strange at first in the little studio, really there is no place to even stand, unless you are right in front of someone's bike and walking space - try about 6 or 7 feet. But after the first class I got used to it and my students did too. The bigger studios with room to move were easy and I actually really liked it.

[madcyclist]

Bring it at me......I'm ready.


Well, bike4ale, you asked for controversy and you got it. Just some straight talk. Looks llike you took it better than Fast Trainer though.

Did I touch a nerve Fast Trainer? Are your a thief? Feeling guilty? By the looks of you response looks like you are really bothered.

It's ok.

LMAO!!!
--

[lightspin]

Interesting how perception makes a HUGE deal when it comes to what we read in a post.

From where I sit, it seems that most of you were sayaing the same thing. AC just put it in a format that seemed to finally connect with the majority.

[Bike4ale]

Madcyclist - Don't worry about me. I've had some fun stirring the pot on my first day. Controversy can bring out the best in us.

[SpinManiac]

Is it just me or does it seem that those most loudly criticizing others as being filled with ego (for commiting that most heinous of crimes- trying to get some semblance of a workout while instructing an indoor cycling class) are perhaps themselves most guilty of behaving as if they are the lions of the kingdom?

Still interested in tips re teaching off the bike . . . not so interested in recommendations regarding my workout schedule or in enduring a lecture as to why I shouldn't be an instructor.

[gonzosgirl01]

You CANNOT (I repeat CANNOT) train/workout effectively while instructing a class - I don't care how serious you are about training. If you think that you are getting a workout while instructing a class, you shouldn’t be an instructor.

When I train/workout I have to have my mind free. I cannot workout when I have to watch people or be preoccupied with safety concerns as I do when I’m instructing. It’s “either or” in my book, but, you CANNOT do both. If you think you can, then you TOTALLY missed the boat.

OK, let's come back to reality. ACSM suggests (& I quote again):
for healthy aerobic activity ...
• Exercise 3 to 5 days each week
• Warm up for 5 to 10 minutes
before aerobic activity
• Maintain your exercise intensity
for 30 to 45 minutes
• Gradually decrease the intensity of your
workout, then stretch to cool down during the
last 5 to 10 minutes
If weight loss is major goal, participate in
your aerobic activity at least 30 minutes
for five days each week.

Nowhere in there do I see that I have to "have my mind free." I personally don't get off the bike very often at all. I get my workout with my participants - not in spite of them, but mostly because of them. We have FUN, together.

And nope, I ain't training for the olympics, the next marathon, road race, you name it - I'm EXERCISING & staying healthy, as are a full 100% of my students. For us, fitting in some exercise in a day filled with full-time jobs, kids, spouses, demands, etc., etc. is more than the 95% of folks who plant on the couch in front of the boob tube, watching the roots grow on their asses.

FWIW, I work on a military base, I teach 10-12 classes per week for FREE (and yes, I know when/how to keep MY ride recovery & still let the class work as hard or as soft as they want), and if I want to get in a workout FOR ME, I either have to get my husband to teach for my class, or get up at 5 a.m. & run. And I hate to run. :wink:

--Mandi

[murphs]

You can put me in the "Yes, I get a workout when I teach spin class" category. That's one of many parts of the job that I enjoy.

Do I think my ability to lead/motivate my class suffers as a result? No.

[Rex]

Well, BeerBoy, you got your controversy! Atta Boy!

I'm just thrilled to see so many people chiming in on the topic. I thought we were never going to get this board rolling!

There are many different levels to "working out," "exercising," or "training" or whatever else you call it. I'm not "training" for any specific goal other than to keep fit and have fun. If you are an athelete focused on more specific training goals than this, I wouldn't expect you to fulfill your needs while teaching. That would be silly.

We all teach to different client groups, requiring different workouts for their needs. The number of "correct" approaches is pretty much exactly equal to the number of instructors out there. You have to do what works for you AND for your clients.

We would all benefit from "stretching" our boundaries as often as possible. New cues, new music, new profile ideas, new equipment, new settings, new breathing techniques (anybody still telling their students to pull in their abs? Aahhhhhhh!), new pedal stroke techniques, or whatever....

So... why do all of us come to this board? Maybe to stroke our own egos in a few cases..., but mostly to look for new ideas... hoping to stretch our boundaries.... Anybody reading and posting on this board is already way ahead of most instructors out there, as far as putting forth extra effort, and showing concern for their clients instead of just themselves. Just as most of our clients are way ahead of those other folks sitting at home on the sofa eating chocolate chip cookies (low carb, of course, so they can lose weight...)

So can we "just answer the question" and not tear eachother a new a**hole everytime we see an opportunity to prove we're right?

Thanks again for getting this started, HomeBrewKid. Really... good to see everyone speak up.

[Cheeze]

I come dressed to ride - but prepared to walk the floor. My goal is to do whatever I have to do to give my class the best ride possible. I never begin class with a plan to ride (so many) minutes or be off the bike (so many) minutes. If the class is cooking while I'm on the bike........I stay on the bike. If there are things that require me off the bike.......I'm off the bike. If I feel a newer student would benefit from we riding next to him/her........I roll my bike over or grab the bike next to their's. If everyone has their eyes closed and is in the flow of their own ride......I
grab my Jumbo Book Of Crossword Puzzles until the class is over.

When I teach I always try to tune into the energy and the flow of the class and coach accordingly. Are my students cheezed up or is there something I can do to make their(a) ride better?

I feel the best rides come from inside and not the front of the room. That's what I try to impart to my students. Many of them close their eyes while riding. Subsequently I don't feel I need to be leading up in front of class. They do fine without me.

You guys do what works for you and your classes. This is just my slice of Cheeze.

[BFSpin]

"Beerboy" :lol: ... and he even got an AttaBoy! Rex, does he get a pat on the head, too?

The boundary stretch thought is absolutely on target, and it can come from many directions...Continuing Ed (a BIG bonus), a new time slot and riders, taking other instructor's classes, taking the bike out on the road, trying a new microbrew, using music you've never considered using before...

A question, though...if I'm on this board, AND taking CE courses, AND eating chocolate chip cookies (NOT lo-carb - what's the point of that?) do those things cancel each other out?

:mrgreen: Beth

[greentea]

I enjoy coaching off the bike. I did it exclusively right before and right after my baby was born.

My problem is the nasty high-pitched feedback from the stereo system that I get when I wander too close to the speakers!!!

[madcyclist]

OK, let's come back to reality. ACSM suggests (& I quote again):
for healthy aerobic activity ...
• Exercise 3 to 5 days each week
• Warm up for 5 to 10 minutes
before aerobic activity
• Maintain your exercise intensity
for 30 to 45 minutes
• Gradually decrease the intensity of your
workout, then stretch to cool down during the
last 5 to 10 minutes
If weight loss is major goal, participate in
your aerobic activity at least 30 minutes
for five days each week.

Nowhere in there do I see that I have to "have my mind free." I personally don't get off the bike very often at all. I get my workout with my participants - not in spite of them, but mostly because of them. We have FUN, together.

Mandi sweety (and I like your name, seriously),

Does the ACSM talk about periodization, heart rate training? Does it go into sports psychology and the mental aspects of training? I wouldn't expect the ACSM manual mentioning anything about having a "free mind" when training. But, I guess if it's not in the book, then it has no value - so limited. Working/training out is a little more than just going through the motions - at least that's what I go out of my training as an indoor cycling instructor. And no you don't have to be training for the Olympics to realize the benefits of this type of training.

When I see an instructor perched up on the podium spinning the pedal at some ungoddly rate (calling it a sprint), huffing and puffing out of breath, I just put my head down a snicker. That person doesn't know how much of a FOOL he/she really looks like. I preach staying in control and withing yourself - not losing it.

As a former competitive track athlete and a semi-competitive cyclist, I bring those elements in my class that your typical ACSM instructor doesn't. And I realize that and so does my class participants. I hear y'all and I agree is whatever works. But I don't agree with the concept of "sneaking a workout". To me it's "either, or". But hey that's just me.

Hey if you riders like to see you huffing and puffing and damn near falling of the bike from exhaustion and that's a good workout? Hey knock yourself out - literally. I'll be in the back of the class snickering.

I wonder if this is in the ACSM manual? Does the ACSM manual talk about staying within yourself, staying in control of yourself? I would think that would be a basic tenent of working out? But I guess if it's not in the manual then it has no value.

Afterall, this is the great ACSM manual we're talking about.

Paleazzz ...

Are we cooking now, bike4ale? LMAO!!!
--

[gonzosgirl01]

Ah Mad,

Glad you like my name, I always wanted something more mysterious & unique, like Yvonne or Akara ...

