2017 has arrived and you have decided to set a goal of starting a new fitness routine. Sound familiar? Many of us have experienced trying to set fitness goals in the New Year, but a week or two later you lose motivation and decide to give up. This year, when lack of motivation strikes, try giving a spin class a try instead!

As students, we are often faced with mountains of homework and it seems almost impossible to squeeze in exercise every day. From my own experience as a full -time student, I know the struggle of having to get up at 6 a.m. to get a workout in before class. After a while you get bored, tired and fed up of missing out on that extra hour of sleep.

One solution I have found to help me stick with my New Year’s fitness goals is finding an exciting fitness class that I enjoy doing and would be willing to commit to. For me, that happens to be spin classes.

Spin is basically a 40-60 minute cardio class where you cycle indoors on a stationary bike. The stationary bike allows you to set your own pace. The motivating instructors and empowering music gets you excited to workout. After your first class you will be hooked — trust me, it’s awesome!

Spin classes are geared for everyone and offer the flexibility of choosing a class time that works for your schedule.  If you’re nervous about getting started, try having a friend sign up with you —  it’s always more fun working out with friends! If you aren’t ready to make a huge financial commitment, many places even offer a free trial class, so you won’t have to break the bank to try a new workout.

Don’t know where to go for your workout? Saskatoon offers many spin class options. Some classes are included in gym memberships, while there are also studios around the city specifically dedicated to teaching spin classes.

Ryde YXE Cycle Studio and Life Cycle Spin Studio are spin studios located on Broadway Avenue. Both  places offer classes during the day and in the evening, as well as student deals that make classes more affordable to University of Saskatchewan students. When you arrive to your class, the studio provides you with proper shoes for the bikes. All you have to bring is your water bottle and gym clothes. More information can be accessed on their apps and websites as well.

Breathe Cycle and Yoga Studio also offers both spin and yoga classes at their studio located on McOrmond Drive. Class schedules are flexible and affordable and can be viewed on their website. Their energetic and friendly environment will allow you to go home feeling refreshed after your workout!

If you don’t want to travel far from campus, the U of S offers spin classes at the Physical Activity Complex. Don’t worry — it’s included in your gym membership! These classes don’t offer shoes, so you’ll have to bring your own. These classes are ideal for those who want to get a quick workout in between lectures. You can view and sign up for classes on the Recreation Services website under the Fit Centre calendar. Drop-in spots are also available.

Spin is a growing community within Saskatoon and is very welcoming for newcomers. Starting a new class can be overwhelming, but as long as you have your water bottle, favorite workout gear and shoes, you’ll look like a pro.

I hope these options have sparked your interest to try out a spin class or have motivated you to find your passion in fitness. So recruit a friend, sign up for a spin class and have fun reaching your fitness goals — don’t worry, your legs will forgive you later.

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Natasha Hausermann

Graphics: Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor