8 Indoor Cycling Myths That Scare You – Even Though They Shouldn’t

A lot of doubts can accompany the thought of taking your first indoor cycling class.

“It’s too hard”
“It’s too scary.”
“I’m not good enough.”
“I’m going to die.”

Even though indoor cycling has been around for years and has proven to be an effective, efficient, and fun workout, there’s still a stigma attached to it.

We totally get it.

Trying something new for the first time can be intimidating and downright scary, but we’re here to tell you that it is doable, that it is fun, and that you CAN Zephyr with us.

At Zephyr, we welcome all people no matter your shape, size, gender, ability, or athleticism. Our studio is built on community, not on how well you can take a class.

For the past month, we’ve been keeping our eyes and ears open over on our Instagram and have gathered up some major indoor cycling myths – ones that we’ve all probably fallen for at one point in time.

So whether you’re a seasoned pro or you’ve never taken a spin class before, we’ve got eight indoor cycling myths that might scare you, even though they shouldn’t.

Myth #1: It will make my thighs bulky.

Haven’t you heard? Strong, muscular, powerful legs are in. Spinning will make your thighs capable of more than you know. It’s a great way to add definition while getting in a killer cardio push – talk about the best of both worlds!

Myth #2: It’s too hard.

Classes at Zephyr are entirely up to you – the speed, resistance, power, and push is dependent on what you are capable of in that moment. We encourage each rider to tune into his or her body and listen to what it needs.

Myth #3: The instructor will yell at me.

Each instructor at Zephyr serves as a guide by simply offering direction and suggestions in class. They are trained to keep you safe, moving with the music, and staying with your breath. If something they suggest doesn’t feel right for you, we encourage you to listen to your body and make adjustments as necessary – we always encourage you doing what is best for you.

Myth #4: Indoor cycling only works my lower body.

Zephyr classes provide a full-body workout. They work your heart, lungs, legs, arms, and your core. Our Uplift class also gives your upper body an extra push as hand weights are used during one or two songs.

Myth #5: I have to be in shape to ride.

All fitness levels are welcome at Zephyr. You don’t have to have any workout experience to try a class. Studies even show that indoor cycling is one of the gentlest workouts on your joints. Virtually anyone can do it!

Myth #6: Indoor cycling is only for women.

Zephyr has no gender preference. We’re for anyone who wants to get in a good sweat and have some serious fun, all while forming a strong, healthy community.

Myth #7: Everyone will be watching me.

The lights are off or down low in every Zephyr class to ensure that riders are focusing on themselves and tuning into their own bodies. No one cares what the person next to him or her is doing – they are here to support you, not to judge you.

Myth #8: It’s the same as biking outside.

Although biking outside and indoor cycling use similar muscles and mechanics, they are two different workouts. Biking outside can sometimes require more gear, time, and attention. So if you don’t have any of that, indoor cycling may be a great option to try. A Zephyr class can give you a place to tune into the music, close your eyes, and focus solely on your ride. You’ll also never have to worry about changing a flat tire.

At the end of the day, quite a few myths exist that can scare people away from giving an indoor cycling class a try. We hope this blog post offers some clarity around indoor cycling and Zephyr, opens up your mind, and pushes you to walk through our doors in Bozeman, Montana, or wherever home is for you.

You never know until you try.