But I digress.


Does the ACSM talk about periodization, heart rate training? Does it go into sports psychology and the mental aspects of training? I wouldn't expect the ACSM manual mentioning anything about having a "free mind" when training. But, I guess if it's not in the book, then it has no value - so limited. Working/training out is a little more than just going through the motions - at least that's what I go out of my training as an indoor cycling instructor. And no you don't have to be training for the Olympics to realize the benefits of this type of training.


I'm sure one of the reasons all the above isn't mentioned is so that the general message (get off your ass & exercise) appeals to the masses (the lumpy masses sitting on said ass). Last year, I was a born again couch potato, didn't exercise, carried extra weight, the whole 9. If I thought I needed a degree in sports medicine to understand every single aspect of exercise, I would have probably been so overwhelmed I might never have begun. Baby steps, baby. My first goal is to get someone to experience it - a little at a time. When they discover they like it, I feed them some more info, help them understand where we're going with what we're doing.

Honestly, I would LOVE to take a class from someone who, like you, is or was a competitive athlete, cuz I'd be picking their brain & taking notes like crazy. You DO give regular exercisers something most of us can't, so I'm envious.

I'd also like to teach a class filled with students who want to learn, want to do, want to "periodize", get the mind-body connection going, etc. BUT some of them are in there cuz it's mandatory (military base, remember?), & if I ever tried mind-body connection visuals on them they'd likely whip my butt. :!: It's all good.

Heh, it IS becoming quite a good debate, isn't it? Ride on, Mad; I'm waiting for ya! Now, I'm off to work out WITH my class at 1100 (can't say I won't be huffin or puffin, but there will be no crazy 120 RPM sprints in THIS CHICK'S class, nu-uh, no way) ...

[Bike4ale]

Dear Madcyclist,

You made some very good points in this last post. We almost need a new thread to talk about this one.

When Spinning first hit our gym in the late 90's, I was just a member who had gotten into recreational cycling a few years before. Every aerobics instructor who had, at some point in their life, ridden a bike answered to the call of becoming a "Spinning Instructor". I remember when a sprint was, "OK class, lets take off all our tension....and see how fast you can go for 2 minutes.......GO!" And don't get me started on all the "jumps" or "hops" or whatever they wanted to call them with little or no tension....going up and down with every pedal revolution. People would actually come out of class and guage how good it was by how much pain they were in DURING CLASS! Luckilly, I had an instructor with a passion for cycling who taught us the correct way to ride. I agree, not everyone out there is as fortunate. To this day, I CRINGE when I see another instructor (1) bouncing up and down in the saddle, (2) hopping/sprinting without tension, (3) suddenly telling class to stop and pedal BACKWARDS, (4) or having them put so much tension on that they stop at the bottom of their pedal strokes and tug at their handlebars with every turn. AND THEN I SEE THE SAME INSTRUCTOR ON THE SCHEDULE TO TEACH AN "INTRO TO CYCLING" CLASS!!!!!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGHHHHH!

"Control" is something I stress in every class and also demonstrate in my riding. You may have gotten the wrong impression from my earlier quote of "Kicking my own butt" in class. I always remain in control of myself for cueing, as I do a lot of cueing in my classes. Do I still get a good workout teaching? Yes. Is it enough that I shouldn't be finding my own time for harder workouts? No. That was the real purpose of this thread.

I believe people should feel ENERGIZED after my class...not completely drained. My 5:30 AM classes are designed to get people going in the morning and take on the day, not make them want to crawl in bed and die.

Madcyclist, I think I'm more on YOUR side than you may think with cycling philosophy and riding style. I guess, for now, I prefer the "teach by example" approach by staying on the bike. Yes, there are a TON of instructors out there doing themselves and their members a dis-service by teaching improper form and riding technique. I'm not that instructor.

[madcyclist]

Can u feel da luv in her'?

I'm not saying my classes are a perfect world. What I find is that there is a HUGE education process that goes on within our classes and I think a lot of us (instructors) don't realize that.

The other night I ran a class where I turned some of the control over to them. I gave each of them 1 minute to select a movement (with some ground rules). One woman protested out loud from the back row saying that she came to class expecting for me to command it. I reminded her that when you take my class I employ the mind and the body, and, yes, you have to think when you come to my class. It's not just about working the body. Sometimes this is a hard sell, but, some of them get it and some of them don't. Nonetheless, I'm not going to change my philosophy.

