
Do I have to be in great shape or be an experienced rider?
No. Indoor cycling can be adapted to any fitness level. Each rider controls the resistance on their bike and the speed of their own pedals. You choose how hard you want to work on any given ride. Each ride is filled with riders of all levels fitness levels and experience. The only question is how hard you want to work on any given day. Our experienced instructors will set you up properly and guide you through your own personalized ride.
But, I’m new to indoor cycling, and they look intimidating, do you offer beginner classes?
At this time, we don’t offer regular “beginner classes” instead we recommend that you attend one of our free introductory classes to receive proper bike set up and instruction on what to expect in our regular classes. These are free to local riders, and we are confident that you’ll find that it’s not at all hard to get started.
How many calories will I burn during a ride and how many miles will I travel?
Calories burned are dependent on how hard you work on any given day, therefore it can vary greatly from person to person and day to day. A beginning rider, just easing into riding might burn 200 calories during a one hour ride, going at an easy to moderate pace, while a more experienced rider working out at high intensity for much of that hour might burn double or more than that (400-450 calories) in an hour. Our bikes are equipped with power meters to measure energy expenditure and estimate calories burned, so come on in and see what a cycling workout will do for your calorie burn.
Will these classes bulk up my thighs?
Indoor cycling is an excellent exercise for shaping and toning the leg muscles. Rest assured, with regular participation in indoor you’ll like the way your legs look!
Will indoor cycling improve my running and/or outdoor riding ?
Avid runners who have added indoor cycling to their cross-training routine, often report that indoor cycling “balances” out their leg muscles, putting emphasis on muscle groups not normally used during running. It is also a great way to avoid overtraining and provides a “break” from the constant pounding that can take a toll on the feet and knees.
For outdoor riders, indoor cycling offers an opportunity to train in ways that are not possible out on the road . Besides, with our “liquid sunshine,” it offers a cardio alternative to missing a run or a ride when the weather becomes too much for even the most hardy of Oregonians.
Is indoor cycling safe for people with knee or back problems?
We always recommend that you consult your physician before beginning a new exercise program, however, with proper bike setup cycling is considered a non-impact exercise, which is often recommended by physical therapists and chiropractors. In our own experience we have found that in most cases when individuals report that cycling hurts their knees and/or back, those issues are often easily resolved through proper adjustment and set up of the bike.
Do you provide water at the studio?
Yes, we have a filtered water cooler to fill your water bottles. In keeping with our commitment to “sustainable practices” we do not sell bottled water but we do sell reusable water bottles in case you forget yours. We recommend keeping one in your car at all times.
Do you provide towels?
Yes, a small sweat towel
Is the seat comfortable?
Some beginners find that the seat, and bike in general, require a little getting used to. Padded bike shorts or a cushioned gel seat can definitely soothe your own seat. Yet, most regular riders find that in no time at all they have grown accostomed to the seat.
Do I need special shoes or clothing to ride?
No, but flat, stiff soled shoes work best. Athletic shoes that are lightweight with flexible soles are not recommended as they can cause some foot pain if used to often. After you’ve fallen in love with indoor cycling you’ll want to take it to the next level and purchase cycling shoes with SPD clips for the most efficient ride.
Do you have showers/lockers?
We have dedicated nearly every inch of our studio space to your ride. For that reason, we do not have a full-service locker facility like you’d find at a gym.
Tell me about your studio
Our studio is small but has high ceilings and a light “cool” color scheme, which gives it a spacious feeling that belies its actual size. Air conditioning and overhead fans provide good ventilation, keeping the environment comfortable so you can work harder not “hotter.” While we do not have showers or lockers, we do offer two private changing areas and cubbies for storing any personal items you wouldn’t want to leave in your car and clean sweat towels for each ride.
Is it safe to visit at night?
Yes. This is a busy area with ample, well-lighted parking. You will never have to worry about finding a space close to the studio.