How to Have Your Best Cycling Class Ever

Preparing for a cycling class is like getting ready for any other bout of exercise. Just take care of the MBS (Mind, Body, and Soul.) There are some basic things you can do to make sure you have a perfect MBS when you walk into the classroom. Here are some of the things I do that I have found to be exceptionally beneficial. 

Mind

Being distracted by work or family can keep you from enjoying the class and getting the most out of it. Make a point to have on all of your calendars (non-public facing, of course) the class time. When you walk into the classroom, put your phone on silent.

It may seem strange, to intentionally cut yourself off from the fast-paced digital world we live in, but it is the only way to guarantee that no one will bother you in the middle of the class.

Also, try to not have anything scheduled for after the class. Worrying about traffic or what a colleague will have to say can drive anyone up the wall. The less distractions you have, the more you can concentrate on the class.

Body

Proper nutrition is vital for physical exercise. Depending on your current physical health, you may need to up your protein intake or balance out the carbs. Talk with a nutritionist to figure out the right diet and prepare accordingly. Just make sure to not eat right before hopping on the bike. More people than I care to think about have given themselves an upset stomach doing that!

Hydration is a key component for everyday life. Take the time to drink plenty of water before, during, and after the class. Use the restroom before starting. If your urine is dark, then you are severely dehydrated and need to drink water immediately.

Thirst is a sign that you are approaching dehydration. Consider it your body’s “low fluid” signal, and treat it as such.

Perform some basic stretches before arriving at the class. Not immediately before, since some studies have shown that stretching immediately before physical activity causes greater strain to the joints. I typically try to stretch about a half hour before class is due to start.

Soul

Entering the class feeling calm and happy will enable you to get much more out of the course than someone who walks in bringing in a ton of emotional baggage. There are several ways to help relax yourself before class. Personally, I am a fan of meditation and in shutting off my communication devices on the way to the class.

Done properly, a cycling class can be a miniature vacation from your day-to-day life, where you feel completely relaxed as you leave the room.

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