The class ended up being a good one (I've done better) but that's one of those times where the class needed to learn it's not just about the body. The mind needs a workout too. And I stress the mind-body connection which I think is an important principle that is overlooked so frequently. This isn't just a SPINNING principle but one that I encountered a long time ago when competing in track, racquetball, and now cycling. There is a "zone" or feeling when everything is clicking. When you're in this zone, your mind and body work like a sychronized machine - each one working in harmony with the other.

Being in "tune" with youself is a powerful things and doesn't mean "kicking butt" - I know what you are saying bike4ale. A lot of folks who attend our class don't understand this. Heck a lot of instructors don't understand this. This is one of the "extras" I bring to class.

Mandi, Bike4ale, even Fast Trainer, I luv u man!

:wink:
--

[Bike4ale]

Aw, see. Now that's what I'm talkin' about. PEACE....LOVE....HAPPINESS....BALANCE. It's all here!

:oops:

[Rex]

"When I see an instructor perched up on the podium spinning the pedal at some ungoddly rate (calling it a sprint), huffing and puffing out of breath, I just put my head down a snicker. That person doesn't know how much of a FOOL he/she really looks like."

Mad... what's with this? Some of us have said we get "workouts" while we teach. Noone said anything about huffing and puffing. Noone said they get "out of control" or anything close. Are you unable to get a workout without getting out of control, and huffing and puffing? I'm SURE you're aware of different forms of training, some of which include maintaining a "conversational breathing" aerobic level of effort. I bet you'd agree that a person trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and a moderate level of fitness, could do so with a cross-training schedule that included 2 or 3 workouts a week in which they didn't cross their LT.

As I said before, it would be silly to suggest that you could train for a highly competetitive level of fitness WHILE teaching a class.

I'm not "sneaking" a workout. I'm getting a reasonable, moderate aerobic effort of about 35-45 minutes, 3 times a week, and I take that into account with the rest of my exercise planning.

Are you working a periodization schedule for people who ride a bike 3 times a week for less than 60 minutes of effort? Why?

Does the manual say something about tearing into people who are your colleagues, and who are trying to benefit the health of their members with the same passion and effectiveness as you do? Don't say you're not tearing into anyone, because you wouldn't stretch our comments to make us look bad if you weren't...

You can post all the follow-up pleasantries you like, but once you've commented to your fellow professionals that you'd be in the back of their class "snickering"... you've pretty much lost my respect.

[madman]

"When I see an instructor perched up on the podium spinning the pedal at some ungoddly rate (calling it a sprint), huffing and puffing out of breath, I just put my head down a snicker. That person doesn't know how much of a FOOL he/she really looks like."

Mad... what's with this? Some of us have said we get "workouts" while we teach. Noone said anything about huffing and puffing. Noone said they get "out of control" or anything close. Are you unable to get a workout without getting out of control, and huffing and puffing? I'm SURE you're aware of different forms of training, some of which include maintaining a "conversational breathing" aerobic level of effort. I bet you'd agree that a person trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and a moderate level of fitness, could do so with a cross-training schedule that included 2 or 3 workouts a week in which they didn't cross their LT.

You're all late. Go back and read the thread.

As I said before, it would be silly to suggest that you could train for a highly competetitive level of fitness WHILE teaching a class.

I'm not "sneaking" a workout. I'm getting a reasonable, moderate aerobic effort of about 35-45 minutes, 3 times a week, and I take that into account with the rest of my exercise planning.

Sounds like you're on a guilt trip to me.

Are you working a periodization schedule for people who ride a bike 3 times a week for less than 60 minutes of effort? Why?

I ask you, why not?

Does the manual say something about tearing into people who are your colleagues, and who are trying to benefit the health of their members with the same passion and effectiveness as you do? Don't say you're not tearing into anyone, because you wouldn't stretch our comments to make us look bad if you weren't...

What manual? What in the heck are you talking about? I'm not impressed.

You can post all the follow-up pleasantries you like, but once you've commented to your fellow professionals that you'd be in the back of their class "snickering"... you've pretty much lost my respect.

I don't know if we would refer to ourselves as "professionals". Indoor cyclng is not my profession.

I would snicker in your class too if I saw the same from you (and it sounds like I would). You probably already have people snickering at you whether you know it or not. Sorry dude, you can't control what people think and their reactions - just in case someone hasn't told you that before.

I could really care less of what you think and gaining your respect. I know what I do and as long as it works for me, my members, and my club, hey, that's all that matters to me.

There are some common sense guidelines and some of us "professionals" don't have a clue as to what they are or we do we choose to ignore them because we want to please our classes. I don't know what category you fall into but it sounds like you fall into one of them.

I just tell it the way I see it and what I hear. If that hurts, then you're the one with the problem. We all have different views and we learn things by listening to our peers (I would prefer to use that word). We share information (experiences, knowledge, ...).

Some advice: Stop getting hung up in the emotional aspects and listen to the message.
--

[Bike4ale]

Rex....Mad....I started it, but I think I'll leave this up to you two.

Hey, anybody know the odds on this bout? :lol:

[BFSpin]

I would snicker in your class too if I saw the same from you (and it sounds like I would). You probably already have people snickering at you whether you know it or not. Sorry dude, you can't control what people think and their reactions - just in case someone hasn't told you that before.

There are some common sense guidelines and some of us "professionals" don't have a clue as to what they are or we do we choose to ignore them because we want to please our classes. I don't know what category you fall into but it sounds like you fall into one of them.

--

Ale, my money's on Rex.

Mad, you have NO idea how far off base you are on this one...

'Nuff said.

Beth

[Rex]

Sorry, BoozerBoy, but there will be no "bout" here. This officially falls in the "not worth the effort" category for me. I use the forums to find new ideas and info, and to chime in when I feel I have some useful information to divulge of my own. In this case, I don't think anyone is going to get much positive out of it.

But, hey, you got a doozy of a first thread going for yourself!

[Bike4ale]

......I've been an instructor for 5 years now, and teach regularly 3-4 times per week. Besides childhood, when everyone rode bikes, I've been riding seriously for 8 years.

A few years ago, a fellow instructor told me something that STILL bothers me, and I'm looking for other feedback. Sometimes in my busy schedule, the only exercise I do is teach. I know, I know....we're supposed to be pushing the cross training principle....and I agree with that. But it doesn't always happen. I'm trying to change that. Anyway.....I mentioned to this other instructor that basically, teaching spin is all I do to stay in shape. I said that by teaching, I am forced to exercise. When the alarm goes off for my 5:30 AM class, I have no choice but to get up and do it. She immediately said, "When I teach, I don't even count that as MY workout. That class is for the members. I think it's wrong to treat your classes as YOUR personal workout too."

Again, cross training is great, and I'm trying to work that into my schedule. Is anyone out there with me on this? Members DO come first, and I will gladly get off the bike during class to help someone out, etc. But am I a spinning sinner to admit that class is also about us?


DATELINE....WEDNESDAY APRIL 7TH, 2004....BEER DUDE JOINS THE FORUM.

Wow, there's been a lot of freaky posts on this forum lately. I just wanted to update you on some of the positive aspects of PLHB.com, and how it's changed my perspective of being an instructor. Since this thread, here are some steps I've taken to renew my enthusiasm for indoor cycling:

In addition to teaching 4x per week.....

1. I'm getting to the gym at least 2x per week on MY TIME for MY workouts.
2. I started lifting weights....and I like it.
3. I've taken other instructors' classes more.
4. I started preparing ride profiles instead of just "winging" everything.
5. I started using a heart rate monitor again.
6. I bought a book on HR training, and plan to encourage HRMs in class.
7. I took a kick boxing class and LOVED IT! (that's in the aerobics room)
8. I made some new friends on PLHB, and maybe a few enemies???
9. I'm getting re-certified next month and plan to take CE courses.
10. I'm open to teaching OFF THE BIKE...haven't tried it, but open to it.

Not to mention the fact that I've posted for over 80 times and tend to log on several times a day. I'm sure there's a lot more I'm forgeting. It's a sickness, but it appears to be a good one. I just wanted to pass on the good news to anyone who cares.

Beer dude, that's awesome.

Do you teach energy zones? Have you done an endurance class yet?

[BFSpin]

Hey, Mr. BeerMeister...

You wanna come back to Hershey? I'm lovin' your way of thinking...and the door is always open :wink:

Beth

[spinnerpom]

I have to admit that I do enjoy it when I have a room full of seasoned riders, like I did yesterday and today, and really don't NEED to get off my bike. Especially during endurance rides, which I did both today and yesterday, when I wouldn't want to go up to them "one on one" and interrupt their zone.

It's NICE when I can just stay on my bike and ride...but I feel like I make a bigger contribution--like I earn my pay--when I get someone new who needs coaching. Even if it means I don't get a workout.

Sara

[Bike4ale]

Beer dude, that's awesome.

Do you teach energy zones? Have you done an endurance class yet?


As far as EZ's go, most don't wear HRMs, so I haven't done a whole lot with that. But I guess I have done some percieved exertions. I'll do, like 5 minute or so segments of what I call "Cruising Pace", where I explain that it's not a sprint....but it's not a rest either. I want them to feel like they're working with some resistance, moving at a pretty good pace, but if they had to they could still carry on a conversation. People seem to like this.

As far as an "endurance class"....no. At least, I don't think so. I see a new thread just posted about that, so I may have to flip over for some advice. Mostly, I believe I'm teaching intervals. I tend to throw a lot of "stuff" into 45-60 minutes to keep people occupied and make the time go fast. Although, here was my profile for this morning....you tell me.

I called it, MT. CLIMBMORE. I told everyone to put themselves in their own destination. Mt. Climbmore is a fictitious mountain ANYWHERE ON THE GLOBE....The Rockies, The Alps, a tropical island......you get the picutre.

In a 45 min class, the first 17 minutes included a warm-up, and mostly flat riding with some gear work, short rolling hills, a few sprints, cruising speed. Then we got to the base of Mt. Climbmore which consited of a 20 minute climb to the top. There were several stages of climbing from gradual, to steep.....the middle was an 8 minute 60 rpm pace where the cadence went right along with the music (Sting's "Fortress Around Your Heart, and Bon Jovi's "It's My Life" if anyone cares to time them). We finished the climb with some passing bursts to the top. A 2 minute break before the 4 30-sec sprints/rests to the finish to end the ride.

Endourance class.......probably not. Although there were some endurance moments in there. Actually, I've never taken an endurance class, so I have nothing to compare it to. I think another instructor at our club had one on the schedule, but decided to take it off due to lack of interest.

Any advice?

[gonzosgirl01]

Beer Dude,

So good to see you grow & mature. I hope it isn't the end of an (albeit short) era!! :shock:

I think we've all grown by the posts out here; whether we apply it in the spin room or in the bedroom, we've all learned something.

Like you, I've not tried endurance rides just yet; I reserve that ride for those who ride outdoors or on the stationary bikes in the cardio room. I am curious, though.

Good to hear from you, regardless!! :lol:

[jala3]

Congrats to you Beer Dude, welcome out of your comfort zone!! FYI not all aerobic instructor(12yrs) turned spinning instructor(1yr) are bad :wink: ! I've not taught 1 aerobic class on the bike yet, and will never! Let's be honnest though...Diddy-Pee made you do it, didn't he???
Jeannie

[Bike4ale]

Man...that dude's breasts gave me nightmares!

[spinnerpom]

Hey, beerdude, that was me that posted about EZ up above...forgot to log in. If you want some help crossing that bridge, let me know, I'm happy to offer advice. The regulars on this forum have gotten a lot of people "over the hump" and into teaching endurance which is, we all I think agree, pretty much the toughest EZ to teach!

Sara

[Bike4ale]

Well Madcyclist...I thought of you on Sunday.

After teaching Wed-Thur-Fri on the bike.......then riding 55 miles on Saturday..........the thought of getting on that Spinner both Sunday & Monday to teach was unthinkable.

SUNDAY, BEER DUDE TAUGHT A 60-MINUTE CLASS OFF THE BIKE.

Baby steps, right? I did a 60-minute pyramid with efforts ranging from 30-sec to 4-min with 1-min breaks between...then back down. Halfway through class, I started to worry that it was dragging. I couldn't have been more wrong! At the end, everyone agreed that the hour flew by! Pretty cool! I made it a conscious effort to stay as excited and motivating OFF the bike as I would have been ON the bike. Voice inflection is SO IMPORTANT.

Many of my regulars spin multiple days in a row....some 6-7 days a week! I've been trying to get through to them that they should be mixing it up....doing something different on alternate days. If I know some of them have been doing back-to-backs, I'll remind them to take it easy and "get the ride they need" for that day.

I think by not riding yesterday, and teaching off the bike, I set a good example to those daily diehards.

I enjoyed it. I'll do it again as needed. Thanks to everyone who added to this topic 2 months ago. 8)

[madcyclist]

8)
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